Magazine | BBR - July 2022 by The Boston Business Review

Taking customers and suppliers toward sustainability

SPECIAL EDITION | www.thebostonbr.com

(Peru ) Valuable contributions to sustainable living

INCREASING LEADERSHIP IN MEXICO IN LONG-STEEL PRODUCTS Denis Pereira G. Gomes, Supply Chain, Metallics & Energy Director for Gerdau Corsa

(Chile ) Partnerships supporting country-wide presence

WOMEN OF Bringing the gap closer through leadership in Guatemala

DOes your company have a story to tell?

EDITOR’S LETTER July 2022

Welcome to a new Construction

and decision-making positions, as we

industry special on The Boston Business learn via the “Women of Steel” feature, Review. Our cover is honored by

a collaboration by Gabriela Roca, the

Gerdau Corsa, the South American

company’s Head of Corporate Affairs

giant which took Mexico in no time

and Sustainability.

thanks to strategic acquisitions and

Way down south, Saint-Gobain Peru

partnerships, earning a leadership

and Weber Solcrom Saint-Gobain Chile

position in the long-steel and specialty

are a force in construction and finishing

steel items market.

materials contributing to their respective

From Guatemala, Corporación AG

territory, bringing value and engaging in

displays their enviable path of growth

partnerships resulting in country-wide

and achievements toward a sustainable

presence.

future, and also leading the way in closing the gender gap by giving

Thanks for reading and sharing

women the opportunity to grow within

The Boston Business Review’s 2022

the organization, earning leadership

Construction special issue!

Mateo Rafael Tablado, Editor in chief for The Boston Business Review Email: rafael.tablado@thebostonbr.com

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WHO WE ARE Managing Director

Finance Director

Jassen Pintado

Christina Nichole

Creative Director

Social Media Director

Omar Rodríguez

Maria Elena Gastelum

Editor in Chief

Content Coordinator

Rafael Tablado

Alicia Barrantes

Editor for Brasil

Project Directors

Flavia Brancato

Ana Macfarland David Alarcon

Translations

Giuseppe Modenesi

María Murgui

Lucy Verde Marcelo Modenesi

Table of Contents

50.

14. 06.

68.

Women of

22. 86. 36. 102. w w w.the b os tonb r.com

TECHNICAL EXPERIENCE AT THE SERVICE OF INDUSTRIES IN SEARCH OF A RELIABLE SUPPLIER THAT PROVIDES EFFECTIVE TECHNICAL SUGGESTIONS, high quality supplies at competitive prices and punctual shipping

Produced by Jassen Pintado Creative Direction Omar Rodríguez

Special Edition | Construction

ith more than 25 years of experience in Metallurgy field, SINOMETAL MACHINERY

CORP - a company based in China has put its know-how in metallurgy at the service of industries that require a trusted certified supplier, which ensures the punctuality of supplies of quality inputs, mainly GRAPHITE ELECTRODES, cement and refractory bricks for the melting furnaces (EAF), refining furnaces (LF) and for the distributor-trough (Tundish). SINOMETAL also offers technical support from its experts, providing high-level technical solutions for end users in the steel industry and foundries worldwide. INPUTS FOR STEEL PRODUCTION AND CERTIFIED QUALITY GRAPHITE ELECTRODES SINOMETAL’s graphite electrodes are

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Sinometal Machinery Corp

the main product, with a total output of 100,000 TPA, resulting in high quality graphite electrodes with diameters ranging from 200mm to 700mm in the grades that are most commonly required (NP, HP, SHP, UHP Grade) for the foundry and metallurgical industry. SINOMETAL grade UHP (ultrahigh power) graphite electrodes are manufactured with high quality needle coke and petroleum coke as raw materials and coal tar pitch as adherent, achieving low resistivity, minimum coefficient of thermal expansion and suitable electrical conductivity, produce low ash content, high resistance to oxidation, strong resistance to bending, a compact structure and high mechanical stability that contribute to a reduced rate of consumption kilograms of electrode consumed against tons of steel produced for the process of steel production in the Electrical Arc

July 2022

Special Edition | Construction

SINOMETAL has used its experience to the service of companies looking for a reliable supplier for top quality metal products

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Sinometal Machinery Corp

Furnace (EAF) and Ladle Furnace (LF).

suitable wooden packaging for export.

SINOMETAL’s graphite electrodes are manufactured under strict processes

In addition to graphite electrodes,

that control quality in the stages

the main products that SINOMETAL

of calcination, dosing, kneading,

also supplies are:

pressing, roasting, graphitization, and machining, and are covered with

1. G r a p h i t e e l e c t r o d e s

July 2022

2. Refractory products for EAF melting furnace such as:

Special Edition | Construction

2. Refracto r y p roducts fo r E AF melting fu r nace

3. Refracto r y products fo r ladle

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Sinometal Machinery Corp

EAF magnesia-carbon bricks,

4. Refractory products for

EBT rings, refractory products

Tundish /distributor: Vibration dry

for refining furnace, copper molds /

mass for tundish, stop rods, among

ingot molds, oxygen injection lances,

other items.

among others. 3. Refractory products for the

All the products that SINOMETAL

refining or ladle furnace: Dolomite supplies are manufactured in magnesite bricks, porous plugs,

compliance with the strictest

cap holder, nozzle holder, gunning

requirements of the ISO quality

refractory cements.

standards.

4. Refracto r y p roducts fo r tundish

July 2022

Special Edition | Construction

Sinometal has successfully cooperated with a large number of industries in each Latin American country, achieving significant decreases in consumption rates and increases in productivity. We welcome and invite new friends from related fields of metallurgy from all over the world to welcome your technical inquiries and requirements.

As a supplier, Sinometal contributes technically, achieving improvements, accomplishing the stability of the production process and the satisfaction of our customers and end users!

Po rous p l ug

INDUSTRY:

Manufacturing CONTACT: www.sinometalunion.com graphite@sinometalunion.com +86 411 3962 5877

JUAN PABLO DIAZ Sales Manager - Latin America jdiaz@sinometalunion.com

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ONE STOP

FOR QUALITY AND ENDURANCE IN STEEL MANUFACTURING PRODUCTS Produced by Jassen Pintado

Creative Direction Omar Rodríguez

Special Edition | Construction

Steel manufacturing products created with the best available materials, backed by an important investment in Research and Development, undergoing procedures supervised by top qualified technicians. In other words... Lonsun!

LONSUN is a leader in the steel manufacturing industry, performing as a one-stop service for different kinds of products for rolling, shafts and tungsten carbide rings. Every item offered by Lonsun is backed by processes performed with cutting-edge technology using top quality materials. Adamite rolls, nodular cast iron rolls, alloy chilled rolls, chrome rolls, HSS (high-speed steel rollers), hi-chrome rollers, ICDP rolls and more offer resistance to wear,

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Lonsun Metallurgy Machinery Corp

fire and oxidation, meeting quality assurance standards. The company boasts a 30-year experience in mill rolls, with important investments in R&D, and the best machinery, materials and qualified professionals within its three facilities able to deliver hot rolling mills, section mills, hot strip mills, plate mills, and cold rolling mills. Lonsun finds itself steps ahead of the industry’s demands, currently Metal log raphical

supplying a full range of rolls and other steel manufacturing products. FULL STRENGTH AND CAPACITY SUPPORTING GLOBAL PRESENCE Lonsun’s production facilities are run by 215 workers and 45 technicians, adding a total of 32,000 ton yearly production capacity. More than 33% of Lonsun’s yearly output is exported globally. Maintaining capacity at such levels requires top-notch technology for every process. The rolling plant is host to different sets for medium frequency

H a rd n e s s Te s t

July 2022

and intermediate frequency induction

Special Edition | Construction

UT test

furnaces, heat treatment furnaces

and oversee rolling passes into

and CNC finishing machines.

the roughing, intermediate and

Every process in the company’s

finishing rolling cages. Steel billets

manufacturing facility is subject to

are previously set to the proper

quality-assurance inspections under

temperature in a furnace and undergo

ISO-9001 standards, as well as every

the necessary roll passes according to

product leaving Lonsun’s facilities.

the desired product requirements. From first bends to tandem finishing

CUTTING-EDGE MACHINERY IN EVERY PROCESS

mills, every process is supervised to

Lonsun counts with the machinery

temperature for steel in each step.

and facilities for hot and cold rolling,

Every piece of equipment receives

while qualified technicians operate

proper, timely maintenance to operate

obtain required sizes, thickness and

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Lonsun Metallurgy Machinery Corp

Lonsun is steps ahead of the industry’s demands, supplying a full range of steel manufacturing products

July 2022

Special Edition | Construction

like clockwork and deliver custom-

conditions to stand steel billets.

made results from clients’ demands. AFTER-SALE SERVICE RELYING ON THE BEST TO DELIVER THE BEST PRODUCTS

Lonsun not only delivers the best

The higher quality of melting,

available, but also offers excellent

thermal treatment and raw materials result in less wear suffered by rolling

quality steel manufacturing products after-sale service. The company has established

cylinders. Lonsun is far from using

a wide network of associates in

the common materials found at any

production plants worldwide,

still mill, but rather relies on high

gathering the necessary experience

alloy steel and specific, high-quality

to offer complete technical support

ferroalloys to meet the necessary

and after-sales service.

