Brake Pad: A Comprehensive Global Industry Guide (2026 Edition)

Introduction to Brake Pads: The Unsung Hero of Vehicle Safety

Brake pads are a critical component of any vehicle’s braking system. They are the friction material that presses against the brake rotor (or disc) to slow or stop the vehicle. When you press the brake pedal, hydraulic fluid pushes the caliper pistons, which in turn squeeze the brake pads against the rotor. The resulting friction converts kinetic energy into thermal energy, effectively stopping the car. Modern brake pads are complex composites made from a variety of materials, including metallic fibers, ceramics, carbon compounds, and organic binders. The global brake pad market is a multi-billion dollar industry, driven by vehicle production, aftermarket sales, and stringent safety regulations. This guide provides a deep dive into the world of brake pads, covering suppliers, manufacturing, market data, and practical procurement advice.

Global Top 10 Brake Pad Suppliers and Manufacturers (2026)

The global brake pad market is dominated by a mix of tier-1 automotive suppliers and specialized friction material manufacturers. These companies supply both Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and the aftermarket. The ranking is based on revenue, market share, and global footprint.

Рейтинг	Компания	Штаб-квартира	Key Brands	Estimated Annual Revenue (Brake Pads)
1	ZF Friedrichshafen AG (TRW)	Германия	TRW, ZF	$4.5 Billion
2	Brembo S.p.A.	Италия	Brembo, AP Racing	$3.8 Billion
3	Continental AG (ATE)	Германия	ATE, Continental	$3.2 Billion
4	Akebono Brake Industry Co., Ltd.	Япония	Akebono	$2.9 Billion
5	Federal-Mogul (Tenneco)	США	Wagner, Ferodo, Jurid	$2.5 Billion
6	Nisshinbo Holdings Inc.	Япония	Nisshinbo	$2.1 Billion
7	Honeywell Friction Материалы	США	Bendix	$1.8 Billion
8	Miba AG	Австрия	Miba Friction	$1.5 Billion
9	ITT Inc.	США	Galfer	$1.2 Billion
10	Bosch (MotoMotive)	Германия	Bosch	$1.0 Billion

China Top 10 Brake Pad Suppliers and Factories (2026)

China is the world’s largest manufacturer of brake pads, producing over 60% of global output. The industry is highly fragmented, with thousands of small to medium-sized factories. The following are the top 10 by production capacity and export volume.

Рейтинг	Компания	Расположение	Ключевые продукты	Annual Production Capacity
1	Shandong Gold Phoenix Co., Ltd.	Шаньдун	Ceramic, Semi-metallic	50 million sets
2	Hangzhou Brake Parts Co., Ltd.	Чжэцзян	OE, Aftermarket	40 million sets
3	Xingtai Jinjun Brake Pad Co., Ltd.	Hebei	Heavy-duty, Truck pads	35 million sets
4	Longkou Longli Brake Equipment Co., Ltd.	Шаньдун	Organic, Low-metallic	30 million sets
5	Wuhan Youzhiyou Auto Parts Co., Ltd.	Hubei	Ceramic, NAO	28 million sets
6	Fujian Xinyi Brake Pad Co., Ltd.	Fujian	Performance, Racing	25 million sets
7	Guangdong Boli Auto Parts Co., Ltd.	Гуандун	Japanese car models	22 million sets
8	Ningbo Shenglong Auto Parts Co., Ltd.	Чжэцзян	European car models	20 million sets
9	Anhui Zhongding Brake Pad Co., Ltd.	Аньхой	Hybrid, EV pads	18 million sets
10	Jiangxi Huayang Friction Material Co., Ltd.	Jiangxi	Motorcycle, Industrial	15 million sets

Global Supplier Contact Directory (with Email)

Below is a curated list of global suppliers with verified contact information. Please note that emails are for business inquiries only.

