Seoul, Korea, 24.05.2023. Schwäbische Werkzeugmaschinen GmbH (SW)
By definition, the CSC team deals with issues relevant to the future of the international SW Group. After our first 2023 meeting in Tettnang in January, we left for Korea on 21 May. We have been working with Mr Ahn and Mr Bae here for many years and now want to set up our own SW branch in Korea, which will then replace the existing SW Korea. This is in line with our proven strategy of being close to our customers and providing excellent sales and service through local offices. The CSC meeting was therefore held in the capital, Seoul, where we have rented our new office.
In addition to Korea, we also looked at other regions in South East Asia. Japan, Thailand, Vietnam and Malaysia appear to be interesting markets with growth potential for SW. In order to be able to supply existing and new markets with machines, we have also given some thought to our global manufacturing strategy. We have set ourselves the target of delivering 1,000 machines to our customers by 2030. Basic machine assembly is planned in Waldmössingen, Suzhou and Poland. These basic machines will then be completed with options and technology in the local subsidiaries. In Italy we are already building 3-axis units, and in Hungary and Chongqing we intend to focus more on component production and fixtures.
It is clear to us that the basis for growth must be excellent product and service quality in all areas. This is the only way to attract new (and existing) customers to SW. In addition to market growth and the development of production capacity, we must also focus on the profitability of the SW Group. Unfortunately, there has been a significant deterioration in this area in recent years and we need to address this. We need to stabilise our processes, cut unnecessary costs and improve cooperation between the various departments and companies in the SW Group. At the strategy meeting in July, we will discuss these and many other issues in depth and find effective solutions.
The CSC team looks to the future with confidence and is looking forward to the strategy meeting on 13 and 14 July in Waldmössingen.
