Autoflex Knott - Manufacturing Outlook - Issue 12

ADVANCED TOWING OPERATIONS AND GLOBAL GROWTH

FROM HUNGARIAN ROOTS TO GLOBAL ROADS: THE AUTOFLEX-KNOTT EXPANSION STORY From its beginnings as a Hungarian manufacturer to becoming a globally recognised supplier of trailer components, Autoflex-Knott has built its success through engineering expertise, strategic partnerships, and a long-term vision for growth.

By expanding beyond Europe and establishing two companies in the US, the company has strengthened its international presence and positioned itself as a key player in the global trailer technology industry, as we find out from the leadership team Writer: Rachel Carr | Project Manager: Ben Weaver

S

pecialising in the development and production of trailer components and towing systems, Hungarian manufacturer Autoflex-Knott operates as part of the international Knott Group – a well-known, German family-owned business.

Headquartered in Kecskemét, Hungary, Autoflex-Knott supplies braking systems and trailer technologies worldwide from large production plants equipped with modern machining, assembly, and testing capabilities.

By expanding its infrastructure to include multiple production halls, 2 | Manufacturing Outlook Issue 12

engineering and development units, logistics centres, and quality-control laboratories, the company has enabled a comprehensive production process, from design and prototyping to serial manufacturing and global distribution.

Serving trailer manufacturers and distributors across Europe and internationally, AutoflexKnott supports industries like transportation, agriculture, construction, and recreational vehicles (RV).

Originally manufacturing complete trailers and tow bars, the company has shifted its focus to components

and systems, including axles, brakes, couplings, and suspension parts, primarily for light- and medium-duty trailers.

A significant turning point in its journey was the strategic partnership and later integration with Knott Group, which strengthened the company’s technological capabilities and international reach, combining local manufacturing expertise with advanced German engineering.

Autoflex-Knott subsequently diversified into the US market, where it designs products for trailers with capacities of up to 10,000 pounds (lbs), compared to 7,000 lbs in Europe.

Since 2007, President, Anita Monti, has been instrumental in US market research and navigating the various regulatory standards for trailer components.

“Our journey in the country began in 2006 when one of our major European trailer manufacturers expanded operations in the Chicago area,” opens Anita reflectively.

“We were asked to support our client’s US operations as they lacked familiarity with local axle and trailer suppliers, which created our opportunity to enter the US market.”

Today, Autoflex-Knott is a recognised international supplier in the trailer industry, known for

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AUTOFLEX-KNOTT EUROPE & MIDDLE EAST

its investments in automation, product development, and quality management that ensure reliability and safety.

FORGING STRONG TIES The US division of the company, led by Owner and Executive Director, Sándor H. Szabó, expanded its customer base six months after starting operations.

“In 2008, we relocated to Wisconsin to partner with a major boat trailer manufacturer, helping them expand into Europe,” Anita reveals.

From there, Autoflex-Knott soon developed products for the US market, such as axle systems, jacks, winches, and rollers, which attracted

more trailer manufacturers and led to significant growth, including the purchase of a warehouse in Wisconsin that later tripled in size.

“With rapid growth in Florida, we recognised the need for an additional Southeast warehouse to reduce shipping costs, and developed our own fleet of trucks for faster, reliable delivery,” she adds.

The two US locations now collaborate on sales and manufacturing to support global operations, and what began as a one-person operation has since grown into a team of over 15 employees.

When Autoflex joined forces with

WHAT DOES THE 20TH ANNIVERSARY OF AUTOFLEX-KNOTT’S OPERATIONS IN THE US MEAN FOR THE COMPANY AND ARE THERE ANY PLANS TO CELEBRATE? Anita Monti, President: “Celebrating 20 years in the country is an important milestone for Autoflex-Knott.

“Over the past two decades, the US market has become one of our most important regions and has played a significant role in the company’s international growth.

