History

Delivers conveyor system to automobile factory

After years of chaos, Japan's economy entered a period of tremendous growth. Motorization became an important component of society, and Daifuku introduced the American conveyor system for automobile assembly lines. We installed such systems for Japanese automobile companies and paved Daifuku's way to become a material handling manufacturer.

Expands business

Daifuku expanded operations into automated warehouses (creating Japan's first), bowling alley equipment, automatic guided vehicles, and material handling tools including racks and mesh pallets. This new direction helped Daifuku acquire customers in a range new industries, such as electronics, apparel, distribution and automotive. The company built manufacturing factories in Komaki City, Aichi, and Hino Town of Shiga Prefecture, and listed stocks on the Tokyo, Osaka and Nagoya Stock Exchanges.

Experiences effects of oil crisis

In the 1970s, the oil crisis halted Japanese economic growth. Daifuku faced another challenge at that time - the end of the bowling fad 'boom.'

Efforts in the era of Factory Automation

In 1977, Daifuku entered the car washing machine business. In the 1980s, Factory Automation (FA), machinery tools, automated warehouses and automatic guided vehicles gained popularity. Daifuku began delivering FA systems to the world's state-of-the-art factories and became a mechatronics corporation integrating machinery and control technologies. The company name changed from Daifuku Machinery Works Co., Ltd. to Daifuku Co., Ltd.

Enters the distribution automation and cleanroom fields

In the 1980s and 1990s, Daifuku expanded into Distribution Automation (DA), developed a new type of automated sorters, and built a factory for cleanroom transport systems for the semiconductor industry. We also began construction of the Shiga Works manufacturing facility.

Becomes increasingly globalized

In line with the Japanese automakers' global expansion, Daifuku built factories in the U.S. and Thailand, and also started the process of becoming ISO 9001 certified.

Opened exhibition center for material handling & logistics

In 1994, we opened our full-scale exhibition center Hini Arata Kan in Shiga to showcase products. Hini Arata Kan visitors explore material handling systems up close and under one roof.

Large-scale distribution center construction increased, LCD screens increased in size, digital appliances such as cell phones were mass produced, Japanese automakers set up overseas operations, and the Chinese economy grew drastically. All these factors helped turn business around. Another three year business plan started in 2004 entitled Create and Challenge for the 70th Anniversary. Profits were high, which allowed Daifuku to invest worldwide. We expect similar results through 2010.