Date: August 2003

Warrington based shock absorber and suspension component company - Kayaba UK, one of five subsidiaries of Kayaba Europe GmbH - has appointed Richard Bennett to the position of Assistant General Manager.

Well known in the aftermarket industry, Richard, 34, brings with him extensive knowledge and experience.

He joins Kayaba from Sovereign Rotating Electrics Ltd, where he was UK business director, prior to which he was with Sachs Boge UK, where he had been UK Sales Manager - Car & CV products. Previous experience includes Speedpart Group as Sales Director, as well as various marketing positions with AP Lockheed.

Commented Mr Hajime Sato, Managing Director of Kayaba Europe GmbH: "Richard has extensive sales and marketing experience in the UK aftermarket, and he joins us at an exciting time in the development of the KYB brand across Europe. I’m confident that he will help accelerate our growth in the United Kingdom".

Richard takes over from Tony Parr, who is leaving the company after acquiring a motor factor business in the North West of England.

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Ref: KYB10/2003