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Republic Enters New Technology Agreement with Kobe

Republic Engineered Products announced that Kobe Steel and its subsidiary Kobe Technologies Proprietary have entered into a new agreement to provide production technology to Republic.
 
Under the new agreement, Kobe Technologies to provide experienced engineers to Republic's plants in Lorain and Canton, Ohio, and Lackawanna, N.Y., to focus on maintaining and improving product quality. Republic will also continue to be licensed to produce and market Kobe's UHS1900, a steel wire rod product used in the manufacture of high-strength automotive suspension springs.
 
The agreement with Republic enables Kobe Steel to maintain and strengthen the supply of high-quality steel wire rod and bar in North America.
 
"Our long-term relationship with Kobe strengthens Republic's capabilities to provide innovative bar steel solutions for critical applications in support of our intention to continue and grow as the leader in supplying the Japanese transplant business segment," said Jaime Vigil, President and CEO.
 
The new contract follows many years of technical assistance from Kobe Steel under prior agreements. "This new agreement solidifies our position as North America's leading provider of special bar quality steel, and provides the basis for continuing growth opportunities," said Vigil.
 
Kobe Steel, Ltd. is a major Japanese steelmaker with headquarters in Tokyo and Kobe. It is also a leading producer of aluminum and copper products. Other businesses include welding consumables, industrial machinery, construction equipment, and electronic materials.
 
Republic Engineered Products, Inc. is a leading North American supplier of special bar quality (SBQ) steel. With headquarters in Fairlawn, Ohio, the privately owned company operates steelmaking centers in Canton and Lorain, Ohio, and value-added rolling and finishing facilities in Canton, Lorain and Massillon, Ohio; Lackawanna, N.Y.; Gary, Ind.; and Hamilton, Ont. Republic employs approximately 2500 people.