ZF Japan Hosts Supplier Day in Yokohama

Localization Strategy and Global Role of Japan

As part of its localization strategy, ZF is accelerating the planned chassis solution production line in Japan, marking a significant step in strengthening local manufacturing capabilities. This initiative is closely aligned with the strong market position of Japanese OEMs (JOEMs).

Beyond serving the domestic market, Japan plays a critical role as a global export and innovation hub. In this context, ZF’s approach is not only “local for local”—enhancing proximity and responsiveness to Japanese customers—but also “local for global”, leveraging Japan’s capabilities to support global programs and contribute to worldwide growth.

Strong Leadership Engagement and Industry Support

Dr. Fabrizio Micalizzi, First Secretary for Economic Affairs, Economic Security and Digital Policies at the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany, and Mr. Marcus Schürmann, Delegate of German Industry and Commerce in Japan and CEO of AHK Japan, also delivered speeches highlighting the importance of international cooperation and reinforcing Japan’s role as a critical market within ZF’s global strategy.

“Our company is moving forward with the launch of new products in Japan, and as our business expands, we are looking for competitive partners who can participate in our business in Japan.

By promoting localization that enhances cost advantages and introducing innovative technologies in design, we aim to achieve mutual growth together with our partners in Japan. We expect our partners to demonstrate a commitment to technological innovation, competitiveness and efficiency, a resilient supply chain, as well as the promotion of sustainability and digitalization.”, said Nicolas Flour, Senior Vice President, Head of Procurement Asia Pacific, and Category Cluster Forging & Steel Components.

Mr. Ben Roos, Senior Vice President of Chassis Systems AP, Mr. Alexander Haegele, Vice President of R&D chassis solution AP and Mr. Ken Si, Vice President of production line braking systems shared insights of ZF’s chassis solutions, engaging directly with suppliers and exchanging insights on market developments, technological trends, and collaboration opportunities.

Mr. Doru Tașcă, President of ZF Japan and Global Key Account Executive (JOEM), highlighted ZF’s footprint in Japan and shared insights into the Japanese automotive industry and emerging business opportunities. He emphasized that cooperation and innovation with suppliers are essential for long‑term success, reaffirming that ZF Japan will continue to strengthen localization in close partnership with competitive local suppliers.

Mr. Michael Neumann, ZF EVP sales & program management, Ms. Janine Montforts, SVP ZF purchasing cluster electronic, Electromechanical and chemical parts, and leadership from ZF cross functions joint and support success of this event.

Commitment to Long-Term Collaboration and Innovation

In line with ZF’s broader priorities, the event reaffirmed the company’s focus on advancing smart chassis and powertrain solutions, while working closely with local partners to drive cost efficiency, technical innovation and operational excellence.

Supplier Day Japan marks an important milestone in strengthening ZF’s supplier ecosystem in the region. It reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to long-term collaboration and to shaping a competitive, future-ready mobility ecosystem in Japan.

With the completion of the event, appreciation was extended to the project team and colleagues in Japan for their strong commitment, swift execution, and professional arrangements. The achievement was made possible through exceptional cross‑functional collaboration and seamless coordination across all teams involved.