“Our US operations originally started in Fox Lake, Wisconsin, close to one of our largest partners. In the early years, Autoflex-Knott’s focus was mainly on sales and distribution. Over time, however, our activities expanded to include manufacturing and assembly.

“During these 20 years, we have built strong, long-term partnerships and successfully combined European engineering expertise with the specific needs of the American market.

“We plan to celebrate this milestone together with our customers and sister company, which is also an important supplier to our operations.

“Together, we will organise a customer event to present our newest products and review the key milestones in the company’s growth over the past two decades.”

4 | Manufacturing Outlook Issue 12

Knott Group in 1994, it had already built a solid reputation in Hungary and Russia. However, the company sought acceptance in Western markets; therefore, it needed a strong, respected partner.

“A genuine friendship with Valentin Knott was formed, which, along with mutual respect, has accompanied us throughout our careers, and we remain trusted partners and confidants,” Sándor smiles.

“Every Sunday we share a traditional Hungarian chicken soup, virtually, of course, speaking on the phone, discussing the week’s news, and exchanging our thoughts about business and the world.”

“OUR GROWTH HAS BEEN DRIVEN BY C L O S E C O O P E R AT I O N W I T H T R A I L E R M A N U FA C T U R E R S , C O N T I N U O U S P R O D U C T D E V E L O P M E N T, A N D T H E A B I L I T Y T O R E S P O N D Q U I C K LY T O C U S T O M E R N E E D S ” – A N I TA M O N T I , P R E S I D E N T, A U T O F L E X - K N O T T

“The Autoflex-Knott partnership has truly been mutually beneficial, built on trust, quality, and a shared long-term vision,” enthuses Sándor.

This personal trust and the independence maintained within the partnership have played an important role in supporting global growth.

Knott Group, with over 80 years of experience, is renowned for manufacturing high-quality braking systems.

“By integrating these brakes into our axles, we can guarantee reliable, proven quality that has facilitated access to Western markets,” he states.

The collaboration has also improved Knott Group’s entry into Eastern European markets by leveraging its established presence through Autoflex-Knott.

BUILDING A GLOBAL IDENTITY Autoflex-Knott’s identity in the US market is built on reliability, engineering quality, and long-term partnerships.

“As part of Knott Group, we bring European engineering and manufacturing expertise to the market, whilst adapting our solutions to the specific requirements of the North American trailer industry.

“Our growth has been driven by close cooperation with trailer manufacturers, continuous product development, and the ability to

respond quickly to customer needs,” Anita emphasises.

A global presence, combined with a strong European supplier base, gives Autoflex-Knott important advantages in coordinating its supply chain and staying competitive in the market.

“Being present in different regions allows us to select the best strengths from each location and integrate them into our operations,” insights Zita H. Szabó, CEO. “For example, in Asia, we benefit from cost-effective raw materials, which is why we source many castings and metal components there. In Europe, however, we can ensure the high technical standards and strict quality requirements that are essential for our products.”

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AUTOFLEX-KNOTT EUROPE & MIDDLE EAST

Most of Autoflex-Knott’s key manufacturing processes and final assembly take place in Europe, allowing it to maintain control over engineering quality and production standards.

“Working with reliable European suppliers maintains a high level of quality and stability in our supply chain through long-standing partnerships that encourage trust and efficient communication,” Zita outlines.

“A vertically integrated structure with multiple manufacturing subsidiaries improves production coordination, minimises reliance on external sources, and enhances

lead times and cost efficiency.

This well-coordinated approach boosts our flexibility and long-term competitiveness.”

In the US, meanwhile, the company strategically positions its logistics and distribution points close to its customers, enabling faster delivery, better service, and support for its partners.

INNOVATIONS FOR LONG-TERM SUCCESS Sándor strongly believes the best strategies for a company’s long-term success not only include horizontal growth, such as establishing sales offices, but also vertical integration.

“Autoflex-Knott has 14 subsidiaries, nine of which are manufacturing companies. Our headquarters purchases around 80 percent of raw materials and components from within the group.

