Tile International 2/2012 by Kairos Media Group (div. ceramics)

ISSN2039-8301

Marazzi I Saloni 2012

interview to and

design:gruppobento photo:metalli

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STILART Anversa, Arles, Dublino, Granada, Oslo, Oxford, Praga, Siena. Collection of special oiled finishes and treatments available on Oak floor, solid floor, two layers and three layers wood floors. Stilart. 100% Made in Italy since 1965. STILE PAVIMENTI LEGNO S.P.A. via dei laghi 18 Bivio Lugnano 06018 CITTAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; DI CASTELLO (PG) ITALY tel. +39.075.86.47.61 e-mail: stile@stile.com

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April - July 2012 - N. 2

Publisher: Tile Edizioni S.r.l. Via Fossa Buracchione 84 • 41126 Baggiovara (Modena) • Italy Tel. +39 059 512 103 • Fax +39 059 512 157 info@tiledizioni.it • www.ceramicworldweb.it Codice Fiscale / P. IVA: IT02778050365 - Capitale Sociale: 51.400,00 € R.E.A. 329775 - Iscr. al Registro delle Imprese di Modena Periodico trimestrale registrato presso il Tribunale di Modena al n. 1828 in data 21/02/2007 - Iscrizione ROC n. 9673 Editor and Publishing coordination: Chiara Bruzzichelli

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• Contributing editors: - Luca Baraldi - Silvia Bertolani - Sara Falsetti - Paola Giacomini • Secretariat: info@tiledizioni.it

• Tile Edizioni ms. Paola Giacomini ms. Elisa Verzelloni Tel. +39 059 822 337 Fax +39 059 826 803 p.giacomini@tiledizioni.it e.verzelloni@tiledizioni.it

• Translation: - Geoff Day - John Freeman

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• Each copy: Euro 4 • Subscription: - Italy, 1 year: Euro 50 - Abroad, 1 year: Euro 70 - Italy, 2 years: Euro 70 - Abroad, 2 years: Euro 90 Spedizione in a.p. presso la Filiale di Modena. L’IVA sugli abbonamenti, nonché sulla vendita dei fascicoli separati, è assolta dall’Editore ai sensi dell’art 74 primo comma lettera C del DPR 26.10.72 N. 633 e successive modificazioni. © 1989 Tile Italia

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Contents

Advertiser's list

Azulev 39 Fmg 57 Future Ceramics

GranitiFiandre 17 Iiea 51 Kajaria 19 Novabell 23 Progress Profiles Raimondi

21 6

Saudi Ceramics Schlueter Systems

11 Inside Front Cover

Stile 1 Tagina

Back Cover

Tecnargilla 63 Topcer 5 Tuyap Unicera

Turkish 31 Vitra

med

LTi

A complex underlying trend

by Chiara Bruzzichelli

PHOTOnews 8 - Casa Enzo Ferrari Museum inaugurated in Modena 10 - Good Design Awards 2011: Onto and Darling New picked as winners 12 - Rako Object: new name, new products, new possibilities 14 - Tilefax In the Spotlight 28 - Marazzi, a global presence remains key to success 32 - SCG, leader in world tile production

by Paola Giacomini by Luca Baraldi

Economy&Markets 34 - Turkey consolidates its growth 38 - Construction in Europe: trends and prospects up to 2014 40 - The 2011 revenues of Italyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ceramic manufacturers

by Paola Giacomini by Chiara Bruzzichelli

46 - I Saloni 2012

Overcoming the crisis with creativity

52 - Parquet

Parquet remains stable in Europe

Inside Back Cover

7 - Editorial

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54 - Project

â&#x20AC;&#x153;All-roundâ&#x20AC;? wellness in Iserlohn (Germany)

by Sara Falsetti

58 - Mosaic

Joining the pieces, from first to last

62 -

Exhibition Calendar

by Silvia Bertolani

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Cover picture by: decoratori bassanesi - www.decoratoribassanesi.it Advertiserâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s list: page 4 Subscription order form: www.tiledizioni.it/subscription Translations: Geoff Day / John Freeman

Marazzi I Saloni 2012

interview to and

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MAXI-CUT 200 cm

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The fully removable capacious external water tank (provided with heavy-duty pump) ensures superior cooling, fast water refill and easy cleaning

The increased Ø 200 mm (8”) flanges that give the diamond disc (special for porcelain) the maximum rigidity and the advanced water-cooling-system with jet very close to the cutting point ensure the maximum cutting precision Motor assembly provided with manual-feed-kit with wheel for convenient cutting execution

Supplied with laser to perfectly check the line of cut

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MAXI-CUT is the new bridge wet saw designed for performing perfect cuts on big-sized porcelain tiles. The maximum cutting length of 200 cm (78 ¾”) combined with the powerful motor (2,2 kW – 3 HP), the side square, the increased Ø 200 mm (8”) flanges, the advanced water cooling system, the motor assebly wheel-feed-kit, the option to apply up to 4 side extensions with rollers, the capacious external water tank provided with heavy-duty pump and many other features make this machine the ideal equipment for cutting big-sized slabs and tiles with the maximum precision.

Editorial

by Chiara Bruzzichelli

A complex underlying trend +0.4% in 2013 (see article on page 38). Against this complex backdrop, serious problems are being experienced not just in the euro area but also in the United States, which is struggling under the weight of a huge debt, lower than expected GDP growth and a continued rise in unemployment in spite of attempts to boost consumption through strong (but soon to end) tax incentives. Even China is not immune to difficulties and has been forced to take action to prevent the bursting of a real-estate bubble caused by a large number of unsold properties. According to estimates, the country has 64 million unsold housing units, enough to meet its needs for the next 20 years.

The only expanding areas are South America and India and, in the Mediterranean region, Turkey (see report from Unicera 2012 on page 34). Within this complex international scenario, the outlook is particularly difficult for the construction sector, but according to figures published by the Confindustria Ceramica Studies Centre, the Italian ceramic tile industry saw growth in both output (+3.2%) and turnover (+1.86%) in 2011. These results were achieved due to the strong performance of exports (+4.6%) and in spite of the downturn in the domestic market (-5.8%) that had already begun in the second half of last year. 2011 also saw good results deriving from internationalisation of pro-

duction: the 20 companies controlled by Italian groups and operating outside Italy (in North America and Europe) reported a 5.2% increase in output and 5.6% turnover growth. On page 40 and following we are publishing the turnover statistics of the largest Italian ceramic companies. During its annual meeting held in Istanbul on 8 June this year, FEP-Fédération Européenne du Parquet announced that in 2011 output (+0.58%) and consumption of European parquet floor remained stable at 2010 values following the sharp fall of the previous two years. The top producer countries are Poland (17.61%), Germany (14.63%) and Sweden (13.26%). For further details see page 52. 5

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In its June bulletin, the ECB announced its decision to leave interest rates unchanged, while inflation appears set to remain above 2% for the rest of the year. The underlying pace of monetary expansion in the euro area therefore remains low. The new ECB estimates point to annual real-term GDP growth of between -0.5% and 0.3% in 2012 and between 0.0% and 2.0% in 2013. The range of projected values for 2012 has remained unchanged since the March projections, whereas the range for 2013 has narrowed slightly. The 73rd EUROCONSTRUCT Conference held in London on 15 June also saw construction forecasts for this year and next downgraded from -0.3% to -2.1% in 2012 and from +1.8% to

Tile International 2/2012

PHOTOnews

Tile International 2/2012

PHOTOnews

Casa Enzo Ferrari museum inaugurated in Modena Saturday 10 March saw the inauguration of the Casa Enzo Ferrari museum in Modena, Italy. The project involved the restoration of the house in which the “Drake” was born, and the construction of a futuristic structure initially designed by Jan Kaplicky and subsequently taken over by Andrea Morgante, both formerly of London-based architects Future Systems. Mapei SpA, the project’s sponsor, supplied technologically advanced products and solutions for both parts of the work, together with constant on-site technical support. The new museum is a project of considerable socio-cultural depth, as well as a powerful territorial marketing tool that adds value to the MaranelloModena system. 1- Restoration of the original home: - Production of the screed using TOPCEM PRONTO embedding the heating coils and reinforced with galvanised 5x5 mesh of 2 mm wire to half the depth of the screed. - Application of the final resin covering by brushing on two coats of PRIMER SN, with

PHOTOnews

2- New build: - The industrial-style flooring was made with MAPECRETE SYSTEM, thus enabling the builders to drastically reduce the size of the expansion joints, which were made with MAPEFLEX PU 45 WHITE on top of a coat of PRIMER AS. This substrate was then covered using the same resin-coating procedure deployed in the restoration of the original house. - The wall coverings of the bathroom area were created as follows: first the contractors brushed on a coat of TRIBLOCK P and then they applied two coats of MAPEFLOOR FINISH 500W mixed with MAPECOLOR PASTE RAL 9003, using a smooth spreader. After sanding the top coat, they then painted it with MAPEFLOOR FINISH 56 in RAL 9003 white.

med

PHOTO copyright Fondazione Casa Enzo Ferrari – Museum as per Law 633/41 and subsequent amendments

MAPENET 150 fibre glass netting in between them and sprinkling the fresh top coat with 0.5 quartz sand. - Brushing on two coats of MAPEFLOOR I 500 W mixed with MAPECOLOR PASTE RAL 9003. - Roller-application of two coats (to increase wear resistance and produce a satin effect) of MAPEFLOOR FINISH 56, also in RAL 9003 white.

LTi

PHOTOnews

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Makeover for Progress Profiles' web site

ena, Italy), and one of the top 15 in Italy by turn-

and has the mixer tap fitted on the basin itself,

over, whose brands include Serenissima, Cir,

thus accentuating its exclusive and innovative

Cerasarda, Capri, Cercom and MomoDesign

character.

Progress Profiles, a leading Italian manufacturer

Ceramics. As well as the constant and continu-

“Le Giare” is available in gloss white, gloss black,

of technical and decorative profiles with over 27

ing successes achieved by the trendsetting col-

stone and anthracite.

years’ experience, has just launched a new web

lections unveiled at key trade exhibitions in Italy

site. Now available in six languages and con-

and elsewhere, Serenissima-Cir recently ac-

stantly updated with the latest company news,

quired Isla Tiles, a well-known Italian brand of ce-

press coverage, new products and appearanc-

ramic. The Managing Director of the new brand

es at Italian and international trade fairs and

is Mauro Cappelli, an expert manager in the in-

events, www.progressprofiles.com provides ac-

dustry. The aim of the transaction, which was

cess to all the information you could need

concluded through the subsidiary NGT Spa, is

about the company and its products.

to revitalise the national and international

This attractive, painstakingly developed, on-line

standing of this creative, vivacious brand, which

showcase enables you to find out about techni-

has always been dedicated to the production

cal characteristics and finishes, and view instal-

of porcelain floor tiles and single-fired, porous,

lation videos and dedicated photo galleries.

white-body wall tiles, all strictly Made in Italy. Financial year 2011 was a record year for GRO-

You can also download the complete cata-

HE Group (GROHE and Joyou), which reported

logue in PDF format. The site also features a sec-

double-figure growth in both consolidated turn-

tion dedicated to references, showing a selec-

over and profit. Consolidated revenues rose 19%

tion of key projects complete with descriptions

on an annual basis, to 1,165 million euros. Even

and pictures, and an FAQs section offering answers to the most frequently asked questions about product usage. You can also access www.progressprofiles.com

from

your

Cielo wins “Red Dot Award: Product Design” 2012

smart-

phone or tablet, and the site is linked with the

Cielo’s “Le Giare” line, consisting of a freestand-

main social networks.

ing washbasin and wall-hung sanitary ware designed by Claudio Silvestrin, an architect and designer, has won the “Red Dot Award: Product Design”, one of the most prestigious international design prizes, at the Red Dot Design Award 2012 held in Essen, Germany. The awards ceremony will be held on 2 July 2012 at the Aalto Theater, in the presence of key figures from the worlds of design, industry and the media.

New acquisition for Serenissima-Cir Group

Thick, rounded, asymmetrical edges are the hallmark of this latest project, which is also generously sized for maximum comfort. The “Le Giare” line was conceived as an unprec-

The adverse world economic climate has not

edented design object, but without neglecting

stunted the growth of Serenissima-Cir Industrie

practical considerations: the freestanding wash-

Ceramiche, a major ceramic manufacturer

basin, for example, is unique in shape and size,

based in Casalgrande (in the province of Mod-

includes a handy surface for keeping things on

Tile International 2/2012

Twenty-eleven is record year for GROHE

without the contribution of Joyou, GROHE achieved record sales in 2011 of 1,020 million euros, compared with 980 million euros in 2010. The Group’s standardised earnings before interest and tax (in other words, excluding extraordinary expenditure, depreciation and amortisation) increased by approximately 16% to 232 million euros, while its profit margin gross of tax and interest amounted to 20%. Excluding Joyou, GROHE’s standardised earnings before interest and tax reached 206 million euros (as against 200 million in 2010).The Asian market generated the biggest increase, where consolidated revenues rose by 152%. This figure is a clear indicator that the joint venture with Joyou, a market leader in the People's Republic of China, is a major step towards further expansion in the emerging markets of Asia.

7point5.it

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Tilefax

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New web site for Ceramiche Ricchetti

new production line installed at the Chlumcany facility (Pilsen, Czech Republic) was opened in

terial on platforms with capacity of up to 400 sq.m handled by shuttles.

