Sandvik, quality provider for Chinese infrastructure growth
Sandvik has seen much change in its 151 years of existence, but two aspects of its guiding philosophy have remained the same since it began its operations as a steel producer: constantly innovative and locally developed solutions and dedication to its customers.
The company’s humble beginnings in Sweden have grown to its current representation in over 130 countries, spanning five major business areas: Sandvik Mining, Sandvik Machining Solutions, Sandvik Materials Technology, Sandvik Construction and Sandvik Venture.
“We are constantly challenging the business areas in which we are involved,” said Olof Faxander, president and CEO of Sandvik.
“Being able to connect high technology and R&D with customer needs has been the key to our company’s success. We also have high levels of adaptability, which have led to success as we have grown globally.”
The Stockholm-based global firm is now focusing strongly on growth and development in emerging markets — most particularly India and China. In China, Sandvik has quite a long history: nearly 30 years of providing high- tech solutions and quality products to the market.
“Our mining and construction activities represent the largest part of our business — especially after our acquisition of Shanbao, a large Chinese crushing company,” Faxander said. “But we are seeing huge opportunities across the board.”
“Another key to Sandvik’s global prosperity is that we localize our engineering and R&D, and this allows our researchers to be closer to our customers and suit their needs more fully,” Faxander explained.
“This has worked well in China and allowed us to provide tailored solutions to the Chinese market. Currently, our country manager in China is Chinese, and we are looking to add more to our upper-level management in the country.”
Sandvik’s customized products for the Chinese market include a new electric- powered rotary drill — the 1175E. Working out of its Jiading facility, the company has collaborated closely with both local and mining officials to provide a product that is specifically tailored to the Chinese mining environment.
The Swedish group has also invested in China’s nuclear market, with contracts to supply highly engineered tubing and piping for nuclear reactors.
“The Chinese are very eager to obtain good quality,” said Faxander. “In fact, when we have discussions with customers, price is important but never outweighs quality.”
“China continues to be extremely important for the future growth of Sandvik,” he concluded. “And especially now, where for instance in the mining business, driven by sector consolidation and rise in safety and quality requirements, we have the ability to provide even more
value to our customers.”
www.sandvik.com/en World Eye Reports provided the story