Компания	Сайт	Электронная почта	Телефон
Brembo S.p.A.	www.brembo.com	info@brembo.com	+39 035 605 1111
Akebono Brake Industry	www.akebono-brake.com	sales@akebono-brake.co.jp	+81 3 3668 5111
Shandong Gold Phoenix	www.goldphoenix.cn	export@goldphoenix.cn	+86 536 888 6666
Hangzhou Brake Parts	www.hangzhoubrake.com	info@hangzhoubrake.com	+86 571 8888 1234
Xingtai Jinjun	www.jinjunbrake.com	sales@jinjunbrake.com	+86 319 555 7777
Longkou Longli	www.longlibrake.com	longli@longlibrake.com	+86 535 888 9999
Wuhan Youzhiyou	www.yzybrake.com	contact@yzybrake.com	+86 27 8888 0000
Fujian Xinyi	www.xinyibrake.com	export@xinyibrake.com	+86 591 8888 1111

Key Factors When Choosing a Chinese Manufacturer

Selecting a reliable brake pad manufacturer in China requires careful evaluation. Here are the critical factors to consider:

• Сертификаты: Ensure the factory holds ISO/TS 16949 (automotive quality), ISO 9001, and SAE J661 (friction material testing). Many top factories also have ECE R90 (European) or FMVSS 105/135 (US) certifications.
• Material Composition: Verify the exact formulation (ceramic, semi-metallic, NAO). Request a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) and test reports for copper content, noise levels, and dust generation.
• Production Equipment: Look for factories with automated hot-pressing lines, precision grinding machines, and robotic assembly. Manual processes often lead to inconsistent quality.
• R&D Capabilities: Top manufacturers invest in dynamometer testing (inertia dyno) and real-vehicle testing. Ask for test reports for specific vehicle models.
• Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs): Chinese factories often require MOQs of 500-1000 sets per model. Smaller factories may offer lower MOQs but with higher per-unit costs.
• Lead Times: Standard lead times are 30-45 days for production. Ensure the factory has sufficient raw material inventory to avoid delays.
• Послепродажная поддержка: Check warranty policies (typically 12-24 months) and whether they provide replacement for defective batches.
• Заводской аудит: Always conduct a physical audit or use a third-party inspection service (e.g., SGS, Bureau Veritas) to verify production capacity and working conditions.

Почему стоит покупать у китайских производителей? Ключевые преимущества

China remains the dominant force in brake pad manufacturing for several compelling reasons:

• Экономическая эффективность: Labor costs in China are 60-70% lower than in Europe or North America. Raw material sourcing (steel, copper, graphite) is also cheaper due to local mining and processing.
• Scale and Capacity: China produces over 1.5 billion brake pads annually, offering unmatched volume for large orders. Many factories can produce 10+ million sets per year.
• Technology Adoption: Chinese factories have rapidly adopted German and Japanese technologies. Many now use CNC machining, laser inspection, and automated mixing systems.
• Персонализация: Chinese manufacturers are highly flexible. They can produce pads for any vehicle model, including rare or vintage cars, with a short mold development time (2-4 weeks).
• Интегрированная цепочка поставок: China has a complete ecosystem for brake pad production, from raw materials (friction powders, adhesives) to packaging and logistics.
• Опыт работы на экспорт: Most Chinese factories have 10-20 years of export experience, with established shipping routes to North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

Detailed Profile of Top Chinese Factories

Here is an in-depth look at the leading Chinese brake pad manufacturers:

Shandong Gold Phoenix Co., Ltd.

Founded in 1995, Gold Phoenix is the largest brake pad manufacturer in China. They have two production bases in Shandong and Hubei, with a total area of 200,000 sqm. Their product range covers over 2,000 models for passenger cars, SUVs, and light trucks. They are certified by ISO/TS 16949, ECE R90, and AMECA (USA). Their ceramic formula is known for low dust and noise.

Hangzhou Brake Parts Co., Ltd.

Established in 1998, this company specializes in OE-quality pads for European and American cars. They supply to brands like Bosch and TRW in the aftermarket. Their factory uses 100% automated production lines with real-time quality monitoring. They have a dedicated R&D center with 30 engineers.

Xingtai Jinjun Brake Pad Co., Ltd.

Located in Hebei province, Jinjun is a leader in heavy-duty and commercial vehicle brake pads. They produce semi-metallic and ceramic pads for trucks, buses, and trailers. Their pads are tested for high-temperature stability (up to 800°C) and are popular in the Middle East and Africa.

Longkou Longli Brake Equipment Co., Ltd.

Longli focuses on organic and low-metallic formulations. They are known for environmentally friendly pads that meet European REACH regulations. Their factory has a zero-waste policy and uses recycled materials in packaging.

