Economy & Market

SHUBHANGI TIRODKAR of Bakul Corporation has been a dealer since 1975

Published

14 years ago

January 8, 2011

admin

Dealers and stockists are the vital link of cement industry. They are the people, who are in constant touch with the user industry. They can be rightly said to be the ‘pulse of the industry’. Through this column, we bring to you the voice of the dealers and stockists, featuring their suggestions, expectations and much more, for a better tomorrow for the industry.SHUBHANGI TIRODKAR of Bakul Corporation has been a dealer since 1975. Bakul Corporation is now an exclusive Ultratech Cement stockiest. The company supplies cement in Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, Raighad and surrounding areas. When asked about the largest selling cement. Tirodkar replied, "we are exclusive Ultratech Cement stockiest, and it is the largest selling brand, due to its ability to supply more quantity (with rail, road and sea routes) along with the brand image has ensured its position as the leading brand in Mumbai region". "PPC sells more", replied Tirodkar and added that in OPC cement, ISI code specifies only 33, 43 and 53 Grade of which 53 Grade is the largest selling grade in Mumbai. The volatility in cement prices affects business and "price depends on the demand supply and the season," said Tirodkar. "The customers are price conscious, but they are willing to pay a premium for quality and smooth supply," said Tirodkar. Fifty per cent of sales from Bakul Corporation is to institutional sales and retail sales. The company’s monthly dispatch is 2,000 bags (in stock at counter). To improve sales, Tirodkar suggested "better marketing and timely dispatches". When asked about packaging, Tirodkar said bag should come with handle to avoid loss of cement during handling and laminated bags should be used. Tirodkar said inadequate railway infrastructure in terms of rakes, unloading platforms and labour issues are the causes of logistic delays. About the government move to GST, Tirodkar said, "the GST will be very beneficial to the cement industry only if the octroi and CESS are removed and there is a uniform taxation structure".

Concrete

thyssenkrupp Polysius, SaltX partner for electrified production

Published

5 hours ago

March 12, 2025

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thyssenkrupp Polysius and Swedish startup SaltX have signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) to co-develop the next generation of electrified production facilities, advancing industrial decarbonisation. Their collaboration will integrate SaltX’s patented Electric Arc Calciner (EAC) technology into thyssenkrupp Polysius’ green system solutions, enabling electric calcination, replacing fossil fuels with renewable energy, and capturing CO2 for emission-free production. Dr Luc Rudowski, Head of Innovation, thyssenkrupp Polysius, emphasised that this partnership expands their portfolio of sustainable solutions, particularly in cement, lime, and Direct-Air-Capture (DAC). Lina Jorheden, CEO, SaltX, highlighted the significant CO2 reduction potential, reinforcing their commitment to sustainable industrial processes.

Concrete

Terra CO2 secures $82m to scale low-carbon cement technology

Published

5 hours ago

March 12, 2025

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Terra CO2, a US-based sustainable building materials company, has raised $82 million in Series B funding, co-led by Just Climate, Eagle Materials and GenZero, with continued support from Breakthrough Energy Ventures. The investment will accelerate the commercial deployment of Terra’s OPUS technology, enabling the construction of multiple production facilities across North America and Europe. With the cement industry responsible for 8 per cent of global CO2 emissions, Terra’s solution provides an immediate, scalable alternative using abundant raw materials that integrate seamlessly with existing infrastructure. The company has secured key partnerships, including a deal with Eagle Materials for multiple 240,000-tonne plants.

Concrete

Titan Cement Group enters South Asia

Published

5 hours ago

March 12, 2025

Roshna

Titan Cement Group has expanded into the South Asian market through a joint venture with JAYCEE, an India-based producer of supplementary cementitious materials. Titan will hold a majority stake in the newly formed company, Atlas EcoSolutions, which will focus on sourcing, processing, marketing, and distributing SCMs globally. This initiative aims to support sustainable construction by promoting alternatives to clinker-based cement. Jean-Philippe Benard, Head of Supply Chain and Energy Development, emphasised that the venture aligns with Titan’s strategy to lead in low-carbon building materials while reinforcing its commitment to sustainability and innovation. The move strengthens Titan’s position in a high-growth market while ensuring long-term access to SCMs.