Continental was quick to help out Japan

April 11, 2011

Continental AG wanted to do something to show its "solidarity" with the people of Japan following the 9.0-magnitude earthquake that devastated the country one month ago on March 11.

So four days after the disaster, the company donated 250,000 euros (approximately $350,000) to those living in the regions destroyed by the earthquake, and the tsunami that followed it.

"Our thoughts are currently with the people of Japan who are living through one of the country’s worst crises," said Dr. Elmar Degenhart, Continental CEO, at the time.

"Management and employees alike have been devastated by the disaster and its consequences. Fortunately, our own locations and employees have been largely spared the effects of this catastrophe.

"Precisely because of this, and because the Japanese people have always proven to be extremely willing to help in emergencies, we feel it is our duty to provide immediate aid," he said.

"It is important for many Continental employees all over the world to help the people in Japan in their hour of need. This has often been the case in the past. For this reason, we recommend that our employees contact the familiar aid organizations if they wish to make personal donations.

Continental employs nearly 950 people at a total of seven locations in Japan.

"We are particularly concerned about all our employees in Japan," said Degenhart. "We have set up a crisis team of specialists from various departments in order to use all of our resources to provide support to our colleagues in Japan and their families."

Yokohama Rubber Co. Ltd., Toyo Tire & Rubber Co. Ltd., Bridgestone Americas Inc. and 31 Inc. also have made donations to the aid in the relief efforts.