IG KOGYO Seeks Metal Siding Business Expansion in Asia

IG KOGYO, Japanese largest metal siding maker, aims the metal siding business growth in Japan and Asia. The firm has already built up the stable profit base though domestic new housing starts are decreasing and the market was confused by Japan Earthquake. Now the firm seeks next sustainable growth by enhancement of new products, such as solar roofs. As for the metal siding business, the firm tries to catch the demand for renovation and alternative roof materials for Japanese tile. At the same time, the firm plans to start market research in Asia.

Mr. Tatsuo Hattori, president of IG KOGYO, told Japan Metal Bulletin the firm seeks the next growth by strengthening of R&D activities and overseas businesses. Japanese housing market is forecasted to scale down along low birthrate and longevity. Then the firm develops new markets with its high quality siding and roof products.

IG KOGYO established a product planning team in April to speed up development and commercialization of new products. As for overseas market development, the firm plans to start export of metal siding products and local production in Asia in future.

Among new products, the firm will start commercial sales of solar roof within this year when renewable energy is focused after the atomic power accident in Japan. The firm also plans to increase the sales of antifouling siding, non-burnable and heat insulation siding and fluorine-modified metal roof.