LATICRETE, introduced its new, Dry Mortar Plant, Research & Development Centre and Technical Training Facility in Hyderabad, India on October 11th. A number of spirited festivities took place, each reinforcing the strong commitment LATICRETE has made relative to doing business the right way, working within the world's second most populous country. The new factory, which was designed by Italy's LB Technologies, replaces the previous facility at the same location. It was officially inaugurated by Katherine Dhanani, Consul-General, US Consulate, Hyderabad, India, who delivered a rousing speech touching upon the importance of US/India relations.  A solid showing of LATICRETE personnel from around the globe were on hand for the events, which included David A. Rothberg, CEO/Chairman, Erno de Bruijn, President International Division and Faisal Saleem, Senior Director of International Business Development.

"Continued growth in India fits perfectly in our international expansion program for developing markets," said de Bruijn. "Our successful experiences in China, India, Singapore and the Arabian Gulf, where we already have leading positions, have helped to better develop business plans for additional markets in Southeast Asia, Latin America and Africa."

"LATICRETE has a enjoyed a strong presence in India," added Saleem. "Our firm was one of the very first international companies to open doors in India. Since that beginning, the company has grown. We now employ over 500 people and have 21 offices and warehouses throughout the nation. During this growth period, we have always stayed true to the core foundations of LATICRETE, which consist of strong, ongoing programs of education and training. These programs will always continue," Saleem said. "As will our philosophy of always having state-of-the-art, fully-equipped facilities managed by highly qualified professionals."

Muralidhar Yadama, Managing Director, MYK LATICRETE India commented, "Right now, we have two plants in India; this one in Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh state and another in Sotanala, Ranasthan state. A third factory is currently under construction in Perundarai, Tamil Nadu state, which should be completed in Q1 of 2013. Plans are on the drawing board to build additional factories in the next five years so that we may serve India's needs at an even higher level."

MYK LATICRETE India is ISO 9001:2000 certified, and as an industry leader in terms of sales and branding for tile and stone installation materials throughout India.

The MYK LATICRETE India Dry Mortar Plant is one of the most technologically-advanced factories in India. For example, it has a fully automated dosing and mixing system… and, a capacity of producing over 170,000 metric tons per year. It has been designed with a multi-silo system allowing the production of LATICRETE materials both for today and into the future.

Rothberg, who cut the ribbon for the grand opening of the new Technical Training Centre, added, "At LATICRETE, we've always acknowledged the significance of the economy of India and the positive impact it has not only domestically, but globally, as well. As it is throughout the world, our pledge to grow business in India is resolute. We have long-term plans with our Indian business partners; together we are committed to mutual respect, fair dealing, and making the world a better place.”