New Kayaba Shock Absorber Plant in Czech Republic

Kayaba Industry (Japan), which, according to the company, is the biggest shock absorber manufacturer in the world, has developed its market position by building a new plant in the Czech Republic. Production is due to start in April 2006. “Kayaba Manufacturing Czech“ (KMCZ), to be based in Pardubice, will employ more than 200 employees at full capacity. According to the company’s production plans, by 2007 more than two million shock absorbers will be manufactured there each year.

In December 2003, Kayaba bought the remaining shares of Spanish shock absorber manufacturer, APA. With an annual production of more than 15 million shock absorbers, the next step is further strategic expansion in Europe. The production plant in the Czech Republic, which will be based on the most modern technological criteria, will have its own capital funds, totalling 17.5 million euros. By making this further investment Kayaba says it is developing its operational basis in Europe more clearly than it has done so far.

The recently submitted annual report 2003/2004 of Kayaba shows that the company is on course for growth. Turnover totalled $2.1 billion, which represented an increase of over 10 per cent compared with the same period last year. With an annual production total of more than 55 million units, in both in the passenger cars (for large reputable car manufacturers) and for the aftermarket business, the company reportedly holds a 23 per cent world market share.