October Business of the Month: Daido Metal USA

​Daido Metal USA is a prominent player in the manufacturing world, particularly in the plain bearings industry. Founded in 1984, the company has spent the last four decades growing into a leading supplier of plain bearings across North America. The company's journey is deeply intertwined with the history of its parent company, Daido Metal Co., and its sister companies, particularly the Bellefontaine-based Daido Metal Bellefontaine. Daido Metal USA’s success is built on its strategic partnerships, continuous innovation, and a commitment to customer-centric solutions.

Daido's origins date back to 1984, when it was established in Illinois to serve its first major client, Caterpillar. For several years, the company focused exclusively on this partnership, providing bearings for heavy-duty applications. However, as the 1990s approached, Daido began diversifying its customer base, supplying bearings to shock absorber manufacturers and expanding its product offerings.

​The turning point for the company came when its parent company entered into a technical agreement with T&N, a move that would significantly bolster Daido’s operations in North America. This agreement brought manufacturing know-how and sales support to the Bellefontaine facility, which ultimately became a major supplier for Honda. By 1997, a joint venture between Daido and its partners led to the creation of manufacturing bases in Bellefontaine and Atlantic, Iowa, cementing Daido's presence in the United States.

A critical moment for Daido Metal USA occurred in 2005, when Daido Metal Co. acquired full ownership of the Bellefontaine factory. This move allowed them to shift from a sales-focused entity to a more holistic operation, providing engineering support and, eventually, warehousing and distribution of parts after the Bellefontaine factory closed in 2009. Since then, the Bellefontaine office has seen remarkable growth, expanding from 14 employees in 2009 to 72 by 2024. Daido’s Bellefontaine location has proven to be a valuable asset, offering both warehouse distribution and administrative support. The company's deep roots in Logan County have allowed it to tap into a skilled workforce, many of whom were previously employed by Daido’s sister company. Their strong Japanese and American collaboration and family-oriented culture have played a large role in employee retention and loyalty. They focus on treating their employees as an asset and meaningfully involve them as much as possible. Recently, Daido Metal USA celebrated their 40th anniversary with employees, business partners, friends and even special guests Chairman Mr. Hanji and his wife, Shizuyo Hanji from parent company Daido Metal Co. You can check out a special video for this big event made by Elle A. Design here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rUsV6EifaZk .

Daido specializes in plain bearing products that serve a variety of industries, with a focus on the automotive and heavy-duty sectors. The company’s products are critical components in engines, hydraulic pumps, shock absorbers, and other industrial equipment. Daido supports major automakers like Ford, GM, Stellantis, Honda, Nissan, Toyota, and Mazda, as well as heavy equipment manufacturers such as Caterpillar and Cummins. What sets Daido apart is its commitment to providing full life-cycle support for its customers, from initial design to the end of production and beyond. This customer-centric approach has helped the company gain a foothold in the competitive world of racing, supplying engine bearings to Honda Racing and partnering with Roush Yates Engines for NASCAR. Impressively, Daido’s plain bearings were used in 92% of all NASCAR vehicles at the 2024 Daytona 500. Over the years, Daido has been recognized by several major OEM engine builders, such as Toyota, for its achievements in quality and service. These accolades reflect the company’s dedication to excellence in both product and customer service.
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Daido recognizes the need to diversify and grow in an ever-changing business environment and has recently begun expanding its marketing efforts. Daido is now focused on attracting new customers outside the automotive industry, promoting the versatility of its products for a range of applications. By attending social media and trade shows, Daido has found strategic partnerships with companies like Roush and Yates and is in the process of developing a dedicated website for its Bellefontaine office. The company’s business model is rooted in collaboration with customers, providing customized solutions rather than one-size-fits-all products. This tailored approach has been especially successful in the racing industry, where performance optimization is key.
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As Daido looks toward the future, the company is optimistic about continued growth and stability. Daido Metal USA continues to follow their slogan – “Dream – Hope – Challenge” – which helps the company to focus on expanding its reach into new markets and industries. With a strong foundation in place, Daido is well-positioned to continue its legacy of innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction for hundreds of years to come.

Daido Metal USA has built an impressive legacy over the past 40 years. From its early beginnings in Illinois to its current role as a key player in the North American bearing industry, the company’s success has been driven by strategic partnerships, a commitment to quality, and a focus on customer collaboration. As it looks to the future, Daido is poised for continued growth and innovation, ensuring that its bearings will power the engines of industry and racing alike for many years to come.
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Please join us in congratulating Daido Metal USA in being the Logan County Chamber of Commerce October Business of the Month!