I. Founding and Early Development (1890s - 1950s)
Founding Background
The story of Kubota began in 1890 when the 19-year-old Kubota Gonshiro founded Daishu Casting Works in Osaka, Japan, which was the predecessor of Kubota Corporation. Initially, the company mainly produced cast metal products such as water supply iron pipes and fire hydrants. During this period, although Kubota had not yet ventured the agricultural machinery sector, the steady development of its casting business laid a solid foundation for its future transformation and expansion.
Technological Accumulation and Transformation
Over time, Kubota gradually expanded its business scope. In 1917, the Ryuzaki factory was put operation, marking an improvement in the company's manufacturing capabilities. In 1922, Kubota began to venture the production of agricultural engines, which was an important step in its transformation towards the agricultural machinery sector. Additionally, Kubota Gonshiro was also involved in the founding of one of the predecessors of Nissan Motor Company, earning him a reputation in the Japanese industrial community and even being respectfully referred to as "master" by Konosuke Matsushita. These experiences provided strong support for Kubota's technological and market accumulation.
II. Rise in the Agricultural Machinery Sector (1950s - 1990s)
Focus on Agricultural Machinery Business
Entering the 1950s, Kubota began to shift its business focus towards the agricultural machinery sector. In 1957, the company successfully developed and sold the first agricultural tractor in Japan, marking Kubota's official rise in the agricultural machinery sector. Subsequently, Kubota launched products such as paddy field tractors, rice transplanters, and combine harvesters, gradually improving its agricultural machinery product line.
Market Expansion and Internationalization
With the continuous development of its agricultural machinery business, Kubota began to actively expand its overseas markets. In 1972, Kubota established a subsidiary in the United States, fully entering the North American market. This strategic layout not only expanded Kubota's market share but also enhanced its influence in the global agricultural machinery industry. Furthermore, Kubota continuously improved its brand awareness and market share by participating in international exhibitions and establishing overseas sales networks.
III. Deep Cultivation and Development in China (1957 - Present)
Opportunity to Enter the Chinese Market
The connection between Kubota and China can be traced back to 1957 when a Chinese agricultural delegation purchased a walking tractor produced by Kubota during a visit to Japan, which became the first agricultural machinery in New China. This event laid the foundation for Kubota's future layout in the Chinese market.
Establishment of Subsidiaries and Localized Production
In 1998, Kubota established a wholly-owned subsidiary in Suzhou, Kubota Agricultural Machinery (Suzhou) Co., Ltd., to produce various agricultural machinery products in China. This move marked the official beginning of Kubota's journey in the Chinese market. Subsequently, Kubota also established sales and production bases in Shanghai and Wuxi to produce small excavators and diesel engines. Through localized production and the establishment of service networks, Kubota quickly gained a foothold in the Chinese market.
Continuous Innovation and Market Leadership
Kubota's success in the Chinese market is not accidental but stems from its continuous pursuit of innovation and keen grasp of the market. The company continuously introduces intelligent and environmentally friendly agricultural machinery products such as smart tractors and autonomous harvesters. These high-tech products not only improve the efficiency and quality of agricultural production but also provide farmers with a more convenient farming experience. With these advantages, Kubota has gradually established a leading position in the Chinese agricultural machinery market.
IV. Brand Concept and Social Contribution
Brand Concept
Kubota's brand concept is reflected in its focus and contribution to areas closely related to human life and culture, such as "water," "soil," and "environment." The company is committed to achieving abundant and stable grain production, improving human living environments, and promoting sustainable social development through excellent products, technologies, and services. This concept not only permeates Kubota's product development and market strategies but also embodies its responsibilities and commitments to employees, customers, and society.
Social Contribution
While driving its own development, Kubota also actively fulfills its social responsibilities. The company contributes to the local socio-economic development and environmental protection by participating in public donations, environmental protection projects, and other activities. Additionally, Kubota emphasizes win-win cooperation with suppliers, distributors, and users, jointly promoting the healthy development of the industry through the establishment of good cooperative relationships and market order.
In summary, the brand development story of Kubota Agricultural Machinery Corporation is a legendary journey full of challenges and opportunities. From starting as a casting factory to becoming the largest agricultural machinery manufacturer in Asia, Kubota has established an outstanding brand image in the global agricultural machinery industry with its keen market insight, continuous technological innovation, and commitment to social responsibility.