The group's principal activity is to manufacture machine tools, which design, manufacture and distribute metal cutting lathes, grinding machines, machining centers, and tooling and accessories related to metal cutting machines. turning machines, or lathes, are power-driven machines used to remove material from a rough-formed part by moving multiple cutting tools arranged on a turret assembly against the surface of a part rotating at very high speeds in a spindle mechanism. the group produces computer numerically controlled ('cnc') machines, which use commands from an on-board computer to control the movement of cutting tools and rotation speeds of the part being produced. the group markets its products in the united states, western europe, canada, china, mexico, japan, australia and other foreign countries through its direct sales force and through distributors and manufacturers' representatives.