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Hankook & Company's Strategic Expansion in Japan

Hankook & Company, renowned for its extensive experience in battery manufacturing, is ramping up its efforts in the Japanese market as the summer demand season approaches. Beginning from July 2026, KBL (KB Limited), the exclusive distributor for Hankook batteries in Japan, is enhancing its domestic supply and sales support framework. This initiative aims to ensure that Hankook batteries meet the increasing demand during the peak summer months.

A Legacy of Innovation

Founded in 1944, Hankook & Company has spent close to 80 years refining its battery technology. The company has established a robust presence in over 100 countries, supplying its lead-acid batteries to 450 partners, including major automotive manufacturers. Their product range extends from batteries intended for new vehicles to those designed for the aftermarket segment, catering to a broad spectrum of consumer needs.

Since becoming the general distributor in Japan in February 2025, KBL has actively managed the import, quality control, storage, shipment, and sales support of Hankook products. Within just a year and a half, KBL has successfully increased its supply chain to over 600 companies across all 47 prefectures of Japan, amassing a cumulative shipment total of 334,000 batteries.

Preparing for the Summer Demand

With the summer season approaching, characterized by the increased usage of electrical components like air conditioners, KBL acknowledges a heightening need for battery checks and replacements among consumers. In preparation, KBL plans to expand its domestic inventory of Hankook batteries by 120% compared to the previous year, ensuring they can meet this seasonal surge in demand effectively.

Furthermore, KBL is working diligently to strengthen their supply chain through six specialized sales offices and five logistics hubs nationwide. This infrastructure expansion will enhance their capacity to provide batteries promptly and efficiently across the country.

KBL aims to offer comprehensive support to its partners during this period. This will include:

• - Product Selection Support: Assisting partners in choosing the right batteries based on their customer demographics and vehicle types.
• - Information Sharing: Providing key details regarding product lines, compatibility, and warranty conditions.
• - Promotional Materials: Supplying marketing collateral to aid in retail promotion.
• - Consultation on Inventory and Supply: Addressing inquiries related to stock levels and delivery timelines.
• - After-Sales Support: Offering ongoing assistance after product implementation.

This comprehensive support framework is designed to bolster the sales activities of KBL's partners, creating a reliable channel for consumers needing Hankook batteries.

Quality Control in Japan

KBL places significant emphasis on quality management for Hankook batteries within Japan. A rigorous inspection is conducted for all batteries upon arrival, ensuring that they meet the highest standards before being stocked and distributed. Proper maintenance procedures, such as recharging when necessary, are performed to guarantee product integrity during storage and prior to shipping.

Transport and storage conditions are monitored closely, confirming that battery performance remains optimal and consistent. These precautions are fundamental to ensuring KBL can provide a dependable service to its partners and their customers alike.

Expansion and Future Outlook

Since KBL began distributing Hankook batteries, their market outreach has continued to expand. They have seen substantial sales growth, with a total of 334,000 units shipped. The current list of more than 600 partners includes automotive retailers, parts wholesalers, used car dealers, and large automotive accessory chains. KBL is committed to responding to the feedback from these partners, continually refining their support services and offerings.

As the demand landscape evolves, KBL plans to continue its strategic enhancements and ensure that Hankook batteries become a prominent choice in the Japanese automotive battery market.

Through this comprehensive approach—combining advanced manufacturing capabilities from Hankook & Company with KBL's focused domestic support—consumers in Japan will have access to a trusted battery option that meets their diverse automotive needs.

For further inquiries regarding Hankook batteries and sales support, please contact KBL.

About KBL

KBL (KB Limited) specializes in importing, manufacturing, and selling components and products in various fields, including construction machinery, agricultural machinery, and automotive sectors. As the exclusive distributor of Hankook batteries, KBL operates nationwide, ensuring smooth supply and post-installation support.