From smartphones and home appliances to electric vehicles and smart infrastructure, advanced electronics quietly power nearly every aspect of modern life. Behind many of these innovations is Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd., the Japanese technology company whose European headquarters has been located in Hoofddorp for more than three decades.
Founded in Kyoto in 1944, Murata began with ceramic capacitors for radio applications and has grown into one of the world’s leading suppliers of electronic components and wireless technologies. Today, the company supports industries ranging from mobility and telecommunications to data centre and industrial automation.
For Toshio Nakamoto, President of Murata Electronics Europe B.V., the company’s long-standing presence in Amsterdam Airport City is closely linked to connectivity and international collaboration.
“Being close to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol and major transportation links allows seamless interaction with our customers across Europe as well as with our global headquarters in Japan.”
Murata established its presence in Hoofddorp in 1989, later expanding the office into its EMEA headquarters in 2004. According to Nakamoto, the region offers more than logistical advantages alone. The international environment of the Netherlands, characterized with easy communication in English and access to global talent, has created an ideal ecosystem for the company’s European operations.
A High-Tech Ecosystem built on collaboration
Operating from Amsterdam Airport City gives Murata direct access to a highly connected European and International business ecosystem. The company collaborates closely with customers, technology partners, universities and industry organisations across sectors including automotive, communications and industrial technology.
“The Dutch high-tech ecosystem is very collaborative and internationally oriented,” says Nakamoto. “Companies, research institutions and public organisations are strongly connected, which creates a dynamic environment for innovation.”
That collaborative mindset aligns closely with Murata’s own philosophy of creating technologies and innovative solutions that contribute to society. Many of the company’s innovations focus on miniaturisation and energy efficiency, enabling smaller, lighter and more sustainable electronic systems. Electronic Components that once occupied significant space can now fit into compact devices while delivering far greater performance.
These developments are increasingly relevant in sectors shaping the future of Europe, including electric mobility, IoT, AI infrastructure and smart energy systems.
Sustainability beyond Technology
Sustainability also plays a central role in Murata’s broader business strategy. The company aims to source 100% renewable electricity by 2035 and aims to achieve carbon neutrality for Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2040.
At the same time, Murata continues to improve sustainability throughout its value chain, from packaging optimisation to reducing logistics-related emissions.
But the company’s local contribution extends beyond technology and operations. Employees actively participate in community initiatives such as the Haarlemmermeer Run to support the Kids Run initiative and local clean-up activities organised in the area surrounding the office.
Murata is also investing in future generations through STEAM* education programmes designed to inspire children to explore science, technology and engineering. The initiative, which began in Japan more than 20 years ago, is now expanding across Europe through workshops and connections with schools.
Looking ahead
As technologies such as robotics, quantum computing and smart mobility continue to evolve, Murata sees Amsterdam Airport City as an important base for future growth and collaboration.
“We see our role as both a technology partner and an active member of the local ecosystem,” Nakamoto explains. “Our goal is not only to grow as a business, but also to contribute positively to the region’s long-term technological and economic development.”
With its combination of international connectivity, talent access and collaborative innovation, Amsterdam Airport City continues to provide fertile ground for companies helping shape the technologies of tomorrow.
* STEAM = Science, Technology, Engineering, liberal Arts, Mathematics – STEM-based education enhanced with creativity training.
A strong match with Amsterdam Airport City
Murata’s presence highlights the strength of Amsterdam Airport City as a location for international high-tech companies. Combining global reach with local collaboration, Murata is not only contributing to technological progress but also reinforcing the region’s position as a gateway for innovation in Europe.
