Head of the class: Hurco designs and makes computerized metal cutting and forming machine tools such as vertical machining (mills) and turning (lathes) centers, as well as the software that automates the machinery. Its machines are manufactured and assembled by Taiwan subsidiary Hurco Manufacturing, using components produced by neighboring contract suppliers. The company also has a manufacturing agreement with Hurco Automation to produce its branded UltiMax computer control systems. This lineup is used in small-batch metal cutting processes by subcontractors that supply OEMs with parts and also by majors Boeing, General Motors, and IBM. Europe is Hurco's largest market, generating more than 60% of its sales.