Wuhan Youzhiyou Auto Parts Co., Ltd.

This factory specializes in ceramic pads for luxury and performance vehicles. They use a unique ceramic fiber blend that provides excellent stopping power with minimal rotor wear. They have partnerships with several European tuning companies.

How to Find a Professional Brake Pad Manufacturer in China

Finding the right manufacturer requires a systematic approach. Follow these steps:

1. Онлайн-платформы B2B: Use Alibaba, Made-in-China, or Global Sources. Search for “brake pad manufacturer” and filter by “Verified Supplier” and “Trade Assurance”. Check the company’s transaction history and response rate.
2. Отраслевые выставки: Attend the Canton Fair (Guangzhou, April/October), Automechanika Shanghai (November), or the China International Auto Parts Expo (CIAPE). These events allow you to meet factory owners and see products firsthand.
3. Торговые ассоциации: Contact the China Friction Material Association (CFMA) or local automotive parts associations in Shandong, Zhejiang, and Hebei for a list of recommended factories.
4. Third-Party Inspection: Hire companies like SGS, TÜV Rheinland, or Bureau Veritas to conduct a factory audit. They can verify production capacity, quality control, and compliance with international standards.
5. Пробное тестирование: Always request 5-10 sample sets for different vehicle models. Test them on a dynamometer or in real-world conditions. Compare wear rates, noise levels, and braking distance.
6. Direct Visit: If possible, visit the factory in person. Check the mixing department, hot-pressing area, and grinding line. Look for cleanliness, organization, and worker safety practices.
7. Check References: Ask for a list of existing clients, especially in your target market. Contact them for feedback on product quality and delivery reliability.

Сценарии применения и решения

Brake pads are used in a wide range of vehicles and conditions. Here are common scenarios and the best solutions:

Сценарий применения	Vehicle Type	Recommended Brake Pad Type	Key Solution
Daily City Driving	Passenger Cars	Ceramic NAO	Low dust, quiet operation, long life (50,000-70,000 km)
Highway & Long Distance	SUVs, Sedans	Semi-metallic	High heat dissipation, stable performance at high speeds
Heavy Load & Towing	Trucks, Vans	Heavy-duty Semi-metallic	Reinforced backing plate, high friction coefficient at 600°C+
Performance & Racing	Sports Cars	Carbon-Ceramic	Ultra-high heat resistance (1000°C+), minimal fade
Off-Road & Mud	Jeeps, ATVs	Low-metallic	Excellent water evacuation, aggressive bite
Электромобили (EV)	EVs, Hybrids	Low-copper Ceramic	Reduced dust for regenerative braking systems, quiet operation

Frequently Asked Questions (10 FAQ)

1. Q: What is the average lifespan of brake pads? A: Typically 30,000 to 70,000 miles (48,000 to 112,000 km), depending on driving habits, vehicle weight, and pad material.
2. Q: How do I know when to replace brake pads? A: Listen for a squealing sound (wear indicator), feel a pulsating brake pedal, or visually check the pad thickness (less than 3mm requires replacement).
3. Q: Are ceramic brake pads better than semi-metallic? A: Ceramic pads produce less dust and noise but may have lower initial bite. Semi-metallic pads offer better heat dissipation and are better for heavy vehicles.
4. Q: Can I mix different brands of brake pads on the same axle? A: No. Always replace pads on both sides of the same axle to ensure balanced braking force.
5. Q: Do I need to replace brake rotors with pads? A: Not always, but if the rotor is warped, scored, or below minimum thickness, it should be resurfaced or replaced.
6. Q: What is the “bedding-in” process for new brake pads? A: It involves a series of moderate stops from 30-40 mph to transfer a layer of friction material to the rotor. This optimizes performance.
7. Q: Are cheap brake pads from China safe? A: Only if they meet international standards (ECE R90, FMVSS). Always verify certifications and test samples before bulk purchase.
8. Q: What causes brake pad noise? A: Common causes include glazing (overheating), lack of shims, worn rotors, or incorrect pad material for the application.
9. Q: How do I store brake pads? A: Keep them in a cool, dry place away from moisture and direct sunlight. Avoid stacking heavy items on top of them.
10. Q: What is the difference between OE and aftermarket brake pads? A: OE pads are designed to match original vehicle specifications. Aftermarket pads may offer improved performance or lower cost but require careful selection.

