Ube, Mitsubishi conclude merger of injection molding machine businesses

On January 1, Ube Machinery Corporation and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Plastic Technology officially concluded the merger of their injection molding machine businesses. The transfer was the result of ongoing discussions following the signing of an agreement on July 29, 2016 toward integration of the two companies’ related business operations.

As a result of merger, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Plastic Technology has relaunched operations under a new structure and a new corporate name: U-MHI Platech Co., Ltd. (U-MHIPT). Simultaneously, Ube Machinery has begun operations at a newly established entity, named U&M Plastic Solutions Co., Ltd., charged with marketing products produced by both Ube Machinery and U-MHIPT.

The injection molding machine business environment is becoming increasingly severe in both the Japanese and global markets. Through the integration of their businesses in this field, Ube Industries and MHI have opted to combine their respective strengths in technologies, product lineup, and sales and servicing networks in order to pursue enhanced strength in sales, servicing, development, and production technology.

MHI is traditionally strong in large two-platen presses. Of late, it has been focusing on electric two-platen technology for molding large automotive exterior parts and glazing such as liftgates for Nissan and bus windows for Fuso. MHI machines are also used to mold exterior panels for the Daihatsu Copen. For its part, Ube is a strong player in large toggle presses including all-electric offerings.

By adding value through reduced manufacturing costs and timely anticipation of customer needs, the two companies also target business expansion in the global market for injection molding machines.

The newly created U&M Plastic Solutions will offer technical guidance and consulting services related to the molding of plastic products, and will be supported by the marketing strength of both brands. Working closely with customers, the company will swiftly respond to on-site needs and resolve associated issues to help customers produce superior plastic products.

By bringing together their key strengths, U-MHIPT and U&M Plastic Solutions, will “offer superlative proposals and deliver products and services of great satisfaction to customers around the world, offering more advanced technological capabilities, product lineup and product servicing.