Founded in 1936 in Kawasaki, Japan, GENERAL Inc., (formerly Fujitsu General Limited) started as a consumer electronics company. Today, through a commitment to research and innovation, it offers innovative air conditioning solutions globally.
Recognised as ‘New Zealand's Favourite Air®,’ GENERAL's (formerly Fujitsu's) award-winning air conditioning units are a common feature in households and offices across the nation. These products are meticulously designed and tested at GENERAL's advanced research and development centre in Japan, which includes facilities that simulate various air conditioning conditions.
Explore our timeline to discover our journey through the years:
1936
Foundations in Home Innovation
Established as Yaou Shouten Ltd. The company moves from the manufacture of radios, loud speakers, electric phonographs, etc. into the manufacture of home electrical appliances
1953
Scaling Home Appliance Manufacturing
The company started production of various home appliances including radio, audio, electric heater and television products with the first mass-produced black-and-white television, 17T-2 in 1953.
1960
Entering Air Conditioning
Commencement of the air conditioning business in Japan. Released the first air conditioner, the window-type cooler EA-55A.
1991
A New Global Identity
A new associate is formed in Japan. The company becomes globally recognised as Fujitsu General Limited.
1998
Arrival in New Zealand
Fujitsu General New Zealand office is established in Wellington, New Zealand.
2000
NZ Brand Ambassador
Professional Kiwi cricketer, Stephen Fleming, is appointed as Fujitsu General's first brand ambassador.
2011
Smarter Control for Ducted Systems
Fujitsu General launches its first ducted controller.
2012
Heat Recovery Breakthrough
In August, Fujitsu General launches AIRSTAGE™ VR-II heat recovery VRF system at ARBS in Melbourne Australia, offering high efficiency in a compact design from 8HP to 48HP with Heat Recovery.
2014
Compact VRF Performance Delivered
In September, Fujitsu General launches the AIRSTAGE™ J-IIS series, offering a compact, high-performance air conditioning solution for residential and commercial spaces.
2015
Elevating After‑Sales Support
In November, Fujitsu General Assist was launched to provide a seamless after-sales experience.
2015
Strengthening Our Partner Network
In December, Fujitsu General introduced the Authorised Partner program to support its network of specialist, commercial, and wholesaler customers.
2020
Smart Climate Control with anywAiR®
Launch of the anywAiR® Technology ducted Controller, the wi-fi control solution for operating Fujitsu ducted air conditioning systems.
2022
Expanding into Commercial Solutions
Introduction of the Applied Product range into the New Zealand Market including Rooftop Package, Air-Cooled & Water-Cooled Chillers.
2022
25 Years of NZ Ambassadorship
In March, Fujitsu General New Zealand celebrates 25 years of partnership with Stephen Fleming.
2023
Smart climate control goes mobile
Launch of the anywAiR® technology Wi‑Fi Adaptor II, enabling smartphone control of Fujitsu Lifestyle wall mounted air conditioners.
2023
25 Years of Excellence in New Zealand
In September, Fujitsu General New Zealand celebrates 25 years of operation in New Zealand.
2024
R32 Ceiling Console, Cassette & Kagami Launch
In January, the KAGAMI Wired controller is launched for ducted systems, along with the R32 Ceiling Console and R32 Circular Flow cassette range.
2024
Asthma Approved Comfort & Air Quality
In March, the Apple‑Catechin filter (from the Lifestyle range) receives Sensitive Choice approval from National Asthma Council.
2024
Introducing anywAiR® iO
In May, Fujitsu General Australia unveils anywAiR® iO Innovation at ARBS Expo 2024 in Sydney, Australia, showcasing our expertise in IoT technology.
2025
A New Chapter begins with Paloma Rheem Holdings
In January, Paloma Rheem Holdings commences tender offer to acquire Fujitsu General Ltd.
2025
Brand Partnership extended
In April, Stephen Fleming extends his partnership with Fujitsu as NZ brand ambassador to 2027, taking it to a 27-year milestone.
2025
Highly Commended Award 2021-2025
In May, Fujitsu General New Zealand awarded Highly Commended in the Trusted Brands survey for the fifth consecutive year.
2025
Product updates for anywAiR ducted controller
In July, Fujitsu General refreshes smart home control with enhanced anywAiR® ducted controller and new garage door functionality.
2025
Strengthening Global Growth Through Paloma Rheem Group Integration
In August, Fujitsu General expands R32 Multi System offering with the launch of two-model R32 Multi 5 Rooms Systems and start anew as a member of the Paloma Rheem Group.
2025
Strengthening Global Growth Through Paloma Rheem Group Integration
In September, the large capacity R32 High Static Ducted series is launched, completing the company’s R32 ducted family for the NZ market.
2026
Business Name Change
In January, Fujitsu General New Zealand officially changes its business name to General New Zealand, reflecting the company’s next chapter as part of Paloma Rheem Holdings.
