Zoomlion's Bold Move to Localize Global Operations for Long-Term Value Creation

Zoomlion's Localization Strategy at KOMATEK 2026

At the recent KOMATEK 2026 exhibition, Zoomlion Heavy Industry Science & Technology Co., Ltd. made a remarkable impact with its theme "Innovation for Value Creation." Displaying over 40 advanced products, the company garnered significant recognition from customers worldwide. The event proved fruitful, as Zoomlion achieved over 1 billion RMB (approximately 138 million USD) in new and intended orders, reinforcing its leadership position in the market and highlighting its rapid international growth.

The emphasis on localization and customization stood out prominently in Zoomlion’s offerings. To meet the stringent operational conditions and regulatory frameworks of Turkey and surrounding markets, Zoomlion introduced several tailored equipment solutions. Among the highlights was the ZLK7600V803 articulated crane, a specialized model manufactured locally in Zoomlion's factory in Germany. This crane features a superstructure produced by Zoomlion’s German subsidiary, WILBERT, and is integrated with a locally-sourced high-quality Scania chassis. Fully certified according to CE standards and compliant with all European road transport regulations, this model exemplifies Zoomlion's commitment to pushing for international industrial collaboration and deeper market integration through structured optimization and advanced control technologies.

This profound blend of cross-border technological innovation and localized manufacturing stems directly from Zoomlion's global manufacturing strategy, known as "1+N." In this model, the "1" represents Zoomlion's smart city hub in China, the main research center and exporter of core technologies and innovative products, while the "N" signifies a growing network of localized manufacturing facilities and service platforms across key strategic markets worldwide. Currently, Zoomlion boasts 13 research and development and manufacturing bases overseas, over 30 major regional aviation centers, and more than 400 sales and service points, reaching over 170 countries and regions. Through this expanding network, Zoomlion is crafting a highly collaborative global industrial framework.

Turkey represents one of Zoomlion's key strategic markets, exemplifying this deeply localized approach. Since establishing its subsidiary in Istanbul in 2018, Zoomlion has developed a robust network of 12 full-service branches and three central warehouses throughout the country. The recent openings of Denizli (3,500 m²) and Bursa (1,200 m²) branches have further solidified Zoomlion’s capacity to operate as a pivotal regional center for sales, technical maintenance, and spare parts. This extensive direct infrastructure creates a comprehensive end-to-end platform combining management, storage, logistics, and customer service.

Simultaneously, Zoomlion is ramping up its local manufacturing capabilities in Europe. In Tatabánya, Hungary, the company's state-of-the-art smart factory for aerial platforms has officially launched Phase I in 2026. Strategically located on a significant logistics corridor connecting Eastern and Western Europe, this 250 mu (approximately 16.5 hectares) facility specializes in high-quality boom and scissor lifts. This configuration significantly enhances regional supply chain efficiency and product availability while fostering robust, mutually beneficial synergies with local industrial ecosystems.

Moreover, Zoomlion is orchestrating a historic transformation at its main European manufacturing hub in Germany. Following the acquisition of WILBERT, a tower crane manufacturer, in 2018, the plant has progressively evolved into a multiproduct industrial base. In 2025, Zoomlion commenced Phase II construction of the factory, with an investment exceeding 50 million euros encompassing over 60,000 square meters. Once fully operational, the expanded facility will produce more than 1,000 units annually of tower cranes, mobile cranes, and concrete machinery, serving as a comprehensive international production center and a vital starting point for Zoomlion’s long-term growth in Europe.

The implementation of the "1+N" strategy provides distinctive operational advantages for both Zoomlion and its global clients. Primarily, it significantly enhances delivery efficiency and product adaptability, as manufacturing and assembly closer to end markets allow Zoomlion to respond more swiftly to regional standards and customer preferences. Additionally, increased coordination among these global bases strengthens supply chain resilience. By mutually integrating resources across national and international facilities, Zoomlion has optimized regional logistics networks, ensuring a stable, consistent, and reliable supply of products for international construction machinery markets. Furthermore, with a robust service network and direct customer operations, Zoomlion offers comprehensive maintenance support throughout the product lifecycle, fostering deep commercial trust and establishing a solid foundation for mutual success with its global clientele.

Spanning from product innovation to smart manufacturing, and from localized production to direct technical support, Zoomlion is rooted in local markets with a "global village" mindset. Propelled by ongoing technological R&D and localized operations, the company is refining its products to meet global needs while strengthening its connections worldwide. Looking ahead, Zoomlion remains committed to open cooperation, leveraging its industry-leading R&D capabilities, integrated manufacturing systems, and professional service networks to work alongside global clients and partners towards a sustainable future.