Catnic, the UK-based manufacturer of metal lath, angle beads and other plasterers' products, has reported significant business growth in the Gulf in recent years.

Orders for last year passed the £1 million ($1.6 million) mark as the company's ranges continue to gain the confidence and acceptance of local contractors and developers, says a company spokesman.

"In particular Catnic's products have been selling well in countries such as Kuwait, Oman and Qatar and the UAE emirate of Dubai.

"The company's specially-tailored range of channel lintels are also finding favour for the single leaf wall construction typically employed in the region," he says.