Magirus expands Japan service and sales through Katakura Industries partnership
Iain Hoey
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Magirus partners with Katakura Industries for Japan market
Firefighting vehicle manufacturer Magirus has announced a new partnership with Katakura Industries Co., Ltd., beginning June 2025, to expand its service and sales presence in Japan.
According to Magirus, the agreement will see Japanese operations handled by Katakura’s subsidiary, Nihon Kikai Kogyo Co., Ltd., which has more than 100 years of experience in the local fire sector.
The company stated that the collaboration will prioritise enhanced customer support, including maintenance and long-term service provision for Japanese firefighting organisations.
Nihon Kikai Kogyo to manage local operations
Magirus said the decision to work with Katakura Industries was based on the longstanding reputation of its group company, Nihon Kikai Kogyo.
The firm has provided firefighting solutions in Japan for over a century, including aerial rescue vehicles and special-use fire trucks such as seawater pumpers and smoke removal units.
According to Magirus, this depth of experience positions Nihon Kikai Kogyo to offer comprehensive local support and ensure long-term service continuity for customers using Magirus equipment.
Responding to Japan’s disaster response needs
Magirus stated that Japan presents complex firefighting challenges, including earthquake response, tsunami preparedness and urban high-rise rescues.
Thomas Hilse, Chief Executive Officer of Magirus, said: “We are seeing a clear trend worldwide: the need for efficient high-rise rescue solutions is growing rapidly.”
Hilse added: “With our proven turntable ladders and specialised equipment, we are ideally positioned to support the fire departments in Japan – now and in the future.”
Focus on long-term service and network expansion
According to the company, the partnership represents an extension of its global network, placing emphasis on trusted local partnerships for after-sales service and reliability.
Marc Kuntz, Director Sales and Customer Service at Magirus, said: “With reliable local partners, we ensure that everyone using Magirus technology can rely on their equipment for a long time to come.”
Katakura Industries also highlighted the strategic value of the agreement for disaster prevention.
Ryosuke Joko, President and CEO of Katakura Industries, said: “By combining Magirus’ advanced firefighting technology with the decades of experience and technological expertise of our group company, Nihon Kikai Kogyo, we aim to bring new value to Japan’s disaster prevention in firefighting sectors, contributing to a safer and more sustainable society.”
Magirus expands Japan service and sales through Katakura Industries partnership: Summary
Magirus has announced a new service and sales partnership in Japan with Katakura Industries Co., Ltd.
The agreement will take effect from June 2025.
Sales and service will be managed by Katakura’s subsidiary Nihon Kikai Kogyo Co., Ltd.
Nihon Kikai Kogyo has over 100 years of experience in the Japanese firefighting industry.
The company produces aerial rescue vehicles and specialised units such as seawater pumpers and smoke removal trucks.
Magirus said the partnership aims to improve customer support and long-term service reliability in Japan.
Japan faces specific civil protection challenges, including earthquakes, tsunamis and complex urban firefighting demands.
Magirus CEO Thomas Hilse said the company’s equipment is suited to Japan’s high-rise rescue needs.
Marc Kuntz, Director Sales and Customer Service, said the company values strong local partnerships.
Katakura Industries President Ryosuke Joko said the agreement will support disaster prevention efforts in Japan.