QSS was established in 1986 as a joint venture with Canada’s TRW to manufacture seat belts for Japanese automotive manufacturers in North America. Although it is last seat belt maker operating in North America (excluding Mexico), QSS has always remained competitive despite the higher wages in Canada.

In June 2003, Tokai Rika acquired TRW’s 60 percent share in QSS, making it a fully owned subsidiary of Tokai Rika. The change resulted in a company with a clearer direction. QSS has grown more efficient and more ready to face the greatest challenge to the region’s automotive parts industry – competition from Chinese-made components that could potentially displace North American suppliers.

“We must drive our operating costs down through innovative designs and the selection of materials that perform the same but at lower costs,” says Bradley Hedderson, president of QSS. “Prices will always be a challenge in the automotive industry. To survive, everyday a company must focus relentlessly on doing things more efficiently and less costly than the day before.”