Transforming plastics into building materials, industrial components and medical resorbable osteosynthesis devices, Takiron stays resilient by providing solutions inspired by the boundless strengths and possibilities of plastics production. Established in 1919 as a celluloid manufacturer, Takiron has transformed itself into Japan's leading producer of miscellaneous plastics. A pioneer in plastics flooring materials, it introduced its slip-resistant vinyl flooring to the Japanese market in 1973 and has approximately 70 per cent share of the condominium renovation market. Protecting the environment is second nature to the company. "In planning and designing our products, we also assess how we can promote a low-carbon society," says president Katsumori Hyodo. For its environmental efforts, Takiron offers products with heat-insulating properties that optimise natural light. It also provides large-sized, joint-type system panels for energy-saving initiatives of factories and warehouses. Takiron is a reliable partner for the hi-tech sector. Its industrial plastics products include static dissipative materials and FM fire safety materials used in ultra-clean environments. Keeping pace with evolving technologies in the medical industry, its bone fixation devices are biodegradable and bioresorbable, and do not require another surgical procedure for removal. The devices are used in orthopaedic and reconstructive surgeries and the treatment of cranial, oral and maxillofacial fractures and deformities. Takiron sees an increased demand for bone fixation devices in Thailand and South Korea, with a growing clientele in Europe and China. Having overseas subsidiaries, Takiron produces agricultural and horticultural materials in Indonesia and manufactures sheet roofing materials in Shanghai. It looks into growth markets in China for roofing panels used in large-scale barns and residential carports. To strengthen its presence in China, it established Takiron Plastics (Changzhou) in March this year to produce polycarbonate building materials. Guided by the Japanese principle chisan-chisho, Takiron seeks to expand its offerings in Asia by manufacturing locally made products for local consumption. "We want to provide our regional customers with the best of the best technology," Hyodo says. Takiron www.takiron.co.jp