February. Intended for the production of 60x60 Ceramiche Ricchetti, a member of the Holding

cm floor tiles to be sold under the Rako brand

Ricchetti Group and a leading manufacturer of

name, the plant is equipped with the latest

ceramic floor and wall tiles for indoor and out-

technologies that ensure the highest finished

door applications, has launched its new web

product quality standards. Managing Director

site www.ricchetti.it

Roman Blazicek commented: “The 3 million euro

Intesa, a company belonging to Sacmi Group

The new on-line platform consists of three mac-

investment will bring an increase in productivity

that specialises in the production of digital dec-

ro-areas, each with product data sheets that

as a result of greater machinery efficiency, as in

oration systems, is continuing its growth and

you can download in PDF format: the first is

the case of the new Sacmi kiln installed just two

consolidation, closing 2011 with a turnover of

called “Ricchetti Collezioni Ceramiche”, which

months ago. Compared to the 9.9 million sq.m

around 20 million euros. To improve its customer

focuses on the company’s history, tradition and

produced in 2011, already a record output for

service, the company is moving to its new site in

manufacturing excellence; the second is enti-

our factory, we expect to exceed 10.5 million

Spezzano, an approximately 4,000 sq.m cov-

tled “Roberto Cavalli Home Luxury Tiles” and is

sq.m this year.”

ered area which houses not only the sales, tech-

dedicated to Ricchetti’s exclusive collection of

The Chlumcany site has been producing tiles

nical and administration facilities but also a

ceramic floor and wall tiles designed by the styl-

uninterruptedly for almost 140 years, and with

large showroom, an R&D laboratory, a training

ist Roberto Cavalli; and the third section – “Man-

the latest investments has become one of the

area and the Intesa Imaging graphic design di-

ifattura del Duca” – is specifically designed to

most modern plants owned by the Lasselsberg-

vision, which provides support to ceramic com-

showcase the company’s flagship collections.

er Ceramics group.

panies in developing their graphic design pro-

“The new web site forms part of a wider renewal

A second machine for calibre control of 45x45

jects.

project already launched by the Group, and

cm, 60x60 cm and 30x60 cm sizes was installed

First set up in 2009, in just over two years Intesa

subscribed to by Ceramiche Ricchetti, which fo-

last year, and in February this year an agree-

has become a world reference point for the de-

cuses, as always, on the highest levels of both

ment was signed with Nuova Era (System

velopment of digital decoration technologies.

quality and image,” explained Andrea Zannoni,

Group) for the supply of a special unfired prod-

Thanks to collaboration with Sacmi, the compa-

Managing Director of Ceramiche Ricchetti

uct buffer to be installed between the glazing

ny has achieved excellent results, supplying reli-

Group.

machines and the twin-channel kiln, as well as

able, high-quality machinery and systems such

a Robofloor aspirated loading and unloading

as the Colora HD printer and Crono colour man-

plant.

agement software. The Colora HD printer, availa-

This plant will allow for rapid storage of fired ma-

ble in five different models, delivers the reliability

Intesa expands and makes investments

and flexibility required by ceramic producers and is also suitable for the production of large formats. The HD 1406 and HD 1706 versions allow for a printing width of 1390 mm and 1675 mm respectively. Crono is particularly popular amongst ceramic producers, glaze and colour producers and graphic design firms due to the advantages it offers at all stages, from the digital file through to printing.

Lasselsberger Ceramics makes investments in Chlumcany The Austrian group Lasselsberger Ceramics’

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Role for Hansgrohe in “Merville” at Jesolo Lido

Progress Profiles steps up international presence

Cerdisa won this substantial

“Merville Casa nel Parco” is a complex created

Progress Profiles, a leading Italian manufacturer

ty of its products, which

in a wooded area of 50,000 square metres be-

of technical and decorative profiles, is continu-

meet the requirements of

side the sea in Jesolo Lido (in the province of

ing to expand. While Italy still accounts for 75%

the most discerning custom-

Venice, Italy), which combines a 25-storey glass

of its turnover, the company, headquartered in

ers, and the company’s abil-

tower with a public park, as part of an environ-

Asolo in the province of Treviso, exports its prod-

ity to rise to the demands of

mental upgrading project. The complex was de-

ucts to over 50 countries worldwide, and is

major projects like the one

signed by two Portuguese architects, Gonçalo

sharpening its focus on the most promising in-

launched with Marks & Spencer. As well as the

Byrne and João Ferreira Nunes.

ternational markets, such as the Americas and

quality and design of Cerdisa products, howev-

The leitmotif of Byrne’s architecture is quality of

Central and Eastern Europe.

er, Marks & Spencer took account of their man-

life, in the sense of harmony between man and

The presence of Progress Profiles at some of the

ufacturer’s attention to environmental consider-

nature. This philosophy even extends to the

world’s key trade fairs, such as Mosbuild (Mos-

ations throughout the entire production process.

choice of Hansgrohe Metris S taps, with

cow, 2-5 April) and Coverings (Orlando, 17-20

The operation involved the opening of new

EcoSmart technology, which reduce water con-

April) testifies to the importance the company

stores and the remodelling of existing ones, for a

sumption to just 5 litres per minute without com-

attributes to the process of internationalisation.

total area of 300,000 square metres.

promising usability. The “Merville” complex pays

Progress Profiles offers the world market over

The project got under way at Marks & Spencer’s

special attention to the core values of sustaina-

8500 trims and other articles in stainless steel, al-

Newcastle store.

ble building, and makes maximum use of high-

uminium, brass, PVC and wood for the installa-

efficiency, biocompatible materials, natural cli-

tion of ceramic and other coverings in all types

mate control systems, and renewable energies.

of construction applications. This immense

The power system designed for the Merville

product range has been developed in the

Livewood is Azulev’s latest collection, which

complex uses three sources of alternative ener-

course of 27 years in the business, thanks to on-

draws inspiration from the most prestigious

gy: geothermal, photovoltaic and heat recovery,

going investments in Research & Development,

effects of wood and is designed to fulfil the

which supply electricity for the communal areas

advanced technological processes and the

requirements of the most discerning designers.

of the complex, and also operate in conjunc-

use of latest-generation materials and finishes.

Made of through-body porcelain, the series is

contract because of the renowned quality and reliabili-

Azulev’s wood

tion with radiant ceiling panels for heating or

characterised by a sober texture and a com-

cooling, generating big savings in communal

pletely natural graphic appearance.

expenses.

The series is available in two formats (15x60 and 22.5x90 cm) and five colours (bisque, black, grey, honey and white), which give ample scope for customising any type of environment.

Cerdisa wins contract with Marks & Spencer Cerdisa Ceramiche, a member of the Ricchetti Group, recently signed an agreement with Marks & Spencer, the renowned British retail chain specialising in quality products for everyday life. Marks & Spencer chose the Modenabased company’s ceramics for the floor coverings of 290 stores worldwide.

Tile International 2/2012

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www.progressprofiles.com

Our glance always at the future.

studioverde

Skirting board

Flat or Channel?

Proskirting Flat

Only Progress Profiles offers you the possibility of such a choice. Proskirting Flat and Proskirting Channel are two of the latest skirting boards designed with an integrated system for plasterboards and devised to create a skirting flush to the wall with decorative inner grooves, with or without cable channel. They are available in stainless steel, anodized aluminium, polished, brushed or varnished in several colours, in order to create the desired effect of contemporary touch.

Progress Profiles SpA Certified UN EN ISO 9001:2008

Proskirting Channel

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Trend reaches Mecca

A Drop of Lenny Kravitz for Lea Ceramiche

reached Greek Macedonia on 4 June.

cialising in the production of premium materials

A partnership between Kravitz Design and Lea

tino, which is linked with Italy’s oldest motor mu-

such as mosaics in gold and glass, and glazes

Ceramiche has given rise to “Goccia”, meaning

seum, the tour saw 30 crews cover a distance of

and agglomerates in glass, quartz and granite,

“drop” in Italian, a new collection of wall tiles

almost 1000 miles in five stages, through loca-

has announced the completion of its works for

that offers a personal and contemporary inter-

tions of considerable historical and natural in-

the mosaic decoration of the Clock Tower in

pretation of three-dimensional decoration.

terest.The event also provided an ideal opportu-

Mecca.

The collection consists of a module produced in

nity for meeting Litokol’s major customers and

The 600-metre monument towers over the urban

various three-dimensional shapes, based on an

distributors in the Greek region of Macedonia,

landscape of the Saudi holy city, and was deco-

interplay between solid and hollow forms, strictly

who also played an active part in the organisa-

rated with some 40,000 square metres of glass

in black and white. Raised geometrical patterns

tion of the tour. This year’s rally follows in the foot-

mosaic, 14,000 square metres of which are coat-

are enhanced by the judicious use of glazes

steps of a first edition held in 2010 in the Pelo-

ed with 24-carat gold leaf (Aureo Modern).

and graniglia powder in the final phase of pro-

ponnese, and

Trend Group, which was founded by Pino Bisaz-

cessing.

communication strategy under which Litokol

za in 2000, met the deadline for completion es-

“I designed a product that creates a texture

has been particularly active in sports sponsor-

tablished in the 10-million euro contract, which

which brings dynamism to the surface of a

ship, resulting in the brand’s appearance on the

the company won in 2008, partly on the strength

space,” explained Lenny Kravitz, President of

shirts of the A. C. Reggiana football team for its

of its direct control over the entire mosaic pro-

Kravitz Design Inc.

matches against Como, Foggia and Avellino.

duction chain. To achieve this result, however,

Goccia adds to the already rich catalogue of

“The organisation of the event was very de-

Trend had to set up a new, dedicated, robotised

wall tiles produced by Lea Ceramiche over the

manding, especially in view of the high expec-

production line at its Vivaro plant in the province

years, by introducing an unconventional ap-

tations,” explained Alessandro Turini, Sales Direc-

of Padua. Trend also supplied the material for til-

proach to the use of ceramic and bringing the

tor of Litokol Spa, “and it would not have been

ing 170 giant “umbrellas”, each with an area of

material into environments outside the tradition-

possible without the invaluable help of my col-

70 square metres (pictured), intended to pro-

al domain of kitchens and bathrooms.

league Claudio Ruozzi and the support of the

Trend Group, a Vicenza-based company spe-

Organised by Alessandro Turini, Sales Director of Litokol and Chairman of the Scuderia San Mar-

forms

part

broader

vide shade for the two million or so Muslims who

Company. From Litokol’s point of view, the two

travel to Mecca each year for the Umrah and

rallies we have organised represent a new form

Hajj pilgrimages. In the months to come, an ar-

of communication, which is also capable of in-

ray of other structures of this type will be erected

volving our export customers in an unusual and

on the streets of Mecca.

enjoyable way.”

A&M Production, of Reggio

Emilia, Italy, and the British company Genesis APS International LTD also contributed to the staging of the Macedonian Rally, while the insurance company Europe Assistance supported the classic vehicles throughout the tour.

LITOKOL SPONSORS MACEDONIAN RALLY As part of its 2012 communication programme, Litokol has become main sponsor of the Macedonian Rally, a non-competitive rally for historic cars and motorcycles, which set off from Rubiera (in the province of Reggio Emilia, Italy) and

Tile International 2/2012

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ECO DREAM

ispirazione naturale

www.novabell.it

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Sicis in Hong Kong

Panariagroup lands in India

MAPEI, CYCLING AND ART

In the futuristic district of Wan Chai, the pulsat-

Panariagroup and Asian Granito India Ltd., one

Mapei is again backing the world of art and

ing heart of Hong Kong, Sicis recently inaugurat-

of India’s largest ceramic companies, recently

culture by sponsoring the exhibition “Cycling,

ed its new showroom in the Queen’s Cube Build-

formed a Joint Venture Company (JVC), with

Cubo-Futurism and the fourth dimension: Jean

ing, which has 500 square metres of display

each party holding a 50% stake, in Ahmedabad,

Metzinger’s ‘At the Cycle-Race Track’” at the Peg-

space spread over two floors, dedicated entire-

in the Indian state of Gujarat.

gy Guggenheim Collection in Venice from 9

ly to artistic mosaic and the most exclusive de-

The JVC’s products will be sold on the Indian

June to 16 September.

signer products.

market under a new brand called “Bellissimo –

The exhibition focuses on the Jean Metzinger

The showroom itself was designed by Khuan

STILE ITALIANO”, owned by Panariagroup, and

painting depicting the winner of the 1912 Paris-

Chew (K.C.A.), the acclaimed interior designer

will be aimed at the top-end and luxury seg-

Roubaix cycle race, and on the race itself, which

of the Burj Al Arab in Dubai, who decorated the

ments.

Mapei is especially attached to, because its

window displays of the showroom with typically

The new company’s product offering consists of

own team won a podium place in the event five

Middle Eastern forms and colours: gold, red,

a selected range of Panariagroup’s top-selling

times, including three times in first place. Ma-

white and iridescent effects adorn the curviline-

products made in Italy, and a number of collec-

pei’s passion for the world of sport, and for cy-

ar floral motif inspired by Ikebana, and the enor-

tions produced in Asian Granito’s Indian plants

cling in particular, is well known, partly because

mous three-dimensional vases inspired by the

under a contract envisaging sole rights and

of the Mapei cycling team that the Company

dynasties of the Rising Sun.

technical support from Panariagroup.

sponsored from 1993 to 2002, which was always

One corner is devoted entirely to the most exclu-

Thanks to the production capacity of Asian

at the top of the international standings. “Sport,

sive design, with a predominantly purple colour

Granito, which exceeds 24 million square metres

racing and passion: these are the common fac-

scheme framing the armchairs designed by

per year, the new company will be able to meet

tors between the theme of the exhibition and

Christian Lacroix to define the world of Next Art

all demand from the segment of the Indian

our company philosophy,” commented Giorgio

Chapter 2. But just a few paces away, visitors will

market for which luxury and design represent

Squinzi, Sole Director of Mapei.

find the other interior design section, NEXT ART

key selling points.

Mapei has enjoyed a long-standing relation-

Chapter 1, which plays host to sculptural chairs

The JVC’s sales force will harness Asian Granito’s

ship with the Peggy Guggenheim Collection in

by Carla Tolomeo, with artistic mosaic inlays ap-

knowledge of the territory, whereas all Research

Venice and the Guggenheim Museum in New

plied by hand like shards of vibrant colour. The

& Development activities aimed at developing

York, which Mapei helped restore, along with

floor, meanwhile, is embellished with precious

new products, and the marketing concept for

many other Italian and international buildings

Cosmati marble, which combines with irides-

promoting the “Bellissimo” brand will be han-

of artistic importance.

cent glass to generate gloss-matt geometries,

dled directly by Panariagroup.

while the ceiling is hung with Atmosphera illumi-

With output of over 600 million square metres

nated spheres made of flowers and butterflies.

per year and annual growth rates in excess of 10%, India is the world’s third largest ceramic market after China and Brazil, in terms of consumption. Despite the fact that the Far East, Middle East and Oceania still account for only a limited proportion of its total turnover, PanariaGroup’s revenues from these areas rose by 25% compared with the previous year.

