KSB Pumps Arabia is on the expansion path as it sets its sights on new markets overseas.

The Saudi company is currently expanding its factory to boost production capacity by 25 per cent, says sales and marketing manager Nabeel Owdeh. Work on the project is expected to be completed in October.

KSB Pumps Arabia is a joint venture with KSB of Germany. In operation since 1992, KSB Pumps Arabia manufactures pumps to the highest specifications in its manufacturing facilities in Riyadh's second industrial city.

Equipped with advanced technology, and supported by professional engineers and skilled technicians, the plant produces pumps, water booster systems, fire-fighting booster systems and control panels.

Some of KSB Pumps Arabia's products are 100 per cent locally manufactured, some have added value, and others are imported from the German parent.

The Saudi factory, which is one of 36 operated by the German pumps manufacturer worldwide, was set up for strategic reasons, according to Owdeh.

"The Middle East is a very important market as it continues to develop and expand its infrastructure, and the Gulf is the most important area in this region," he explains. "And as Saudi Arabia is the biggest country in the Gulf, KSB decided to support the market by setting up a factory that would offer professional support and a strong base."

KSB Pumps Arabia concentrates on the building services sector, marketing its products for potable water, wastewater, irrigation, sewage, chilled water, fire-fighting and water circulating applications. One of its core products is Alta turbine pumps, which are manufactured for export worldwide.

Highly-skilled technicians trained to German standards are in charge of KSB Pumps Arabia's customer service department. "Complete teams equipped with all tools are available for specialised services such as rewinding submersible motors and all aspects of trouble-shooting, preventive maintenance, repairs, commissioning, handing over, pumping room installations, well-pump installations and turnkey boosting system projects," says Owdeh. "All these services are available not only in Saudi Arabia but also for the entire Gulf region."

KSB Pumps Arabia can also undertake turnkey contracts for pumping stations including all electromechanical work, design, shop drawings, installation, testing and commissioning. Its marketing department supports the distribution network and keeps customers informed of latest product developments.

At SaudiBuild 2001, KSB will be putting special focus on its range of pumps and boosters.

"SaudiBuild is a specialised event and one of the biggest exhibitions in Saudi Arabia, with a comprehensive range of products and an international presence," say Owdeh. "We previously participated in the event and had sales success."

However, Owdeh feels that the event could do with more publicity. "SaudiBuild is well organised, but it needs more advertising," he says. "For instance, the organisers should send invitations to specialists in every field, in the private and public sector."

KSB Pumps Arabia's business this year has been better than the previous year. "There are a lot of projects in the Kingdom but competition is stiff," he says. "Only those firms with a professional approach, good prices and quality products will emerge big winners."

The company is now targeting new overseas markets such as Yemen, Iraq and Iran.

Major contracts that KSB has executed in Saudi Arabia include the Hofuf project, the Kingdom Centre, the Al Faisaliah Center, Honai project, a shrimp farm and pumping stations at Arafat, Qassim and Mina.

KSB Pumps Arabia will be present at stand 18/738.