- 10 March 2008 -
Chinese base for testing house

The Smithers Group has opened an office in Shanghai, China, which the company says is part of its international growth strategy. Headquartered in Akron, Ohio in the USA, The Smithers Group is a leading independent testing, consulting, and contract research organization.

"This office will enable us to serve domestic Chinese companies efficiently who could benefit from our services and capabilities," said Michael Hochschwender, president and chief executive officer of The Smithers Group. "Also, a full time presence will be of value to our North American and European clients who are looking to work with China-based suppliers", he added.

Lin Yang has been appointed director of business development for the greater China region. He will head up the Shanghai office and lead The Smithers Group's efforts in China . Mr. Yang brings more than 15 years of experience in manufacturing, corporate strategic planning, and new market development. He has served with such global companies as IMC Chemicals, U.S. Borax, Rio Tinto, and Unifi. He was most recently responsible for developing and implementing a China market strategy at Unifi.

The Smithers Group; www.smithersgroup.com