What is your outlook for the concrete & concrete equipment industry in 2023?
The ready mix concrete (RMC) industry in India has seen significant growth in the last decade and a half, driven by the demand for infrastructure development in metro cities. This includes projects such as metro rails, flyovers, and high-rise buildings. The industry has expanded to cities throughout the country, including Tier 2 and 3 cities. Although the RMC sector is growing at a rate of 15-20% annually, the gap between the organized and unorganized sectors is still large. In the coming years, the RMC industry is expected to consume a larger proportion of cement, with growth projected at over 30%. Despite challenges, the outlook for the RMC sector in India is positive.
Which are the products you are going to launch at the Exhibition? Can you please brief us on the features and applications of the products?
Recently, we launched the RDC Highperformcrete, RDC Selfcrete, and RDC Imprecrete series in the market. The RDC Highperformcrete range offers high strength and durability, the RDC Selfcrete series is designed for easy handling and application, and the RDC Imprecrete range offers decorative concrete solutions. These products not only help reduce CO2 emissions, but also provide ease of use and added value for our clients. They have been very well received by the market. We have a special product called Pot-Crete which is developed by RDC Concrete and its subsidiary company Ultrafine, which is a rapid pothole repair solution that guarantees durable repairs without requiring special equipment or lengthy downtime. As part of a trial run, recently the Kalyan Dombivli Municipal Corporation allowed RDC Concrete to demonstrate Pot-Crete without halting the traffic.
What are your plans, preparations and strategy for the bauma Conexpo India?
First, we will be showcasing our latest products and technology at our booth at the trade fair. venue. This will include our most recent ready-mix concrete products, as well as any new technologies or advancements we have made in the production process. In addition, we will be providing detailed information and brochures on our products and services to visitors at the trade fair. This will include information on our product specifications, performance data, and sustainability initiatives. We will also be using the trade fair as an opportunity to network with other companies in the industry and establish new business relationships. Our team will be available to meet with potential customers, suppliers, and partners to discuss potential collaborations and partnerships.
Finally, we will be providing training to our team members on how to effectively understand the customer's needs, answering their queries, and providing them with the possible solutions or information they need to make informed decisions about our products to optimise their cost and improve productivity. Overall, our strategy for the trade fair is to showcase our products, establish new business relationships, and promote our brand as a leading provider of ready-mix concrete products and services.
What are the factors you consider while introducing new products?
We consider several factors when introducing new products, including market demand, dissemination of product attributes effectively, benefits, scalability and the capabilities of their equipment and personnel including training needs. We also take into account the environmental impact of the new product and any regulatory compliance that may be required. Additionally, we conduct market research and customer surveys to gauge interests and gather feedback on the proposed new products for continuous improvement.
What are the trends and demand factors driving the industry?
Increased construction activity: As the economy improves, there is likely to be a greater demand for new construction projects, which will drive the demand for ready-mix concrete. Urbanization: With more people moving into cities, there is likely to be a greater demand for housing and commercial developments, which will increase the demand for ready-mix concrete. Infrastructure development: Government investments in infrastructure projects, such as roads, bridges, and airports, will also increase the demand for ready-mix concrete. Rising demand for sustainable construction: The use of ready-mix concrete can help reduce the carbon footprint of construction projects, making it a more sustainable option.
Your views on demand driving green technologies
I see the demand for green technologies as a major driver for our industry. As more and more customers become aware of the environmental impact of construction, they are looking for sustainable options that can help reduce their carbon footprint. One of the ways we are addressing this demand is by investing in new technologies that can help us produce ready-mix concrete in a more environmentally-friendly way by using alternative raw materials, such as fly ash and slag, which can help reduce the amount of cement needed in our products. Another area we are focusing on is improving the energy efficiency of our production process. By investing in new equipment and processes, we are able to reduce the amount of energy needed to produce our products, which can help lower our carbon emissions. In addition, we are also committed to recycling and waste reduction, we are looking for ways to minimize the waste generated during our production process and recycle the waste materials that we do produce. Overall, the demand for green technologies is a major driver for our industry, and we are committed to finding innovative solutions that can help us meet this demand and contribute to a more sustainable future.
What is your expectation from Budget 2023-24 for the concrete and concrete equipment industry?
Last year's Union budget was heavily concentrated on infrastructure, so we anticipate that this year's budget will follow suit given the focus on development. Aside from improving medical and educational infrastructure, green energy projects and more spending on roads, borders, and ports are both expected. From a layman's perspective, an increase in the taxable limit is the usual desired outcome. If the government allowed some tax relief on second properties, then the housing sector would likely experience a surge. Additionally, making it easier for companies in the infrastructure sector to access working capital would expedite the process of finishing construction projects.