Tile International 2/2012

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Also read on www.CeramicWorldWeb.it

Del Conca Fast: quick dry installation

The increase is largely due to the success of the

trade fair held in Orlando, Florida from 17 to 20

diversification plan and the over 65 million euros

April. The Cerdomus stand, produced by ML SRL

invested by the Group in Research & Develop-

Systems in collaboration with Marocchi (both

Del Conca has just patented an innovative sys-

ment, industrial buildings and machine tools.

the companies from Casalfiumanese in the

tem for the dry installation of ceramic floor cov-

Turnover generated from sales of ceramic plants

province of Bologna), stood out for its unique at-

erings, which requires neither adhesive nor

and machinery rose by over 50%, partly on the

mosphere, the innovative nature of its furnish-

grout, and can be applied autonomously, even

strength of exports to Brazil, Russia, India and

ings and its overall presentation. The stand’s

on existing flooring in the case of renovation

China, but also as a result of sales in Italy, which

high visual impact was achieved in part by the

projects.

is the Imola-based Group’s third-largest market.

choice of total black, in contrast with the soft,

This system is nothing less than revolutionary be-

Sacmi also reported growth in its packaging

comfortable white armchairs that furnished the

cause it enables a new ceramic floor to be laid

machinery division (+10%) and its plastic injec-

hospitality area designed for informal work

in just a few hours, offering a stable, continuous

tion machinery division, which has seen a return

meetings in a refined, welcoming environment,

surface without joints, which can be walked

to growth after a succession of difficult years.

and accentuated the interplay of light and

over immediately. What’s more, you can take up

The Group’s chocolate division also met its tar-

shade. The reflective surface of the floor tiling

all or part of the surface at a later date if you

gets, with the formation of Carle & Montanari

and the small rooms designed to accommo-

wish, and re-use the tiles elsewhere, without

Holding (in which Sacmi and Ima hold equal

date private business meetings, juxtaposed with

compromising the underlying floor covering.

shares), which generated turnover of 90 million

an extensive gallery of display units showcasing

The stability of the Del Conca Fast dry installa-

euros.

the company’s many successful collections

tion system is ensured by special inserts – cov-

These positive results have also impacted on

and new projects, created a climate that par-

ered by the Del Conca Fast patent – which re-

the Group’s employment figures. Between Octo-

ticularly struck the jury, which singles out the ex-

main fixed once inserted in the slots in the tiles.

ber 2010 and December 2011, 90 new employ-

hibition’s best stands every year.

To date, the Del Conca Fast system has been

ees joined Sacmi Imola alone, out of a total of

Marocchi, which has been operating in Casalfi-

applied only to the Monte Napoleone series,

180 for the Group as a whole.

umanese since 1821 and is TÜV certified, spe-

but it will shortly be extended to other Del Con-

Pietro Cassani, Managing Director of Sacmi

cialises in the customised design and produc-

ca collections too.

Group and the outgoing Chairman of Acimac,

tion of showrooms and display systems for

the Italian association of ceramic machinery

high-quality ceramics.

manufacturers, was particularly gratified by the Group’s results: “With a clear strategy, global presence and close focus on both product and customer, growth is possible even in adverse conditions.”

SACMI GROUP: +40% IN 2011

CERDOMUS TAKES OVERALL BEST IN SHOW AT COVERINGS 2012

LEA CERAMICHE WINS MULTIPLE AWARDS AT COVERINGS 2012 The 19th edition of the Ceramics of Italy Design Competition, a competition that offers awards

Sacmi Group has reported excellent results for 2011, closing the year with a 40% increase in

“Let's get down to business”: this was the mes-

for the best projects created by North-American

turnover, to 1, 400 million euros from 1, 030 mil-

sage with which Cerdomus received the Overall

architects using Italian ceramic tiles, held within

lion in 2010, and consolidated profit of 32.4 mil-

Best in Show award at Coverings 2012, North

the framework of Coverings 2012 in Orlando,

lion euros compared with 12 million in 2012.

America’s leading floor and wall coverings

Florida, saw Lea Ceramiche take home three

Tile International 2/2012

Tilefax

major accolades:

the entire area,

ing ceramic collections of their choice. This year,

- in the commercial category, with the building

thus

showcas-

the architect Foreman Rogers of tvsdesign, a

Union Square 999 (Washington, DC), designed

ing them at an

firm of architects based in Atlanta, created a ho-

by the Leo A. Daly firm of architects (Washing-

international

tel room using the Marble Hill collection.

ton, DC);

event

Monocibec’s Echo collection was also warmly

- in the institutional category, with the project

one of the most

received, and the Century brand aroused the

Musical Instrument Museum (Phoenix, AZ) pro-

flourishing and

interest of architects and designers with the

duced in partnership with RSP Architects and

promising mar-

neutral colours, modular formats and hewn-

RichVarda (Minneapolis, Minnesota);

kets of the mo-

stone appearance of its new Stonehouse col-

- and lastly a mention of honour for the project

ment. The rea-

lection.

Cooper Residence (New York, NY), developed in

son

conjunction with the architect Anna Marie

major endorse-

Fanelli (Tenafly, NJ).

ment

for

the

Of the winning projects, Union Square 999 (pic-

company

was

tured) represents the most complete expression

the high techni-

of technological research and refined aesthetic

cal qualities of its products, which combine de-

solutions. The imposing architectural complex in

sign and eco-sustainability: Cisa ceramics are

Washington DC includes two class-A buildings

made according to production processes that

interconnected by an external plaza and dedi-

reduce the quantities of resources used and

cated primarily to office space, for a total area

minimise the impact of harmful substances on

of approximately 35,000 square metres, current-

the environment.

held

for

this

ly accommodates the government agencies of the district of Columbia. Three Lea Ceramiche products were used for the interior tiling:

SUCCESS FOR FINCIBEC AT COVERINGS

Nobili Rubinetterie sponsors 53rd FEST Congress Nobili Rubinetterie has endorsed its close links with the world of plumbing and heating distri-

Slimtech Basaltina Stone Project, Tecnoquartz

Fincibec Group’s trip to the United States for

bution, by taking active part in one of the sec-

and Stonehenge.

Coverings 2012 in Orlando closed on a positive

tor’s key trade events. The Novara-based com-

note. The North American market is showing

pany will in fact be one of the main sponsors of

signs of slight growth.

the 53rd FEST Congress (FEST is the European

Vittorio Borelli, Managing Director of the Sassuo-

trade body representing plumbing and heating

lo-based company, which specialises in the

product distributors) to be held in Rome from 4

manufacture and sale of ceramic floor and

to 6 October 2012. In its capacity as official

walls tiles, spoke of a feeling of moderate satis-

sponsor, Nobili Rubinetterie will support the work

faction: “The fair went well and the signs for the

of the congress, the subject of which is: “The

future are encouraging. This slow upturn in sales

evolution of the crisis in Europe and the heating

on the American market gives grounds for cau-

and plumbing distribution sector. Prospects,

tious optimism.”

new distribution models and tools to enhance

Tiles from the Xilema series by Cisa Ceramiche

Fincibec chose Orlando for the world-premier of

competitiveness.” The importance of the event is

were the coverings chosen for the Ceramics of

several collections from its Monocibec, Century

considerable, not least because of the interna-

Italy stand set up at Mosbuild, the international

and Naxos brands.

tional scope of the work of Nobili Rubinetterie.

interior design and furnishing trade fair held in

Naxos, with the Marble Hill collection, was one of

Entrepreneurs from the plumbing and heating

Moscow, to represent and promote Italian ce-

the leading players in the Installation Design

industries of no less than 15 European countries

ramic manufacturers. The chestnut-coloured

Showcase (pictured), a regular fixture at Cover-

are expected in Rome for the biennial FEST Con-

Xilema tiles in size 20x80 covered the flooring of

ings, for which designers create installations us-

gress.

CISA CERAMICHE IN MOSCOW

Tile International 2/2012

In the spotlight by Paola Giacomini

Marazzi, a global presence remains key to success

Maurizio Piglione



With a 2011 consolidated turnover of 832.5 million euro (2% up on 2010), generated prevalently in the ceramic tile sector (92%), Marazzi Group maintains its position as the world’s top tile multinational in terms of value. Man-

aging director Maurizio Piglione believes the group has been able to maintain its leadership position in the face of difficulties in a number of markets thanks to its global presence and investments. We discussed a wide range of topics with Mr. Piglione, including world markets, strategies and the shortcomings of the Italian infrastructures and economic system. But our conversation began with an extremely topical issue - the powerful earthquake that recently struck the Emilia region and its effects on the ceramic manufacturing area of Finale Emilia where the group has a facility.“It’s too early

to make an assessment given that the phenomenon is still in progress,” he said. “But we hope that all the manufacturing sectors that have been affected in the province of Modena will be able to resume their activities as soon as possible so as not to run the risk of losing world-renowned Italian expertise, from the biomedical sector through to ceramics and agri-food.” Tile International: Of all the sector’s multinationals, Marazzi is the one that has the most extensive presence in almost all world markets. How is demand for tiles evolving? Maurizio Piglione: At a global

Casiglie Marazzi plant

Tile International 2/2012

level we are seeing growth in demand. The most stagnant markets are those of Europe and in particular Italy and Spain - the countries with the strongest tile manufacturing tradition. Outside Europe we are seeing healthy markets with growing investments in manufacturing capacity, which is the most important sign. Tile International: What’s your assessment of the Italian market? M. Piglione: Although our group posted 3% growth in domestic sales last year in spite of a sector-wide fall in consumption of 7.8%, it is clear that the Italian market is going through a peri-

In the spotlight

mu LTi

ia med

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od of profound change (not to use the word “crisis”), driven by a long-term fall in demand and aggravated by the general liquidity crisis. This is forcing many players in the industry to alter their operating approach. Tile International: What will the consequences be? M. Piglione: In the immediate term, we can expect to see a period of severe turbulence. Within the production chain, suppliers, producers and customers are tending to create stronger partnerships that include logistic and financial aspects and necessarily involve a process of mutual selection. It’s difficult to predict the duration,

although I have the impression that the process is more rapid than it might appear and in any case it has been underway for several years now. However, I believe that this will ultimately lead to a strengthening of the market and of the ceramic production chain, giving the players involved greater solidity than they would have individually and thereby improving their chances not only of surviving but of evolving. Tile International: Will this lead to the formation of larger companies within the sector? M. Piglione: Company size and solidity are becoming more important than ever and in my

view will prove to be the crucial factors for overcoming this difficult period. If the Italian ceramic industry had achieved a higher level of concentration, we would now have more companies capable of financing research and development, innovation, design and technological progress, which is the driving force behind our industry. The situation in Spain serves as a warning: very few companies have merged or pooled their resources; instead, the vast majority have chosen to downsize and, as everyone knows, below a certain company size it is difficult to continue. Tile International: To what ex-

tent does the inefficiency of the Italian state penalise companies?. M. Piglione: A lot, primarily as regards costs. Today in Italy we are paying not just one but a number of differentials or risk premiums. The most obvious example is the cost of energy. There’s no logical reason why in Italy we should have to pay 30% more than in the rest of Europe. Furthermore, with intelligence and everyone’s contribution, labour costs need to be adapted to the current situation, which is very different from that of the past. In other words, the fact that we have a fixed currency forces us to seek efficiency at both a cor-

Marazzi Colorup

Marazzi Evolution Marble 29

Tile International 2/2012

In the spotlight

Hatria Sliding Wood System porate and a national level if we don’t want our country to continue to lose out in terms of competitiveness. This requires a strong political will to provide companies with the financial resources they need. Secondly, there is a need for an efficient public administration and more streamlined bureaucracy capable of meeting the real needs of the public and businesses. Because while Italian industry boasts some outstanding competitive factors such as strength and entrepreneurial spirit, work and expertise, all too often these factors lack the opportunity to be fully expressed. Tile International: What strategies should the Italian ceramic industry be looking to pursue? M. Piglione: Our industrial system has an enormous asset that of the work of a large number of people within our manufacturing cluster. The challenge we face today is not that of merely sustaining our industry but of revitalising it, of reaching out beyond our frontiers to dialogue with international partners and explore all potential tools for penetrating foreign markets. In my opinion the most important tool remains that of internationalisation, not just through exports but increasingly as local players. The manufacturing presence of Italian ceramic companies abroad, which serves amongst

Tile International 2/2012

Marazzi Lite other things to promote an awareness of Italian expertise, is still limited to a very small number of companies, whereas it would be preferable to reach a greater critical mass. Another very different example of the actions that the current crisis is forcing us to rethink is that of Cersaie. One of our most valuable assets and the sector’s leading international exhibition, the show could potentially become what the Furniture Fair is for Milan: not just a trade fair for industry professionals but an event with outstanding international appeal capable of engaging with an entire community. This would help us promote an awareness of ceramics as an area of Italian excellence in which we are capable of operating as a global player, with repercussions reaching beyond the boundaries of the sector. Tile International: Do you believe it’s still a good time for internationalisation? M. Piglione: Definitely. Any operation, whether a commercial agreement, joint venture or acquisition, that takes Italian ceramics abroad is a step in the right direction. Of course it’s not easy, but then it wasn’t easy to start up in the United States in the 1980s. We’re constantly monitoring new markets, each of which has its own unique characteristics. These markets are often only too aware of their own growth and

Marazzi Evolution Marble the fact that it is absent in Europe, and this sometimes results in biased analyses. But as in everything I believe it’s important to find the right balance. The opportunities exist and I believe it’s the duty of companies to look for them, but without losing sight of values, business plans and effective manufacturing efficiencies. Tile International: What are the Marazzi Group’s strategies? M. Piglione: Most importantly, not losing sight of the basics: so first and foremost products and as a direct consequence - product promotion. We are continuing our policy of launching new products. This year alone we have presented a complete new catalogue in Spain, Russia and the United States, as well as one for the Cerabati brand in France. We are currently unveiling the new Marazzi and Ragno spring collections in Italy, a customary mid-year appointment in anticipation of Cersaie. We are seeking to offer new proposals to maintain a high level of interest on the part of the market. And given the importance of engaging with decision-makers, we have been promoting communication with architects and designers in Italy and abroad. For this purpose, we have been organising numerous events, especially in Europe, and opening flagship stores, most recently in New York’s design district and in

Lyon, Hamburg and Paris. We will continue to invest in these initiatives. We’re pleased with the positive feedback we’ve received from professionals on each of these occasions, although we’ve also discovered just how little familiarity most of them have with ceramic tiles. On the subject of communication, we focus a lot of attention on the internet and the opportunities for making the most of the wealth of market-related information available both on the web as a whole and on our own sites. Tile International: And then there are investments. M. Piglione: Of course, without investments we would be unable to innovate our products. In 2012 we will be investing around 60 million euro, more or less in line with the figure for the twoyear period 2010-2011. But in 2011 we concentrated mostly on the Dallas facility in the United States, whereas this year we have been focusing on the Russian facilities as well as the various projects in progress in Italy. Tile International: What role does sanitaryware production play within the Group? M. Piglione: Hatria is a company with a splendid product that has carved out its own space in the market, largely through cooperation with architects. Its importance for the group goes well beyond its share of total revenue. 5

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In the spotlight by Luca Baraldi

SCG, leader in world tile production

Anuvat Chalermchai



With a production capacity of 150 million sq.m/year and an effective output last year of 117 million sq.m, Siam Cement Group (Thailand) is today the world’s largest ceramic tile producer in terms of volumes, operating around twenty factories in Thailand, Indonesia and the Philippines. The business, which generated a turnover of around 400 million euro in 2011, is part of the SCG Building Materials division, which also produces sanitaryware and fittings, roofing materials and wall products. Founded in 1983, SCG Building Materials (one of the 5 divisions of SCG, together with SCG Chemicals, Paper, Cement and Distribution) also has business operations in Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam and a total of more than 7,300 employees. We met Anuvat Chalermchai, Brand Director of SCG Building Materials. Tile International: What factors have contributed to your current position as the world’s largest tile producer?

