Three years down the road since the cutting of the ribbon and Sampsistemi Shanghai is now a well-consolidated factory of 4,500 squared metres with a 63-strong team. In September 2004 we in fact decided to strengthen our presence in Asia by expanding the existing Sampsistemi service centre, which had been in operation since the year 2000, and by investing in a new production unit to manufacture machinery and components. With this Chinese facility on board, we have reinforced our coverage of the Asian market and are now able to support Asian customers with technological wire and cable manufacturing solutions and more effective technical assistance, enabling them to be and stay successful in their own lines of business.