Despite Uncertainties, IAC Sees Upbeat Signs

THE GLOBAL AUTO INDUSTRY IS LOOKing at a period of “strong cash generation over the coming cycle,” says James Kamsickas, co-CEO of International Automotive Components and president of IAC Group North America and Asia.

While uncertainties are numerous, he says, three fundamental factors are aligned positively:

Kamsickas says he is a simple guy from a simple supplier, with a strong belief that the industry needs to “stick to basics, but make sure you know what they are. Maintain a conservative balance sheet and focus on invested capital.”

Smart capital investment is crucial, he says. While capacity has been restructured in North America and particularly in the vehicle-interiors business, future investments must be made intelligently.

“Pick your spot; put it in the right location,” Kamsickas says. “You can't overspend. Your business is cash generation. We need to focus on returns vs. margins and allocate investments across the growth regions.”

One changing element at IAC is that investments supporting recycled and lighter-weight materials are moving up in priority. The supplier also is making capacity investments where growth will occur.

Capacity to make interior systems was reduced during consolidation of the industry.

Global suppliers for interiors numbered about three dozen in 2006, but that has fallen during the economic crisis to about a dozen.

IAC is a result of consolidation. Private venture capital from Wilbur Ross funded the purchase of operations from Lear and Collins & Aikman in 2007.

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