Kobe Steel, Ltd.

Kobe Steel traces its origin to 1905 when the partnership company Suzuki Shoten acquired Kobayashi Seikou-sho, which was operated by Seikouro Kobayashi in Wakihama, Kobe, and renamed it Kobe Steel.

The cast steel business was started at the time of founding.

Founding: September 1, 1905

In 1911, it separated from Suzuki Shoten and was established as Kobe Steel, Ltd. in Wakihama-cho, Kobe City.

Establishment: June 28, 1911

Development of air compressors began, launching the first domestic machinery business.

The steel material business was started.

The copper business was started.

The engineering business began with the completion of the first domestic cement plant.

The first domestic electric shovel was completed, launching the construction machinery business.

Shares were listed on the stock market.

Production of welding rods (first domestic) began, launching the welding business.

Steel production was resumed quickly after the war, establishing a pioneering position in titanium industry.

The first domestic industrial production began, and research and development of titanium commenced.

Export of Japan's largest plant (East Pakistan) was carried out, launching the overseas plant business.

A manufacturing base was established in Thailand.

The Kakogawa Steelworks was completed.

The operation of "Marine Expo KRT" at the Okinawa International Marine Expo venue has begun.

The "KOBELCO" brand was established as an international unified trademark.

Acquired Midrex USA and launched the reduced iron/new steel plant business.

Established a holding company in the United States.

Established a production and sales facility for automotive zinc-plate steel in the United States.

Affected by the 1995 Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake. Despite significant damage, including a blast furnace at Kobe Steel (now Kobe Line Factory), the furnace was restarted in two and a half months, becoming a symbol of Kobe's earthquake recovery.

Entered the power wholesale supply business (IPP).

Commenced commercial operation of Unit 1 at Kobe Power Plant.

Established a general-purpose compressor manufacturing and sales facility in China.

Celebrated the 100th anniversary of founding in 2005 and strengthened group management and business structure by establishing overseas holding companies.

Formulated the "Corporate Philosophy" and commenced operations at the China automotive special steel wire processing facility, the U.S. automotive suspension aluminum forging plant, and a U.S. non-general-purpose compressor manufacturing and sales facility.

Established a holding company in China.

Established a production and sales facility for automotive cold-rolled high-strength steel in China.

The Tianjin aluminum panel factory began operation, starting production of automotive aluminum panels.

Promoted measures toward CO2 reduction and carbon neutrality, and set goals and visions for 2030 and 2050.

Established the "Group Corporate Philosophy" and fully acquired KOBELCO Environmental Solutions Co., Ltd. as a subsidiary.

Commenced commercial operation of Unit 3 at Kobe Power Plant.

Commenced commercial operation of Unit 4 at Kobe Power Plant.

Announced the "KOBELCO Group Mid-term Management Plan (FY 2024-2026)" and began expanding the Kobenable® Aluminum brand.

Celebrated the 120th anniversary of founding and will implement the "KOBELCO 120th Anniversary Project."