Gripple, the globally renowned manufacturer of suspension systems for building services, has opened a new office and 500 sqm warehouse facility in Kobe as it seeks to further expand its business in Japan.
The official opening event, attended by Hidetoshi Terasaki, Kobe City’s Vice Mayor and Gripple’s UK-based managing director, Ed Stubbs included product demonstrations to guests, a tree planting ceremony and an inaugural speech from the vice mayor.
Formed in Sheffield in 1989 and with 14 sites around the world, Gripple manufactures value-added solutions for the construction, civil and agricultural sectors. The company hopes to achieve success in Japan with innovative solutions for the installation of lighting, signage and flexible ducting, as well as fall prevention bracing kits for mechanical and electrical services. One hundred per cent owned by its employees, the business is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year and will achieve the sale of its 800 millionth unit.
Eric Laroche, Gripple’s international markets sales director, said: “We’re excited to be opening a great new facility in Kobe. We’ve been working with partners in the region for a number of years and have recognised the opportunity to enhance our presence here.
“Four of our people will be based in Kobe initially, comprising sales and operations roles and we hope to see that number increase as we continue to grow sales in Japan.”