“This structure enhances our control over quality, lead times, and flexibility, benefiting both original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) partners and aftermarket customers who expect quick responses and consistent performance.”

The majority of production takes place in Autoflex-Knott’s facilities, where automation plays a key strategic role.

“What motivates me most is creating tangible products, building factories, and seeing how our colleagues’ work turns into real solutions for customers globally.

COULD YOU SHARE AN INSIGHT INTO YOUR CAREER PATH AND INTEREST IN THE MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY?

“Manufacturing is demanding yet rewarding as it reflects decades of effort in the company’s strength and reputation.”

Zita H. Szabó, CEO: “Growing up, I had the unique opportunity to observe how my father built an entire company group from the ground up.

“Autoflex-Knott is more than just a business; it represents a life’s work and long-term vision that developed over decades. As the next generation, it was both an honour and a challenge.

“Whilst my father’s instincts for business and leadership came naturally to him, I had to learn and develop those skills step by step.

Sándor H. Szabó, Owner and Executive Director: “For

“My father has always been a strong role model, teaching

me, Autoflex-Knott is more than a workplace; it’s a

me the values of strategic thinking and sustainable

lifelong journey.

growth. His emphasis on trust, direct communication, and

“When I started, it was a small operation with big ambitions. Over the years, we grew together, learning

mutual respect in building relationships has shaped my views on leadership.

from challenges, celebrating successes, and overcoming

“As I became more involved in the company, my goal

difficulties. In many ways, the Autoflex-Knott narrative is

has been to build on the strong foundation my father

also the story of my professional life.

created, whilst implementing systems with a data-driven

“As a founder, you form a personal connection to the

approach that support continued growth and stability.

business. I often say I know and care about the company

“Ultimately, my ambition is to preserve the values,

down to the last bolt. Every product, development, and

culture, and relationships that built Autoflex-Knott, whilst

investment carries memories of decisions, challenges, or

adapting to the demands of a modern, international

milestones we experienced as a team.

manufacturing environment.”

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ABOUT US: FUJIAN JINPU AUTO SUSPENSION CO., LTD. is located at Xiayang developing area, Guokeng town, Longwen Zhangzhou city, in the Fujian province.

The company was established in 1993, covers 26,000 square metres, and has over 150 workers, including more than 10 senior engineers and technicians.

The company specialises in the manufacuturing of auto leaf springs, but also makes a full range of multi-leaf springs, parabolic leaf springs, and Z-type leaf spring products, which are used in heavy-duty trucks, trailers, and light vehicles. All products are exported overseas to over 30 countries, in regions including: Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and North America.

3PARABOLIC-LEAF-SPRING

PARABOLIC-LEAF-SPRING

4PARABOLIC-LEAF-SPRING

2Z-TYPE-LEAF-SPRING

Z-TYPE-LEAF-SPRING

2PARABOLIC-LEAF-SPRING

Tel: +86 596 3236986 | E-mail: info@hongliu-spring.com | www.hongliu-spring.com

AUTOFLEX-KNOTT EUROPE & MIDDLE EAST

Zita H. Szabó, CEO

“BEING PRESENT IN DIFFERENT REGIONS A L LOWS U S TO S E L E C T T H E B E ST S T R E N G T H S F R O M E A C H L O C AT I O N A N D I N T E G R AT E T H E M I N T O O U R O P E R AT I O N S ” – Z I TA H . S Z A B Ó , C E O , A U T O F L E X - K N O T T

“We continuously upgrade and modernise machinery to ensure that our manufacturing processes remain fast, efficient, and competitive,” Sándor assures.

“Labour shortages are a major challenge, prompting us to focus on automation and robotics for our high-volume product lines.

These advancements help maintain efficiency and the high quality our partners expect.”

Focusing on lightweight and durability improvements in its products, innovation is one of Autoflex-Knott’s core principles.

