Sumitomo Riko Co. Ltd. has concluded an exclusive distributor agreement with Hydroscand AB, a Swedish seller of high-pressure hoses based in Stockholm. The move will enable Sumitomo Riko to expand sales of high-pressure hoses in 43 countries in Europe and elsewhere. This marks the company's first full entry into the industrial hose business's European market.
Trading Companies Part 2—Although many trading firms focus on domestic demand, a generational change has been under way recently, resulting in an increase in younger managers. Merchants of this new generation have begun setting their sights not just within the country but overseas as well. They are also eager to explore new markets and develop new technologies and products.
Trading Companies Part 1—A recent survey of trading companies in Japan conducted by Japan Rubber Weekly found that about 70 percent of respondents saw tough times ahead in 2016. The survey of 330 trading companies in Japan received 203 responses (62 percent response rate). Trading companies play a crucial role in Japan’s distribution.
Manufacturers Part 2—Under 1 percent of respondents answered that they expect "double-digit growth" for "forecast (planned) 2016 net sales," while roughly half the companies, or 48 percent, forecast "single-digit growth." A total of only 14 percent of respondents forecast either "single-digit" or "double-digit" declines in revenues.
Manufacturers Part 1—A recent survey conducted by Japan Rubber Weekly found that over half of respondents, or 54 percent, expect the rubber industry's performance to remain "stable" in 2016, while 23 percent believe it will be "somewhat better" or "better." Meanwhile, 21 percent responded that it will be "somewhat worse" or "worse."
New Year’s Top Interview: Okamoto Industries President Yoshiyuki Okamoto President Yoshiyuki Okamoto of Okamoto Industries Inc. (TYO:5122) said recently in an interview with Japan Rubber Weekly that increased capital spending had yielded results by producing good business performance in 2015. Of particular note, the company is unable to meet demand for interior automobile materials in North America as well as...
