Mazak Welcomes SMW Autoblok to Exclusive VIP Technology Program

FLORENCE, Ky., July, 30 2013 – Mazak Corporation recently named Wheeling, Ill.-based SMW Autoblok, a leading provider of chucks, live tools and steady rests, to its exclusive Value Inspired Partner (VIP) technology program, which exists to bring total manufacturing solutions to Mazak customers.

As a certified Value Inspired Partner, SMW Autoblok will collaborate with Mazak on R&D and integration efforts to create more innovative products and turnkey processes for the U.S. manufacturing market. The two companies will also work together to create training programs and seminars on a broad range of manufacturing topics for presentation at Mazak technology events across the country. This includes SMW Autoblok participating in DISCOVER 2013, a technology and education event taking place October 8 - 16 at Mazak Corporation headquarters in Florence, Ky.

“SMW Autoblok is a perfect fit for our VIP program. Like Mazak, SMW Autoblok is more than just a mere product supplier, it works closely with customers to understand their unique processes to be able to provide them with the best possible solutions for achieving increased productivity and profitability,” said Brian Papke, president of Mazak Corporation. “Process optimization through complete manufacturing solutions is essential in today’s competitive global marketplace, which makes collaborative efforts such as the VIP program so critical to the success of U.S. manufacturers.”

Launched in 2010, the Mazak VIP program brings together reputable producers of complementary technologies for Mazak machines. In order to become a Mazak VIP, members must exceed customer expectations in terms of products, services and support as well as maintain a culture of ethical business practices.

“We are excited to be named one of Mazak’s newest VIP partners,” said Gary Downs, president of SMW Autoblok. “It is an honor to be part of an exclusive program that places high value on product quality, fair pricing, technical support and customer service. After all, these are the four cornerstones of our business, and they have been key to our company’s global growth and leadership status in the manufacture of workholding, clamping and tooling solutions.”

For more information on the Mazak VIP program and SMW Autoblok, please visit MazakUSA.com/VIP and www.smwautoblok.com.

About Mazak Corporation

Mazak Corporation is a leader in the design and manufacture of productivity-improving machine tool solutions. Committed to being a partner to customers with innovative technology, its world-class facility in Florence, Kentucky, produces over 100 models of Turning Centers, Multi-Tasking Machines and Vertical Machining Centers, including 5- Axis models. Continuously investing in manufacturing technology allows the Kentucky plant to be the most advanced and efficient machine tool builder, providing high-quality and reliable products through its “ Production-on-Demand” manufacturing practice. Mazak maintains eight Technology Centers across North America to provide local hands-on applications, service and sales support to its customers. For more information on Mazak's products and solutions, visit www.mazakusa.com or follow us on Twitter at @MazakCorp and on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/MazakCorp.

About Mazak Corporation

Mazak Corporation is a leader in the design and manufacture of productivity-improving machine tool solutions. Committed to being a partner to customers with innovative technology, its world-class facility in Florence, Kentucky recently increased its production capacity to 200 machines per month. Continuous training and development of the workforce has created a "lean" culture, which has created opportunities for continuing growth in America. Mazak maintains eight Technology Centers across North America to provide local hands-on applications, service and sales support to its customers. For more information on Mazak's products and solutions, visit www.mazakusa.com or follow us on Twitter at and on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/MazakCorp.