Company Report: Nichirin Canada Inc.
Nichirin Canada Inc.: Accelerating in a time of change Auto parts supplier Nichirin seeks to build ideal production processes to prepare for expected increase in demand

Nichirin Canada Inc., a Brantford, Ontario-based manufacturer, is hoping to use its Japanese pedigree and manufacturing techniques to overcome the challenges of the current global economic client.
As a major supplier of the automotive industry, Nichirin is exposed to the global downturn in automotive sales, but it is well-placed thanks to its adherence to the development of an ideal production process and its policy of continuous progress in technological development, production, and quality control.
Nichirin Canada is one arm of Nichirin Co. Ltd., a Japanese company that manufactures hoses and other engine parts for the automobile industry, as well as hoses and other parts for household use. The company has operations all over the world, including Canada, the United States, China, and the United Kingdom.
Founded in 1914, Nichirin has grown from a rubber-trading business into a global manufacturer. The company began to expand overseas in the 1980s, and opened its Canadian subsidiary in February 1987. The firm received ISO9001 certification in October 1995, and received ISO14001 certification in February 2002. Nichirin employs over 1,500 people, including 170 at Nichirin Canada. The firm has global sales of almost US$350 milÂlion, and their Canadian subsidiary has sales of north of US$50 million.
Nichirin Canada Inc. manufactures a wide array of automotive hoses, primarily for Honda Canada. The Canadian company makes brake, air-conditioning, and power steering hoses, and, according to their website, offers "cutting-edge hose manufacturing to accelerated automotive development." Their solid knowledge base and Japanese manufacturing techniques make them a leading supplier, but the troubles in the world economy are affecting businesses of all types.
Nichirin Canada vice-president Junji Takeshima knows the challenges that Nichirin faces. A 24-year veteran of the company, he sees

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