Harada Industry of America History

Introduction: A leading name in the automotive supplier industry, Harada Industry of Japan (HIJ) has been a supplier to the automotive manufacturers since 1947.  A solid reputation was established with worldwide Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM’s), as well as within the After Market sector.

Prior to 1976, HIJ exported its product to the United States.  Being considered a leader worldwide amongst automotive suppliers, HIJ created a U.S. subsidiary to meet the growing needs of the U.S. and North American Market. 

1976: HIJ creates U.S. subsidiary on October 1, 1976 to be named Harada Industry of America, Inc. (HIA).  The primary business for HIA was as an importer and distributor of automotive and electronic parts within the Aftermarket Industry.  Major products at the time consisted of car antennas, CB and TV antennas.

1983: HIA introduces motorized power antenna to first automotive OEM account within the United States.

1988: North American production capacity for HIA is increased with establishment of a manufacturing facility in Mexico.

1989: HIA Warehouse and Operations functions relocated from California to Melvindale, MI to be closer to the major automotive OEMs for enhanced logistics / supply chain management support.

1991: HIA U.S. Headquarters, Sales, and other support functions transferred from California to Southfield, MI to better meet the sales and support needs of our OEM customers.

1997: HIA combined its Southfield, MI and Melvindale, MI facilities into one location in Novi, MI.  This move consolidated support functions for enhanced efficiency in meeting the needs of customers. 

1997: HIA installs an Antenna Range Turntable at the Novi, MI location, with associated antenna testing equipment and software for advance antenna product development.

1998: HIA achieves QS-9000 (Quality Management System) certification, in a joint effort with the manufacturing facility in Mexico.

2000: HIA introduces automotive door lock actuator to the U.S. Market.

2001: HIA achieves ISO-14001 (Environmental Quality Management System) Certification

2004: HIA achieves TS 16949 (Quality Management System) Certification, in joint effort with manufacturing facility in Mexico

2008: HIA develops AM/FM/SDARS/GPS Combo Antenna for automotive market.