A Rich History in the Automotive Aftermarket
NK, with its origins in Denmark, has been providing reliable automotive aftermarket parts since 1950. The brand made its debut in Germany in 1988 and has since expanded its presence across various markets, driven by continuous growth. Today, NK products are widely available throughout the European continent.
Where It All Began
The journey began in 1950 when K. E. Kirkegaard founded K. E. Kirkegaard Koblings og Bremseindustri (translated: K. E. Kirkegaard Clutch and Brake Industry) in Aalborg, Denmark. The company specialised in selling and renovating clutch and brake parts for the automotive aftermarket. As the business and brand flourished, so did the demand for NK parts. Being among the pioneers in offering renovated clutches, NK gained significant traction in the market.
NK in Europe
The rise in demand, coupled with favourable European structural changes, prompted the expansion of the NK brand into Germany. In 1988–89, the company changed its name to Nordjysk Kobling A/S, shortened to NK. At the same time, NK Autoteile Deutschland GmbH was established, building on the activities of the Wartburg car factory in the former GDR. This company laid the groundwork for what is now SBS Deutschland GmbH.
By 1998, NK had established a production facility for remanufacturing Brake Calipers in Støvring. In 2000, the company merged into OBTEC, which later changed its name to Scandinavian Brake Systems A/S. NK Autoteile Deutschland GmbH evolved into SBS Deutschland GmbH, and Nordjysk Kobling A/S into SBS Automotive A/S.
In 2007, SBS further expanded into Europe by acquiring a French warehouse and operations in Chaumont, which continues to supply the French market with NK products today.
In 2023, SBS Automotive A/S was acquired by BORG Automotive, another Danish company with a strong foothold in the automotive market.
Today, NK stands as a well-known and respected trademark owned by BORG Automotive Newman, reflecting its enduring legacy in the automotive industry. The product range includes wear and tear parts for the independent automotive aftermarket such as brakes, steering, clutch, suspension, and much more.