European suppliers seek N.A. growth; Continental and Behr are expanding operations on continent,...

Byline: Greg Migliore

European parts suppliers are the classic middle child of the North American auto industry.

Sandwiched between the large, often troubled domestic giants and fast-emerging Asians, Europeans hold several advantages over competitors, but they face challenges as they seek a foothold.

Kim Korth, president of US consulting and forecasting firm IRN in Grand Rapids, Michigan, says European suppliers aren't burdened with legacy costs and are less reliant on General Motors and Ford Motor. Plus, any sales they gain are essentially conque