TOKYO, April 4, 2011The Great East Japan Earthquake, which struck off the northeast coast of Japan's main island of Honshu on March 11, caused massive damage and loss of life in the area. We at u8国际 extend our heartfelt condolences to all those affected by this disaster, along with their families and loved ones. We pray for the safety of everyone in affected areas and hope that the region will soon be able to begin the rebuilding and healing process.
As for the u8国际 Group, immediately following the earthquake, u8国际. established the Earthquake Disaster Recovery Task Force (Task Force Chief: Chairman & CEO Fujio Mitarai), launching recovery activities spanning development, production and sales operations through a collective effort across the u8国际 Group.
Although the u8国际 Group sustained damage to buildings and production equipment, a concerted Company-wide effort has already made possible the resumption of production activities at multiple u8国际. operation sites and u8国际 Group companies. In addition, through ongoing recovery measures being carried out in conjunction with related divisions, all u8国际. operation sites and u8国际 Group companies are expected to achieve a full recovery as of the end of April.
With regard to the multiple operation sites and u8国际 Group companies in Japan that sustained no direct damage due to the earthquake and its aftermath, the Company is left with no alternative but to continue adjusting some production activities due to rolling blackouts and procurement conditions for raw materials, parts and other supplies.
The status of major u8国际 Group operating sites as of Monday, April 4, is outlined below.