Japan to takeover Daf?
Page 7
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
A POSSIBLE Japanese take-over or merger of Daf, and Seddon Atkinson's new owner, Enasa has been predicted in a survey of the UK and European Motor Industry.
Researched and written by Professor Bhaskar, head of accountancy and finance at East Anglia University, the survey predicts a deeper penetration of the commercial vehicle market by Japan and says that there could be "a possible further advance of Japanese interest through merger or takeover" of Daf and Enasa.
Professor Bhaskar said that the heavy vehicle sector would be dominated by co-operative ventures rather than complete mergers. Japan's interest in the market would increase from its European market share of 3.8 per cent. Mercedes-Benz is the leader with 23.8 per cent of the market.
The van market is also facing a serious challenge from the Japanese, Professor Bhaskar said. Its current 16 per cent European share will rise to 20.1 per cent, but will not go much above this figure over the next few years.
Japanese success will be coupled by its prices "that defy competition," he said.