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The tile industry was hit hard by
the global economic crisis |
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The global economic crisis mounted severe pressure on the world’s kaolin producers, which were hit hard by their high exposure to slumping ceramics and construction markets.
Speaking to IM, independent UK-based producer Goonvean explained that recovering demand from pre-crisis customers, coupled with the group’s efforts to exploit new markets have boosted revenues and paved the way for a more certain future.
Severe reductions in demand were seen in the sanitaryware, tableware, and wall and floor tile sectors – areas that were strong prior to the financial crisis.
“The adhesives and coatings markets are becoming increasingly important to us,” Justin Hicks, technical sales manager at Goonvean explained.
“These sectors (non-paper, non-ceramic) now account for approaching 30% of the kaolin volumes sold,” he added.