Republic Announces Technology Agreement with Kobe

FAIRLAWN, Ohio (April 25, 2007) – Republic Engineered Products, Inc., North America’s leading producer of special bar quality (SBQ) steel, today announced that Kobe Steel, Ltd. and its subsidiary Kobe Technologies Proprietary, Inc. have entered into a new agreement to provide production technology to Republic.

Kobe Steel has provided technical assistance to support Republic’s business for many years under prior agreements.

The new agreement calls for Kobe Technologies to provide experienced engineers to Republic’s plants in Lorain and Canton, Ohio, and Lackawanna, N.Y., to focus on maintaining and improving product quality.

Republic will also continue to be licensed to produce and market Kobe’s UHS1900, a steel wire rod product used in the manufacture of high-strength automotive suspension springs. The agreement with Republic enables Kobe Steel to maintain and strengthen the supply of high-quality steel wire rod and bar in North America.

"Our long-term relationship with Kobe strengthens Republic’s capabilities to provide innovative bar steel solutions for critical applications in support of our intention to continue and grow as the leader in supplying the Japanese transplant business segment," said Jaime Vigil, president and chief executive officer. "This new agreement solidifies our position as North America’s leading provider of special bar quality steel, and provides the basis for continuing growth opportunities."

Kobe Steel, Ltd. is a major Japanese steelmaker with headquarters in Tokyo and Kobe. It is also a leading producer of aluminum and copper products. Other businesses include welding consumables, industrial machinery, construction equipment, and electronic materials. More details are available at http://www.kobelco.co.jp/english/index.html.

Republic Engineered Products, Inc., is North America’s leading supplier of special bar quality (SBQ) steel, a highly engineered product used in axles, drive trains, suspensions and other critical components of automobiles, off-highway vehicles and industrial equipment. With headquarters in Fairlawn, Ohio, the privately owned company operates steelmaking centers in Canton and Lorain, Ohio, and value-added rolling and finishing facilities in Canton, Lorain and Massillon, Ohio; Lackawanna, N.Y.; Gary, Ind.; and Hamilton, Ontario. Republic employs approximately 2,500 people.

Published on 2007-04-25

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