Singapore: ZOLL Medical, a manufacturer of medical devices and related software solutions and a wholly owned US subsidiary of Asahi Kasei, has established Asahi Kasei ZOLL Medical Corporation (AZM) as its Japanese subsidiary effective November 5, 2012. AZM will advance the expansion and development of ZOLL's critical care business in Japan, the second largest medical market in the world.

The new Tokyo-based subsidiary is wholly owned by ZOLL. Dr Seiji Sakano, will serve as president of AZM, reporting directly to Mr Richard A Packer, CEO, ZOLL. Targeting growth in the field of resuscitation and critical care, Asahi Kasei acquired full ownership of ZOLL in April 2012. As a member company of the Asahi Kasei Group, ZOLL is accelerating the expansion of operations beyond the US and Europe, with a focus on Japan and other major Asian markets.

The ZOLL AED Plus automated external defibrillator has been marketed in Japan since August 2011 through Asahi Kasei subsidiary. To further expand its Japanese business, ZOLL is working to obtain regulatory approval as quickly as possible for products currently sold in the US and Europe, while reinforcing its sales infrastructure in the country.

"This subsidiary, headed by Dr Sakano, who previously held the position of general manager of Asahi Kasei's Advanced Medical Device Center, represents a solid opportunity to enter a high-growth market," said Mr Packer. "AZM will leverage the resources of the Asahi Kasei Group to facilitate these developments for the swift expansion of ZOLL's business in Japan."

AZM will work to increase sales of the AED Plus while advancing preparations for the sale of other approved products such as ZOLL's Intravascular Temperature Management (IVTM) system and the ZOLL AED Pro automated external defibrillators for use by professional rescuers. Applications have been filed for Japanese regulatory approval of the X Series monitor/defibrillator and the LifeVest Wearable Defibrillator, and preparations for selling these products will be advanced upon approval.