Beirut, 6 November 2014. Today Tokyo-based LIXIL Corporation announced a new global operating model with four core technology business units to further globalise its business. The most notable change from this new model will be the creation of LIXIL Water Technology Group, which integrates the LIXIL Group’s worldwide sanitary ware business including the GROHE Group and the American Standard Brands, effective 1 April 2015, pending relevant regulatory approvals and internal corporate procedures. This move will create a global market leader and the largest platform in the international sanitary ware market with sales of around USD 6 billion and earnings of around 10% operating profit, some 30,000 employees, sales offices across 150 markets and around 50 production facilities globally.
David J. Haines, Chairman & CEO of the Grohe Group will take over as CEO of LIXIL Water Technology Group in addition to his responsibilities to date. He will be supported by a seasoned management team with global experience.
The GROHE, American Standard, JOYOU and LIXIL/INAX brands will remain independent within LIXIL Water Technology Group and their own proven management teams will continue to run their businesses and organisations. Going forward, LIXIL Water Technology Group will establish the four sales territories of Japan, EMEA, the Americas and Asia, each with primary responsibility for the different brands. Further developments will be announced in due course.
According to Yoshiaki Fujimori, President & CEO of the LIXIL Group, “This decision strengthens our global sanitary ware business and links our leading brands in all important regions of the world into a powerful and highly efficient global unit, particularly in purchasing, production as well as research and development. We are proud to be creating a new global market leader under the leadership of David J. Haines.”
“LIXIL Water Technology Group will be the key innovative player in the sanitary industry with strong brands and excellent positioning in a rapidly changing global market,” said David J. Haines. “Our unique product portfolio enables us to offer complete bathroom solutions. With our internationally experienced