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Harman opens new auto systems plant in China

By Song Wenwei (China Daily)
Updated: 2008-11-19 17:15

Harman International has opened a new manufacturing facility to produce automotive audio and infotainment systems. The new facility was inaugurated in Suzhou of East China's Jiangsu province on November 17. Attending the ceremony were company executives, government officials and Harman customers in the region.

"This manufacturing and engineering expansion is a key element of our strategy for growth, while leveraging the attractive infrastructure, talented workforce and new business opportunities in the Asian markets," said Dinesh C. Paliwal, Harman's chairman and CEO.

The plant covers an area of 9.3 hectares with a total investment of $75 million. During the first period of development, the company will build a factory of 13,000 sqm floor space with an investment of $30 million.

Paliwal also said that the customers expect prompt, personal service from suppliers with a strong presence in the region, and Harman intends to build upon its track record for innovation with a value chain that is optimized for today's markets.

Located in the sprawling Suzhou Industrial Park, about 75 miles northwest of Shanghai, the new Harman plant currently employs about 320 people in producing a variety of speakers, amplifiers and electronic components under the Harman Kardon, Infinity, and JBL brands. Its key customers include Shanghai General Motors and Korea's Hyundai, Ssangyong, and Kia auto brands.

Harman International employs 800 to 1000 people overall in China based on seasonal demand, and is growing rapidly.