From YKK (U.S.A.) - YKK (U.S.A.) Inc. announces the 50^th anniversary of its Macon Factory, a milestone marking half a century of commitment to quality, innovation, sustainability, and community in the heart of Georgia.

On November 9, YKK celebrated this special occasion with a Family Day dedicated to its employees. The event featured speeches from notable figures including Mayor of Macon-Bibb County Lester Miller, Consul General of Japan Mio Maeda, YKK Corporation Chairman Masayuki Sarumaru, President of YKK Corporation of America Jim Reed, and President of YKK (U.S.A.) Inc. John Smith.

John Smith, President of YKK (U.S.A.) Inc., highlighted the pivotal role of the Macon Factory in embodying the company's philosophy and its enduring commitment to the community. "As we mark this significant milestone, we express our deep gratitude not only to our dedicated employees, whose tireless efforts have been instrumental, but also to the city of Macon for their unwavering support over the past fifty years. We are enthusiastic about extending this legacy of excellence and community partnership well into the future," said Smith.

History of the YKK (U.S.A.) Inc. Macon Factory

Japan-based YKK first entered the U.S. market in 1960 as a zipper distributor in New York City, strategically located near the garment district. Founder Tadao Yoshida's vision, however, extended beyond distribution to a model of vertical integration that epitomized the company's "Cycle of Goodness" philosophy. This approach, by controlling the entire production process, was intended to ensure superior quality and cost efficiency, thereby benefiting customers, employees, and the broader community.

As the U.S. textile industry's epicenter shifted southward, Yoshida and a site selection team explored locations in Tennessee, North and South Carolina, Alabama, and Georgia. Georgia emerged as a frontrunner due to its robust infrastructure, including four interstate highways, the deep-water port of Savannah, and a major international airport. The decision to settle in Georgia was clinched by a fortuitous meeting arranged by Cloyd Hall, a Macon native and Special Assistant to then-Governor Jimmy Carter, which led to an instant and profound connection between Yoshida and Carter.

YKK's strategic decision to establish its manufacturing facility just south of Macon in the newly developed Ocmulgee East Industrial Park heralded the start of a deep and enduring partnership with the region. This flagship manufacturing site's journey began with a visit by prominent Macon leaders to YKK's manufacturing center in Kurobe, Japan. Then, under the capable leadership of Yoshinori Kitano, construction and operation strategies were crafted and newly hired engineers, including future YKK Corporation of America CEO Alex Gregory, were trained in Japan, ensuring the transfer of YKK's specialized manufacturing techniques to the Macon facility.

The new plant opened in 1974. The facility initially focused on producing zippers tailored to the specific needs of the American market, including varieties for clothing, furniture, and outdoor equipment. Over the decades, the factory has expanded dramatically, employing over 600 local residents and diversifying into advanced solutions for industries including automotive, government, and medical sectors. The Macon facility's evolution from a modest operation to a key player in YKK's global network exemplifies the company's commitment to community and innovation.

Community Engagement

The Macon Factory has exemplified YKK's commitment to corporate social responsibility, making significant contributions to local community projects and events for decades. In 1977, YKK played a pivotal role in establishing a sister city relationship between Kurobe, Japan, and Macon, Georgia. Over the past four decades, this partnership has fostered cultural exchange, with more than 1,100 citizens from both cities visiting each other's countries, enriching the local community and strengthening international ties.

YKK has also been a stalwart supporter of the Macon Cherry Blossom Festival, an annual event that unites the community to celebrate the cultural and natural beauty of Macon. YKK's involvement includes substantial sponsorships and active participation in the festival's activities. Notably, in 1990, YKK (U.S.A.) Inc. donated $300,000 towards the construction of a dedicated building for the festival organizers, complemented by $60,000 worth of land donated by the city of Macon. Chairman Tadahiro Yoshida personally attended the groundbreaking ceremony. Each year, YKK proudly continues its support as a festival sponsor.

YKK (U.S.A.) Inc. is committed to sustaining the legacy of its founder by continuing to enhance the prosperity of Macon, enriching Georgia, and advancing the global textile industry.

About YKK

YKK solves the most complex fastening and attaching challenges. Since the company's founding in Tokyo in 1934, YKK has continuously set industry standards for quality, innovation, and sustainability in the production of zippers, plastic hardware, hook and loop fasteners, webbing tapes, and snap and buttons. YKK's "solutions-first" approach leverages its extensive product and machinery portfolio, engineering expertise, and integrated production, service, and supply chain solutions in 70+ countries/regions, leaving it well-positioned to support the growth of customers of all sizes and adapt to their evolving business needs. Guided by the CYCLE OF GOODNESS® philosophy - no one prospers without rendering benefit to others - YKK aims to contribute to a sustainable society through its products and manufacturing operations and constantly seeks new ways to serve the changing needs of its customers while at the same time investing in its employees and giving back to its communities.