Mapei boosts at Domotex signals sector pick-up

The group, which will shortly unveil further plans for its operations in the UAE, received a positive response after presenting its latest range of eco-sustainable systems for the substrate preparation and installation of finshes such as resilient, ceramic and stone as part of the Domotex exclusive Designer Corner exhibition zone.

Mr. Laith Haboubi, Business Development Manager for Innovative Building Solutions, the local MAPEI subsidiary, said: 'There was solid interest across the range of our products and not solely from our established customer base.'

'It was particularly encouraging to see interest from new customers and market sectors, suggesting a shift in the market dynamics. The established big players will always be there but there is also now an emerging core of buyers who understand the value of quality and in many cases specifically request environmentally responsible products. Although these are developing on a smaller scale, they are beginning to have more of an impact and are increasingly key to our operations.'

Mapei, whose business operations stretch across the globe, is particularly active at the high tech bespoke 'designer' end of the industry and its products have been integral to key global projects in particular iconic structures such as the Sydney Opera House, KLCC (Petronas Towers), La Scala in Milan, Burj Al Arab, Emirates Palace Hotel and currently The Armani Hotel at Burj Dubai.

With expectations growing for a sustained rally in the local construction industry, Mr. Haboubi said: 'Mapei's continuing development of its outstanding range of products for the construction industry - offering Italian style and innovation from a local manufacturing base - has enabled it to well positioned to meet the demands of its customers. We continue to innovate and grow and in line with our strategy we are now actively engaged in planning the expansion of the company's operations in the UAE.

'This is a sign of the confidence we have not only in the strength of our products range but also in the capacity of the UAE construction industry to make further progress as it matures.'

Mapei's high tech manufacturing and ability to meet the stringent demands of builders, structural engineers and, crucially, interior designers, have combined to confirm its products as first choice for the preparation and installation of specialist and standard floors and surfaces.