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Lonsun Metallurgy Machinery Corp

Working with Lonsun results in products with a benchmark-quality lifespan

July 2022

Special Edition | Construction

LONSUN, THE RIGHT DECISION Working with Lonsun results in obtaining the highest roll quality from a company investing in the best available material in the market, worldwide, with a sound R&D department able to develop the best products in steel manufacturing, offering thorough after-sale service and working under the highest global standards to offer products with a benchmark-quality lifespan.

INDUSTRY:

CONSTRUCTION/ MANUFACTURING CONTACT: www.lonsunmmc.com info@lonsunmmc.com +86 411 3983 7190 +86 411 3983 5101 Juan Pablo Diaz Sales Manager - Latin America diaz@lonsunmmc.com

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CREATIVE SOLUTIONS

in steel Produced by Jassen Pintado

G 22

Creative Direction Omar Rodríguez

lobalization and world trading

companies from multiple nations,

have become more popular

crossing language and cultural barriers

over the last 20 years, but for

by implementing a transparent,

companies like Steel Resources, LLC

effective, and reputable approach to

(SRI), conducting business on the

excellence. The core of this company’s

global stage is part of its DNA. This

values relies on the commitment

family-owned business has been

to establish positive long-term

doing international steel trading with

relationships with its clients, which

July 2022

Special Edition | Construction

many -with the passing of time-,

particular enthusiasm to be part of

have become like family. This

this edition along with its esteemed

company believes in working and

client, Corporación AG. The business

growing together side by side, being

relationship between both companies

the strong ally you can rely on.

has extended over three generations.

When presented with the opportunity SRI has been assisting Corporación to be featured in this magazine,

AG since its founder Don José Luis

Steel Resources, LLC showed

Gabriel began producing nails in his

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Steel Resources LLC

garage. Nowadays, both companies

to their clients, we recognize key

can look back and be proud of the

differentiators that make them a

immense growth and success both

strategic part of the value chain. SRI

businesses and their respective

assists with the buying/purchasing

family members have achieved

process, from purchasing products

over the years.

with specifications according to clients’ requirements to finance

ESSENTIAL PART OF CLIENTS’ VALUE CHAIN

and logistics, ensuring products

Steel Resources is a global steel

transaction involves tons of steel

trading company assisting its high-

products and ships loaded with

valuable network of steel mills and

products to be distributed throughout

buyers for the past 62 years. When

Asia, South America, Central

elaborating on the value they offer

America, Africa, and part of North

July 2022

reach their final destination. Each

Special Edition | Construction

America and Europe.

who have dedicated their careers

SRI understands the magnitude

to understanding and mastering

and dynamics that are part of the

this specific industry’s dynamics

steel industry, which is susceptible

and the perspectives of both clients

to changes related not only to

and suppliers. Precisely because

access to raw materials, but also

they have invested so much into

to production processes, oil prices,

understanding each side’s process,

politics, shipping costs, etc. Is it

interests, needs, and attitudes, SRI

an easy industry to be in? Well, not

makes sure every transaction is

really. However, with the right talent,

conducted with the utmost care,

professionalism, and experience,

guaranteeing the purposes of both

opportunities are unlimited. The

supplier and buyer are met. They care

SRI team is comprised of a highly

about the client’s experience through

knowledgeable group of individuals

reliable, transparent transactions;

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Steel Resources LLC

STEEL RESOURCES IS A GLOBAL STEEL TRADING COMPANY ASSISTING ITS HIGH-VALUABLE NETWORK OF BUYERS

July 2022

Special Edition | Construction

after all, every operation involves tons

known companies comprising such a

of steel products that must be sold

portfolio and the many years they have

and delivered on time for their end-

been part of it. A perfect example of

use. The quality of sold products,

the previous statement is the business

trading agreements, access to logistic

relationship with Nippon Steel, from

partners, and timely deliveries turn

whom Steel Resources has bought

SRI into an asset to their clients’ and

steel for the past 26 years. SRI has

suppliers’ value chain. Reputation

purchased 7 million tons of steel

and fulfilling orders AS EXPECTED

products from this company in this

is a guarantee not many can offer.

period. After all those years and all

Yet, when clients experience this

those tons, there has only been one

consistent and smooth process,

(1) claim for quality in the history of

they understand that trust and

this partnership which was resolved

reliability are invaluable to their

immediately. Total complaints from

business operations.

that region are less than 0.002%, unheard of in the steel industry. Since

RELIABLE TRADING PARTNER

October 2009, the firm has not spent

Steel Resources is very proud to have

even one month without shipping

built a brand associated with trust,

materials from Nippon to its clients

family values, professionalism, and

in the rest of the world. Other clients

expertise. SRI is the team that, when

SRI assists every month are Ferrotorre

issues arise, they will tell it to you as it

in Ecuador, ARME in Colombia, and

is, however, they will also lay out your

Consorcio in El Salvador, among

possible options and suggest a line of

others. Steel Resources has a strong

action to protect clients’ goals. When

presence in the Latin American

looking into the SRI client portfolio,

market. Out of all the regions it sells

it’s impressive to see the number of

steel to, 15% to 25% of all the sales

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Steel Resources LLC

are imported to South America. The

trust and respect has paid off with

company features a quality network

a loyal clientele, reliable suppliers,

of mills and buyers, which guarantees

efficient logistic coordination, and

the quality of products mixed with

overall prosperity for any company

trusted and transparent transactions.

within the network.

We mentioned a key term: NETWORK. Because of the many

regions of the world, especially in

years of business operations and

Ecuador, Peru, El Salvador, Kenya,

how relationships among companies

China, Brazil, and Colombia, to

(and the families associated with

name a few. To assist all these areas

them) have been nurtured, Steel

more effectively, SRI has in place

Resources prides itself on being

a system of representative agents

surrounded by mind-like corporations

working locally as a point of contact.

operating with the same brand

These agents answer directly to the

values and responsible business

corporate headquarters, where orders

practices. Furthermore, the network

are negotiated, verified, and approved.

goes beyond steel producers and buyers. Financial institutions like Bank of America have been essential for their operations, and as usual, this institution has been assisting SRI for over 20 years now. Steel Resources is

They act according to the firm’s alues and principles, ensuring the whole value chain is consistent regarding the experience and efficacy of its operations.

out very loudly not only for its service

STEEL RESOURCES AS A MARKETING ARM This company believes the base of its

but for its approach of the same.

operations is defined by quality steel

The investment their executives

products to be offered to its clients.

make in connecting and nurturing

In order to do so, SRI commits to

one of those companies that stands

Steel Resources operates in multiple

July 2022

Special Edition | Construction

include within its network steel mills

This approach works better as traders

with the capacity to produce quality

are the perfect liaison between

materials, with verified production

suppliers and sellers and maximize the

processes up to global standards.

effectiveness of the sale process.

