Global Fastener News

Grainger Opens Master Branch in China

Jason Sandefur

Looking to break into China’s $4 billion MRO market, WW Grainger Inc. opened its first master branch in China. Located in Shanghai”s Minhang District, the $6 million facility will initially stock 20,000 products, with 95% of them locally sourced.
Grainger caught the fastener industry’s attention in early 2006 when it greatly expanded its fastener offerings to 30,000 SKUs.
For its latest venture, Grainger has launched a new website, grainger.com.cn, in Chinese, as well as a Chinese language catalogue.
“We are delighted to bring our expertise to the marketplace in China,” commented Bonnie McIntyre, general manager of Grainger China LLC. “We look forward to growing our presence to serve more customers in this country.”
The Shanghai Daily reports that the facility is only the beginning of Grainger”s expansion plans for China. Other locations will be added in the future, Grainger International president John Schweig was quoted as saying.
Grainger officials reportedly said the market response to the Minhang facility”s trial operation over past two months was positive, netting several large orders.
The Lake Forest, IL-based company claimed that the new 39,000 sq ft facility “reflects Grainger’s strengths in North America.” Stock includes products for electrical, lighting, tools, pneumatics, plumbing, material handling, metal working and HVAC.
Grainger also operates a customer service center in central Shanghai that offers sales consultation.
Grainger reportedly has been purchasing US$200 million worth of products from China annually, mainly for its customers in the U.S. grainger.com �2006 FastenerNews.com