Concept Industries Gains Recognition for Innovation with Technology and Development Award From Toyota Motor Corporation

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., March 10, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Concept Industries was recognized by Toyota Motor Corporation as a winner of the automaker's Technology and Development Award. The honor, which recognizes top performance in innovation and development during the past year, was presented on February 25 at Toyota's 2011 Global Supplier Convention in Nagoya, Japan.

The Technology and Development Award represents one of the automaker's highest supplier honors.

Concept Industries was recognized for sustainable composite technology utilized for the Lexus RX350 Deckboard. The deckboard is the rigid material in the rear floor area of the vehicle covering the rear cargo area and spare tire. In sport utility vehicles like the Lexus RX350, these components see large weight loads and need to withstand extreme conditions. Concept worked with Toyota to benchmark existing technologies and constructions. Using this best in class data, Concept developed a sustainable natural fiber composite deckboard that was less costly and higher performing compared to the current construction.

"Toyota works closely with each supplying partner in order to build our top quality vehicles," stated Robert Young, vice president of purchasing at Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc. "Concept Industries' commitment to sustainability and continuous improvement is key to achieving Toyota's long-term focus on quality and value."

Shawn Eshragh, President of Concept Industries, accepted the 2011 Technology and Development Award from Toyota President Akio Toyoda. "We are honored to receive this prestigious award from Toyota Motor Corporation. We are especially gratified to be recognized for a project that exemplifies our commitment to the development of unique, sustainable composite technologies," said Eshragh.

"Concept Industries has always been about more than simple products. We believe we have a responsibility to work for the betterment of mankind. We are obligated to act in the best interest of our employees and the environment to ensure that our actions support a strong and sustainable future for ourselves and our children. Toyota's recognition of this sustainable composite technology reinforces Toyota's shared commitment to this vision."

Concept Industries is a full service provider of innovative products for automotive, office furniture and other industries. Concept's core business includes Returnable Packaging Systems, Vacuum Formed Plastics and Non-Woven Fiber Products. Concept is committed to developing lightweight, environmentally sound alternatives to traditional materials.

Toyota Technology Development Award and Certificate:

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Additional information is available at http://www.conceptind.com or by contacting David Ellis, Concept Industries Vice President and COO (616) 554-9000 ext 280.

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SOURCE Concept Industries