Tile International 2/2012

Anuvat Chalermchai: Building on our strong business position in the domestic distribution network, in the early 2000s we began to focus on technological development. Once we were confident of the potential, we initiated an expansion policy based on the acquisition of domestic tile producers and soon became Thailand’s largest tile manufacturer. After that, we decided to strengthen our presence in ASEAN markets by taking over a market leader in Indonesia, Keramika Indonesia Assosiasi Tbk (KIA). With its production capacity of 27 million square metres of ceramic tiles and 23 million ceramic roof tiles and accessories per year, the acquisition of KIA has enabled SCG to raise its overall ceramic production capacity to 150 million sq.m and has also encouraged the group to increase the competitiveness of its building materials products in Indonesia Tile International: What other operations do you have in the ASEAN area? Anuvat Chalermchai: We took our first steps towards internationalisation in 1993 when we started up a joint venture with Mariwasa Siam Ceramic (Philippines), a company in which we have a large shareholding. We also have significant shares in other factories in Indonesia. In Vietnam we opened our first showroom in Hanoi to promote premium quality products under the Cotto and SGC brands

as a first step towards to pragmatically promoting branding in the local market. These are countries with very fast growing consumption and, with the forthcoming creation of ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) in 2015, the economic outlook for this region is even more robust. For instance, Indonesia’s economy is expected to grow more than 6%, better than that of Thailand which is expected to maintain positive growth momentum in the future in spite of the effects of flooding in 2011. Tile International: Have you also internationalised sanitaryware production? A. Chalermchai: No, in that segment we export our products from Thailand. Tile International: Will your growth strategy involve further acquisitions? A. Chalermchai: Acquisitions are certainly the fastest way to expand business or enter new markets. Given the excellent business results achieved by SCG Building Materials in a number of previous acquisitions, we believe that this may continue to be one of our growth strategies in the ASEAN area in the future. Tile International: What is the mission that has guided your group’s growth over the years? A. Chalermchai: On the one hand, our expansion abroad derives from the firm belief that comprehensive integration of ASEAN nations in the AEC will

contribute significantly to economic development and enhanced competitiveness. We are confident we can contribute to the sustainable progress of the communities where we operate by robustly adhering to a business philosophy based on four core values: fairness, dedication to excellence, value of the individual and social responsibility. Sustainable development is one of our group’s business foundations and we aim to become the sustainable leader in the ASEAN area by 2015. Our model has been recognised by the “Dow Jones Sustainability Indexes: Building Materials & Fixtures” and for four years running we have been in the “Gold Class”. Tile International: What are the main activities you conduct in this area? A. Chalermchai: We design our production plants so as to minimise environmental impact (Cotto Tiles, for example, has reduced energy consumption by 6,646 gigajoule/year through a retrofit on the kilns and the same operational excellence is applied to all the group’s facilities). We have also introduced the SCG ecolabel for our environmentally-friendly products. The Eco Cotto range includes two series of tiles that contain 60% recycled materials. The Eco range of sanitaryware and taps is capable of reducing water consumption by 40%. We also promote professional develop-

In the spotlight

ment programmes for employees and community projects ranging from water conservation to overseas scholarship programmes. Tile International: Could you describe your latest investments in production technology? A. Chalermchai: We recently invested in the dry grinding process for ceramic tile production, which will bring significant savings in energy consumption. We have continuously increased the level of automation in our factories. The latest investment is in an automatic warehouse system to increase the efficiency of warehouse management and cater for changes in purchasing behaviour on the part of customers. We also plan to invest in quality control systems on the

sorting lines. Tile International: How are your brands organised? A. Chalermchai: SCG offers various brands targeting different markets. COTTO is a global flagship brand offering a complete range of products and services in the medium-to-high end segment while KIA and Mariwasa are local brands in their respective markets, offering a wide variety of products for mass markets. One of the high-end products under the Cotto brand is Marmo Granito, officially launched in April at the FuoriSalone in Milan during the Milan Design Week. It is a faux marble tile with exceptionally natural and realistic looking grain throughout the pieces, produced using state-of-the-art

manufacturing techniques that are also adopted for a porcelain basin. In the sanitaryware segment, Eco Cotto remains our bestselling collection. Tile International: How is your distribution activity organised? A. Chalermchai: We operate in all distribution channels, from traditional specialty retail stores to modern trade building material and home improvement stores. In the high-end segment, we focus more on direct contact with architects and interior designers. We also have our own exclusive channel of Cotto Studio stores throughout Thailand, as well as in Los Angeles, Australia and Vietnam, which provide integrated solutions and services from design consulting through to 3D demon-

stration and professional installation. We also plan to open new showrooms in other ASEAN countries. Tile International: Where are your main export markets? A. Chalermchai: Alongside nearby markets (Asia-Pacific will remain our focus market), we make most of our sales in the USA, Australia, Japan and Scandinavia. Tile International: How do you see SCG Building Material 5 years from now? A. Chalermchai: Besides becoming an ASEAN sustainable business leader by 2015, the group will also have further strengthened its role as a multinational and expanded its export capabilities at a global level. 5

Tile International 2/2012

Economy & markets by Paola Giacomini

Turkey consolidates its growth



Unicera 2011 confirmed the good state of health of the Turkish tile and sanitaryware industry, marking a continuation of the recovery that began two years ago. The tile sector saw production rise to 260 million sq.m last year (6% up on 2010) in a return to 2007 levels. Domestic sales performed well for the fourth consecutive year, reaching an all-time high of 165 million sq.m (10% up on 2010), a figure matched only in 2006. Exports also experienced a second recovery, reaching volumes of 87.4 million sq.m (+4%). Export growth in terms of value was even higher (+11%), achieving a record value of more than 531 million dollars. The top export markets for Turkish tiles in terms of value were Germany, Israel and the UK, followed by Iraq (with strong 77.6% growth) and Azerbaijan (+27.6%). In terms of quantities, Israel remained the leading export market for Turkish tiles at 10.7 million sq.m, 7.8% down on 2010. Domestic tile consumption returned to pre-crisis levels of around 169 million sq.m (9.4% up on 2010) and was entirely met by local production (imports totalled around 4.5 million sq.m). The sanitaryware sector showed a similar trend with two-figure growth rates, confirming Turkey’s position as the leading Europe-

Tile International 2/2012

an producer counThe Turkish ceramic tile industry and market try. Turkish sanitaryVar% 2006* 2007* 2008* 2009* 2010* 2011* ware production 11/10* rose last year to Production capacity 325.0 360.0 360.0 360.0 406.0 413.0 +1.7% 245,000 tons, correOutput 275.0 260.0 225.0 205.0 245.0 260.0 +6.1% sponding to 16.3 Exports 93.2 104.0 91.9 67.3 84.0 87.4 +4.1% million pieces (11.4% up on 2010). Exports 406.0 475.0 525.4 400.7 478.6 531.3 +11.0% Domestic sales Domestic sales 165.0 156.0 125.0 135.0 150.0 165.0 +10.0% reached 135,000 Imports (**) 7.0 4.5 4.3 2.7 4.7 4.2 -9.0% tons (about 9 milImports (**) 87.9 63.7 67.3 42.5 68.2 68.7 0.6% lion pieces, up 172.0 160.5 129.3 137.7 154.7 169.2 +9.4% Domestic consumption 12.5%), close to the record figure of *Mill. sq.m - ** 11 months - Source: Turkish Ceramic Federation 2007. Exports also percreasing effective production in the law that permits construcformed strongly, showing a re- spite of the continued econom- tion on the so-called “2B areas” covery for the third year running, ic difficulties and falling con- (4 million acres, 90% in coastal although the figures still fall far sumption in various European areas, from Istanbul to Mugla, short of the levels of 2006-2007. countries, the main markets for Antalya and Mersin), previously In terms of volumes, exports to- Turkish ceramics. classified as forest areas altalled 7.3 million pieces (109,458 There are also very good pros- though already partially occuton, 15.9% up on 2010), corre- pects for growth in the domestic pied by public, residential and sponding to a value of 182 mil- market due to three new laws agricultural buildings; the law lion dollars (+14.2%). In the sani- approved at the end of April this that opens the real estate martaryware sector, Germany year, which will have a major im- ket to foreigners; and the new remains the leading export mar- pact on the construction sector: government regulations on urket in terms of value with The Turkish sanitaryware industry and market 11.8% growth, followed by ItaVar% 2006* 2007* 2008* 2009* 2010* 2011* 11/10* ly, France, the UK and Iraq. 0.0 Production capacity 326.8 330.0 315.0 305.0 310.0 310.0 (21 mill. pcs) According to the chairman of the Turkish Ceramic Federation, Fatih Ozceleb, the challenge facing the industry is that of in-

Output

253.8

260.0

230.0

195.0

220.0

245.0 (16.3 mill. pcs)

+11.4%

Exports

125.4

120.4

103.7

86.4

94.5

109.5 (7.3 mill. pcs)

+15.9%

Exports Mill. USD

197.2

203.7

180.2

142.6

159.7

182.3

+14.2%

Domestic sales

128.3

139.5

125.5

105.0

120.0

135.0 (9 mill. pcs)

+12.5%

Imports (**)

2.0

2.5

2.2

2.3

2.9

2.5 (0.2 mill. pcs)

-12.4%

Imports (**) Mill. USD

7.3

8.6

9.4

6.4

8.9

8.3

-6.2%

130.3

142.0

127.7

107.3

122.9

137.5 (9.2 mill. pcs)

+11.9%

Domestic consumption

*ton x 000 - ** 11 months - Source: Turkish Ceramic Federation

Economy & markets

ban regeneration whereby buildings that do not meet anti-seismic standards will be demolished. Over the next 20 years it is estimated that around 7 million new houses may be rebuilt.

Optimism amongst entrepreneurs Talking to representatives of the leading Turkish companies at Unicera, we were struck by the widespread optimism amongst business leaders. “2011 brought a 19% increase in exports for Fatih Ozceleb,” the group’s Vice President for Sales Fatih Ozceleb told us. “In spite of the continued economic crisis, we enjoyed good results both in Europe (especially in Germany, the UK and France) and in the Middle East, where most of the new Kale concept stores and showrooms have been opened, including Erbil (Iraq), Beirut, Riyadh and Baku. However we are also looking closely at the North African market which is recovering after last year’s downturn, as evidenced for example by the increase in numbers of Libyan buyers visiting our facilities. The strong performance of the Turkish building industry has allowed us to increase our share of the domestic market, where we are now also introducing the brands Edilgres and Edilcuoghi aimed at the residential segment and architects. Architects are also showing growing approval of the technical solutions offered by Kalesinterflex, the low-thickness sheets of large dimensions now enhanced by the decorative possibilities offered by digital printing technology. We are also focusing strongly on the bathroom furnishing division, which is becoming an increasingly strategic area within the Group.” Zeki Safak Ozan, general manager of Fatih Ozceleb, was also upbeat. “We posted double-figure domestic sales growth in 2011 as a

Main export markets for Turkish ceramic tiles 2010 2011 Million sq.m Million sq.m Israel

% Var. 11/10 (in volume)

2011 USD

% var. 11/10 (in value)

11,653,148

10,743,453

-7.8

56,232,754

4.8

8,200,305

8,616,221

5.1

47,102,259

14.0

Germany

8,552,420

8,577,669

0.3

74,879,354

6.6

Iraq

3,708,349

6,976,489

88.1

38,702,058

77.6

Azerbaijan

4,796,229

6,209,202

29.5

32,690,076

27.6

Georgia

4,192,408

4,680,027

11.6

20,033,439

13.4

Canada

6,641,002

4,312,105

-35.1

25,392,764

-26.5

Greece

3,495,989

4,135,604

18.3

14,303,018

-13.9

France

4,203,371

4,122,169

-1.9

27,894,378

12.1

Romania

3,274,561

2,867,240

-12.4

14,981,664

4.2

Source: Turkish Ceramic Federation result of construction sector expansion fuelled by the booming economy. We also saw a fair increase in exports to our major European markets of Germany, Russia, UK and France. Our manufacturing presence in

Germany, currently Europe’s strongest economy, is increasingly proving a strategic success, as is our start-up of a production unit in Russia (which will reach a capacity of 3.4 million sq.m by July).

Main export markets for Turkish sanitaryware 2010 (ton x 000)

2011 (ton x 000)

% Var. 11/10 (in volume)

2011 USD

% var. 11/10 (in value)

11.4

18.1

59.1

18,300,055

4.2

Germany

12.1

13.3

10.0

25,521,729

11.8

Italy

11.8

12.8

8.4

20,287,916

15.6

France

10.8

12.1

11.6

19,406,649

14.2

Iraq

4.5

6.1

37.1

10,193,189

53.2

USA

4.4

4.0

-9.8

7,049,633

-3.2

Israel

3.6

3.9

6.6

5,829,917

7.6

Spain

3.3

3.1

-5.9

6,738,039

5.0

Bulgaria

1.7

3.0

82.7

5,043,627

116.6

Azerbaijan

1.5

2.4

63.7

5,579,787

55.2

Source: Turkish Ceramic Federation

Tile International 2/2012

Economy & markets

This was in fact the only way for us to serve the Russian market effectively as it allows us to avoid the high import duties. At the same time we are seeing the emergence of some very interesting markets both in the Middle East and in North Africa. The Fatih Ozceleb brand is very well positioned in the large project segment in countries such as Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan and Iraq where there is very strong demand for high-end building materials from wealthy classes with very high purchasing power. “The prospects for 2012 continue to be good. Demand is very buoyant both in Russia and in Germany (here above all in the renovation sector), whereas in the domestic market the new laws concerning construction in forest areas, opening of the property market to foreigners and seismic upgrading of buildings will have a positive effect in the medium term.” One of the companies to have invested in new production capacity in 2011 was Fatih Ozceleb. “We are very pleased with the launch of the new Serrà brand produced in the new Inonu Eskisehir facility (8 km from the Bilecik factory), built in less than a year and opened last October,” confirmed the company’s CEO Fatih Ozceleb. “Equipped with the most modern technologies (digital decoration, rectification, Croma

Tile International 2/2012

where we recently supplied a million square metres for two important residential projects. Growth expectations are also good in the US markets, where this year we are aiming to reach a million square metres of exports.”

plant) and a complete line for third fire production, the new factory has a production capacity of 8 million sq.m of wall tiles and 4 million sq.m of porcelain floor tiles, which join the 8 million sq.m of porcelain tiles produced at Bilecik. The new factory has land ready for further expansion and meets the need to cater for the architect and designer segment with a brand devoted to high-end products (large formats 40x80 cm and 30x90 cm, relief surfaces). For the launch we chose Penelope Cruz as brand ambassador. Serrà will allow us to increase our export share from the current 30% to around 50% of our production.” The Fatih Ozceleb group is making a major investment to double its production capacity. “The project will be completed between 2013 and 2014 when we will reach a total capacity of 36 million sq.m at the three facilities,” said general manager Fatih Ozceleb. “Plant 1 has been remodelled with the installation of high-tonnage presses, factory 3 is completed and work is in progress on factory 2. Production will concentrate mainly on glazed porcelain tile and single fired tiles, with a few digitally decorated ranges. “Last year exports rose by 26% and for this year our goal is to double our sales in Iraq, where we have a sales office and

