KSB Shanghai 30th Anniversary Media Group Interview | Continuing Success, Innovating the Future
On July 17, 2024, senior executives from KSB Group, along with leadership from KSB North Asia and Shanghai, were interviewed by several well-known media outlets at the KSB Shanghai plant. The interview attracted attention from over ten prominent media organizations, including People’s Daily, Xinhua News Agency, 21st Century Business Herald, and China Economic Weekly.
Three Decades of Deep Commitment to the Chinese Market: KSB Shanghai’s Continued Success
Reflecting on KSB Shanghai’s nearly 30 years of development, Mr. Oswald Bubel stated: “Since its establishment in 1994, Shanghai KSB Pump Co., Ltd. has faced numerous developments and challenges. The achievements we have made in the Chinese market are a testament to our relentless efforts in technological innovation, product quality, and service excellence. They also reflect the openness and dynamism of the Chinese market.” He expressed his special thanks to relevant Chinese authorities for their support and emphasized the vast growth opportunities China’s economy offers to foreign enterprises.
Mr. Bubel reminisced on KSB Shanghai’s remarkable journey, which began on October 12, 1994, with the signing of a joint venture agreement with Shanghai Electric Group. Leveraging advanced technology and superior service, KSB Shanghai quickly gained a foothold, becoming a key supplier in energy, municipal infrastructure, and petrochemical sectors. Looking ahead, he is confident about the future, despite global uncertainties. The ties between KSB Group and KSB Shanghai are growing stronger, and he expects the company to continue its deep engagement in emerging areas such as digitalization and the green economy.
A Revitalized Brand: Solutions. For Life.
This year, KSB Group unveiled its new brand slogan, " Solutions. For Life." Dr. Stephan Timmermann explained the rationale behind this change: “Our products and services have a broad impact on people’s lives. We focus on their needs and provide outstanding solutions, which is why we updated our brand statement to better reflect our mission.” He also noted that the new logo, which incorporates KSB’s 150-year heritage, symbolizes the stability and value of the brand.
Regarding localization strategy, KSB has consistently introduced advanced international technologies while upgrading its offerings based on market demand. Dr. Timmermann emphasized that technology and innovation are the foundation and driving force of the company. Through continuous technological introduction and in-house R&D, KSB Shanghai has secured multiple patents and innovation system certifications, significantly boosting production efficiency and maintaining its market leadership.
Increased Investment and Strategic Cooperation for Deeper Market Penetration
Amid rising global economic uncertainties, Mr. Ralf Kannefass expressed confidence in China’s economic growth. He noted that, as one of the world’s largest economies, China presents immense growth potential. KSB’s investments and new plant construction in China reflect the company’s deepening involvement in the chemical industry and its high expectations for the Chinese market.
Mr. Kannefass elaborated on the strategic significance and planning of the new plant. He stated that this new facility, KSB Shanghai’s largest integrated investment project since its inception, will support clients’ needs in carbon neutrality transitions through process innovation, capacity expansion, green supply chains, and digital smart manufacturing. This project aligns with KSB’s global vision for 2030 and is poised to become a new growth engine for KSB Shanghai.
Digital Transformation Empowering High-Quality Development
In the interview, Mr. He Jun emphasized that KSB’s digital transformation is not just a formality but a real solution to practical challenges, enhancing operational efficiency and creating greater value for customers.
Mr. He illustrated KSB’s approach to digitalization with the principle of “doing things only once,” explaining how KSB uses digital tools to automate repetitive tasks, thereby freeing up human resources and improving efficiency. He stressed that throughout the digital transformation process, KSB has adhered to a “people-centric” philosophy, aiming to build a digital future that genuinely enhances employee well-being and corporate competitiveness.
New Plant Boosts KSB’s Chemical Industry Strategy
Zhu Jiongyi focused on the production capacity and market expectations for the new plant. He stated that once the plant is operational, it is expected to generate an additional RMB 450 million in annual revenue for the company and further increase KSB’s market share in the chemical sector.
Zhu emphasized that the new plant is a prime example of KSB’s commitment to “rooting in China and serving China.” Moving forward, KSB will continue to increase investments in the Chinese market, introduce more advanced technologies and management practices, to provide Chinese customers with even higher-quality products and services.
This group interview not only showcased KSB Group’s deep roots and future vision in the Chinese market but also highlighted the company’s unwavering efforts in technological innovation, brand enhancement, and sustainable development. Despite the complex and ever-changing global market environment, KSB’s leadership remains confident in the Chinese market. They firmly believe that, with continued support from all parties, KSB Shanghai will achieve even greater success in the years to come.