Friedrichshafen, Germany — When Chinese plastics machinery manufacturer Haitian International first started selling its injection molding machines into Europe, the initial response of the market was somewhat hesitant.
Much has changed.
Over the past 10-15 years, as the Haitian machines have proven their worth to customers across the continent, sales have shown steady growth, with the company successfully expanding its market share.
"But what's more important for us is that we've generated trust among our customers — they know they can count on our machines running," said Dominik Wiesner, responsible for the marketing & communications for Europe at Haitian International Germany GmbH.
That trust, combined with Haitian's good price to performance ratio, have meant that the company has been far less affected by the current economic situation than many of its competitors in the European market.
"With sales volumes and order levels that are just slightly under last year's, for us the year has, until now, been quite satisfactory," Wiesner said.
The lower purchase price of a Haitian machine offers an advantage in situations like the present, where companies have little room for investment, he conceded.
"But once customers try the machines, they tend to stay with us. The package we offer — energy efficient, all-electric injection molding machines that are suitable for fast cycling applications, good service — is extremely attractive."