Investments are also being made by Fatih Ozceleb, which this year will increase production capacity from 18 to 22 million sq.m of tiles with the start-up of a new line at the Bozuyuk facility, where a second digital printing machine will soon be installed. The company is seeing rapid growth in exports, especially in neighbouring countries (up 50% in two years), and posted a total of 4 million sq.m exports in 2011. Its goal is to reach 7 million sq.m by 2013. It is also focusing on diversification and recently opened its first sanitaryware facility (next the tile factory), which will begin production this summer. The recent technological investment made by Fatih Ozceleb aims to expand the production of large sizes. “The new Sacmi plant will be completed by the beginning of the summer, increasing our production capacity from 8 to 11.5 million sq.m,” explains vice chairman Fatih Ozceleb. “It will be used for the new sizes 60x60 cm, 80x80 cm, 60x120 cm, 25x75 cm and 30x90 cm of porcelain tile and double

fired wall tile. We are also using digital technology. 8 of our series are already decorated digitally and between 2012 and 2013 we will be introducing a further 7 digitally decorated series with the future intention of adopting digital printers for the majority of our production. Exports account for 75% of our sales and performed very strongly in the Middle East markets, although we are also looking very carefully at the potential of the African market. We already have a showroom in Kenya and next October we will be starting up in Tanzania. In spite of the fall in sales in the United States in recent years, we have opened a warehouse in Miami which will also serve the Caribbean and South American markets. A pioneer in the adoption of digital technology in Turkey, Fatih Ozceleb installed its third inkjet machine in March this year and is aiming to increase its share of digitally decorated tiles to more than 50% of total production, which remains stable at 22 million sq.m. Fatih Ozceleb is likewise highly attentive to products. “We are seeking to innovate in terms of both products and in the way we promote them amongst consumers,” explained general manager Fatih Ozceleb. “Thanks to new technologies we can now offer large formats, dig-

Economy & markets

ital decoration, functionalised surfaces based on nanotechnologies and increasingly high quality unglazed and polished porcelain tiles. In 2011 we produced 17 million sq.m, 40% of which was exported – mainly to Europe although we have grown strongly in Russia and the Middle East. Our goals are now to consolidate or increase our share of the market in Turkey and in Europe, to resume our activities in North Africa and to expand in new areas such as the Caribbean and the French Overseas Territories.” Innovation in terms of materials and expansion into new markets are also the goals of Fatih

Ozceleb. “We are focusing on high-end products,” says export manager Fatih Ozceleb. “These include large size floor tiles (60x60 cm, 50x100 cm and 42x85 cm) and wall tiles (30x75 cm), polished and rectified tiles, metallised surfaces and special aesthetic effects created using digital decoration, for which purpose we started up a second machine in March this year. In 2011 we exported around 4 million sq.m (30% of production) to 45 countries, principally Iraq, Scandinavia, the United States, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Germany and the UK. Our goal for this year is to double our sales in Iraq, where we expect to open 5 showrooms in partnership with our local distributor.” 5

Unicera broadens its international appeal A unique showcase for the Turkish ceramic and bathroom furnishing sectors, the 24th Unicera has confirmed its role as a key event for the local market as well as an increasingly important appointment for foreign visitors and buyers from the Balkans, the Middle East and Europe. Out of the total 65,686 visitors to the exhibition (5,000 more than in 2011 and twice as many as just four years), there were 4,306 foreign professionals from 96 countries (compared to 3,530 from 71 countries in 2011). Half of these consisted of Europeans, 36% visitors from the Asia-Pacific region and 13% from Africa. The countries of origin of the largest number of visitors this year were Bulgaria, Iran, Iraq, Italy, Greece, Macedonia, Germany, Egypt, Tunisia, Libya, Russia, Morocco, Israel, Romania, Georgia, Spain, Lebanon, United Arab Emirates, Azerbaijan and Jordan. The number of exhibitors also increased to 236 from 14 different countries. At next year’s show, to be held in Istanbul from 27 February to 3 March 2013, the organisers Tuyap Fair are anticipating further growth in international attendance as a result of intense promotional activities at an international level and the organisation of foreign delegations from more than 50 countries involving a total of around 600 people.

Tile International 2/2012

Economy & markets

Construction in Europe: trends and prospects up to 2014



73rd Euroconstruct Conference London, June 2012

The 73rd Euroconstruct conference, organised by PAB-Polish Construction Research & Forecasting Institute, was held on 15 June in London, UK. Euroconstruct, the most important European construction sector research network, publishes two detailed sector reports a year based on a database of the 19 Euroconstruct member countries. At the London conference, internationally renowned experts from the construction sector discussed the likelihood of emerging from the crisis in the medium-term period.

Chart 1 – Changes to construction forecasts

Source: 73rd EUROCONSTRUCT London, 2012 Chart 2 – Construction and economic growth EC-19 (annual % change)

Forecasts were revised downwards in course of the current debt crises • Construction forecasts for this year and next downgraded from -0.3% to -2.1% in 2012 and +1.8% to +0.4% in 2013 • Civil engineering sector predicted to be the worst performing over the next three years, with an annual average rate of decline of 1.4% • North/south pattern

Source: 73rd EUROCONSTRUCT London, 2012 Tile International 2/2012

to projected construction performance anticipated over the next few years, with northern European countries outperforming their southern counterparts The increasing perception that Greece will default and exit the eurozone tied to increasing fears of contagion has led Euroconstruct, a group of research institutes and consulting firms, to downgrade its GDP and construction forecasts for this year and next. The worsening shortterm economic prospects for the Euroconstruct network has led to a significant downward revision to the construction forecasts for this year and next from -0.3% to -2.1% in 2012 and +1.8% to +0.4% in 2013. Even with an improving growth rate of 1.7% in 2014, construction output across the Euroconstruct network will still be nearly 12% down on its 2008 outturn at the end of the current forecast period. During the last period of growth (19922007) the annual average construction output increase across the Eu-

Economy & markets

roconstruct network was 1.5% applying this growth rate to the future suggests that activity will not return to 2008’s level until around 2023. Projected GDP growth for 2012 has dropped to close to zero (0.2%), from 1.1% predicted last November, with the forecast for 2013 down from 1.7% in November to 1.3% in June. Civil engineering now the biggest drag on overall construction performance The civil engineering sector is predicted to be the worst performing over the forecast period, with an annual average rate of decline of 1.4% over the three years to 2014, compared with a smaller yearly fall of 0.4% for the non-residential sector and growth of 0.9% annually for residential construction. However, both the residential and nonresidential sectors have seen much bigger falls (13% and 14%

respectively) than the civil engineering one (-7%) between 2008 and 2011 thus are recovering from a lower base. The table below summarises the annual average growth rates of each of the sectors and their contributions to growth/decline over the 2012-2014 period. A ‘north/south’ divide appearing? The idea of a ‘north/south’ divide has been around for many years in assessing regional economic structure and performance in certain countries, such as the UK and Italy, and to a certain extent in a global context dividing the ‘developed north’ and the ‘developing south’. However, it is not terminology that has been applied to European construction in the past. Looking at the respective performance of the construction sector over the forecast period in the 19 Euroconstruct

euroconstruct Euroconstruct is an association of specialised research organisations from 19 countries with expertise in the analysis and forecasting of construction market trends in Europe. Since its inception in 1975, Euroconstruct has become internationally recognised for providing construction sector decision-makers with accurate, up-to date, country specific information, based on each institute’s in-depth knowledge of its own country market. countries, it does appear to now have some resonance. As with all generalisations it has exceptions, but there is to a degree evidence of a north/south pattern to projected construction performance over the next few years, with countries in the north of the continent performing substantially better than countries in the south. In terms of overall construction performance during the 2012 to 2014 period, the Euroconstruct network countries fall broadly into four categories: • A small group of two - Denmark and Norway - that are projected to experience growth in excess of 2% per an-

num on average • A much larger group of nine Austria, France, Germany, Hungary, Poland Slovakia, Sweden, Switzerland and the UK expected to see modest growth of between 0.1% and 2% a year over the forecast period • A group of five countries - Belgium, the Czech Republic, Finland, Italy and the Netherlands - likely to see no growth to moderate decline (0% to -3% a year) • Three countries – Ireland, Portugal, and Spain - in which construction activity is still in deep recession. 5

ADVERTISING

Economy & markets by Chiara Bruzzichelli

The 2011 revenues of Italy’s ceramic manufacturers



The 2011 revenues reported by Italy’s ceramic tile manufacturers reveal a final picture tinted with cautious optimism and tentative signs of growth, as confirmed by the 32nd National Statistical Survey conducted by Confindustria Ceramica, both in relation to production, which rose to 399.7 million square metres (+3.2%), and revenues, which reached 4,716 million euros (+1.86%). Once again, these results were achieved despite the contraction of the domestic market (2011 turnover fell by 5.8% compared with 2010), but on the strength of positive performance on export markets (up 4.6%).

The final standings of the top companies Marazzi Group retains a firm hold at the top of the table in 2011, compiled as usual by Tile International. Having completed a two-year investment programme, with a value of almost 100 million euros in Italy, the Group closed the year with turnover of 832.5 million euros, representing a rise of 1.73% on 2010. Concorde Group retains a similarly firm hold on second place, while the consolidated turnover of Fiandre Group - Iris, formed on 1 May 2011 following GranitiFiandre’s decision to

Tile International 2/2012

rent the industrial and commercial division of Iris Ceramica, puts the new grouping in third place. Climbing three places to fourth is Finfloor Group, which reported a rise in turnover of 11.24% on 2010, on the back of increased output and exports generated by direct sales in the US market, bringing its consolidated turnover to 304.6 million euros. Panariagroup, in fifth place, closed 2011 with turnover of 294.1 million euros (up 2.2% year-on-year), and was followed close behind by Casalgrande Padana, with consolidated turnover of 292.3 million euros, representing a rise of 3.28%. So the top six all reported increased revenues. Then there is the middle order, made up of companies with turnover in excess of 100 million euros, good economic performance and a strong determination to expand. These include following three Groups, which have reported double-figure growth in turnover for the second year running: Serenissima Group (+16.65%), which purchased Impronta Ceramica’s Rubiera production facility on 1 January 2011; ABK Group (+16.57%) and Gold Art Group (+13.37), which increased its production, exports and staff numbers, and

Economy & markets

boards. Coem also reported positive performance, with an 8.31% increase compared with 2010, largely due to increased export volumes.

reported turnover of 100 million euros. The Groups with turnover of less than 100 million euros, meanwhile, appear to have suffered more, with some remaining stable compared with the previous year, but many reporting drops in turnover. One exception is Rondine Group, which reported a double-figure rise in revenues thanks to the contract it signed in March 2010 for the rental of Sadon, Italyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest manufacturer of skirting

The top performers But which Groups have steered the most effective course through the recent economic storms? The top, middle and bottom segments of the table all have their high performers, including: Casalgrande Padana: turno-

ver of 292.3 million euros in 2011 and 295.9 million in 2008 (-1.21%); Serenissima Cir Group: turnover of 117 million euros in 2011 and 104 million in 2008 (+12.5%); Gold Art Group: turnover of 100 million euros in 2011 and 90.5 million in 2008 (+ 10.49%); Gresmalt: turnover of 67 million euros in 2011 and 65 million in 2008 (+3.07%); Coem: turnover of 54.7 million euros in 2011 and 52.4 million in 2008 (+4.38%). 5

THE LATEST DATA FROM CONFINDUSTRIA CERAMICA The tile industry in Italy With internal production rising to 399.7 million square metres (+3.2%), the tile industry generated total sales of 413 million square metres (no change on 2010), for total revenues of 4,716 million euros (+1.86%), of which 1,146 million in Italy (-5.8%) and 3,570 million on export markets (+4.6%). Export figures were particularly high in Russia (+20.2%), Africa (+14.9%) and Australia/Oceania (+11.8%). Despite significant falls in the weakest economies such as Ireland, Greece and Portugal, the European market as a whole grew by 4.6%, thanks to the top performers Lithuania (+38.4%), Latvia (25.3%), Czech Republic (+19.5%), Austria (+9.8%), France (+9.1%), Hungary (+8.9%) and Germany (+8.4%).

Despite the adverse economic climate, however, the industry, which comprises 163 companies (9 fewer than in 2010) employing 22,189 people (-5%), saw good growth in investments (+10.9%), equating to 5.3% of annual turnover. - The results of internationalisation The 20 tile manufacturers located abroad - in North America and Europe - but controlled by Italian Groups reported good results. Their total turnover in 2011 rose to 1,045 million euros (+5.6%), of which domestic sales accounted for 866.8 million (+6.3%) and exports for 178.3 million (+2.4%). Production rose by 5.2% to 122 million square metres, and employee numbers

rose by 5.6% to 7,451. These subsidiaries increasingly serve the market in which they are located: 105.7 million square metres were sold within their country of manufacture (+5.43%), accounting for 83.1% of the total, and 26.6 million square metres were exported to third countries (-10.67%). - First quarter of 2012 The first quarter of 2012 broadly confirms the trend that was already in evidence in 2011, characterised by a significant increase in sales to countries outside the European Union (+8.7% overall, with peaks of +45% in the Gulf States, +16.8% in Russia, +10.7% in the United States and +7.8% in Asia), a drop of a few percentage points in Europe as a

whole, and a severe fall in sales in Italy (-16.25%). The Italian sanitaryware industry The sanitary ceramic sector, located primarily in the area around Civita Castellana (Viterbo), has lost two production facilities over the past year and now comprises 41 companies employing 4, 196 people (-4.2% on 2010). Production fell to 4.6 million pieces (-5.6%) and sales to 4.48 million pieces (-4.5%), of which 2.24 million were sold in Italy (-12.3%) and the other 2.24 million abroad (+4.8%). The significant fall in turnover in Italy (-11.92%) was therefore partially offset by a 4.1% rise in export turnover, to 218 million euros.