That’s why the Steel Resources team, during the selling process, acts as

WHAT ABOUT LOGISTICS?

the sales representative of the mills

When we talk about the sale of

as well. Traders are very familiar with

multiple tons of steel products, the

the different steel products, their

negotiation and sale process is a

production processes, specifications,

piece of cake compared to the real

and proudly represent the products

challenge: Getting the final product

offered and recommended to clients.

to its destination. However, Steel

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Steel Resources LLC

THE SRI TEAM IS COMPRISED OF A HIGHLY KNOWLEDGEABLE GROUP OF INDIVIDUALS WHO HAVE DEDICATED THEIR CAREERS TO UNDERSTANDING AND MASTERING THE INDUSTRY’S DYNAMICS

July 2022

Special Edition | Construction

Resources has got you covered. The

transporting steel products along with

company has established expertise in

different commodities. SRI and MOL

knowing the products and their needs

have been working together for more

when it comes to transportation.

than two decades now, enhancing

As part of its value-chain network,

SRI logistics infrastructure. These are

SRI has also established long-term

just some examples of the size and

relationships with multiple shipment

capacity of the shipping entities that

companies assisting with the logistic

SRI is used to dealing with on a daily

requirements for its operations. The

basis to ensure to its clients that each

shipment companies SRI works

piece of material arrives on time.

with are known for their expertise in

Steel Resources is indeed a

transporting steel commodities and

company composed of individuals

their market share in the regions in

committed to delivering only

which Steel Resources operates. A

excellence to its stakeholders. It’s

perfect example of this is our existing

part of their values, and the same

relationship with Conti-Lines, which

has been translated into the system

has nearly 100 years of experience

of their daily operations. In an

as ship operators and agents, it has

industry overwhelmed by numbers,

become an elite maritime holding

tonnage, and oscillating processes,

company with whom SRI has been

Steel Resources has flourished by

working for three generations. Another

remaining determined with the client’s

key player in the conveyance of our

experience and the culture of working

steel products is Mitsui O.S.K. Lines,

together in sign of good faith across

also known as MOL, considered one

its network.

of the world’s largest international ocean shipping companies with

BRIEF HISTORY OF SRI

over 130 years of experience in

Steel Resources, LLC is a family-

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Steel Resources LLC

owned company that started its

Compañía Siderúrgica de Huachipato,

steel trading business 62 years ago

Kukje Corporation of Korea and many

led by Jose N. Charur through a

others throughout the world.

company named Representaciones

Due to political and economic

Internacionales S.S., a.k.a. Repinter,

turmoil in El Salvador and Central

back when the family was in El

America, the Charur family was forced

Salvador. This company acted as the

to move out of El Salvador, deciding

representative of many steel mills and

that Miami was the best place to

steel traders, among which we can

relocate their company and family

include the following: Nissho Iwai,

members. They founded a company

Marubeni Iida, Tokyo Boeki, Usinor,

named Kebaly Investment Company

Krupp, Hoogovens, Cockerill Sambre,

and continued to represent Usinor,

July 2022

Special Edition | Construction

Compañía Siderúrgica de Huachipato

risks related to doing business in the

(CSH), Krupp, Hoogovens and

territory and began trading operations.

obtained the representation of C.V.G.

As traders, the family established

Siderúrgica del Orinoco (SIDOR).

a company called Latin American

Also, due to the region’s economy

Export and Import, NV. The Charur

in shambles, they had to become

family became critical in the Central

traders, as mills and traders alike did

American area, trading materials

not want to finance any operations

mainly produced by SIDOR, CSH,

in Central America. Thanks to the

USINOR and Propulsora Siderúrgica

company’s leadership’s knowledge

of Argentina (PROSID, which today is

of the region, the company was more

part of TERNIUM). On the other hand,

than capable and willing to run the

looking to cover different areas and

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Steel Resources LLC

STEEL RESOURCES PRIDES ITSELF ON BEING SURROUNDED BY MIND-LIKE CORPORATIONS OPERATING WITH THE SAME BRAND VALUES AND RESPONSIBLE BUSINESS PRACTICES

July 2022

Special Edition | Construction

different suppliers, a sister company

generation of Charurs trading steel

was founded: Steel Resources, Inc.

across the globe. Nowadays, the

(SRI), and began trading in Central

company continues to nourish its

and South America, with a particular

long-term relationship with suppliers,

emphasis on Colombia, Ecuador,

clients, and shipment companies,

and Peru. In 1991, SRI obtained the

while simultaneously promoting green

representation of Caribbean ISPAT

initiatives to make a more significant

and began to market their product

impact globally.

in Central America and eventually helped LASA establish a direct relationship with them. SRI has, to this date, continued to grow in the aforementioned markets and is now actively involved in sales to Brazil, Dominican Republic, Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, Haiti, and the USA. By the end of 2003, a new company

INDUSTRY:

Construction

named Steel Resources, LLC (SRI) was created from the merger of Steel Resources, Inc. and Latin American Export and Import, Inc. Today, SRI is active in all of South America, the Caribbean, Central America, West

CONTACT: www.steelresources.com sales@steelresources.com + 1 (305) 459-4000

Africa, East Africa and South Africa. It remains a family-owned business, now with the inclusion of the third

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NATIONWIDE PRESENCE s er v icing the cons truc t ion indus tr y Produced by Jassen Pintado

Written by Mateo Rafael Tablado

Interviewee Asier Amorena, General Manager for Saint-Gobain Weber in Chile

Special Edition | Construction

Saint-Gobain Weber has kept a steady presence all along Chile, achieving this accomplishment is possible thanks to the company’s successful strategic partnerships

CONCEIVED FOR ROYALTY FOR GLOBAL AVAILABILITY

Saint-Gobain designs, manufactures and distributes materials and solutions for industries such as construction, healthcare and mobility, among many others. The company’s history goes back more than three centuries ago as a glass factory opened under orders of King Louis XIV, in France. Currently, Saint-Gobain has presence in 70 countries with the support of more than 167,000 employees, and in 2020 generated sales for more than $45.4 billion.

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Saint-Gobain Weber Chile

Products created by Saint-Gobain

origins and global presence. In 2016,

are developed under a continuous

Weber’s affiliate in Chile expanded

innovation process and are to be

in South America after acquiring the

found in many different spaces in

Solcrom company, a solid player in

everyday life, delivering wellness,

the production and distribution of

execution and safety, undertaking

chemical products for construction.

the challenges faced by sustainable

The operation in Chile currently

construction, resource efficiency and

has five distribution centers and two

fighting climate change.

production plants, the newest one opening in July 2022 in Concepción,

BOOSTING PRESENCE THROUGH PARTNERSHIPS

Saint-Gobain’s presence in Chile also goes back long ago. The

consolidating the company’s presence in all of Chile. Asier Amorena is the General Manager for Weber Saint-Gobain in

company has established key strategic Chile since 2017. Amorena is originally partnerships with businesses such a telecommunications engineer, as the El Volcán company and the

graduated from the Public University

Vidrios Lirquén glass factory. In

of Navarre (Spain), he worked in

1996, Saint-Gobain incorporated

this specialty during two years for

Weber, also a company with French

Agilent Technologies in Stuttgart, Germany. Once back in Spain, Amorena was hired at Saint-Gobain for the Marketing and Development department, for which he earned an MBA from the Barcelona School of

July 2022

Special Edition | Construction

Weber Projects

Management (Spain), adjunct to the Pompeu also saw Amorena’s further development in Fabra University. Besides this degree,

leadership by honing his skills in important

Amorena has also taken different marketing

business schools with professors with

courses and seminars in prestigious

ties to Harvard University and the MIT

institutions in Spain, such as IESE, IE

(Massachusetts Institute of Technology),

Business School and ESADE Business

both in the United States.

School. His career in Saint-Gobain took a turn in 2011, as Amorena arrived at Brazil

NATIONWIDE PORTFOLIO AVAILABILITY

as Marketing Director, being named Sales

Solutions and products from Saint-

Director five years later; his stint in Brazil

Gobain Weber are useful in projects of

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Your Onetop Fiberglass Produce Provider. CHEN BUILDING MATERIAL are professional company specialized in the production of alkaline-resistant fiberglass mesh, self-adhesive fiberglass tape, fiberglass wallpaper, paper joint tape and metal corner tape more than 15 years. We also produce ceiling including mineral acoustic ceiling, gypsum ceiling, fiberglass acoustic insulation ceiling etc. With our policy of “Quality first, Customers prior and Price reasonable”, we have established good relationship with the customers all over the world.

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Mineral acoustic ceiling

Alkaline resistant fiberglass mesh

Gypsum acoustic ceiling

Self-adhesive fiberglass tape

Metal corner tape

Paper joint tape

Saint-Gobain Weber Chile

different kinds and dimensions:

• For the retail market via

from repairs, finishes and home

SODIMAC, the specialized home

remodeling projects to large building

and construction superstore chain

construction, offering cement, plaster,

• Hardware stores

mortar, coating, sealers, concrete,

• In construction companies

silicone and other compounds. These

nationwide.

products are available from Arica to Punta Arenas through the three main

GROWTH VIA DIGITIZATION

The Digital Transformation process

distribution channels for the Chilean

at Saint-Gobain Weber Chile is a key

construction industry:

factor to the company’s growth with

July 2022

Special Edition | Construction

“WE TRY TO BRING A FAIR VALUE OFFER TO OUR CLIENTS AND SUPPLIERS” - Asier Amorena, General Manager for Saint-Gobain Weber Chile

the development of three

contractors and other construction

main pillars:

professionals

• Optimization of managerial

• The modernization of the

procedures

company’s industrial platform

• Improving communication along

through resources set in the

with thrusting the Weber brand

Industry 4.0 concept.

into a digital habitat inclusive to retail clients as well as end consumers of the company’s products, which are mainly

PARTNERS, SHAREHOLDERS, STAKEHOLDERS

For decades, the way to success in Chilean territory for Saint-Gobain

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Stretch Hood Application 40% faster and up to 30% less material used than a conventional process.

