An artist's rendering of the new plant.

Little Rock, Ark.—DENSO Corporation has announced it will build a manufacturing facility in Osceola, Ark. to produce car air conditioners and heavy equipment radiators for its North American customers. Construction of the more than 217,000-square-foot facility is expected to begin this summer.

The new company—DENSO Manufacturing Arkansas, Inc. (DMAR)— will be DENSO’s 23rd manufacturing facility in North America. Production of heavy equipment radiators is scheduled to begin in October 2004 and production of car air conditioners will begin in January 2005. At full production in 2008, DMAR expects to employ 500 people. DENSO’s investment in the new operation will total U.S. $35 million.

“This is a great day for Arkansas, especially the Delta region of our state. We’re thrilled that one of the top companies in the world has determined our state fi ts its needs,” said Gov. Mike Huckabee.

President and CEO Koichi Fukaya said, “We are experiencing exceptional business growth in the thermal product division. By establishing the sixth thermal company in North America, we will continue to maintain the top global market share of air conditioning products. We are fortunate to have the opportunity to build a southern base to further meet our customer needs in the region.”

DENSO promoted Jerry McGuire, previously vice president of DENSO Manufacturing Michigan, Inc., in Battle Creek, to president of the new company. McGuire has more than 30 years experience in logistics, facility engineering, manufacturing and plant construction management.

“We believe the relationship between DENSO Manufacturing Arkansas and Osceola will be mutually beneficial, and we look forward to being a part of the Osceola community,” said McGuire.

DENSO receives Toyota awards At the annual Toyota Motor Manufacturing North America (TMMNA) meeting and awards ceremony, DENSO North America, Inc.. Group and its affiliated companies were recognized with a record number of awards. These included 22 Toyota North American Awards and 12 Special awards issued as high distinction for the areas of quality, delivery, new model launch and service. “I want to thank our associates for the continued dedication that contributed to Toyota’s and DENSO’S shared success,” said Chairman and CEO Tony Takeuchi. In 2002, J.D. Power and Associates recognized Toyota in North America with the Initial Quality Award for the Corolla, Tacoma, Tundra, and Sienna. Power also recognized NUMMI with the Bronze Plant Award. These results are attributable to the products DENSO produced and supplied through our focused commitment to teamwork and excellence.