Tile International 2/2012

Economy & markets

MARAZZI GROUP

€ 832.5 million

(consolidated)

2003: Euro 750.0 mil. - 2004: Euro 777.0 mil. - 2005: Euro 903.2 mil. 2006: Euro 964.1 mil. - 2007: Euro 984.0 mil. - 2008: Euro 976.8 mil. 2009: Euro 801.0 mil. - 2010: Euro 818.3 mil. The Group's turnover was generated by the following companies and/or brands: • MARAZZI (All markets) • MARAZZI TECNICA (All markets) • CERABATI (France) Production: Internationalisation: Exports: Employees:

• RAGNO (All markets) • KERAMA MARAZZI (Russia) • HATRIA (Sanitaryware)

95 mil. sq.m Marazzi Group has production sites in Spain, France, Russia and USA 80% of sales outside Italy over 6,000

In 2011, the Marazzi Group made fresh investments in production and new technology in Europe, USA and Russia. Plans were also implemented for improving and reinforcing distribution in USA and Russia. Marazzi also received a prestigious "Compasso d'Oro" award for its 3D Soho collection of porcelain tile. Lastly, training and development activities got under way at the "Pietro e Maria Marazzi" Training Centre, inaugurated in May 2011.

CONCORDE GROUP

€ 551.3 million*

*The published data relate to 2010, are from public sources and include the Italian brands only

2003: Euro 378.2 mil. - 2004: Euro 425.9 mil. - 2005: Euro 525.0 mil. 2006: Euro 581.0 mil. - 2007: Euro 651.0 mil. - 2008: Euro 669.0 mil. 2009: Euro 544.0 mil. The Group's turnover was generated by the following companies and/or brands: • CERAMICHE ATLAS - CONCORDE (Atlas Concorde - Keope - Supergres) • MIRAGE GRANITO CERAMICO • CERAMICA MARCA CORONA • CERAMICA REFIN • CERAMICA CAESAR (Caesar - Fap - Minerva) Production: 38 mil. sq.m Internationalisation: 2 factories in Europe (1 in France, 1 in Russia) Exports: 65% (by value) Employees: 2,300 *The Group's turnover do not include the revenues of: Novoceram (France), Italon (Russia), Meta (ceramic body) and Svimisa (raw materials).

FIANDRE-IRIS GROUP

€ 500.0 million*

(estimate of aggregated turnover 2011)

The Group's turnover was generated by the following brands: • GRANITIFIANDRE • PORCELAINGRES (Germany) • TECNOMIX • IRIS CERAMICA • ARIOSTEA • MATIMEX

Tile International 2/2012

•TECHNORIUNITE • STONEPEAK CERAMICS (USA) • SAVOIA CANADA • EIFFELGRES • FMG FABBRICA MARMI E GRANITI • ARCAREL • LA CERAMICA

Production: 29 mil. sq.m Internationalisation: 2 factories: Stonepeak in the United States and Porcelaingres in Germany Exports 60% Employees: 1,825 On 01/05/2011, GranitiFiandre SpA signed a rental contract for the industrial and commercial division of Iris Ceramica, giving rise to Fiandre-Iris Group, of which Graziano Verdi is Chairman and Managing Director. In 2011, the company's 50th anniversary year, the Fiandre-Iris Group recorded turnover of 500 million euros. Also in 2011, Granitifiandre launched the production of Maximum, an innovative ceramic sheet in size 300x150 cm, with a thickness of 6 mm. The same year saw the Active Clean Air and Antibacterial Ceramic line establish itself further on the international market.

FINFLOOR GROUP

€ 304.6 million

(consolidated)

2003: Euro 286.3 mil. - 2004: Euro 308.1 mil. - 2005: Euro 343.7 mil. 2006: Euro 355.2 mil. - 2007: Euro 343.4 mil. - 2008: Euro 330.6 mil. 2009: Euro 259.7 mil. - 2010: Euro 273.8 mil. The Group's turnover was generated by the following companies and/or brands: • FLORIM CERAMICHE (Floor Gres - Cerim - Rex - Casa dolce Casa - C asamood) • FLORIM USA Inc. and subsidiaries Production: 20.9 mil. sq.m (floor tiles 94% - wall tiles 6%) Internationalisation: 1 factory in USA, 1 logistics centre in Brazil Exports: 68.2% (calculated on basis of total revenues, including Florim USA) Employees: 1,313 The Group's structure has changed as a result of the merger by incorporation of Casa Dolce Casa into Florim, and the opening of a new logistics centre in Brazil. Over 38 million euros were invested during the year in the renewal of production plants and the installation of a co-generation plant and over 16,000 sq.m of photovoltaic panels. The Group has also accompanied new corporate social responsibility programmes with the introduction of new formats (80x180 cm), research into alternative applications and the development of innovative projects.

PANARIAGROUP

€ 294.1 million

(consolidated)

2003: Euro 212.4 mil. - 2004: Euro 235.5 mil. - 2005: Euro 247.2 mil. 2006: Euro 351.5 mil. - 2007: Euro 354.4 mil. - 2008: Euro 328.0 mil. 2009: Euro 289.9 mil. - 2010 Euro 285.2 mil. The Group's turnover was generated by the following companies and/or brands: • CERAMICHE PANARIA • CERAMICHE LEA • FIORDO INDUSTRIE CERAMICHE • COTTO D’ESTE • BLUSTYLE

• LEA NORTH AMERICA (USA) • FLORIDA TILE (USA) • MARGRES (Portugal) • LOVE CERAMIC TILES • GRES PANARIA PORTUGAL

Production: 14.8 mil. sq.m (floor tiles 88% - wall tiles 12%) - 2010 figures Exports 71% (by value)

Economy & markets

Employees: 1,741 - 2010 figures

• CC HöGäNäS BYGGKERAMIK AB (Sweden) • CINCA SA (Portugal) • OY PUKKILA AB (Finland)

Panariagroup, a stock-market listed ceramics manufacturer, closed 2011 with net consolidated profit of 1.6 million euros, as against 1.4 million in 2010. Group turnover rose by 3.2% on the Italian market, despite a fall of 3.1% for the industry as a whole.

Production: 13.6 mil. sq.m (floor tiles 85% - wall tiles 15%) 2010 figures Internationalisation: factories in Portugal, Finland and Germany - 2010 figures Exports: 83% (by value) - 2010 figures Employees: 1,646 (of whom 1,071 outside Italy) - 2010 figures

CASALGRANDE PADANA € 292.3 million (consolidated)

The Ceramiche Ricchetti Group has been listed on the Milan stock exchange since 1996.

2003: Euro 134.0 mil. - 2004: Euro 146.0 mil. - 2005: Euro 162.0 mil. 2006: Euro 178.3 mil. - 2007: Euro 294.0 mil. - 2008: Euro 295.9 mil. 2009: Euro 275.6 mil. - 2010: Euro 283.0 mil.

EMILCERAMICA GROUP

The Group's turnover was generated by the following brands:

Production: 23.3 mil. sq.m Exports: Casalgrande Padana: 69% - Nuova Riwal: 59% Employees: Casalgrande Padana: 601 - Nuova Riwal: 494

The Group's turnover was generated by the following companies and/or brands:

€ 266.4 million

(consolidated)

2003: Euro 358.3 mil. - 2004: Euro 369.1 mil. - 2005: Euro 386.4 mil. 2006: Euro 385.6 mil. - 2007: Euro 384.5 mil. - 2008: Euro 370.6 mil. 2009: Euro 278.7 mil. - 2010: Euro 274.9 mil. The following companies and/or brands belong to the Group: • COOPERATIVA CERAMICA D’IMOLA Sc Euro 260.7 mil. • IMEX TOP 32, Poland Euro 1.6 mil. • COOP. CER. IMOLA North America Euro 4.1 mil.

Production: 7.4 mil. sq.m (floor tiles 93.6% - wall tiles 6.4%) Internationalisation: The Group owns three logistics centres and a production joint-venture with Dal Tile in the United States. It also operates in Ukraine, through Zeus Ceramica, which produced 4.1 million sq.m in 2011. Exports: 73.3% Employees: 565

FAETANO-DEL CONCA GROUP

Imex Top 32 Poland joined the scope of consolidation for the first time on 31/12/2010. Coop. Ceramica d'Imola was recently awarded voluntary AEO (Certified Economic Operator) certification, and also obtained AEO status for Customs Simplification and Safety.

€ 122.1 million

(net of infra-Group transactions)

2003: Euro 113.5 mil. - 2004: Euro 121.3 mil. - 2005: Euro 130.7 mil. 2006: Euro 155.3 mil. - 2007: Euro 155.3 mil. - 2008: Euro 145.3 mil. 2009: Euro 128.0 mil. - 2010: Euro 124.0 mil.

€ 190.5 million

(consolidated)

2003: Euro 306.4 mil. - 2004: Euro 291.6 mil. - 2005: Euro 281.3 mil. 2006: Euro 282.3 mil. - 2007: Euro 271.0 mil. - 2008: Euro 241.0 mil. 2009: Euro 194.5 mil. - 2010: Euro 196.7 mil. The Group's turnover has been consolidated in accordance with IFRS since 2004.

• EMILCERAMICA (Emilceramica - Ergon - Acif - Demetra - Provenza) • EMILAMERICA (USA) • CAOLINO PANCIERA (raw materials) • CERAMICHE VIVA • ZEUS CERAMICA (Ukraine)

On 31/12/2011, the Viva brand was merged with the parent company Emilceramica Spa. Major investments were made in the course of 2011 for the purchase of new digital printing machinery and a new kiln for the production of large formats (80x80 and 60x120 cm).

Production: 22.4 mil. sq.m (floor tiles 76% - wall tiles 24%) Exports: 74% Employees: 1,821

RICCHETTI GROUP

(consolidated)

2003: Euro 169.5 mil. - 2004: Euro 173.5 mil. - 2005: Euro 190.0 mil. 2006: Euro 206.0 mil. - 2007: Euro 210.5 mil. - 2008: Euro 190.0 mil. 2009: Euro 131.4 mil. - 2010: Euro 155.9 mil.

• CASALGRANDE PADANA Spa • NUOVA RIWAL CERAMICHE (Alfa Lux, Saime-SanProspero, Eurodomus, Riwal)

COOP. CERAMICA IMOLA GROUP

€ 162.2 million

The Group's turnover (net of infra-Group transactions) was generated by the following companies and/or brands: • CERAMICA DEL CONCA Spa • DEL CONCA USA Inc. • CERAMICA FAETANO SA (Rep. San Marino) • PASTORELLI Spa • PRODUCO Srl

The Ceramiche Ricchetti Group includes the following companies:

Production: 11.6 mil. sq.m (floor tiles 89% - wall tiles 11%) Exports: 70% Employees: 480

• CERAMICHE RICCHETTI GROUP (Ricchetti - Cisa - Cerdisa) • EVERS AS (Denmark) • KLINGENBERG DEKORAMIK GMBH (Germany)

In 2011, the Faetano Del Conca Group installed a production line for the new "Due" product, with a thickness of 20 mm, and a plant for the production of the patented "Del Conca Fast" dry tile installation system being launched in 2012.

»» 43

Tile International 2/2012

Economy & markets

SERENISSIMA CIR IND. CERAMICHE GROUP € 117.0 million (consolidated) 2003: Euro 75.1 mil. - 2004: Euro 85.0 mil. - 2005: Euro 94.1 mil. 2006: Euro 100.4 mil. - 2007: Euro 105.0 mil. - 2008: Euro 104.0 mil. 2009: Euro 92.8 mil. - 2010: Euro 100.3 mil.

Employees: 440 In 2011, the Group reaped the rewards of its previous year's investments in the rental of a plant in Ostellato (FR), which produced atomised material used entirely in the company's production cycle, and in the launch of digital decoration with Durst technology. In 2010, the company brought a photovoltaic system on-stream with total power of 1099 kW.

The Group's turnover was generated by the following companies and/or brands:

INDUSTRIE CERAMICHE PIEMME

• SERENISSIMA • CIR • CAPRI • CERCOM • CERASARDA • MOMO DESIGN CERAMICS • ExE Production: 7.8 mil. sq.m (floor tiles 84% - wall tiles 16%) Exports: 62% (EU 40% - Extra-EU 22%) Employees: 450

2008: Euro 89.5 mil. - 2009: Euro 71.6 mil. - 2010: Euro 80.3 mil. The Group's turnover was generated by the following companies and/or brands: • INDUSTRIE CERAMICHE PIEMME Spa • PIEMMEGRES • SICED

On 01/01/2011, the Group completed the purchase of the high-tech production plant of Impronta Ceramica in Rubiera, enabling it to increase its production capacity and extend its product range. In May 2012, the Group acquired Islatiles.

ABK GROUP

€ 80.4 million

• VALENTINO • CLUB

Production: 7.7 mil. sq.m (floor tiles 90% - wall tiles 10%) Exports: 75% Employees: 365

€ 104.8 million

2003: Euro 78.9 mil. - 2004: Euro 80.6 mil. - 2005: Euro 87.9 mil. 2006: Euro 92.5 mil. - 2007: Euro 102.2 mil. - 2008: Euro 105.1 mil. 2009: Euro 90.1 mil. - 2010: Euro 89.9 mil.

The 27-million-euro investment programme adopted by the Board of Directors at the end of 2010 is now in progress. The first phase was implemented in 2011, with 11 million euros allocated partly to the production plants of the main facility, and partly to reinforcing brand image through the development of highly distinguishing products and promotional activity for national and export markets.

The Group's turnover was generated by the following companies and/or brands:

FINCIBEC GROUP

• ABK Spa • ABKSIR (a division of ABK Group Spa) • ARIANA (a division of ABK Group Spa) • FLAVIKER-PISA (a division of ABK Group Spa)

2003: Euro 93.8 mil. - 2004: Euro 98.8 mil. - 2005: Euro 96.8 mil. 2006: Euro 100.2 mil. - 2007: Euro 99.8 mil. - 2008: Euro 85.2 mil. 2009: n.a. - 2010: Euro 70.8 mil.

Production: 4.4 mil. sq.m (floor tiles 74% - wall tiles 26%) Exports: 43% Employees: 327

The Group's turnover was generated by the following brands: • MONOCIBEC

In 2011, the Group invested over 3 million euros in digital printing technology, an edge-grinding plant, energy recovery from the kilns and atomiser and a grading system with digital vision.

GOLD ART CERAMICA GROUP

€ 100.0 million

(consolidated)

2003: Euro 63.1 mil. - 2004: Euro 64.4 mil. - 2005: Euro 72.3 mil. 2006: Euro 75.2 mil. - 2007: Euro 79.6 mil. - 2008: Euro 90.5 mil. 2009: Euro 77.7 mil. - 2010: Euro 88.2 mil.

• NAXOS

• CENTURY

Production: 6 mil. sq.m (floor tiles 77% - wall tiles 23%) Exports: 58% Employees: 447

GARDENIA-ORCHIDEA GROUP

€ 69.8 million

2003: Euro 102.2 mil. - 2004: Euro 98.0 mil. - 2005: Euro 98.0 mil. 2006: Euro 100.3 mil. - 2007: Euro 79.4 mil. - 2008: Euro 83.23 mil. 2009: Euro 70.2 mil. - 2010: Euro 70.8 mil.