More security for the transportation of your load.

Special Edition | Construction

Weber has been through the creation

fruitful relationships in the long term.

of powerful partnerships able to bring

The company has developed key

win-win situations within a context

suppliers as well as products with

of absolute and total trust. Both the

specific requirements, contributing

company and partner El Volcán share

with knowledge and financial support

this long-term perspective.

to its value chain.

“We try to bring a fair value offer

“Suppliers with operations in Chile

to our clients and suppliers. A

are key partners, because they are

perspective of value distribution of the

open to create custom developments

shareholder to all of our stakeholders,

adding value to our operations,” the

besides facing the everyday challenge

executive said.

of having a true empathic view with each of our stakeholders,” Amorena declared. RELATIONSHIPS WITH SUPPLIERS

The provision of supplies, raw

CONTRIBUTIONS TO A BETTER PLACE

The “Making the World a Better Home” initiative is a global effort from Saint-Gobain and affiliate companies

materials and other goods to run

to help make our surroundings a more

operations in Saint-Gobain Weber

sustainable, beautiful place to inhabit.

Chile requires specialized purveyors,

In facing this commitment, Saint-

possessing key traits, such as

Gobain takes its global leadership

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Special Edition | Construction

“SUPPLIERS WITH OPERATIONS IN CHILE ARE KEY PARTNERS, because they are open to create custom developments adding value to our operations” - Asier Amorena, General Manager for Saint-Gobain Weber Chile

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July 2022

Special Edition | Construction

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LEADING COMPANY in integrated solutions in steel products

Corporación AG is still optimizing its operations and position within the Guatemala and Central America market by taking firm and decisive steps toward sustainable processes along with suppliers and clients

Produced by Jassen Pintado Written by Mateo Rafael Tablado Translation by María Murgui Creative Direction Omar Rodríguez Interviewee Rodrigo Gabriel, CEO for Corporación AG

Corporación AG

or almost 70 years, Corporación Salvador, thus generating a working AG has acted as a valuable

source of 2,321 collaborators. Its

ally for Guatemala within the

human resources management has

construction sector, leading the

taken AG to the Great Place To Work

transformation, production, and

platform, which recognizes the best

distribution of steel products.

companies to work for, according to

The company’s growth all along this time has allowed it to expand

their personnel’s criteria. In 2021 the company became the

its operations in Central America.

first Central American company to

Currently, it has presence in six

become certified for its Integrated

countries, has eight production plants

Management System, which includes

and thirteen distribution centers

the Quality Management System

in Guatemala, Honduras, and El

ISO 9001:2015, the Anti-bribery

We must keep our priorities and centralities on our clients and customers under a sustainability focus which allows us to combine our growth strategy - Rodrigo Gabriel, Chief Executive Officer at Corporación AG

July 2022

Special Edition | Construction

Con Voluntad de Acero, transformamos el presente para construir el futuro que todos soñamos

Management System ISO 37001:2016, committed to Guatemala’s and the the Health and Safety Management

Central American region’s sustainable

System ISO 45001:2018, the

development.

Environmental Management System ISO 14001:2015 and the Corporate

“We must keep our priorities centered on our clients’ and

and Social Responsibility Management customers’ needs under a System ISO 26000:2010. Corporación AG also belongs

sustainability focus which allows us to combine our growth strategy”,

to organizations such as Pacto

commented Rodrigo Gabriel, Chief

Global and CentraRSE, which are

Executive Officer at Corporación AG.

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Corporación AG

CAREER-LONG LEADERSHIP COMMITTED TO THE COMPANY Rodrigo Gabriel has been managing Corporación AG for five years, after being in charge of the company’s supply chain during the previous five years before he was appointed Chief Executive Officer. He graduated from Rice University

years ago and on the corporation collaborators’ trust”, the CEO pointed out. A DIFFERENT AND BETTER KIND OF PRODUCTION Over the years, Corporación AG has increased the catalog of

(Texas, USA), besides earning an

products it manufactures, thus

MBA degree specializedin Finance

currently offering wire, iron, profiles,

from the ESADE Business School

prefab, construction products, and

(Barcelona, Spain).

loading/unloading products from

“My commitment is based on

the legacy that started almost 70

July 2022

transmetalation, among others.

Special Edition | Construction

One of the company’s distinctive

related to the construction sector,

factors is that the steel production

Corporación AG recently enlarged

processes at Corporación AG are

the rolling mill at its SIDEGUA Plant,

carried out using electric arc furnaces,

which is located in Masagua, Escuintla

whose energy comes mainly from

Department. This enlargement means

renewable resources. This factor

an increase of 42% of this plant’s

helps reduce the company’s carbon

capacity, going from a 350,000 tons to

footprint, which is currently Scope 1

a 500,000 tons capacity.

and Scope 2 and aims at achieving Scope 3 through melting scrap metal. GROWTH THROUGH ACQUISITIONS AND EXPANSION While seeking to offer more products

The detection of inorganic growth opportunities has also delivered results in recent times. Only in 2021, Corporación AG accomplished three important acquisitions, when

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Special Edition | Construction

My commitment is based on the legacy that started almost 70 years ago and on the corporation collaborators’ trust - Rodrigo Gabriel, Chief Executive Officer at Corporación AG

incorporating TUBAC, a Guatemalan

offers integrated solutions for the

company that commercializes

construction sector.

plumbing and flat steel for Central

“These acquisitions will allow us

America and the Caribbean. This

to expand our operations toward

deal also brought its sister company

new markets to go on innovating, to

TYPSA, which, from Honduras,

become the best operator in the region

operates in the commercialization of

and offer solutions for the construction

structural tubing, zinc and aluminum/

industry” declared Gabriel.

zinc coated steel sheets, besides other flat products for different uses, and which operates in Central America. The third acquisition was the company Megaproductos, which

ETHICS AND TRANSPARENCY REACH THE SUPPLY CHAIN Corporación AG’s dealings with suppliers goes beyond mere

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Corporación AG

commercial transactions. The

culture before corruption acts through

company works hand in hand with

by-laws established in their CEAG

its business partners, especially

Code of Ethics and their Management

when dealing with issues related

Integrated System.

to eradicating robbery, fraud, and

Communication is a key factor

bribery in all types of transactions.

between the company, its suppliers,

Therefore, it encourages an ethics,

and interested parties to detect and

integrity, and zero-tolerance-based

improve weaknesses within the value

July 2022

Special Edition | Construction

chain. They work jointly on training

relations”, added the executive.

collaborators and suppliers to share the best practices and keep ethical

INCREASING ONLINE PRESENCE

and transparent commercial relations.

Corporación AG’s seven-decade

“We work hand in hand with our

presence in the construction sector in

suppliers to reduce risks through

Guatemala and Central America is due

the implementation of transparent

to different reasons, one of them its

and long-term training, policies, and

adaptation capacity. The appearance

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Special Edition | Construction

of relatively recent media, together

“The last trial with the Portal AG

with events such as the recent global

was finalized with selected clients,

pandemic have led the company to

who shared their comments, doubts,

widen its presence in virtual networks,

improvements, and wishes with us.

not only with its current presence

We will be launching it for 100% of our

via its website, which contains

clients shortly”, added Gabriel.

information about the company, but

On the other hand, the Steel

also developing platforms for sales

Academy is a free online training

and online training.

platform that is aimed not only at

Since 2021 the company is carrying out trials to optimize the future

the company’s collaborators, clients, and suppliers but also at anyone

launching of Portal AG. This digital showcase will allow its clients and customers not only to place orders but also to enter personalized profiles in which, besides purchasing products, they will have access to data such as their purchase history, tracking orders, account statements, as well as special and exclusive offers, and new products, among others. This portal is still in its trial phase and it is expected to start working soon to speed up and improve commercial interactions with the company.

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WORKING YOUR IDEAS IN METAL At DYMISA our vision is to obtain leadership and profitability in the metalworking and marketing area, consistently responding to the various requirements of the industry in general, supported by our human and technological resources.

