MARIETTA, Ga. -- YKK Corporation of America (YCA) announced today the launch of its new North American Optical Components Division which will be based in Marietta, Georgia. YKK Corporation has been manufacturing high precision, zirconia fiber optic ferrules, optical couplers and connectors in Kurobe, Japan, since 1998 and has already developed a reputation for exceptional product quality. YCA also announced the appointment of Keith W. Torrance as Sales and Marketing Manager to head up the Optical Components Division's sales effort in North America. Educated at the University of Glasgow in Scotland, Torrance comes to YKK with more than 18 years experience in sales and marketing in the fiber optics industry. He brings with him a strong blend of sales management skills and industry expertise. Prior to joining YKK, Torrance ran the North American operation for the Logitech Division of Struers Inc. In commenting on his new undertaking, Torrance said, "I am excited to be associating myself with YKK at the start-up of this new venture. Because this is a challenging time for the fiber optics industry, manufacturers are looking for reliable, stable suppliers with whom to partner. YKK will provide ferrules, connectors and passive components that meet the tight specifications and dimensional tolerances required by new automated assembly processes. YKK is in a unique position to apply its expertise in machining precision components to the fiber optics industry." YKK Corporation of America