The Group's turnover was generated by the following companies and/or brands:

• GOLD ART CERAMICA/ENERGIEKER Euro 60.5 million (of which 4.9 million in infra-Group sales of atomised material) • IL CAVALLINO CERAMICA ARTISTICA Euro 3.9 mil • MANIFATTURA COTTO TUSCANIA Euro 20.8 mil • GOLD ART POLSKA Euro 1.4 mil • CERAMICA MANDRIO CORREGGIO Euro 13.4 mil Production: 14.0 mil. sq.m (floor tiles 90% - wall tiles 10%) Exports: 55%

Tile International 2/2012

€ 70.6 million (consolidated)

• GARDENIA ORCHIDEA • CRYSTALKER

• GARFLOOR

• VERSACE HOME

Production: 3.7 mil. sq.m (floor tiles 55% - wall tiles 45%) Exports: 63% Employees: 340

Economy & markets

GRESMALT € 67.0 million (consolidated - data 2010*)

*The published data relate to 2010 and are from public sources.

2003: Euro 46.4 mil. - 2004: Euro 47.9 mil. - 2005: Euro 54.7 mil. 2006: Euro 59.3 mil. - 2007: Euro 68.3 mil. - 2008: Euro 65.0 mil. 2009: Euro 63.4 mil. The Group's turnover was generated by the following companies and/or brands: • SINTESI CERAMICA • ABITARE LA CERAMICA

• CERAMICHE DI FRASSINORO • GRESMALT

CERAMICHE SANT’AGOSTINO

€ 65.4 million*

*The published data relate to 2010 and are from public sources.

2003: Euro 61.7 mil. - 2004: Euro 71.3 mil. - 2005: Euro 73.0 mil. 2006: Euro 80.0 mil. - 2007: Euro 80.7 mil. - 2008: Euro 68.3 mil. 2009: Euro 66.0 mil.

ASCOT GROUP

€ 63.6 million

2003: Euro 51.5 mil. - 2004: Euro 55.0 mil. - 2005: Euro 56.0 mil. 2006: Euro 61.5 mil. - 2007: Euro 66.0 mil. - 2008: Euro 63.0 mil. 2009: Euro 52.0 mil. - 2010: Euro 59.0 mil.

C.B.S. (BARBOLINI) GROUP € 55.8 million (non-consolidated) 2003: Euro 62.0 mil. - 2004: Euro 63.5 mil. - 2005: Euro 63.5 mil. 2006: Euro 73.5 mil. - 2007: Euro 79.0 mil. - 2008: Euro 74.0 mil. 2009: Euro 62.0 mil. - 2010: Euro 64.0 mil. The Group's turnover was generated by the following companies and/or brands: • CERAMICA LA GUGLIA and KIS CERAMICHE 42.1 mil. euros • OTHER SATELLITE BRANDS 13.7 mil. euros Production: 7.4 mil. sq.m (floor tiles 56.5% - wall tiles 43.5%) Exports: 48.8% Employees: 224 2011 saw the launch of a streamlining and re-structuring programme involving the modernisation of the Sassuolo plant and the descommissioning of the Cà Del Bosco plant (in the province of Reggio Emilia).

COEM

2003: Euro 48.0 mil. - 2004: Euro 53.0 mil. - 2005: Euro 54.8 mil. 2006: Euro 61.8 mil. - 2007: Euro 62.2 mil. - 2008: Euro 52.4 mil. 2009: Euro 43.0 mil. - 2010: Euro 50.5 mil. The Group's turnover was generated by the following brands:

The Group's turnover was generated by the following companies and/or brands:

• CERAMICHE COEM

• ASCOT

Production: 6.3 mil. sq.m Exports: 53% Employees: 256

•DOM

Production: 6.2 mil. sq.m (floor tiles 66% - wall tiles 34%) Exports: 53% Employees: 276 In 2011, the Group also produced 2.9 million sq.m of Bitech white-body support in various formats, equating to approximately 25% of volumes sold.

RONDINE GROUP

€ 63.3 million (consolidated)

€ 54.7 million

• CERAMICA FIORANESE

Major investments in Research & Development are continuing in relation to new digitally printed graphics. Production also includes 2.16 million sq.m of body for glazing.

SICHENIA CERAMICHE GROUP

€ 50.0 million

(consolidated)

2003: Euro 58.8 mil. - 2004: Euro 58.0 mil. - 2005: Euro 60.0 mil. 2006: Euro 75.0 mil. - 2007: Euro 71.0 mil. - 2008: Euro 67.0 mil. 2009: Euro 46.8 mil. - 2010: Euro 56.3 mil.

2003: Euro 70.2 mil. - 2004: Euro 72.6 mil. - 2005: Euro 73.3 mil. 2006: Euro 75.1 mil. - 2007: Euro 70.2 mil. - 2008: Euro 67.1 mil. 2009: Euro 54.0 mil. - 2010: Euro 53.0 mil.

The Group's turnover was generated by the following companies and/or brands:

• RHS (Rondine - Hilton - Sassolgrande) • KERMONT • SPRAY DRY (ceramic body) • FONTANA-BISMANTOVA • SADON

• SICHENIA

Production: 6.6 mil. sq.m (floor tiles 100%) Exports 55% Employees: 290 On 1 March 2010, Rondine Group signed a five-year rental contract for Ceramiche Sadon, Italy's largest manufacturer of skirting boards and the prioprietor of Maioliche dell’Umbria, which specialises in small formats, with the right of option to purchase the commercial and production part of the company.

• PHORMA

• MAISON SICHENIA

Production: 3.8 mil. sq.m (floor tiles 82% - wall tiles 18%) Exports: 56% Employees: 330

CERINDUSTRIES

€ 47.0 million (consolidated)

listEuro on www.tileinternational.it 2003: Eurocomplete 61.0 mil. - 2004: 68.7 mil. - 2005: Euro 65.5 mil. 2006: Euro 67.0 mil. - 2007: Euro 75.0 mil. - 2008: Euro 58.0 mil. 2009: Euro 50.3 mil. - 2010: Euro 52.0 mil. Entire contents Copyright Tile Edizioni srl All right The Group's turnover was generated by reserved the following brands:

Tile International 2/2012

by Silvia Bertolani

Overcoming the crisis with creativity

Duravit @ Salone del Bagno

Ceramica Sant’Agostino @ Home & Spa Design



Not even the rain and bad weather stopped interior design devotees from taking part in the Salone Internazionale del Mobile in Milan (17-22 April 2012) and the Fuorisalone held concurrently as usual in the

Tile International 2/2012

Fiandre @ Università Statale

Lombard capital. Despite having a slightly less upbeat feel to it than usual, the figures for the 51st edition of the most keenly awaited interior design exhibition on the calendar were distinctly positive: total visitors to the Rho trade fair com-

plex reached 331,649, representing a rise of 3.5% in Italian trade visitors and 5.9% in trade visitors from outside Italy. “The results of this edition are outstanding, especially in view of the adverse economic climate in the run-up to the event,”

commented Carlo Guglielmi, Chairman of Cosmit. - Our worries were assuaged not only by the figures, but also by the satisfaction of exhibitors, who were brought into contact with real business opportunities and topquality trade attendees.” So de-

I Saloni

Laminam @ Brera Design District

MPE Ambiente @ Home & Spa Design

Brix @ Brera Design District

Tagina @ SuperstudiopiĂš

spite everything, the crisis thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gripping the world economy has not stopped companies from investing in Research & Development, and has not dented their faith in the importance of creative and technological development as the most effective means of fuelling the drivers of the world economy.

Tile International 2/2012

I Saloni Marazzi @ AD, La casa degli italiani

Del Conca @ The fiction hotel

This was exemplified by “Design Dance”, a show staged in the Teatro dell’Arte at the Triennale di Milano, which told the story of human civilisation through 456 classic and modern design objects brought to life by actors, acrobats, dancers and theatrical effects. The 75-minute show, which attracted a full house every night, featured flying sofas, musical tables and dancing

Tile International 2/2012

Lixil @ Superstudiopiù

Arpa @ Material Connexion

following installations: Ceramica del Conca (“The Fiction Hotel” in Via Tortona 26 and “Sense is Simple ‘THE SPA’” at Spazio Impluvium Triennale); Ceramica Sant’Agostino (“Surfing the Future-Home SPA by Marco Piva” at Home Spa Design); Ceramiche Coem (“DayDreamSpa” by Studio Bizzarro & Partners at Home Spa Design); Florim (“Impress” at the Florim Flagship Store in Milan); Laminam (“Qui serve un

lamps, provided by 200 companies from the furniture industry. The journey of innovation of ceramic was the theme of Ceramics of Italy’s “Ceramic Design Tour Milano”. Prestigious locations served as a backdrop for the tour, which was put together by seven of Italy’s top ceramic manufacturers, each of which contributed their style, research and creativity in the form of the

piano...” at Laminam’s Milan showroom); Lea Ceramiche (“Goccia by Krevitz Design” at Lea Ceramiche’s Milan Showroom), and Tagina Ceramiche (“Tagina Contract Advanced Ceramics” at Superstudio Più). In the quadrangles of Milan University, meanwhile, GranitiFiandre set up a study of innovative materials focusing on its Maximum collection, in partnership

I Saloni

Mosaico Digitale @ Home&Spa Design

Margaritelli @ Appartamento Lago, Brera Design District

Ceramica Incontro @ Spazio La Perla

The Salone and Fuorisalone included a host of other innovative ideas, such as BIhome, Bertolotto’s line of home furnishing products; its Aurea door from the Fashion collection, presented at the AD exhibition “La casa degli italiani 1861-2011”; and Prism by Incontroardito, which is a further development of the Bolla project, whose hexagonal structure allows for the creation of free patterns on the walls. At Superstudio Più, Incontroardito also exhibited the latest version of its domotic lighting control, using an interface on a tablet with a wireless connection to the wall.

The innovative processing of materials – from traditional ceramic to natural stone, silicone and Tecnoglass – was combined with expert craftsmanship and production know-how to create functionally and aesthetically advanced products. Duravit brings comfort and a light touch to the bathroom with the essential contours of its new Delos collection designed by EOOS. This complete furniture system is available in two real wood finishes and a white lacquered finish, and revolves around a console fixed with concealed supports that give it a floating appearance. The mirror, thanks in part to its mirror-finish profiles, contributes to the sense of harmony provided by the high and low columns and the elegant drawer units. And while Fir Italia presented its “Fir Bathroom Wellness” programme, aimed at delivering a unique shower experience involving water, lights and colours, Olympia expressed a strong sense of character with its new Formosa collection of washbasins, designed by Marcello Ziliani. Regia also embraced this new sense of wellbeing, with an almost “onomatopoeic” collection: Pouf is a washbasin available in Tecnoglass, LivingTec and transparent Vetroghiaccio, designed by Bruna Rapisarda.

Refined, essential design was the hallmark of the 4th edition of the biennial Salone del Bagno, which occupied two halls of the Rho trade fair complex. The creativity of the bathroom sector found expression in the vast range of natural products for bathroom furnishing, reflecting the transformation of an increasingly domestic, central, technological and customisable environment.

“We’re very pleased with the results of the work we’ve done so far,” announced Roberto Snaidero, Chairman of FederlegnoArredo. - The results and attention that the Saloni generate show the importance of the role they are capable of playing in boosting the Italian economy. Amid the enthusiasm, however, we mustn’t forget the difficulties that many companies are experiencing as a result of the cur-

with Odile Decq, a renowned French architect. “A sequence of ceramic sheets as white as a ream of paper provided the inspiration for creating an architecture designed to thrill and interact with the senses”: by harnessing the contrasts of Maximum ceramic sheets (in an exceptionally large format measuring 300x150 cm by just 6 mm thick), Decq created a basic and yet innovative architecture featuring a series of cuts that carve out a conical shape within the solid form. In this work, Odile Decq succeeded in combining two key aspects of ceramic: architectural tradition and future technology.

Tile International 2/2012

I Saloni

Ceramiche Piemme and Visionnaire @ Salone Del Mobile rent crisis, which in some cases has forced them to close or resort to redundancies. It is our duty to express our solidarity with the families of the employees of all our companies, in the knowledge that entrepreneurs and the workforce are currently engaged in a tough battle to overcome the crisis." “The industry,” continued Roberto Snaidero, “has reiterated to the government the potentially negative impact of increasing

Coem @ DayDreamSpa Refin @ Brera Design District

Tile International 2/2012

Florim @ Brera Design District Lenny Kravitz @ Lea Ceramiche foto by Paolo Crocenzi

VAT to 23% and has again put forward a proposal for facilitating young people by setting VAT at 4% for the purchase of initial home furniture and fittings. We have also lobbied vigorously for the lifting of the directive on payments. The Federation will continue to take all possible action to enable this trade event to grow further, and offer the highest standards of quality from one edition to the next.” 5

Hello Kitty by Gardenia Orchidea @ Salone Del Bagno Cotto Veneto @ Brera Design District

Fiction Hotel @ Zona Tortona

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to learning

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Scopri un

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www.iiea-school.it

Parquet

Parquet remains stable in Europe



After the first sharp drop in parquet production recorded in 2008 in the FEP member states (Fédération Européenne du Parquet), followed by another substantial fall in 2009, the trend went into reverse in 2010, with output rising by 4.11%, and was consolidated last year. The volume of parquet produced in Europe in 2011 amounted to 70.713 million square metres, representing a rise of 0.58% on 2010 (Table 1). The largest producer-countries are still Poland (17.61%), Germany (14.63%) and Sweden (13.26%) (Table 2). As regards total parquet production in 2011 by type, multi-

layer gained one percentage point. Solid wood flooring, however, after some years of stabilisation, saw a further fall to 20% of the total. Mosaic, meanwhile, with 2%, fell slightly compared with the previous year (Table 3). Sales of wood flooring in the FEP member states fell by 1.65% in 2011, to 91.475 million square metres, as against 93.005 million the previous year (Tables 4-5). These data, which were published by the FEP on 8 June at the federation’s annual meeting, held this year in Istanbul, testify to the stasis of the European parquet industry, and came as no surprise to anyone, in view of the international economic crisis that has hit Europe particularly hard, and all industries connected with the property sector. Aside from the effects of an economic and financial crisis of unprecedented severity, however, it should not be forgotten that the

market was already suffering from existing difficulties, such as increasing pressure from emerging economies, which have flooded the market with “throwaway” products, the continuous increases in raw materials costs and tighter credit conditions.

Parquet's share of the total European flooring market Data originating from various sources currently available to the FEP suggest that parquet’s share of the total European flooring market remains close to 6%.