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ANALYSIS LABORATORY CONTACT US

wanting to know more about the products the company offers. The courses are organized into 30-minute modules and have tests and a scoring system besides giving passing and participation certificates. Just as any online training tool, it offers the advantages of receiving courses with no schedule restrictions or infection risk due to the pandemic. “AG goes for continuous improvement, so we know that training our clients and customers about our products and uses is

Special Edition | Construction

essential”, commented the Chief

should add the Aceros de Guatemala

Executive Officer.

Sustainability Strategy, which established guidelines aiming for

SUSTAINABLE ACTIONS FROM OPERATIONS AND STRATEGY Only through the execution of its processes, Corporación AG contributes to the environment and sustainability being the company

2025 to comply with environmental, social, and corporate governance criteria, named ASG (Spanish for Environmental, Social, and Governance projects), by operating responsibly and empowering

that recycles the most scrap metal

collaborators, neighbors, clients,

in Central America, thus contributing

and suppliers. Its purpose is to have

to circular economy as it uses waste

a positive impact on the region’s

collected by more than 130 suppliers

development when creating long-

all along the country, to transform

term value and prosperity, growing

them in high-quality steel products

responsibly and increasing the

for construction, contributing by

company’s presence in the region,

generating business and reducing the

strengthening its position and

impact on the environment.

competitivity within the established

To these daily operations, we

term with responsible leadership,

Click here to read Corporación AG’s first Sustainability Report (in Spanish)

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Corporación AG

We work hand in hand with our suppliers to reduce risks through the implementation of transparent and long-term training, policies, and relations - Rodrigo Gabriel, Chief Executive Officer at Corporación AG

July 2022

Special Edition | Construction

integrity, innovation, and proper treatment to its personnel, excellency in its commercial offer, besides optimal financial and economic results. The strategy means the continuation of the vision that has kept the company seeking new results for decades and in years to

FOUNDED: 1953

come, so it can proudly celebrate its 70th anniversary. The recent steps the company has taken regarding sustainability have been acknowledged in its

INDUSTRY: Construction NO. OF EMPLOYEES: 2,321

first Sustainability Report, in which the efficient actions and numbers Corporación AG generates regarding this issue are listed.

CONTACT: www.corporacionag.com Tel:(502) 2290-9400 / 01

“We commit to fulfilling our purpose of transforming the present to build the future we all dream of through the implementation of our strategy for the next years”, ended Rodrigo Gabriel, Chief Executive Officer at Corporación AG.

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Those companies on the leadership and forefront in every sector don’t become such just by decree, but rather by years of hard work supporting every achievement; many of such efforts were driven by the goal of surpassing -not necessarilyown challenges and limitations, but also those shared by the context and even the times. Corporación AG showcases its leadership in inclusion not just by creating a related program, but by actually making it part of its day-to-day operation, hiring professionals that have become...

Women of

Produced by Jassen Pintado Written by Gabriela Roca, Head of Corporate Affairs and Sustainability at Corporación AG Creative Direction Omar Rodríguez

Corporación AG

I’m

proud of belonging

different executive teams, some

to Corporación

of them really good and tight, and

AG, where I’ve

others with a lot of improvement

experienced family values becoming

opportunities in leadership and

corporate values, which currently drive capability among its members. what we know as AG Culture. AG Culture is made of different

Nevertheless, since being hired by Corporación AG I was surprised by the

elements that may be very difficult to

interaction, openness and what I call

describe, but what I can tell is that it

“a world without individual ‘corporate

openly allows women participation by

policies’”, but rather an executive

creating spaces where knowledge,

team whose members are motivated

experience and different perspectives

by common good, the group’s cause,

are appreciated, turning teams with

and therefore, the company’s purpose.

diversity into appraised teams.

The famous saying used more and more frequently, “tone at the top”,

I take part in a young executive team takes place; hence, the message to gathering industry knowledge, longterm vision, and awareness about

the rest of the organization is similar. Openness, inclusion and opportunity

the importance of decisions and its

are part of the AG Culture; though

impact on our parties of interest. It’s a

unwritten, such elements are

different kind of leadership and this is

experienced every day, becoming

experienced from the brain.

living stories that we can share.

During my professional career I’ve had the opportunity of meeting

July 2022

I’d like to start with Carol Juárez’s

Special Edition | Construction

story, who joined Corporación AG

practices deployment supervision,

ten years ago as an engineer for

creating routines for processes as

control quality process in the wire

management tech engineer. From

drawing plant, two years later she

this position, she had the opportunity

took the challenge of moving to the

to know the profiles, flat and rolling

Management Technology department,

plants. This experience resulted in

where she was appointed to best

her promotion to Managing Tech

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Corporación AG

Chief. The steel mill got her attention

She’s currently the Head of the

and soon after a better engineering

Manufacturing Front in what we call

position opened, that’s how she

the “Transformation Office”, which,

became part of the production

as properly described, transforms our

process. Nevertheless, the higher

business.

challenge she embraced two years

From the manufacturing front, Carol

later was the management position

supports initiatives aiming at bringing

in the Metallic Grounds; “The

improvements into every facility,

Grounds”, as we know it, means

with the purpose of optimizing the

a relevant process to us, the plant

company’s day-to-day operations.

where everything begins. Carol

Undoubtedly, Carol’s experience

leads more than 70 workers, the

in transforming, improving process

management of thousands of tons of

management and leading efficient

metallic material in every variety. Carol

teams is highly relevant and praised

became the first woman in charge

within the staff at Corporación AG.

of “The Grounds” in Corporación

She expresses that “AG is a place

AG’s almost 70-year story, and she

to work offering multiple learning

undoubtedly broke a paradigm. In

opportunities with individuals sharing

this position, Carol reached record

their knowledge and always offering

levels in different processes, summing

their support.”

it up all as “a great experience with many professional and individual accomplishments”.

July 2022

At Corporación AG, when we talk about quality, Luisa Yat is on our

Special Edition | Construction

“AG is a place to work offering multiple learning opportunities with individuals sharing their knowledge and always offering their support” - Carol Juárez, Head of Manufacturing Front

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Corporación AG

mind; Luisita, as we call her. Luisa

journey along processes, working

is an industrial mechanical engineer,

directly in the LBA rolling plant, one

and she’s been with AG for more

of our main lines. Some time later

than ten years. She began as an

she took on a new challenge joining

engineer working in plant management our strategy team, taking over the technology. Years later, she was in

deployment of a new project related

charge of deployment for management to quality. As part of the development

tools in nine of Corporación AG

opportunities, she pushed herself

distribution centers. Always on the

to take part in a recruitment project

lookout for more options, Luisa

-actually an internal promotion-, which

stepped forward to become a key

resulted in her being named Quality

developer and user in the “Everest”

Manager, where she is in charge of

project, deploying the SAP-HANA

our products’ and processes’ quality,

system in the organization’s system.

a very important role within the

Afterwards, Luisa continued her

company and its clients.

July 2022

Special Edition | Construction

Quality is such a difference-maker

joined Corporación AG almost four

for AG, quality in steel products,

years ago as Culture and Development

specially in seismic territory such as

Manager; her position began with

ours, is relevant, it’s a very important

a team of five professionals, still a

responsibility to take on. Luisa takes

very diverse group in a time in which

part in different committees in which,

the business went through a lot of

in her managerial role, she shares

changes and transformation. Paty took

decision-making with other managers

on this challenge with support from

and leadership positions, creating

the organization’s leadership, precisely

a difference in our business. In this

from top management, taking her

role, Luisa has never felt that being a

career as a psychologist and her

woman limits her role’s performance,

master’s in leadership and coaching

on the contrary, she feels her

to the service of Corporación AG from

capabilities are respected, listened to

day one. Her leadership flourished,

and considered for decision-making.

she learned about the steel business

“I want to keep growing,

and how to manage company culture

contributing with value and learning

in an organization with almost 70

new things, and keep myself opening

years, with very deep values as well

new paths in my journey in this

as a need for change, in order to be

sector,” Luisa commented.

prepared for the future. Paty took on the challenge of

Another AG leader experiencing

transformation, not only culture-

growth in her area, clearly achieving

wise, but also business-wise, her

the kind of leadership that enables

department went through a series of

our organization to drive our culture

changes that allowed for a custom-

is Patricia Morales, or just Paty. She

made vision design, centered on

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Corporación AG

“I want to keep growing, contributing with value and learning new things, and keep myself opening new paths in this sector” - Luisa Yat, Quality Manager

individual workers. She’s now in

sensibility of understanding that talent

charge of the Human Resource

management is about individuals,

Management department, with a

many fathers, many mothers and

team that is part of every business

entire families that are part of our dear

and with a strategic role, developing

Corporación AG.

