ZKL Klasterec Claims Strong Growth Continues

ZKL Klasterec Claims Strong Growth Continues ZKL Klasterec nad Ohri (Czech Republic, a division of HTC Holding), the largest bearing manufacturer in the Czech Republic, said bearing production increased again in 2006. Production reportedly reached 3 million bearing sets in 2006, continuing a trend which it said has seen production rise 25% since 2001. Approximately 80% of the company's output is exported, although it said demand from the Czech Republic's strengthening domestic auto industry is also driving higher production levels. Adding to the everyday sales and marketing challenges, no fewer than 24 companies in the Czech Republic claim some form of ownership or licensing of the ZKL trademark. Counterfeiters have been taking increasing advantage of the frayed trademark situation. A rising tide of counterfeit ZKL-branded bearings are being smuggled into the Czech Republic from China, with little to stop or control it.