Glaston to establish production of automotive glass pre-processing equipment in China
Glaston’s Board of Directors has approved a plan to establish the production of automotive pre-processing equipment for standard products at the company’s factory in Tianjin, China.
The aim is to serve customers in the largest global automotive market with local machine production. The plan is in line with a strategic focus to grow business in China and improve operational efficiency.
China’s share of the automotive glass new machinery market has been 50−70% of which the majority are standard products.
Based on its long experience of operating in the Chinese market and technological know-how, Glaston is well-positioned to tap into the automotive growth in the region.
Ramping up production at Glaston’s Tianjin factory, currently manufacturing heat treatment and insulating glass equipment, starts with enhancing local automotive technology know-how and product-specific production skills as well as setting up a local automotive supply chain network to meet required quality criteria.
The first products produced in China for the Chinese market are expected to be delivered during the first half of 2023.
“Glaston has been present in China for more than 20 years. We have a long experience and high readiness and flexibility to serve customers with local production, delivery and services. With this plan we will get a more flexible footprint and cost efficiencies within our automotive business,” says Anders Dahlblom, President and CEO of Glaston Corporation.
Production of automotive machines in Bützberg, Switzerland will continue to serve Glaston customers outside of China. The Swiss factory will also deliver customized machines to China.
Image: Glaston are making machines for processing automotive glass in China.