Outlook for 2012 In view of the constantly improving picture for parquet on the overall EU market in 2010, the future looks encouraging. In general, the results in 2011 have been evolving positively in the

Table 1. - Parquet production in the FEP member countries Tables source: FEP statistics 2010

YEAR

000 SQM

+ / - 000 SQM

Table 2. - TOTAL FEP PRODUCTION PERCENTAGES FOR 2010 +/-%

2001

75,621

5,809

8.32%

2002

76,741

1,12

1.48%

2003

81,039

4,298

5.60%

2004

91,453

10,414

12.85%

2005

95,977

4,524

4.95%

2006

97,911

1,934

2.02%

2007

100,334

2,423

2.47%

2008

84,725

-15,609

-15.56%

2009

67,523

-17,202

-20.30%

2010

70,30

2,777

4,11%

2011

70.713

412

0,58%

Tile International 2/2012

past months, both as regards consumption and production, and the optimism of industry captains is strengthening mainly due to the progressive thickening of order books and the continuously improving economic climate. The same applies to the growing confidence of EU consumers. But, is it already appropriate to shout victory? The general upswing is regretfully not uniform for all markets within the FEP area – some are doing well, while others are still fighting hard to stabilize the situation, even if this is sometimes taking place at a low level. Amongst the economic indicators that the European Commission constantly monitors, one refuses to follow the general trend: yes, the construction sector. In addition, raw material prices are increasing, the euro is still (too) strong versus the USD and our

Parquet

Table 4. Consumption development COUNTRY

Table 3. - production per type Percentages 2011

industry continues the fierce fight with cheap imports on a playing field which is frequently neither level nor fair. Reason enough to remain constantly vigilant, without at the same time allowing unfounded worries to impede creative thinking

and interfere with the positive business attitude. The parquet industry has fought many hard battles and has always managed to secure its position amongst alternative flooring solutions, and over the years even increase its share. Parquet is

and remains unique. No need to change this disposition. FEP hopes that 2011 will hence bring a further upturn for our industry. Parquet remains a much desired flooring product, a warm, environmentally friendly, sustainable and natural interior solution. In other words, it fulfils all inherent conditions demanded from a modern product if it is to meet the basic criteria of sustainable development. Behind an ever expanding, innovative and versatile product range, stands a growing number of young and competent entrepreneurs – the best guarantee that the parquet business will maximise the opportunities provided by the long-awaited economic recovery. Reason enough to look at the future with a strong dose of realistic optimism. In any case, the options are limited in this context and as

10/09

11/10

0.27%

14.24

-3.00%

-5.01

4.51%

5.77

-33.33%

-5.00

22.30%

6.68

-10.70%

-12.64

9.42%

-6.46

-26.53%

-27.78

0.00%

0.00

-3.05%

-13.48

0.72%

-7.77

-5.59%

0.69

29.07%

-6.11

DK / FIN / NO

43.59%

-19.87

11.32%

15.59

FEP Total

+6.81%

-1.65

a wise man said a long time ago: “Fear is a bad advisor”! The FEP will continue doing its utmost to assist and support all its members wherever possible to jointly pave the road towards a prosperous future for our entire sector. 5

Table 5. - PRODUCTION AND CONSUMPTION (SQ.M)

Tile International 2/2012

Project by Sara Falsetti

“All-round” wellness in Iserlohn (Germany)



The Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten in the German town of Iserlohn recently inaugurated a sophisticated new Wellness Centre, built according to the ambitious plans of its architect, Walter Ebeling. The area shown in the photograph represents a perfect combination of painstaking design and technological innovation: the elaborate interplay of curved elements gives a particularly pleasing feel to the Wellness Area of this luxurious, family-run hotel.

The mosaics The substrate was created using innovative Schlüter®-KERDIBOARD panels, which can be used to create perfectly flat, waterproof walls, even in complex architectural forms. In the Wellness Area of the Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten, it was thus possible to install the “Bisazza” mosaic to perfection, even on tight curves, by applying the small glass pieces directly to the Schlüter®-KERDI-BOARD curvable panels. Schlüter®-KERDI-BOARD consists of an extruded polystyrene foam core with a cement-free reinforcing layer on both sides, covered with non-woven fabric. As well as being completely flat, the panel is not subject to any kind of alteration or deterioration, and is highly stable even in the presence of high humidity and thermal stress levels. Available in var-

Tile International 2/2012

ious sizes and thicknesses (5, 9, 12.5, 19, 28, 38 and 50 mm), Schlüter®-KERDI-BOARD covers an extensive range of application solutions. These characteristics made it possible to build the structure in full accordance with the architect’s drawings, while ensuring correct waterproofing and short construction times.

The showers Special attention was paid to the shower area, for which the architect insisted on an absence of architectural barriers to access, with a view to enhancing comfort and facilitating cleaning. This requirement was successfully met thanks to the new

Schlüter®-KERDI-LINE system, a complete package for the construction of curbless showers.The system includes a wide range of modular components that combine with each other perfectly, thus ensuring the utmost design flexibility and totally reliable results. The corners and edges of the tiled surfaces were protected

Project

The specifiers chose Schl端ter速-KERDI-LINE drainage profiles in V4A / AISI 316 steel for maximum corrosionresistance Thanks to the curvability of Schl端ter profiles, it was possible to create a curved structure around the pool-side. 55

Tile International 2/2012

Project The staircase structure was made with Schlüter-®-KERDI-BOARD and Schlüter-® curvable profiles. To maximise corrosion-resistance, AISI 316 steel profiles were used in the areas most exposed to moisture

and embellished with SchlüterSystems profiles, because to complement its other systems, the German multinational offers a wide range of decorative trims and profiles in many different sizes and materials. Thanks to their wide variety of finishes, what’s more, they combine perfectly with any type of covering, while offering designers plenty of scope for creating elegant, custom solutions, which are also safe and functional. In this specific case, extensive use was made of the possibility of curving the profiles, so as to make them follow the complex designs developed by the architect.

The waterproofing The sophisticated shape of the pool posed a particular challenge for the installers when it came to the waterproofing. The problem was solved by choosing Schlüter®-KERDI soft polythene waterproofing membrane, which provides the right solution to an array of waterproofing problems, because of its adaptability to any type of design. The new Wellness Centre has injected new flair into the four-star Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten. Whereas the hotel’s clientele previously consisted chiefly of business people on short trips, it now attracts a much higher influx of guests at weekends and holiday periods, thanks to the addition of this extra facility. 5

Tile International 2/2012

7point5.it

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Maxfine is here, the first technical porcelain slab with extraordinary dimensions: 1.5 metres wide, 3 metres long and a choice of thickness between 3 mm or 6 mm. Maxfine tiles are flexible, resistant, lightweight and environmentally friendly, providing limitless possibilities for your projects and complete architectural sustainability.

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Mosaic by Silvia Bertolani

Joining the pieces, from first to last Evolution, progress and crisis. Research, market expansion and market collapse. Political, climatic and media storms. And then the perennial return to calm. The situation facing us today is like a whirlwind of disparate inputs, in which it’s not always easy to get your bearings. The same applies to the world of building, and interior finishings in particular, in which economic difficulties often put a spanner in the works of evolution. All the same, the quality of Italian design and production, by virtue of which Italy’s tile industry retains its worldwide leadership, has always been a dependable path to follow. This common denominator joins the most divergent types of coverings, which like pieces of a mosaic, bring value and prominence to the industry’s leading manufacturers. It's in the light of these considerations that Tile Interna-

Picture : Cotto Veneto picture by Giancarlo Pradelli

tional has decided again this year to shine a spotlight on mosaic: that ancient, painterly medium, whose material and aesthetic geometry constitutes the key distinguishing feature by which it has stood out, from antiquity to the present day. Whether glass, ceramic or inlaid with wood, mosaic – now more than ever – represents an innovative design solution, offering countless opportunities for personal expression, from the simplest geometric patterns to the most extreme forms of creative experimentation. Like valuable paintings, mosaics adorn the walls of public and private buildings alike, both within and beyond the traditional boundaries of bathrooms and wellness areas. So here is a glimpse of some of the key players, who together with Tile International, have contributed to highlighting the charm of traditional mosaic once again, through a series of increasingly modern interpretations. 5

Tile International 2/2012

Mosaic

VITRA

KALE

Name: VitrA Mosaics Description: Warm, natural hues, earth colors and organic forms. Warm - cold, light - dark contradictions created on the surfaces and colors emphasize the dimensions of freedom and naturalness. Nature animates in interior spaces with all its generosity.

Name: Kale Glass Mosaic Description: it offers new aesthetic solutions by bringing the shiny touch of glass to fashionable and sophisticated spaces (interior and exterior surfaces including walls, floors and column). It is available in a broad palette of striking single color or multicolor options.

trend

LEONARDO CERAMICA

Name: Toys Description: Mosaics with myriad nuances of colour in two different sizes (1x1 and 2x2 cm) for creating a wide range of graphic and geometric effects on walls and floors alike. This allows designers maximum scope for meeting the requirements of all types of end-user.

Name: Luxury Description: Thanks to the use of exceptionally high-definition, innovative, digital technology, these tiles offer sophisticated chromatic variegation, and are available in four sizes. Produced with a choice of two different finishes â&#x20AC;&#x201C; natural and ultra-gloss â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the collection comes in six different colours).

Tile International 2/2012

Mosaic

abax

arezia

Name: Lava Description: Drawing inspiration from the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most beautiful volcanoes, Lava consists of a black porcelain stoneware support decorated with elegantly coloured, precious glazes, such as gold and platinum. Available in 8 colours, plus several rich blends.

Name: Mosaici Preziosi Description: This completely hand-made mosaic is available in the colours Noir/Oro and Blanc/Platino Matt. The photo shows the Chateau Noir/Oro accent in size 29.5x29.5 cm.

asper studio

friul mosaic

Name: Flower-light by Uno Description: Asper Studioâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mosaics are the fruit of a 20-year partnership with the Spanish company Reviglass. The collections are all eco-sustainable: they are made of 100% glass, which is also recyclable, thus generating savings in the consumption of energy and raw materials.

Tile International 2/2012

Name: Miscele di Evolution Description: A collection with a contemporary character, consisting of vitreous mosaic pieces in soft but warm, embracing and vital colours, which blend with each other in almost random patterns. Available in three colours Amazzonia (pictured), Giava and Madera.

Mosaic

mosaico +

ideal legno

Name: Area25 Description: Sintered glass mosaic consisting of 50x50 mm square pieces with a thickness of 6 mm, mounted in a sheet measuring 318x318 mm. Available with a grip finish, whose coefficient of friction gives the product an R12 / Class A+B slip-resistance rating.

Name: Wood mosaic Description: 44 mm of hardwood with a protective coating, bevelled on all four sides, on a 4 mm technical support. Available in various woods and finishes, in sizes 23x23, 47.5x23 and 47.5x47.5 mm.

Appiani

vietri antico

Name: Anthologhia Description: Ceramic mosaic in “monopressocottura” in pieces measuring 1x1 cm or 2.5x2.5 cm pre-mounted on 30x30 cm mesh. Available in 36 basic colours and an infinite range of blends.

Name: I Contemporanei - Collezione Fondali Description: A series of mosaics featuring the typical colours of Vietri ceramic. Mounted on a semi-manual support, these mosaics come in a range of sizes, from geometric shards of colour (“Schegge”, pictured) up to a 60x60 cm format.

Tile International 2/2012

Exhibition Calendar More exhibitions on www.CeramicWorldWeb.it BUILD ASIA (Building) Karachi (Pakistan) -11/13 September 2012 ABITARE IL TEMPO Verona (Italy) - 21/23 October 2012 INDEX (Interior design and finishings) Dubai (UAE) - 24/27 September 2012 TECNARGILLA (Ceramic production machinery and technologies) Rimini (Italy) - 24/28 September 2012 CERSAIE (Ceramic tiles and bathroom furnishing) Bologna (Italy) - 25/29 September 2012 MADE EXPO (Building) Milan (Italy) - 17/20 October 2012 SAIE (Building) Bologna (Italy) - 18/21 October 2012 THE BIG 5 SHOW (Building) Dubai (UAE) - 5/8 November 2012 BATIMAT (Building) Paris (France) - 7/12 November 2012 DOMOTEX MIDDLE EAST (Floor and wall coverings, finishings) Istanbul (Turkey) - 8/11 November 2012 BAU (Building) Munich (Germany) - 14/19 January 2013 SURFACES (Floor and wall coverings) Las Vegas, Nevada (USA) - 29/31 January 2013 BUDMA (Building) Poznan (Poland) - 29 January / 1 February 2013 CEVISAMA (Ceramic floor and wall coverings, bathroom furnishing) Valencia (Spain) - 5/8 February 2013 BAUTEC (Building) Berlin (Germany) - 21/25 February 2013 ISH (Building and refrigeration, energy technology, bathrooms) Frankfurt (Germany) - 12/16 March 2013 KITCHEN & BATH INDUSTRY SHOW New Orleans (USA) - 19/21 April 2013 COVERINGS (Floor and wall coverings in ceramic and natural stone) Atlanta, Georgia (USA) - 29 April / 2 May 2013

Tile International 2/2012

countries of origin of turnover of of visitors represented sector

of recent innovations presented at the fair

THE FUTURE OF CERAMICS

23th International Exhibition of Technology and Supplies for the Ceramic and Brick Industries

organized by

www.tecnargilla.it

in cooperation with

omniadvert.com

Advertising

, foreign visitors

25-29 SePTeMBeR 2012 www.cersaie.it

Organized by EDI.CER. spa

Promoted by ConfInDustRIa CERamICa

In collaboration with

show management: PROMOS srl - P.O. Box 37 - 40050 CENTERGROSS BOLOGNA (Italy) - Tel. +39.051.6646000 - Fax +39.051.862514 Press office: EDI.CER. spa - Viale Monte Santo 40 - 41049 SASSUOLO MO (Italy) - Tel. +39.0536.804585 - Fax +39.0536.806510

Advertising

ARMANDO TESTA

h ot e bo lin e n- lin to n ke /o tic it e ie. fre sa r .ce w w w Grazia Piccininno for Cersaie 2012 University of Genova, Architecture Faculty

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Linear drainage channels & grate / frame combinations and frameless covering support Linienentwässerung & Rost- / Rahmenkombinationen sowie rahmenlose Rinnenabdeckung für alle Belagstärken

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Sloped trays and levelling boards Gefälle- und Ausgleichsboards

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Wall transition and sloped profile Wand-Anschluss- und Gefälleprofil

Schlüter®-profILe Technical & design with stainless steel Technik & Design mit Edelstahl

 finishing profiles for floor coverings Belagsabschlüsse am Boden

 wall corners and finishing profiles Wandecken und Abschlüsse

 Stair nosing profiles Treppenprofile

joint and  Movement stress relieving profiles Bewegungsfugen- und Entspannungsprofile

Schlüter-Systems KG · Schmölestraße 7 · D-58640 Iserlohn · Tel.: +49 2371 971-0 · Fax: +49 2371 971-111 · www.schlueter-systems.com