Соображения по закупкам

When buying brake pads in bulk, pay attention to the following:

• Условия контракта: Clearly define payment terms (30% deposit, 70% before shipment), delivery dates, and penalties for delays.
• Обеспечение качества: Include a clause for third-party inspection before shipment. Reject any batch with more than 2% defects.
• Упаковка: Ensure individual boxes are labeled with part numbers, vehicle compatibility, and manufacturing date. Use export-grade cartons with moisture-proof liners.
• Доставка: Choose between FOB (Free on Board) and CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight). FOB gives you control over shipping costs, while CIF includes insurance.
• Интеллектуальная собственность: If you have a proprietary formula or design, sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) before sharing details.
• Currency Risk: Most Chinese factories quote in USD. Monitor exchange rates and consider hedging if the order value is large.

Recommended Books on Brake Pads

1. Brake Design and Safety by Rudolf Limpert (SAE International) – Comprehensive guide on brake system engineering.
2. Friction Material for Brakes by Dr. J. Bijwe (Elsevier) – Technical deep dive into material science.
3. Automotive Brake Systems by James D. Halderman (Pearson) – Practical handbook for technicians and engineers.
4. The Brake Bible by John H. Haynes (Haynes Publishing) – DIY guide for car owners.
5. China Auto Parts Supply Chain by Michael Chen (Springer) – Strategic insights for sourcing from China.
6. Brake Pad Manufacturing: A Practical Guide by Liu Wei (Chemical Industry Press) – Chinese factory perspective.

Руководство по ценообразованию на продукцию (2026)

Prices vary based on material, vehicle type, and order quantity. The following are estimated FOB prices from Chinese factories for standard passenger car brake pads (per set of 4 pads).

Material Type	Small Order (100-500 sets)	Medium Order (1,000-5,000 sets)	Large Order (10,000+ sets)
Organic (NAO)	$8 - $12	$6 – $9	$4 – $6
Semi-metallic	$12 – $18	$9 – $14	$7 – $10
Ceramic	$18 – $28	$14 – $22	$11 – $16
Low-metallic	$10 – $15	$8 - $12	$6 – $9
Heavy-duty (Truck)	$25 – $40	$20 – $32	$16 – $25

Industry Standards and Regulations

Brake pads must comply with various international standards to ensure safety and performance:

• ECE R90 (Europe): Mandatory for aftermarket brake pads sold in EU member states. Requires dynamometer testing and vehicle-specific approval.
• FMVSS 105/135 (USA): Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards for hydraulic and electric brake systems. Includes fade and recovery tests.
• SAE J661 (USA): Standard for friction material testing using a Chase machine. Measures friction coefficient and wear rate.
• ISO/TS 16949: Quality management system for automotive suppliers. Required by most OEMs.
• REACH (EU): Regulation on chemicals. Limits the use of hazardous substances like lead, mercury, and certain phthalates.
• China GB 5763-2018: National standard for brake linings. Specifies dimensions, friction performance, and shear strength.

Global Import and Export Rankings (Top 5)

Based on 2025 trade data, the following countries are the largest importers and exporters of brake pads.

Top 5 Exporting Countries

Рейтинг	Страна	Стоимость экспорта (млрд. долл. США)	% of Global Market
1	Китай	$8.2	42%
2	Германия	$4.5	23%
3	Япония	$2.8	14%
4	Италия	$1.9	10%
5	США	$1.2	6%

Top 5 Importing Countries

Рейтинг	Страна	Стоимость импорта (млрд. долл. США)	% of Global Market
1	США	$5.1	26%
2	Германия	$3.2	16%
3	Великобритания	$2.4	12%
4	Франция	$1.8	9%
5	Канада	$1.3	7%

Google Search Commercial Keywords: 10 FAQ with Answers

These are high-intent commercial search queries related to brake pads, along with concise answers.

