Argentina Block Association Members Find Product Innovation in Spain

While attending the annual Argentina Block Association conference last year, our regional sales manager, Oriol Armadás, discussed the possibility of having a group of Association members tour some progressive European concrete products producer facilities in Spain to see firsthand the exciting innovation occurring in our industry.  Mr. Claudio Defagot, President of the Association, mentioned to Oriol that the market in Argentina is down about 20%, which is prompting producers to look into new, value-added products to add to their product line. Mr. Ricardo Manzur, Director of Full Block, Mr. Manuel Manzur, Plant Manager of Full Block, and Mr. Gastón Defagot, Director of Corblock were also included in discussions. To accommodate their interest in new product opportunities, Oriol arranged meetings with four Besser customers in Spain and a meeting with Spanish Block Association Andece board members just prior to April's Bauma show.  Personal tours were held at Bloquest Granada, Prefraga, Breinco Landscaping, and Torho S.A.  While at each site, the group spent time evaluating the concrete products developed from existing and emerging trends and watched the in-plant product enhancement technology that made production possible.  They also toured each plant’s research and development centers, viewed the outdoor display areas, and held in-depth discussions with key plant employees in topics ranging from production to marketing. Networking is key to the continued growth and success of our industry.  Besser extends our gratitude towards the very helpful and accommodating teams at Andece, Bloquest Granada, Prefraga, Breinco, and Torho for welcoming and sharing their valuable knowledge with the Argentina Block Association.  These producers will use their new knowledge to expand their product lines and improve  business going into 2016 and beyond. [gallery columns="4" link="file" ids="4019,4016,4013,4010,4007,4004,4001,3998,3995,3992"]