2008 REPORTS > ITALY - July 7, 2008
ITALY
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Supplying Italy with Japanese innovation  
Yuji Ikezoe, president of Senju Metal Italy
Senju Metal started in Italy as a supplier of bushings for the heavy equipment and automotive industries. In just a few years, the Japanese company has managed to create a stellar reputation and strong market share within these core industries in northern Italy.

“Senju Metal has a vast network of distributors and subsidiaries all over the world. From here in Italy, we can relay market information to our clients. We have a global perspective that our customers might not have, which is one of the many value-added services we can provide them,” explains Yuji Ikezoe, president of Senju Metal Italy.

The Italian subsidiary, located in Vicenza, also enjoys a distinct competitive advantage because of the innovative products it has developed.

“We have two main priorities for the Italian market in the coming years. We would like to increase our share in the automotive sector by aggressively expanding our customer base. We also want to capitalize on our newest line of no-lead bushings. These bushings, which can be sold according to the new European environmental standards, are a testament to Senju’s innovation,” says Ikezoe.

The no-lead bushings also form part of Senju’s efforts to become more environmentally conscious. “The no-lead bushings are currently only for the automotive industry. In the future, we would like to sell lead-less bushings to the earthmoving industry as well,” says Ikezoe.

It is that unique innovation and commitment to quality, along with its appreciation for the local market culture, that have allowed Senju to succeed in Italy.

Ikezoe believes that Senju is headed for success in the country due to the minimum amount of adjustment to cultural differences.

“There are many similarities between the two cultures and each can learn many things from each other,” he says.

www.senju-m.co.jp

 
 
Table of Contents
Italian economy goes high gear
The winning strategy of Toyota
The power of change
The Suzuki ‘way of life’ is huge success
Providing a clear track for the future
Land, sea, and air: NYK Logistics delivers
100% Italian, 100% natural
A master of the local market
Building success from the grass roots
Excellence through a sound game plan
Measuring success one satisfied customer at a time
ITOCHU Italiana catapulted to success
A firm commitment to the local community
Local partner to Japanese
Omron marks jubilee year through volunteer work and eco-initiatives
Excellence in science
Italian jewelry company grabs golden success in Japan
Supplying Italy with Japanese innovation
The intelligent way to comfort


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JETRO Italy, based in Milan, has played a prominent role in sustaining and strengthening bilateral trade and investment between Japan and Italy. JETRO offers its services and advice to all Japanese or Italian companies operating in Italy. www.jetro.go.jp/italy

Regione Lombardia aims to position the region as a highly attractive destination for foreign investment and as a regional platform from which to export its goods and services. Its Web site also contains a comprehensive guide to all investment-related inquiries. www.regione.lombardia.it

Solvay Solexis is a worldwide leader of innovative fluorinated products for specialty markets. With its company headquarters and manufacturing facility in Milan, and offices in over 10 countries around the world, Solvay Solexis is focused on customer-driven research and supports sound environmental practices. www.solvaysolexis.com