If you’re in an origin-focused region like the Middle East and Africa (MEA), you’ll almost certainly examine where the goods was created. Whether it’s an industry norm or a long-standing custom, the provenance of a product can “make or break” a potential sale.

Is it from Japan?  

Yes, most salespeople get asked this question on a daily basis. But why is that?

For those unfamiliar with the MEA region’s business culture, everything is built on trust and long-term relationships.

Japanese products, such as MBS bearings, a bearing brand known globally for its excellent bearings for automotive and industrial machineries, have a strong following due to its endurance and innovation for decades.

MBS at a Glance  

The MBS brand, which is owned by MAEKAWA BEARING MFG Co., Ltd., has expanded its product line beyond tapered roller bearings (TRB) to encompass wheel bearings, angular contact ball bearings, and cylindrical roller bearings, to name a few.

It takes pride in having achieved 70% of its production using the latest technology with a touch of Japanese craftsmanship to serve the needs of top global brands such as Toyota, GM, Ford, Renault, Nissan, Mazda, Volvo, Mercedes-Benz, and Volkswagen. It is currently led by President Kazuyoshi Maekawa.

Historical Milestones of MBS

1933   MAEKAWA BEARING MFG Co., Ltd.,  was founded by Hikoji Maekawa in Osaka, Japan

1943   Operation stopped temporarily due to World War II

1951   The company has changed into a corporation and manufactured Japan’s first tapered roller bearings

1959   Started ball bearing production

1960   Initiated the production of HONDA Motorcycle 250cc roller bearings for crank-shaft assembly

1966   Started manufacturing HONDA Automotive Vehicle Roller bearings for crank-shaft assembly

1988   Became SKF’s OEM supplier of TRB and wheel hub

1998   Began supplying to NIPPON THOMPSON (IKO)

2000   Became the supplier of reducer bearings to NIDEC-SHIMPO Co

2002   Established aftermarket sales in Korea for the automotive and construction industry as well as other special bearings

2007   Started supplying special bearings for Sumitomo Heavy Industry’s (SHI) Cyclo reducer

“ONLY ONE”, “NUMBER ONE”

With its Zero Defect Principle, MAEKAWA BEARING MFG Co., Ltd. envisions itself as the “ONLY ONE”, “NUMBER ONE” bearing specialist in the industry as it continuously expands its strong market base not just locally but in 40 countries worldwide.

That’s the power of MBS –made from the Land of the Rising Sun!