In response to the growing demand for non-standard compressors in China, Kobe Steel acquired a 44.3% equity share of Wuxi Compressor from Wuxi Victor Group Co., Ltd. in 2011. With Kobe Steel's equity participation, Wuxi Compressor began to improve its manufacturing, design and sales capabilities. Kobe Steel reached agreement with Wuxi Victor to acquire an additional 25.7% in Wuxi Compressor, turning it into a 70% owned subsidiary of Kobe Steel.
By turning Wuxi Compressors into a subsidiary, Kobe Steel will be able to provide more flexible business operations and further strengthen its marketing capabilities while offering more attentive service in China. It aims to meet the growing demand for non-standard compressors in China, as well as contribute to improving customer satisfaction.
The Kobe Steel Group has manufacturing locations for non-standard compressors in Japan, the United States and China, along with sales and service locations in Germany, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Brazil, the Philippines and Singapore. By strengthening its Group operations with these bases, Kobe Steel aims to build an optimum manufacturing and sales structure to further expand its business.