A Move to Improve: TMD Friction Invests BRL 142 million in Salto’s Plant

October 3, 2014

As an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) of disc brake pads and drum brake linings for all well-known passenger car brands and commercial vehicles, the group also provides replacement friction components to the global aftermarket through its brands Textar, Pagid, Mintex, Don, Cobreq, Cosid, and Dynotherm.

In Brazil, TMD Friction is particularly well known for its renowned Cobreq brand, which is synonymous with high quality, top class product performance, and professional customer service. The company is home to Cobreq and has been operating in Brazil since 1961. Since then, it has built up a reputation for quality performance friction products supporting its customers across South America.

TMD Friction is now preparing to move from the present Indaiatuba plant, to a green field facility with an advanced technology and research center in Salto, São Paulo. Mr. Hudson explained “This investment represents a significant increase in our factory size, and allows us to build for a successful future in Brazil. We intend to remain in the top echelon of the Brazilian friction market.“

“Brazil will see important growth over the next 20 years in the automotive industry," stated Mr. Hudson. “With 40 million people joining the middle class in the last decade, sales of entry-level cars have skyrocketed.“

TMD Friction’s investment in the new plant complements the company’s commitment to Brazil over the past 50 years and provides strong positioning to address future increased demand for advanced brakes. The company’s presence in Brazil is part of its global footprint. It is present in all major economies and offers local solutions for global success. Constantly on the move to improve, the company has firmly settled in Brazil and is an inextricable partner of the automotive industry in Brazil and beyond.