Tokyo-based Lixil Corporation has launched a new global operating model with four core technology business units to further globalise its business.

The most notable change from this new model will be the creation of Lixil Water Technology Group, which integrates the Lixil Group’s worldwide sanitary ware business including the Grohe Group and the American Standard Brands, with effect from April 1 next year, said a statement.

This move will create a global market leader and the largest platform in the international sanitary ware market with sales of around $6 billion and earnings of around 10 per cent operating profit, some 30,000 employees, sales offices across 150 markets and around 50 production facilities globally.

David J. Haines, chairman and chief executive officer of the Grohe Group, will take over as CEO of Lixil Water Technology Group in addition to his responsibilities to date.

The Grohe, American Standard, Joyou and Lixil/Inax brands will remain independent within Lixil Water Technology Group and their own proven management teams will continue to run their businesses and organisations, said the statement.

Lixil Water Technology Group will establish the four sales territories of Japan, EMEA, the Americas and Asia, each with primary responsibility for the different brands.

Yoshiaki Fujimori, president and CEO of the Lixil Group, said: “This decision strengthens our global sanitary ware business and links our leading brands in all important regions of the world into a powerful and highly efficient global unit, particularly in purchasing, production as well as research and development. We are proud to be creating a new global market leader under the leadership of Haines.” - TradeArabia News Service