Yanmar an engine of growth in Osaka

Osaka has long enjoyed status as one of the commercial centres of Japan. Among the many thriving companies based in the city is Yanmar Co Ltd, a maker of engines for boats, heavy equipment and power generators.

Yanmar has built up national pride from Japanese people in various ways, both on the business and social side.

More than a century after its founding, the company is a leader in engine manufacturing, especially for seagoing vessels and agricultural equipment.

It has branches and a network throughout Europe and Asia. In Thailand, where it gains most of its sales value in Southeast Asia, Yanmar employs 7,000 workers to meet the equipment needs of farmers.

The company forecasts sales this year to reach the equivalent of 258 billion baht, up 7% from last year, with domestic and global markets seeing a nearly equal portion. Yanmar plans to expand in developed nations such as France and Germany, as well as emerging markets in South America and Africa.

Investment in research and development will help tackle industry challenges and solve social problems. The company’s view is that humankind could suffer a food shortage as populations rise and a labour shortage as birth rates drop, requiring technology to provide solutions. The company forecasts sales to reach the equivalent of 258 billion baht this year, up 7%.

Yanmar plays a key role in the social life of Osaka residents as the owner of Cerezo Osaka FC, a club in the top division of Japanese football. Cerezo has produced international players like Takashi Inui and Shinji Kagawa, and the club’s home stadium can host more than 45,000 spectators.

Cerezo also supports Thai youngsters with professional aspirations through a partnership with BG Pathum United FC.