Last Updated on March 27, 2023, 4:59 AM AST by Anthony Morris
Barbados: The Executive Chairman of Rock Hard Cement, Mark Maloney, recently announced to the media that his company is looking to expand their operations even as the other cement companies in the country are limiting their work and making several cuts in operations. The Executive Chairman further noted that they are positioning themselves at a position such that they can cater to the demand for cement in the country.
The announcement from the executive management, headed by Mark Maloney came shortly after another prominent Cement Company, Arawak Cement Limited, announced that they are limiting their operations in some of their plants. The company is also reducing their workforce as a part of a cost-reduction initiative. Meanwhile, Mark Maloney interacted with the media in this regard, talking about the issues and challenges they face in the cement industry.
The Executive Chairman of Rock Hard Cement asserted that the sector has faced several issues in the last few years due to increased material and shipping costs, which affect the business’s profitability. Meanwhile, the demand for cement products is rising internationally.
Accordingly, Mark Maloney spoke on behalf of his company, assuring the people of Barbados that they are making sure that the cement products can remain available to the people at an affordable price. He also promised that they would ensure that the quality of the products is not compromised in making the construction material affordable for the people of Barbados.
Reports suggest that out of the total overall demand of the country, which was 75,000 Tonnes, Rock Hard Cement is supplying almost 50,000 tonnes to satisfy the demand. The Rock Hard cement team announced their expansion plans after Arawak Cement Limited announced their plans to lay off more than 70% of the staff on their payroll. They have also announced that they plan to focus on clinker production and catering exclusively to the local demand for cement.
The construction sector is undergoing a perilous time in terms of business as global circumstances have driven up costs for the material which has necessitated the cost cuts and layoffs.
Anthony Morris covers stories related to politics and regional developments. His in-depth reporting about governance and reforms makes him stand out in regional journalism, with a deep analysis of political trends and their impact on Caribbean communities.
