April, 2005-CONSHOHOCKEN, PA (NYSE:KWR) -- The Tube and Pipe Industry is undergoing significant changes, from increasing pressure for cost efficiencies, to consolidation and globalization, to ever-evolving technologies. In response, Quaker, a committed supplier to the industry is creating a new Global Tube and Pipe business unit. “The idea,” says Quaker’s Karl Kunkel, Global Tube & Pipe Director, “is to serve every part of the tube and pipe manufacturing process, in every part of the world. We believe that Quaker can create real value for our tube and pipe customers — starting now, and delivering even more value in the future.”
The change Quaker is making is a strategic one, moving from supplying the market with traditional products and Quaker’s specialty coatings, to become a “front to-back” supplier of products and services. This is a unique position for which Quaker has many of the necessary resources already in place, including a broad tube and pipe product line, a global business infrastructure, and a depth of experience from long-term involvement with the industry. In the front end, Quaker has leveraged its proven metalworking coolant technologies to develop a new line of global products to serve the industry efficiently.
This complements their already established line of cleaners and FERROCOTE? rust preventives. Additionally, Quaker’s acquisition of the Italian supplier Eural in 2003 helps complete the offering with an extended portfolio of products and expertise for forming, pilgering, and drawing. For the back end, Quaker is developing a global range of final coating products based on advanced technologies to meet the specific needs of customers. Current markets served include producers of tubular goods for the oil and gas industries, construction markets, structural products, office furniture, and many other specialty applications.
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