Hot-runner maker Synventive Molding Solutions BV of 's-Gravendeel, the Netherlands, is increasing local production at its Suzhou, China, plant and expects to double its sales in the country this year.
Synventive started production in China in August. Mark Moss, president for Asian operations, said the plant can make small and large hot-runner systems for the automotive industry, and small hot-half systems.
``Initially, we imported all components from Europe and the United States and [were] doing the final assembly in Suzhou,'' he said at Chinaplas. ``Today, we are sourcing in China and machining a lot of the ... components here.''
While the global hot-runner market stands at $1.1 billion and grows 4-5 percent annually, Moss said the Chinese market is about $100 million to $150 million and grows at least 25 percent a year.
The 28,000-square-foot plant in Suzhou currently makes close to 30 systems per month, and the number is increasing. The site will gain a second shift in the second quarter and add about 15 jobs by the end of the year, bringing the total to 50.
Synventive's North American headquarters is in Peabody, Mass.