the systems and processes in human resources able to bring value to talent development, culture and workplace

about Michelle Sosa, Michi is a leader

relationships for the corporation,

able to show that effort, persistence

including change management. To

and focus in the right company brings

me, Paty symbolizes the assurance

results.

of inclusion at every level, due to

Another inspirational story is the one

Michi joined AG for an internship

her professionalism and also with

before graduating as an engineer

her capacity to look beyond, her

in industrial technology. She was

July 2022

Special Edition | Construction

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Corporación AG

assigned to the electricity area in the

her insight was that the company

steel mill, the heart of our business,

culture at Corporación AG and the

as we call it. Michelle went through

leadership’s teaching ability closes

different areas, stepping up to every

such gaps, she recalled.

challenge learning and training for each task she was assigned. She

Michelle competed for a Project Corporate Management position,

didn’t know much, but she was always and her skills not only earned her this willing to learn. Even though at first

position, but she also became the

glance she perceived not being a

youngest manager in the corporation.

technical specialist meant an obstacle, She has many stories to tell, but

July 2022

Special Edition | Construction

“In AG there’s a culture of respect which has allowed me to develop in a pleasant way without any hassles. Being a woman makes us focus more on details, enabling us to create a culture about respect, safety and display details as a result of our femininity” - Michelle Sosa, Manager in Charge of Production Facility

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Corporación AG

she considers her biggest challenge

has been one of the most gratifying

was to co-manage the LBA -our

experiences, being the result of her

rolling facility- reboosting project.

and her mates’ teamwork, focus and

This was, after the setup of Parque

constant efforts. “This project was

Industrial Sidegua, the largest project

like obtaining approval for my thesis,”

driven by the corporation, and as

Michelle commented, huge challenges

such, there were hurdles to surpass:

resulting in the best apprenticeship.

aligning domestic and foreign teams,

Michelle’s latest challenge was

language barriers, culture clashes

becoming Manager in Charge of

and unexpected events such as

Production Facility at the transmetal,

the pandemic and the logistics and

mesh, cutting and folding plants,

transportation meltdown. Seeing

thus accomplishing one of her main

the rolling mill working the first

goals by becoming part of productive

steel billets with a new technique

processes.

July 2022

Special Edition | Construction

“In AG there’s a respect culture

very important subject, and in this

which has allowed me to develop

area we rely on Fabiola López’s

in a pleasant way without any

leadership. Fabi joined Corporación

hassles. Being a woman makes

AG as Accounting Manager, applying

us focus more on details, enabling

her more than 15-year experience

us to create a culture about respect,

in finance and project management

safety and display details as a result

in different endeavors. In AG, Fabi’s

of our femininity.”

leadership is focused on guaranteeing the operational continuity upon

The company’s finances are a

wide-scheme scenarios, such as

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Corporación AG

the pandemic. Fabiola applies

Before coming to an end, though

her knowledge and, from upper

there are plenty of stories from our

management she has taken on

Women of Steel, I would like to

changes in processes, accounting

acknowledge Adriana Menéndez’s

leadership in new businesses, support

story, who has a professional success

for sourcing and planning.

journey in Corporación AG, a story at

She expressed that Corporación

the heart of our processes. Adriana

AG is a place that enables her to grow

started in AG more than nine years

professionally as well as taking her

ago as Engineer in Quality Process

place as a mother and wife.

Management, she was also involved

When Fabi is part of a group,

in the Steel Mill and Electric Welding

we are certain that things are

facilities, learning the industrial

happening with accuracy,

processes, which she was attracted

compliance and transparency.

to from the beginning. Afterwards,

“Corporación AG enables me to grow professionally as well as taking my place as a mother and wife” - Fabiola López, Financial Analyst

July 2022

Special Edition | Construction

Adriana received the opportunity

and its journey. This year, she led a

to be promoted to Chief of Quality

time-shortening optimization during

Control in both facilities, as she

container change, thus achieving

began to experience leadership with

savings in this process. Adriana’s

staff reporting to her. She focused

leadership is evident, and, along with

on slag quality improvement analysis

her team, they keep contributing

and wire rod chemical composition

and thinking about different ways to

analysis, focused on meeting clients’

improve processes, living one of the

requirements to achieve satisfactory

company values: “We strive every

results, among other factors. In 2016,

day to become the best.” Adriana

the Steelworks facility manager

expresses her satisfaction and is

handed her the opportunity to become thankful for the opportunity to Steel Mill Chief of Production, being

work in a company such as

the first woman taking control of

Corporación AG, where, besides

this process, where she had the

using her creativity, she can also

opportunity to operate the furnace,

contribute with ideas, teamwork

a process considered the heart of

and relying on an always supportive

our production. One year later, she

leadership from the company.

applied to the Fire-Resistant Goods and Recipients Direction, which she

In Corporación AG there are women

obtained. In this role, Adriana and her

in leadership positions, I can’t mention

team are in charge of maintenance for

all of them, nevertheless, we are all

fire-resistant molds and containers,

part of this Women of Steel squad.

essential elements for steelworks

We are aware that there’s still a very

w w w.the b os tonb r.com

Corporación AG

“Openness, inclusion and opportunity are part of the AG Culture; though unwritten, such elements are experienced every day, becoming living stories that we can share” - Gabriela Roca, Head of Corporate Affairs and Sustainability at Corporación AG

July 2022

Special Edition | Construction

wide gap in Guatemala about inclusion and opportunities. This

perspectives, different life experience, working together for one common goal.

makes me engage even more with

I hope the future awaiting us is a more

the need to show that diversity is

open, inclusive world and having

a “very good business”, because

every woman reaching the ceiling

there’s diversity in the world, and it

they set themselves to reach. From

will become better as we can find in

Corporación AG we keep striving to

a table -in every table-, individuals

“Transform the present to build the

with different opinions, different

future we all dream about.”

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OVERCOMING CHALLENGES

AND BUILDING A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE

Over a century of prestige and growth make of Gerdau one of the main suppliers of long steel products in the Americas. This strength, strategic partnerships and sustainable management have consolidated Gerdau Corsa in Mexico

Written by Mateo Rafael Tablado Produced by Jassen Pintado Translation by María Murgui Interviewee Denis Gomes, Director of Supply Chain, Metal and Energy for Gerdau Corsa Creative Direction Omar Rodriguez

Gerdau Corsa

erdau’s

Gerdau purchased the totality of

history goes

Siderúrgica Tultitlán (SIDERTUL

back to 1901

steelmaker), which already had

at the hands

more than 50 years of experience

of German

in steel production.

immigrants settled in

49% of the stocks of the Aceros

Porto Alegre, in Southern Brazil. The

Corsa company and its distributors’

nails factory started by Joao and

network. After this strategic alliance,

Hugo Gerdau began its transformation

investments were planned to build the

in 1946, when Curt Johannpeter

largest construction profiles plant in

-Hugo’s son-in-law- took the reins

the country in Cuidad Sahagún,

of the company, thus spreading its

Hidalgo. These facilities started working

business and operations.

in 2015, after a US$600M investment.

The territorial growth began in the second half of the 20th century, and in 2007 the company arrived in Mexico. ALLIANCES, ACQUISITIONS AND INVESTMENTS FOR SUCCESS IN MEXICO The acquisitions and strategic

Their set-up capacity is of a million tons of liquid steel and 700,000 tons of laminated products. “We are supported by 120 years of experience in the steel industry, we are one of the main long steel products manufacturers in America and one

partnerships have been a key factor

of the leading special steel suppliers

for Gerdau’s consolidation in the

in the world”, added Denis Gomes,

Mexican market.

Director of Supply Chain, Metal and

Upon its arrival in the country,

A year later, Gerdau acquired

July 2022

Energy for Gerdau Corsa.

Special Edition | Construction

“We are supported by 120 years-experience, we are one of the main producers of long steel products in the world”

- Denis Gomes, Director of Supply Chain, Metal and Energy for Gerdau Corsa

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Experience the Progress

www.liebherr.com

LH 40 M LH 30 M

LH 26 M Electric

SVF Maquinaria, together with Liebherr as our main ally, we offer the best service, sales and rent of equipment for the material handling, construction and mining operations in Mexico

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L 566

Special Edition | Construction

PROVED LEADERSHIP ALL OVER THE CONTINENT Gomes graduated in Business Administration at the Federal University of Santa Maria (Brazil) and, afterwards, he earned an MBA with specialty in Finance at the Getulio Vargas Foundation, also in Brazil. He also took updating courses during his years spent in Peru. In 2020 he finished his studies in the High

After joining the Gerdau Bank, hecompleted the Trainees Program and later he became an integral part at Siderperu, being appointed Leader of Finance and Relationships with Investors, with the aim of achieving the Company’s financing reorganization; during that period he took part in the Global Comptrollers Training Program, and he got achievements such as the

Management Perfection Program, at the implementation of the financing area into the Shared Services Center (SSC) IPADE (PanAmerican Institute for High Business Management, in Mexico).

in 2012, thus centralizing the financing

Also, Gomes took part in the Núcleo

operations of six countries in Latin

Preparatorio de Oficiales de la Reserva

America.

