July 23 (SeeNews) - Swiss producer of speciality chemicals for construction and industry Sika has expanded its Simanovci production plant in Serbia by launching of a new mortar facility and a warehouse for raw materials and end-products, it said on Tuesday.
The expanded production capacities and new warehouse will enable Sika to continue to successfully penetrate the growing construction markets in Southeast Europe, the company said in a statement without disclosing the value of its investment.
"By investing in this expansion at Simanovci, we are aiming to further enhance our market position in Serbia and Southeast Europe. Thanks to the good construction industry in most countries in the region, our business volume is at a high level. The new facility will ensure that we continue to outpace market growth," Ivo Schaedler, EMEA regional manager of Sika, said.
The ready-mixed mortars produced at the site are distributed primarily to builders’ merchants. As well as catering for the domestic market, the Simanovci plant also acts as a regional production hub for Sika national subsidiaries in neighboring Croatia, Slovenia, Hungary, Bosnia and Bulgaria, the company noted.
There is a considerable need for infrastructure in Serbia, for example in sewage treatment and the expansion of the country’s rail and road networks, the Swiss company noted. Furthermore, the increase in foreign direct investment as well as the growing needs in the field of building finishing for commercial and residential buildings, for example the Belgrade Waterfront project, offer major business potential for Sika.
Sika launched its Serbian production plant in October 2014. The company with a worldwide presence in 100 countries, has seven target markets: concrete, waterproofing, roofing, flooring, sealing and bonding, refurbishment and industry.