Caterpillar Inc. last week announced it has received final regulatory approval and completed the purchase of the remaining shares of Shandong SEM Machinery, a leading wheel loader manufacturer in China. Caterpillar purchased a minority stake in SEM in 2005 as part of its commitment to support its growing customer base in the Chinese construction equipment industry.
“Teamwork is one of Caterpillar's core values, and since our initial investment in SEM, we have collaborated with SEM management and with the Shandong and Qingzhou City governments to make improvements in every aspect of the SEM business,” said Rich Lavin, Caterpillar group president with responsibility for Caterpillar's business in Asia Pacific. “Caterpillar has worked together with SEM managers and employees to improve workplace safety, employee training, operational excellence, product quality and the product technology of SEM.”
In addition to SEM wheel loaders, Caterpillar core products manufactured in China include hydraulic excavators, track-type tractors, motor graders, paving products, large diesel engines used primarily for marine and power generation applications and generator sets for use in China and the Asia Pacific region. Caterpillar also manufactures components at several facilities in China.
“We are pleased to be part of Team Caterpillar and look forward to sustained growth as we continue to produce high-quality products that will meet customer's expectations,” said SEM chairman Wang Chunquan. “We have built a very solid foundation with Caterpillar based on mutual trust and respect, and this strong relationship has benefited the Chinese customers who use SEM products every day.”
As a responsible corporate citizen, Caterpillar will continue working closely with the provincial and local governments to sustainably develop the SEM business and support the environment. Similarly, Caterpillar will build on the valuable relationships SEM has with local suppliers and dealers.
“We are committed to bringing the greatest value possible to our SEM customers,” said Tom Bluth, Caterpillar vice president with responsibility for Asia Pacific manufacturing operations. “We have already started by introducing new models of SEM products and by providing customers with the ability to finance equipment purchases through Caterpillar (China) Financial Leasing Co., Ltd.”
In addition to its core machine, engine and component manufacturing locations in China, Caterpillar operations in China also include logistics, remanufacturing, financial leasing, training, marketing and research and development. Caterpillar's independent dealer network also provides sales and product support to customers across greater China.
