Construction World November 2017

ADMIXTURES

INNOVATION AND QUALITY Construction World spoke to Brett Larsen, COO of a.b.e. Construction Chemicals (a.b.e.) about how this company is building on the tradition of optimally providing innovative and quality products to both the retail and mainline construction markets.

waterproofing; flooring; silicone, sealants and adhesives; concrete repair and protection; general construction and high performance coating solutions. How is research and development at a.b.e guided? R&D is influenced by understanding the market, global conditions and market demand. In addition to being cognisant of the global status quo, research and development is always market driven. At a.b.e. it is shaped by the link we have with CHRYSO (a.b.e. Construction Chemicals is a wholly owned subsidiary of the CHRYSO Group) which keeps a.b.e. informed of global market initiatives. In addition, our research and development is influenced from a raw materials perspective when companies sell us new technologies that may develop into new products. It is also guided by market demand. In a unique move to combine cement, concrete, and construction systems technology; the CHRYSO Southern Africa Group has recently extended its laboratory testing facilities and opened a new cement laboratory: The Centre of Excellence. Furnished with ultra-modern equipment and temperature control systems, the laboratory can independently test local cement samples. This will assist in creating new product formulations, as well as providing tailor-made solutions to match specific applications and client requirements. The technical team has vast experience in specific technical applications and has recently introduced micro-concrete testing, bleed water testing, absorption testing, methylene blue testing, maturity testing and aggregate water absorption testing to its range of services.

What is a.b.e.’s offering? a.b.e.’s offering is diverse. It has five product categories that it sells through three channels. The first component is retail. Products are sold to key national accounts such as Builder’s Warehouse, Cashbuild, etc. This is essentially products for DIY purposes. This channel also includes various independent dealers. The second channel is construction and comprises contractors, subcontractors and specialised contractors. As these products need skills in terms of the mixing, preparation and application, a.b.e is heavily involved in training in these environments. Exports is the third channel that is managed by a.b.e.’s business development. Although we call it a ‘channel’, it encompasses both retail and construction products. We have seen a shift and the retail channel now accounts for 40% of a.b.e.’s business. What products do you supply within the retail and construction channels? Within both the retail and construction channels we offer a diverse product offering that includes the following five product categories:

Brett Larsen, COO of a.b.e. Construction Chemicals (middle), says a.b.e operates from a solid platform with a diverse product range and competent, dedicated personnel. Here he is with Warren Delaney, Chief Chemist CHRYSO (left) and Mpume Mlalazi, R&D manager, CHRYSO.

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CONSTRUCTION WORLD NOVEMBER 2017