NEW YORK—Global sales of smart kitchen appliances are expected to reach $43 billion in 2027, growing at a compound annual rate of 19 percent over the next four years, according to a new report from market research firm Business Research Co.

SAN FRANCISCO—Air quality officials in the San Francisco Bay Area have become the first in the nation to adopt rules that will phase out new gas-fueled water heaters and furnaces in homes and businesses starting in 2027.

Initiated in 2004, the Assembly Plant of the Year award showcases world-class production facilities in America and the people, products, and processes that make them successful. 

LOS ANGELES—Lockheed Martin Ventures, the venture capital arm of Lockheed Martin Corp., is investing in Machina Labs, a start-up company developing technology that combines AI and robotics to rapidly manufacture advanced sheet metal products.

CLARKSVILLE, TN—LG Electronics’ appliance assembly plant here has been named as a world-leading “Lighthouse Factory” by the World Economic Forum (WEF).

NORMAN, OK— The immediate future will hold more employment opportunities as Johnson Controls aims to increase production volume by 50% in the next year.

CHANGWON, South Korea—Automation has enabled LG Electronics to boost productivity, decrease defects and increase safety at its appliance assembly plant here.

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA—Appliance manufacturer Sub-Zero Group Inc. will construct a 400,000-square-foot assembly plant here. The $140.6 million project is expected to create 192 jobs.

CASSINETTA, Italy—Whirlpool Corp.’s assembly plant has become a zero waste to landfill facility a year ahead of schedule, and it reduced its carbon emissions by 38 percent in just four years. The appliance manufacturer is aiming for carbon neutrality at all of its 54 sites around the world by 2030.

STAMFORD, CT—GE Appliances, a Haier company, has opened a new microfactory here, CoCREATE Stamford, that will assemble appliances, feature an innovative community maker space, provide hands-on educational opportunities for students, and offer unique brand and product experiences for consumers looking for inspiration for their homes and kitchens.