The Suzuki Group, a leader in the automotive and motorcycle sectors, represents an icon of Japanese engineering and innovation in the world of four- and two-wheel vehicles. Founded in 1909 by Michio Suzuki, the company has solidified its reputation for producing reliable, efficient, and high-quality vehicles. With its range of cars, motorcycles, and marine engines, the Suzuki Group has earned the trust of global consumers for its technical precision, distinctive design, and excellent performance. Driven by the vision of creating sustainable, future-oriented products, Suzuki is committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 and promoting ethical and responsible business practices worldwide.

Suzuki Italia represents excellence in the national automotive and motorcycle scene. With a strong presence in the market, it offers products that embody reliability, innovation, and versatility. Suzuki Italia stands out for the quality of its vehicles and the high standard of after-sales service offered to customers. Committed to sustainability and innovation, Suzuki continues to lead the sector with cutting-edge solutions and a responsible ecological footprint.
We met Domenico Sciaraffa, Spare Parts Manager, and Gian Franco Cardinale, Spare Parts and Logistics Warehouse Manager, at Suzuki Italia, and discussed logistics and more.

What types of goods do you mainly import in containers?

Suzuki Italia offers all the spare parts for cars, motorcycles, and outboard motors used in our vehicles, and it also imports motorcycles and marine engines by container. The constant research and investments in technological innovation and design to improve performance translate into the build quality and reliability of the components. Suzuki is committed to providing components and products distinguished by their durability, efficiency, and adherence to the highest standards in the automotive and motorcycle industries.

From which countries do you import?

Suzuki Italia imports its vehicles and related parts mainly from Japan, where the parent company Suzuki Motor Corporation is based. It also imports from Thailand and India, where production facilities are located.

What are the main logistical challenges you face?

One of the main logistical challenges for Suzuki Italia in importing components and spare parts is ensuring the speed and efficiency of deliveries. Given the global nature of the supply chain, it is essential to coordinate the flow of goods and manage the complexities associated with international transport and inventory management. Therefore, reducing the time for each operation becomes a competitive strategy.
 

What are the keys to successful logistics in your sector?

Effective supply chain management requires speed, availability, efficiency, accuracy, and flexibility. These elements are crucial for ensuring success and optimizing logistics and procurement operations, and they are significant in our sector.

Which PSA Italy terminals do you use, and what added value do they offer to your logistics strategy?

Among PSA Italy’s terminals, our point of contact is the PSA Genova Pra' terminal, which perfectly aligns with our needs and - as mentioned - ensures fast and reliable service that meets our requirements for availability, precision, and flexibility.

Where are your warehouses located in Italy, and how are the land connections to PSA Italy terminals organized?

Our spare parts warehouses are located in Robassomero (TO), while the motorcycle and outboard product warehouses are in Castel San Giovanni (PC). These strategic locations allow us to optimize distribution and ensure efficient logistics for our customers.
 

How do your partners—particularly CMA CGM, Nippon Express Italia, and Euro Pool Liguria—support you in achieving your logistics goals?

They are long-established partners with whom we have an excellent relationship, thanks to their professionalism and efficiency. They have responded to our needs with skill and flexibility, supporting us in every activity.

Sustainability as a guiding principle of corporate strategy is shared by Suzuki Group and PSA Global: how do you work toward more sustainable logistics?

Like many players in the market, Suzuki is focused on achieving "carbon neutrality," starting with small actions such as recycling packaging materials, adopting eco-friendly vehicles with low emissions, optimizing routes, and using solar and photovoltaic panels on warehouses.

What are your requirements for your partners in terms of ethical approach, certifications, and sustainable vision?

For the selection of a new partner, the initial audit is of great importance. We place high value on whether a potential supplier is moving in the direction Suzuki Corporation has been pursuing for years. In this regard, we appreciate that PSA Italy publishes annually the actions taken by the terminal operator to continually improve its environmental, social, and governance impact and provides a sustainability report in line with ESG indicators.