ELIZABETHTOWN, KY – ITOCHU Automobile America Inc. and ITOCHU International Inc. have together acquired an interest in Akebono Brake Corp. The investment is expected to complement Akebono’s managerial resources and increase Akebono’s aftermarket distribution efficiencies, according to the company.

Under the transaction, the ITOCHU Group redeemed its 40 percent interest in Amak Brake L.L.C., one of Akebono’s North American subsidiaries, and at the same time purchased a 20 percent stake in Akebono Brake Corp. The transaction took place on March 31.

This transaction follows an increase in ITOCHU’s investment in Akebono Brake Corp.’s parent company, Akebono Brake Industry Co., Ltd., a publicly-traded company listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange, First Section.

For more information about Akebono Brake Corp., visit: http://www.akebonobrakes.com.