UK-based wire fastening manufacturer Gripple has cemented its position as a global player with the opening of its latest office in Japan.
Takahiro Makino has been appointed as managing director to oversee Gripple Japan leading the company’s expansion in the Japanese construction market.
The move comes as Gripple eyes opportunities arising from the country hosting the Rugby World Cup in 2019 and the Olympic Games in 2020.
Takahiro, who joins the company following ten years at one of Japan’s largest suppliers to the construction industry, said: “There is huge potential for Gripple in my country and we’re opening the office at a very exciting time for Japan.
“The opportunities for the construction industry and its suppliers are boundless with so many game-changing projects underway. I expect that we’ll be very busy over the coming years!”
Takahiro will be will be charged with developing the Gripple brand and establishing a thriving business in the world’s third largest economy.
Eric Laroche, Gripple’s director of international markets, added: “Doing business in Japan is very different from anywhere else in the world and with its economy booming we have decided now was the time to invest in the country to further our global offering.
“Takahiro’s professional reputation, experience and drive are a major asset for Gripple. We welcome him to the family and look forward to him playing a major role in our overseas operations.”
Takahiro will be joined later in 2018 by Tomohiro Seki who has been working as a sales graduate trainee at Gripple since 2017. After learning his trade in London he will be applying his knowledge to the Japanese construction market as Takahiro’s second in command.