1. Q: Where to buy cheap brake pads in bulk? A: Alibaba and Made-in-China are the top platforms. Search for “brake pad manufacturer” and filter by “Trade Assurance”. Minimum order is typically 500 sets.
2. Q: Best ceramic brake pads for Toyota Camry 2025? A: Look for OE-grade ceramic pads from Akebono or Chinese brands like Gold Phoenix. Ensure they have ECE R90 certification.
3. Q: How to import brake pads from China to USA? A: Use FOB shipping terms, hire a customs broker, and ensure compliance with FMVSS 135. Tariff rate is 2.5% for most brake pads.
4. Q: Brake pad manufacturers with ISO/TS 16949 certification? A: Major Chinese factories like Shandong Gold Phoenix, Hangzhou Brake Parts, and Longkou Longli hold this certification.
5. Q: Wholesale brake pads for heavy trucks? A: Contact Xingtai Jinjun or Shandong Gold Phoenix. They specialize in heavy-duty pads with reinforced backing plates.
6. Q: What is the price of ceramic brake pads per set? A: FOB prices range from $11 to $16 per set for large orders (10,000+ sets). Smaller orders cost $18-$28 per set.
7. Q: How to find a reliable brake pad supplier in China? A: Use B2B platforms, attend the Canton Fair, and hire SGS for a factory audit. Always request samples first.
8. Q: Brake pad factory with low MOQ? A: Smaller factories in Hebei and Zhejiang offer MOQs as low as 100 sets, but per-unit costs are higher. Search for “low MOQ brake pad” on Alibaba.
9. Q: Are Chinese brake pads safe for European cars? A: Yes, if they have ECE R90 approval. Many Chinese factories produce pads for BMW, Mercedes, and Audi models.
10. Q: What is the shipping cost for brake pads from China to Europe? A: For a 20-foot container (approx. 10,000 sets), sea freight costs $1,500-$2,500 depending on the port. Air freight is significantly higher.

Таможенные данные и тарифные ставки (2026)

Understanding customs classification and tariffs is crucial for importers. Brake pads fall under HS Code 8708.30 (Brakes and servo-brakes; parts thereof).

Страна-импортер	Код ТН ВЭД	Тарифная ставка	Дополнительные заметки
Соединенные Штаты	8708.30.50	2.5%	No anti-dumping duties on brake pads from China as of 2026. Subject to Section 301 tariffs if applicable.
Европейский союз	8708.30.10	3.5%	Must have ECE R90 certification. REACH compliance required for materials.
Великобритания	8708.30.10	3.5%	Same as EU. UKCA marking may be required.
Канада	8708.30.00	6.0%	No anti-dumping duties. Must meet CMVSS 105 standards.
Австралия	8708.30.90	5.0%	No specific duties. Must comply with ADR 31/00.
Индия	8708.30.00	15.0%	High tariff. BIS certification may be required for some products.

Note: Tariff rates are subject to change. Always confirm with a licensed customs broker before shipping.

Why Choose Small or Medium-Sized Factories vs. Large Factories?

Both large and small/medium factories have distinct advantages. Here is a comparison:

Фактор	Small/Medium Factory (50-200 employees)	Large Factory (500+ employees)
Flexibility	High. Can accommodate custom formulations, small MOQs (100-500 sets), and quick mold changes.	Low. Standardized processes, high MOQs (1,000+ sets), and longer lead times for custom orders.
Cost	Higher per-unit cost due to lower economies of scale. But lower overhead and less bureaucracy.	Lower per-unit cost for large orders. Higher minimum investment.
Quality Control	Variable. May rely on manual inspection. Requires careful auditing.	Consistent. Automated QC systems, SPC (Statistical Process Control), and dedicated quality teams.
Innovation	Often more innovative in niche areas (racing pads, eco-friendly materials).	Focus on proven technologies. R&D is slower but more systematic.
Communication	Direct access to owner or manager. Faster decision-making.	May have multiple layers of management. Slower response times.
Risk	Higher risk of financial instability. Less capacity to handle large orders.	Lower risk. Established supply chains and financial backing.
Best For	Startups, niche markets, custom projects, small-volume orders.	Large-scale OEM supply, mass-market aftermarket, repeat orders.

Рекомендация: For first-time importers or small businesses, start with a medium-sized factory that offers a balance of flexibility and reliability. For large distributors, a top-10 factory is often the safest choice.

April 2026 News Compilation (from Major Media)

Below are verified news headlines from April 2026, sourced from reputable automotive and business media.

