Saudi Arabia: Ready-mix concrete producer Asas Al-Mohileb has secured a contract with the development company for the upcoming Neom new city in Tabuk Province. Asas Al-Mohileb will build a US$186m, 20,000m³/yr ready-mix concrete production complex at the Neom site, to supply concrete for the Line commercial and residential development in the city. The ‘high-tech’ complex will begin to produce concrete in November 2024. When fully operational in 2025, it will employ 500 people.

Construction of foundations for the Line is currently underway, with 1000 of an eventual 30,000 precast concrete piles already in place.

Asas Al-Mohileb CEO Sulaiman Al-Mohileb said “This partnership emphasises our firm commitment to advancing economic growth in the Kingdom by employing the latest technologies and innovative construction solutions. We are dedicated to adopting sustainable practices that align with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which focus on empowering the manufacturing sector and enhancing its role in driving the Kingdom’s broader development objectives.”

Neom CEO Nadhmi Al-Nasr said “The delivery of these concrete plants is another testament to the rapid progress happening at Neom. It also underscores the strength of the kingdom’s construction industry, and the critical role local partnerships play in delivering this transformational project efficiently and sustainably. We are proud to partner with local contractors and appreciate their contribution to Neom’s advancement across our portfolio of projects, fulfilling Neom's goal of becoming a hub for local industry leaders and entrepreneurs in support of Saudi Vision 2030.”

Australia: Ready-mix concrete producer Baines Concrete says that it will shut up shop in October 2024, ending its 45 years’ service to the construction sector in Woonona, New South Wales. Local press has reported that the producer took the decision to close based on the present economic climate. Allied company Baines Masonry Blocks will continue to operate its Appin block and paving products plant.

General manager Bill Hudson said "Despite our best efforts to sustain the business, the ongoing economic conditions have forced us to make this difficult decision. Our primary focus is to ensure a smooth transition for our clients, suppliers and partners alike. We are committed to fulfilling any outstanding obligations to the best of our abilities before the closure date."

US: Premier Concrete Products is expanding its Livingston Parish concrete plant in Louisiana with the construction of a new concrete pipes production unit. The company plans to invest US$10m in the line. It will employ 33 workers when operational later in 2024. It will be equipped with an automated concrete batching system, ‘high-level’ curing equipment and overhead cranes.

President Cody Colvin said “We are excited about the partnership we have with the Livingston Parish community.” He added, “This expansion will add jobs and will serve to satisfy a shortage of precast concrete infrastructure that currently exists in Louisiana and the Southern US. We are very excited to work with Livingston Parish President Randy Delatte and the whole Livingston community.”

UK: Shane Clee has acquired Forden Concrete Products, with the help of a €54,000 loan from the Development Bank of Wales. Forden Concrete Products specialises in feed and water troughs, slurry systems and foot baths for the dairy sector. Business Sale Report News has reported that the company is planning to expand its product range with an upcoming line of concrete wall panels for use in garden fencing.

Director Shane Clee said “After 24 years with Forden, this is a great opportunity to take on the business myself and work with our close-knit team to continue doing what we love and know best.”

Development Bank of Wales investment executive James Ryan said “We’re pleased to have been able to help Shane to become the new owner of Forden, particularly as it is a well-established business that employs local people. We wish the team every success.”