Established in Germany, where most of the world's leading automotive makers originated, Mehler Engineered Products bundles 300 years of rubber reinforcement experience to bolster the tyres, belts and other rubber components of vehicles such as Mercedes-Benz, Audi, BMW and Volkswagen. MEP-Group represents the merger of OLBO's 130-year industrial textile expertise and Mehler Engineered Products' 170-year manufacturing know-how. The union has spawned a tradition of innovation and a worldwide reputation for superior rubber products. "Innovation defines our future," says Jorg Czempisz, CEO. "As a visionary company, innovation is our most important segment. It fuels the quality, speed and global presence of our offerings." Apart from the automotive industry, Mehler is renowned in the fields of agriculture, appliances and, increasingly, medical instruments. Sought for its knowledge in rubber twisting, Mehler's chemical preparation speciality also ensures the strong, reliable bond between the rubber and textiles. Top tyre manufacturers Pirelli, Goodyear and Michelin use Mehler materials for their rubber offerings. International companies, including manufacturers from India and China that are interested in penetrating the larger world markets, also seek Mehler for its global reach, speed and quality. "We know textile and rubber very well," Czempisz says. "In terms of automotive components, we reduce fuel consumption by developing lighter yet safer products." Cementing its spot as a trailblazer in the rubber industry, Mehler is implementing lean production methods in its facilities to create higher efficiency. Reducing waste and following German and international environmental protection and industrial safety standards, Mehler ensures the high quality and cost efficiency of its products and processes - from the raw materials to the finished goods. "We apply breakthrough research and technology to the whole process," Czempisz says. "We build our own machines and develop products and processes with our customers. As a result, we can forecast three- to five-year trends in the industry." Pouring more than Euro6 million (HK$51.6 million) into systems and facility upgrades in its plant in China, Mehler continues to augment its 20-year local presence by further investing in people, equipment and facilities in Asia. It is strengthening its partnerships in the region while forging new routes and cooperation to continuously innovate. "The industry centre is moving into Asia," Czempisz says. "Understanding local cultures and adapting to local demands, we embrace the cultural exchange as a powerful means of becoming a truly global company. We also aim to develop an ecological product. To do this, we need to be present locally." Mehler Engineered Products http://www.mehler-ep.com