SWITZERLAND-BASED global company Sika has officially opened new manufacturing facilities in Rabigh, Saudi Arabia.

The factory has been built using Sika’s own materials “from basement to roof” and was completed in an impressive 11 months. The facilities are running two production lines, for powder and admixtures, manufacturing a massive 50,000 tonnes per shift annually.

The state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities form part of Sika’s plans to meet the increase in demand for the firm’s range of quality products for building and construction work in the region.

“The new facilities are a welcome addition to Sika’s global network of specialist manufacturing locations,” said  Silvio Ponti, chairman of Sika Saudi Arabia. “As a result of this expansion, we will be able to further enhance our service to our customers and provide products not only for Saudi Arabia, but also to the GCC region to satisfy the significant increase in demand here.”

Mark Hardaker, general manager for Sika Saudi Arabia, said: “The company is very excited about this new venture, helping us to achieve our goal to dramatically increase our presence in all regions of the kingdom and become one of the market leaders.”

He continued: “In line with our plans to increase market share over the next three years, the new facilities will ensure products are readily available for construction projects. Our products are tried and tested, innovative and manufactured to consistent quality standards. We believe we have the best products, the best service, along with continuous research and development to ensure that our products continue to lead the construction chemicals markets around the world.”

Sika is a global company with subsidiaries in more than 70 countries  and annual sales of $4.2 billion. It manufactures a range of concrete admixtures, speciality mortars, grouts and epoxy grouts, adhesives, flooring products, waterproofing products, sealing and bonding products.