Core Insights - KONE has been deeply rooted in the Chinese market for nearly 30 years, establishing the largest manufacturing base and the second-largest R&D center globally in Kunshan. The company is now focusing on service digitalization, urban renewal, and sustainable development as new growth drivers amid a market adjustment phase [2][3]. Group 1: Company History and Market Position - KONE entered China in 1996, with Kunshan being its largest elevator and escalator manufacturing facility and the second-largest R&D center globally. China is KONE's largest single market, benefiting from the rapid urbanization over the past 15-20 years [3][4]. - The company initially focused on new elevator installations, achieving over 20% growth during China's infrastructure boom. However, with a significant decline in new projects post-2021, KONE is shifting its strategy [3][4]. Group 2: Strategic Focus Areas - KONE's strategy now emphasizes three main areas: 1. Digitalization and efficiency in service maintenance, which has become the largest business segment in China [4][5]. 2. Urban renewal, particularly the installation of elevators in old buildings and the modernization of equipment over the next 15-20 years [5]. 3. Sustainable development and the adoption of green technologies, with energy feedback technology expected to save approximately 1200 RMB per elevator annually [5][6]. Group 3: Competitive Landscape and Pricing Challenges - Local brands are aggressively expanding in lower-tier cities, impacting KONE's profit margins. However, KONE maintains a commitment to safety, quality, and compliance, leveraging its local supply chain to compete effectively [7][8]. - KONE employs a dual-brand strategy to cater to different market segments, with its second brand focusing on niche applications such as freight and rural areas [8][9]. Group 4: Global Supply Chain and Market Strategy - KONE's supply chain remains primarily based in China, which is crucial for maintaining competitive production costs. The company has also established manufacturing capabilities in India, Italy, and Mexico to serve nearby markets [9][10]. - Despite geopolitical challenges, KONE's commitment to the Chinese market remains strong, viewing it as a critical hub for innovation and growth [9][10]. Group 5: Digital Transformation and Workforce Development - KONE's digital transformation involves three phases: data collection, predictive maintenance, and AI-assisted operations. The company is also investing in retraining its workforce to adapt to these changes [11][12]. - The company aims to balance its new equipment and service business, moving from an 80:20 ratio to a more sustainable 50:50 structure [10][11]. Group 6: Future Outlook - KONE views China as a priority market, focusing on residential product development and leveraging local insights for global operations. The company believes that despite slowing growth, China remains the center of the global elevator industry [14][15].
在拐点中寻找新增长:麦肯锡倪以理对话通力大中华区总裁包嘉峰
麦肯锡·2025-11-12 02:01