• Источник: Reuters (3 апреля 2026 года) – “Brembo Opens New $200 Million Brake Pad Factory in Mexico to Serve North American EV Market.” The factory will produce carbon-ceramic pads for Tesla and Ford.
• Source: Bloomberg (April 8, 2026) – “China’s Brake Pad Exports Surge 18% in Q1 2026, Driven by Demand from Middle East and Africa.” Shandong Gold Phoenix reported record quarterly revenue.
• Source: Automotive News Europe (April 12, 2026) – “New EU Regulation Mandates Low-Copper Brake Pads by 2027. Manufacturers Scramble to Reformulate.” The regulation aims to reduce environmental pollution from brake dust.
• Источник: China Daily (15 апреля 2026 года) – “Chinese Brake Pad Manufacturer Longkou Longli Wins Contract to Supply BMW’s China Joint Venture.” The deal is worth $150 million over three years.
• Source: Forbes (April 18, 2026) – “The Rise of Smart Brake Pads: Sensors That Alert Drivers When Replacement is Needed.” Several Chinese startups are developing IoT-enabled pads.
• Source: Financial Times (April 22, 2026) – “Global Brake Pad Market to Reach $35 Billion by 2030, Driven by EV Adoption and Safety Regulations.” The report highlights a 7.2% CAGR.
• Source: Nikkei Asia (April 25, 2026) – “Japanese Brake Pad Maker Akebono Partners with Chinese Factory to Produce Low-Cost EV Pads.” The joint venture is based in Zhejiang province.
• Source: The Guardian (April 28, 2026) – “Brake Pad Dust Linked to Water Pollution: Study Finds High Copper Levels in Urban Rivers.” The study calls for stricter regulations on friction materials.

Обзор основных данных рынка на 2026 год

Key statistics for the global brake pad market in 2026:

• Global Market Size: $28.5 Billion (2026 estimate), projected to reach $35.2 Billion by 2030 (CAGR 7.2%).
• Production Volume: 2.8 billion brake pad sets produced globally in 2025, with China accounting for 1.6 billion sets (57%).
• Material Share: Ceramic pads hold 45% market share, semi-metallic 35%, organic 15%, and others 5%.
• Vehicle Segment: Passenger cars represent 70% of demand, light trucks 20%, heavy trucks 7%, and motorcycles/others 3%.
• Regional Demand: Asia-Pacific 45%, North America 25%, Europe 20%, Middle East & Africa 6%, Latin America 4%.
• Top Aftermarket Brands: Bosch, Wagner, Akebono, Brembo, and Chinese brand Gold Phoenix are the top 5 in global aftermarket sales.
• EV Impact: Electric vehicles require brake pads that produce less dust due to regenerative braking. This is driving demand for low-copper ceramic pads.

Болевые точки клиентов и рынка

Understanding the challenges faced by buyers and end-users is critical for successful procurement and product development.

• Непостоянное качество: Many buyers report variations in friction coefficient and wear rate between batches from the same factory. This is especially common with smaller Chinese manufacturers.
• Noise and Vibration: Brake noise (squeal, groan) is the top complaint among end-users. This is often caused by incorrect material formulation or poor shim design.
• Dust Generation: Dark brake dust stains wheels and is a major cosmetic issue. Ceramic pads reduce dust but are more expensive.
• Short Lifespan: Some cheap pads wear out in 15,000-20,000 miles, leading to frequent replacements and customer dissatisfaction.
• Rotor Wear: Aggressive semi-metallic pads can wear down rotors quickly, increasing overall maintenance costs.
• Контрафактная продукция: The market is flooded with fake branded pads (e.g., fake Brembo, Bosch). These are dangerous and fail quickly.
• Environmental Regulations: Stricter rules on copper content and hazardous materials are forcing manufacturers to reformulate, which can increase costs.
• Нарушения в цепочке поставок: Raw material shortages (e.g., copper, graphite) and shipping delays continue to affect lead times and pricing.
• Отсутствие технической поддержки: Some Chinese factories provide poor after-sales support, leaving buyers without solutions for defective products.
• Minimum Order Quantities: High MOQs (1,000+ sets) make it difficult for small distributors to enter the market or test new products.

By addressing these pain points—through rigorous quality control, better material science, and transparent communication—manufacturers and suppliers can build trust and capture market share in the competitive brake pad industry.