(Reserve Officer Preparatory Core), in the Brazilian Armed Forces. Regarding his work, Denis Gomes

In 2015 he took over the SSC General Management, thus incorporating part of the United States operations, and

started his career in Coca-Cola,

in 2018 he was appointed Finance

working in the Finance, Accounting,

Manager at Gerdau Corsa, where his

Marketing and Strategic Planning

main challenge was to optimize the

departments. During his time in this

financing and capital organization

company he earned the certification

for the expansion and growth of the

as Chief Auditor of the Coca-Cola

Company in Mexico. In December,

Quality System and took part as Quality

2020, Denis took over as Director of

National Award Examining Board

Supply Chain, Metal, Logistics, Energy

Auditor in Brazil.

and S&OP (sales and planning).

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Gerdau Corsa

GERDAU CORSA in Mexico

Three steel production and lamination plants More than one million tons of liquid steel made a year

Seven scrap metal process and recollection units Leadership in construction profiles production

July 2022

Special Edition | Construction

RESOURCES TO FACE CHALLENGES As well as for many other industries

automatic and remote classification

worldwide, matters such as logistics

for the recollection and processing

and the supply chain have meant

of metal raw materials. Also, the

a series of challenges for Gerdau

implementation of the Gerdau Tracking

Corsa since the COVID-19 pandemic

System (GTS) for the Logistics

broke out.

area allows accurate monitoring

However, solutions to those problems through a digital mindset

of deliveries to each client. “The most prepared companies,

and the implementation of digital tools

and those which reacted in a quick

have allowed a quick and efficient

and efficient way were the ones to

performance. The use of Artificial

transform the supply chain’s basic

Intelligence has been useful for the

functions”, the executive declared.

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Advancing a sustainable energy future for all hitachienergy.com

Special Edition | Construction

“The most prepared companies, and those which reacted in a quick and efficient way were the ones to transform the supply chain’s basic functions” - Denis Gomes, Director of Supply Chain, Metal and Energy for Gerdau Corsa

EVOLUTION OF THE SUPPLY CHAIN Gerdau’s Supply Chain consists of the following areas: • Purchase and Processing of

as guaranteeing the raw materials from a deep knowledge of the impact of the market’s prices and tendencies. The main purpose of this integration

Metal Raw Materials

is to deliver the products to each client

• Logistics

timely and in due form, customizing

• Energy

the work each of them may require.

• Co-products

For that purpose, the Company is

• Supplies

supported by the development of

• Sales and Planning (S&OP)

Business Intelligence programs, which allow the identification of prices,

The latter is now in charge of

tendencies, raw materials demand and

managing and integrating the rest of

other factors. Also, a Supply Chain

the areas according to the market’s

Innovation Day has been created, an

needs identified by the Business area,

event which gathers the whole supply

of the optimization of each of the

chain and invites sector-related start-

resources with the aim of reaching

ups, besides giving recognition to best

maximum production capacity, as well

practices and implementations.

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Pioneers at Heart

NEXT LEVEL SERVICES NOW Primetals Technologies Mexico located in Apodaca N.L. nearby the USA border, a services and products company part of the pioneer Primetals Technologies group, founded in 1994 focused on furnaces and recently for the past years giving specialized solutions for casters and mills. Recently Primetals Technologies Mexico conditioned a third new workshop, some of the mention bellowed are part of the new equipment: • CNC Table Type Horizontal Boring Mill 6” • Gray CNC vertical mill 84”. • Boring Mills, Vertical 56”. • [2] Gantry machining centers. • [2] Lathe 6T260L • Lathe 5100LB • Welder 2T • Conventional Lathe • Milling machine • [3] Laser trackers and a measuring Arm. • Handyscan latest version. • Nickel plating station. www.primetals.com contact@primtals.com For further details please direct to: • Alfredo Salazar (USA Account Manager) alfredo.salazar_cortes.ext@primetals.com • Marco Rito (MX & SA Account Manager) marco.rito@primetals.com • Luis Gamboa (VP & Sales Director) luisd.gamboa@primetals.com

Special Edition | Construction

BOOSTING SUPPLIERS Gerdau Corsa has created alternatives to funding programs for its supply chain along with different banks. These mechanisms have the purpose of developing and strengthen suppliers who are considered Business Partners for the Company by easing their access to credit, besides contributing to economic recovery. EFFORTS FOR A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE... AND FOR THE PRESENT All of the production output from Gerdau Corsa is made from millions of tons of recycled materials, making Gerdau the largest recyclers in Latin America. Among other related efforts, the processes developed by Gerdau have allowed the company to reduce its carbon footprint, considering that per each ton of steel produced in the world, 1.89 CO2 tons are emitted (global average quantity within the steel industry) whereas the Company has reduced its average down to 0.93 CO2

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alfran.com

Protect your core

The first international company to offer products and services in refractories, insulation, passive fire proofing and heat treatments for the industry “TURNKEY”

The driving force of the refractory industry Refractory products withstand extreme temperatures, enabling the production of steel, cement glass and many more materials essential to daily life. Our 14,000 highly-skilled people are dedicated to delivering the best possible solutions for our customers, enhancing not only their operations but also their business performance. Find out more at rhimagnesita.com

Special Edition | Construction

“We will continue working to update our industry and become a model to reach other 120 years and contribute to a more sustainable world” - Denis Gomes, Director of Supply Chain, Metal and Energy for Gerdau Corsa

tones per each steel ton produced, besides assuming the commitment of reducing it to 0.83 CO2 tons until 2031. Another remarkable effort was the sustainability agreement entered into with BBVA (Banco Bilbao Vizacaya Argentaria) for the import of strap metal with an investment of US$60 million, positively affecting with this transaction the SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals), thus making sure to stock the company up with recycled raw materials and promoting the reuse of solid materials, and at the same time

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Gerdau Corsa

COMMITTED TO THE SERVICE Specialists in rental of scrap metal handling equipment

Special Edition | Construction

contributing to Circular Economy. “We are in continuous search for

diversification beyond the iron and steel industry. The Company is also

the improvement of environmental

working in contributing to a more

management which makes us become

equitable community through diversity

a leading company and a model within

and inclusion policies and working in

the industry”, Gomes explained.

social projects related to education,

GROWTH AND DIVERSIFICATION IN PERSPECTIVE For the future, Gerdau Corsa foresees a growth in the country

environment and health which will allow it to contribute in neighboring communities. “We will continue working to update

which will keep present challenges

our industry and become a model to

related to logistics and energy, which

reach other 120 years and contribute

are subject to each country’s

to a better world”, concluded Denis

regulation and policies.

Gomes, Director of Supply Chain,

There are plans for a markets

Metal and Energy for Gerdau Corsa.

FOUNDED:

1901, 2007 in Mexico INDUSTRY:

Acero (Construction) CONTACT: www.gerdaucorsa.com.mx denis.gomes@gerdau.com

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Saint-Gobain states its firm conviction

TO IMPROVE EVERY PERUVIAN’S QUALITY OF LIFE AND TO TAKE CARE OF THE ENVIRONMENT

Produced by Jassen Pintado Interviewee Nicolás Pesaque, CEO for Saint-Gobain PPC Peru Creative Direction Omar Rodríguez

102

July 2022

Special Edition | Construction

Saint-Gobain PPC is positioned in Peru, thrusted by its rapid growth to the leadership in the market for construction and finishings, besides taking a step forward toward sustainability in its operations and construction solutions, aligning this purpose through its value chain

aint-Gobain has presence across 70 countries contributing to the construction sector. The company’s more than 350-year history began as a glass and mirror

manufacturer for King Louis XIV, working in widely-known historical projects, such as the Palace of Versailles, in France. Besides its worldwide expansion, the company has also increased its specialized product portfolio for different tasks in construction and finishes. Saint-Gobain Productos para la Construcción (Saint-Gobain PPC, “products for construction”)

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103

Saint-Gobain PPC

arrived at Peru in 2013 through the

Nicolás Pesaque, CEO for

launching of Weber mortars, which

Saint-Gobain PPC Peru.

became a leading brand in 2019 after acquiring Pegamentos y Fraguas de Celima (Celima adhesives and forges).

