Wienerberger subsidiary Semmelrock accelerates expansion in Eastern
Europe
- Steady continuation and acceleration of growth strategy
- Total investment to exceed ¤ 45 million
- Strengthening of market positions in Poland, Croatia and Romania
- Market entry in Bulgaria
Vienna, October 11, 2007 - Semmelrock, a 75% subsidiary of
Wienerberger AG and the market leader for high-quality concrete
pavers, is accelerating the growth strategy for Central-East Europe
that was adopted in 1998. With six projects and a total investment of
more than ¤ 45 million, the company will focus on expansion in
existing markets and the development of business in new countries.
These investments will allow Semmelrock to increase its production
capacity in Eastern Europe by more than 7 million m² and will also
strengthen its market positions throughout the region. As a result,
the company will be better able to meet the demands of its customers
and offer a full range of products from concrete pavers - in the form
of slabs or paver systems - to accessories. Work has already started
on the realization of these projects, with plants expected to
commence production in stages between mid-2008 and mid-2009. The
Semmelrock investment program represents an addition to the
Wienerberger plans for the construction of 25 new brick plants in
Central-East Europe and Russia by 2012.
Stronger presence in growth market Poland
In Poland, Semmelrock currently operates seven plants at three
locations. The country is one of the most important markets for
concrete pavers. With a total volume of more than 32 million m² in
2006, Poland is one of the largest markets in Central-East Europe.
"We see numerous growth opportunities in Poland. The new plants,
which can also be enlarged to support further expansion, will not
only improve our market position in the greater Warsaw area, but also
our regional coverage - and this will strengthen our number three
standing in Poland over the long-term", commented Robert Holzer, CEO
of Semmelrock International GmbH, on the company's strategy.
Expansion in Croatia and Romania plus market entry in Bulgaria
The expansion program will also include investments to enlarge the
existing plant in Croatia as well as to further develop the growth
market of Romania. "Semmelrock has been present in Romania for a
number of years through imports from Eastern Hungary and since last
year with a plant near Bucharest. This reflects the strong interest
of local consumers in high-quality concrete pavers", explained Robert
Holzer. Semmelrock has also taken its first steps in Bulgaria, which
involve the development of its own organization and a location.
Steady continuation of growth course
"The expansion of our business activities in existing markets and our
entry into new countries with a potential for growth will further
accelerate our expansion course in Central-East Europe. Our goal is
to increase our position as the leading supplier of high-quality
concrete pavers in Central Europe ", added Robert Holzer in
conclusion.
Leading concrete paver producer in Austria with international
presence
Semmelrock was founded by Wolfgang Semmelrock in 1958 and has been a
subsidiary of the Wienerberger Group since 1996. From its base in
Austria, the Semmelrock Group is pursuing a strong expansion course
in Eastern Europe. This rapidly growing company is now represented in
Austria, Croatia, Hungary, Slovakia, Slovenia, the Czech Republic,
Romania and Poland with a total of 14 plants.
For additional information contact:
Robert F. Holzer, CEO Semmelrock International GmbH
T + 43(664)160 13 20 | robert.holzer@semmelrock.com
Karin Hofmann, Public Relations
T +43(1)60192-463 | communication@wienerberger.com
Download the press release from: www.wienerberger.com
If you do not wish to receive the Wienerberger newsletter any longer,
send an e-mail with subject: "unsubscribe newsletter" to
communication@wienerberger.com.
--- End of Message ---
Wienerberger AG
Wienerbergstraße 11 Vienna Austria
ISIN:
AT0000831706; Index: WBI;
Listed: Prime Market in Wiener Boerse AG;