“We have an exceptional engineering team that is constantly working on developing new products and bettering our existing solutions to meet the evolving needs of customers.

“Our hydraulic actuator, developed without compromises, significantly enhances braking performance when paired with our disc brake system, surpassing many competing products,” Sándor explains.

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This strong performance has helped the company become a leading supplier in the US marine trailer industry.

“Our innovation does not stop at axles and overrun braking systems.

We are also developing and refining other key trailer components, including winches, jockey wheels, and fenders.

“The goal is to provide complete, reliable solutions that set us apart in the market through quality, durability, and performance,” states Sándor.

STRATEGIC GROWTH VENTURES Whilst many projects are underway across Autoflex-Knott, one major completed work is the opening of the Florida facility in the US. “For several years, we had been considering establishing a presence in Florida, as many of our customers are in that region. Logistics costs within the US can be quite high, so having a location there allows us to

optimise our distribution,” Sándor observes.

Logistics primarily drove the decision to open the facility. By bringing containers directly to Florida and distributing from there to smaller customers, the company can significantly reduce transportation costs and improve delivery efficiency.

“The project required extensive planning and preparation – we designed the facility with the future in mind. Beyond logistics, we prepared the site to accommodate assembly operations and smaller-scale manufacturing if needed.

“This gives us flexibility and brings us even closer to our customers, which is a key part of our long-term strategy in the US market,” Sándor divulges.

The market is becoming increasingly open to trailers, particularly in the RV segment, which has been growing steadily in recent years.

By combining production capabilities with a stronger market presence, Autoflex-Knott believes it can respond more effectively to local demand and support the continued growth of the trailer and RV industries in the region.

“For us, this would represent another important step in strengthening our global network whilst adapting our operations to the

Hungary facilities

specific needs and opportunities of each market,” informs Zita.

MARKET EXPANSION PLANS Autoflex-Knott’s key priority for the year ahead is to continue strengthening its global presence whilst maintaining a high level of quality and reliability.

The US market is highly dynamic, requiring constant innovation and fast response times, and one of the company’s main goals is to serve its customers faster and more flexibly.

“Since container shipments from Europe typically take four to five weeks to arrive in the US, it is important for us to respond quickly to local demand,” notes Anita.

“As a result, we developed a new bolt-on axle system specifically for the nation’s market. This solution allows us to supply smaller customers and special orders within one or two days.”

Additionally, Autoflex-Knott is introducing several new products in the US. Amongst them is a new universal fender, designed for easy installation, high durability, and

integrated safety features.

The company has also expanded its winch product line, which now ranges from 900 lbs to 2,500 lbs in capacity.

“We’ve introduced a versatile axle with an adjustable drop-arm design, allowing for individual arm replacement and a reduction in maintenance costs. We’ve also developed a new actuator to enhance our trailer product offerings.

“Currently, 90 percent of our US business is in the boat trailer industry, but we plan to expand into additional segments, including utility trailers, the RV market, and horse trailer applications,” details Anita.

Furthermore, Autoflex-Knott is constantly evaluating opportunities to move closer to its customers and support regional growth.

“We are focusing on improving operational efficiency across our facilities, further developing our product portfolio, and expanding our presence in strategic markets,” Zita sets out.

“One of our main goals is to optimise our global supply chain and manufacturing capability to stay

competitive and respond quickly to market demand.

“Innovation and product development will also remain central, particularly in areas where we can improve performance, durability, and efficiency.”

Following the successful opening of its Florida facility, Autoflex-Knott will continue to seek strategic locations to strengthen logistics and service capabilities and expand its long-term market presence.

“Overall, our objective is steady and sustainable growth – building on the strong foundation we have developed over the past decades whilst continuing to adapt to the changing needs of the global trailer industry,” Zita passionately concludes.

Tel: 941-479-4005 sales@autoflexknottinc.com

autoflex-knott.com

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Tel: 941-479-4005 sales@autoflexknottinc.com autoflex-knott.com

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