Nicolás Pesaque Roose leads

In 2021, Saint-Gobain acquired

the operation at Saint-Gobain

Soluciones Constructivas Volcán, a

PPC Peru. He earned a degree in

company established in Peru since

Industrial Engineering at the Peruvian

2011, specialized in manufacturing

University of Applied Science, in Lima.

and marketing of the drywall system.

Afterwards, Pesaque earned an MBA

And in late 2021, the company finished

from the Macquarie Graduate School

its acquisition of Z Aditivos, thus

of Management, in Australia.

thrusting its way into the chemicals for construction industry.

Pesaque’s career began in ASA Alimentos, a food production company

Saint-Gobain PPC covers all of

commonly known for the “Negrita”

Peru directly and through strategic

brand. In ASA, Pesaque performed

partnerships as well.

in the operations area. Afterwards,

“We want to become a reference

he joined Alicorp, becoming part of

within the construction sector

the company’s marketing team on an

supported by the experience we

international level.

bring to the market through our

104

MULTISECTORIAL CAREER

Pesaque entered the construction

innovative products and solutions,

industry in 2016 as Business Manager

with a high service level and a

for Soluciones Constructivas Volcán,

sustainable operation,” commented

taking over as General Manager for the

July 2022

Special Edition | Construction

“WE WANT TO BECOME THE GLOBAL LEADER - Nicolás Pesaque, CEO

in light, sustainable construction”

for Saint-Gobain PPC Peru

company in 2018, and being named

strategically located in Arequipa,

CEO for Saint-Gobain PPC Peru

Lima and Trujillo.

during early 2021.

Saint-Gobain PPC Peru’s business units are:

RELEVANT STRENGTH IN DOMESTIC MANUFACTURING The company supplies the

• Weber and Weber-Celima mortars • Drywall products from the Volcán and Placo brands

construction and finishing works

• Chemical products for

industry from five production facilities,

construction from Weber and Z Aditivos

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105

Atlas Copco, proud to be Saint-Gobain PPC strategic partner in their compressed air projects Our air compressors, gas generators and air treatment products, provide our strategic partners, like Saint-Gobain PPC, innovative, eﬃcient and sustainable industrial solutions. Working with the largest service network in the region, we are ready to help you wherever and whenever you need us. Atlas Copco, Home of Industrial Ideas. Follow us:

www.atlascopco.com/es-pe/compressors

Special Edition | Construction

FACTORS FOR SUCCESS To the more than three-century experience and network support implied in Saint-Gobain’s global operation, other factors are added, contributing to a successful run for Saint-Gobain PPC Peru: • Excellence in customer service • The experience shared with customers and users • The base of knowledge open to serve the market • Permanent innovation in every product, solution and service platform • Sustainable operation regarding resources and the development of neighboring communities

This way, Saint-Gobain remains a leader in every market by developing sustainable products, resulting in a wide reduction of the carbon

CONTRIBUTING TO A BETTER HOME footprint, hence a better use of resources, relying on materials THROUGH GROW & IMPACT The Grow & Impact plan, from Saint- able to contribute to building better Gobain, is a global strategy designed

homes and buildings, answering

to bring growth to the company

to the company’s purpose of

through a wide array of solutions and

“Making the World a Better Home”.

its operation model, boosted by its performance on the marketplace.

Saint-Gobain PPC Peru is focused in this program, sharing its premises

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107

Saint-Gobain PPC

“IT’S OUR DUTY TO ENCOURAGE DECARBONIZING IN PRODUCTION PROCESSES. We will be summoning every player in the sector to achieve this”

- Nicolás Pesaque, CEO for Saint-Gobain PPC Peru

108

July 2022

Special Edition | Construction

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109

“A SYMBOL OF OUR WORK IS TO BE ONE STEP AHEAD OF THE MARKET NEEDS”.

OUR PRODUCTS ARSIL®

Sodium silicate powder

BIOCIBAC®

Biocides and fungicides

GLUTABAC® Preservatives

PSQ Argentina S.A. comprises different fields related to construction, painting and adhesives. It is worth highlighting the offer of waterproof and antifungal additives that help to preserve and extend lifecycles of buildings.

STEAR-CA® Stearates

OLEO PLUS® CHROMIUMSIX FREE

For further information, please contact us at: tecnica@psqargentina.com www.psqargentina.com

Sodium oleates

Special Edition | Construction

throughout its supply chain, its own

implementation of this goal,”

products and their life cycle.

the executive said.

“We want to become the global leader in light, sustainable

FULFILLING DEVELOPMENT

construction, improving everyday

OF THE HUMAN ELEMENT

life through high-performance solutions,” Pesaque added.

Company culture within SaintGobain PPC Peru is highlighted by its diversity and respect between the staff

SUPPLY CHAIN: ALIGNED GOALS One of Saint-Gobain PPC advantages is working in Peru

and inclusion. For key factors such as personnel development, three main subjects are considered:

with many of the company’s global suppliers, which means goals and

• Strengthening an own

principles are aligned toward the same

management culture, supported

purposes, including in factors beyond

on reliance, empowerment and

the marketplace, as it is with reducing

collaboration.

any environmental impact.

• Obtaining tech skills able to

“It’s our duty to encourage

increase agility in taking on

decarbonizing in production

innovation and its transference

processes. We will be summoning

onto the market.

every player in the sector to achieve

• Technical knowledge of every

this, working like an ecosystem is the

construction solution offered by

only way to become successful in the

the company.

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111

Saint-Gobain PPC

THE FUTURE:

businesses recently acquired, and

OPTIMIZING EVERY FRONT

afterwards thrust these into a sales

The future ahead of Saint-Gobain

112

volume resulting from a new value

PPC Peru is certainly shining,

proposition and a strong portfolio.

considering the company has every

The company also foresees upcoming

necessary element to deliver on set

acquisitions with the purpose to

goals. As its main focus, the company

increase the number of categories

is after an efficient integration of

covered by the current portfolio,

July 2022

Special Edition | Construction

thus becoming aligned to the plan of

company, Comunidad Saint-Gobain

increasing Saint-Gobain’s leadership

(Saint-Gobain community) is being

in Latin America.

created with the purpose of improving

To achieve all of these goals, new

the personnel’s housing conditions,

technology is to be deployed, enabled

and afterwards extending this

to increase production capacity in an

collaborative effort to communities

efficient and sustainable manner.

surrounding the Saint-Gobain PPC

In other matters, from within the

Peru operations.

Because we are the FIRST, we are the BEST

Innovation creates a better life. Tianpu Chemicals is specialized in the design, development, manufacturing and application of cellulose ether series including MC, HEC and EC, currently owning two production bases with annual capacity of 24000 tons and Shanghai technology center. www.tianpuchemical.com sales@tianpuchemical.com

Leading company in its field, dedicated to the construction of parts, packaging and wooden stretchers. elsolsac@hotmail.com pym_deloriente@hotmail.com

www.grupochacaltana.com.pe

Security and Quality in the Service VL Servicios, a Peruvian company, dedicated to the transportation of personnel and heavy cargo. Our Mission, to be a strategic ally of our clients, we guarantee the safety and quality of our service, always adapting to their needs.

• Heat-shrinkable sheets • Biodegradable sleeves • Bags • Packaging • Laminates for the industry in general • Flexographic printing up to 8 colours. • Pouch and Doy Pack bags

Headquarters: (0051) 1-326-0663 (0051) 1-326-0664 (0051) 1-326-0665 Av. Mariscal Caceres N° 446 Urb. Valdiviezo Ate Lima, Perú

Contáctanos:

+51 943.227.962

www.bolsipol.com.pe

Special Edition | Construction

“WE SHARE ENDEAVORS AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS ALONG EVERY COUNTRY IN THE TERRITORY, the most important of which is to make sure every Peruvian has access to proper housing” - Nicolás Pesaque, CEO for Saint-Gobain PPC Peru

FOUNDED: “We share endeavors and accomplishments along every country in the territory, the most important of which is to make sure every Peruvian has access to proper housing,” concluded Nicolás Pesaque Roose, CEO for Saint-Gobain PPC Peru.

1665, since 2013 in Peru NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES:

170,000+ (global) INDUSTRY:

Construction CONTACT: www.saint-gobain.com nicolas.pesaque@saint-gobain.com

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