By Eduardo A. Hapke/ Miami. This sector is poise d for growth from 2015-2018, the US convertible industry is expected to grow about 7%.
The Haartz family has a long history in supply of automotive textiles and top materials. The origins date back to 1907, however it was in 1922 when Haartz started manufacturing top materials. Today the name of the company changed to “The Haartz Corporation”, designed to better reflect the diverse product ranges supplied. Negocios Magazine interviewed Dough Haartz, sales manager international of The Haartz Corporation.
Negocios Magazine: Haartz Corporation is the number 1 supplier of automotive top covers, could you tell me what type of clients you have in this sector?
Dough Haartz: Haartz supplies to fabricators of finished top cover systems – usually Tier 1 suppliers. That being said, we do work directly with the automakers on some projects.
Negocios Magazine: To better understand the type of work you do in the automotive business, can you provide more specifics on the type of work done with this convertible tops on cars?
Dough Haartz: Haartz interacts with automotive designers to achieve their color, weave and design effects for the roof. The roof covers more than one-third the surface of the vehicle, the material used to cover it can really enhance the design aspects of the vehicle. By working directly with the OEM (original equipment manufacturers) and Tier 1 engineers, Haartz lends material and process selection expertise and guidance to achieve the desired combination of performance – namely acoustics and insulation; as well as durability for the roof system.
Negocios Magazine: Though the company works with diverse sectors, is the automotive industry the most important?
Dough Haartz: Yes, more than 90% of Haartz’ business is in the automotive industry. Outside of that, the company has worked in the marine and industrial sectors.
Negocios Magazine: How has the convertibles business evolved over the years?
Dough Haartz: This sector is poised for growth from 2015-2018, the US convertible industry is expected to grow about 7%. Haartz has evidence there will be about 11 new models introduced during this time period. Globally, Haartz sees a 10% increase in model count and a 47% increase in total soft-top vehicle builds over the next three years. In addition to a favorable model and sales forecast for the coming years, Haartz also has done consumer research that shows drivers feel convertible tops enhance the appearance and design of the vehicle, that convertibles and open air vehicles can be driven in any climate and any season and have enhanced safety features.
Negocios Magazine: When did the company change its name to Haartz Corporation?
Dough Haartz: The Haartz family has a long history in supply of automotive textiles and top materials. The origins date back to 1907, however it was in 1922 when Haartz started manufacturing top materials. In 1925 the name was changed to “Haartz Auto Fabric Company” and continued under this name until 1984 when the name was changed to “The Haartz Corporation” designed to better reflect the diverse product ranges supplied. Haartz has remained under the same family ownership since 1922.
Negocios Magazine: How do you see the future of the company?
Dough Haartz: Haartz will maintain a leading presence across the globe for soft-top convertible materials and automotive interior trim materials. We continue to provide innovative materials, designs and color options for OEs. Through research, we’ve learned consumers are interested in additional options for customization of their vehicle – and the roofing material is one way for them to achieve that.
Compartir
