The tech-edge era of construction chemicals

This interaction highlights the importance of technology, sustainability, and innovation in the building chemicals industry. Mapei's initiatives are altering building practices to ensure a stronger, smarter, and more sustainable future for construction chemicals.

- 

Looking ahead, what is your 3-5 year vision for leveraging technology in procurement to further enhance profitability and competitive advantage in your sector?

A vision for utilising technology in procurement within the building chemicals sector should enhance supply chain resilience and sustainability, while also increasing profitability and competitiveness. Implement demand forecasting models that link raw material procurement to current market trends, sales predictions, and project pipelines. In terms of sustainable solutions, there would be a need to launch 2-3 vendors who manufacture sustainable items.

What are the primary challenges or barriers you face in fully embracing and implementing advanced digital technologies within your procurement and operational workflows?

Construction chemicals often involve a complex value chain with multiple levels of suppliers, distributors, contractors, and clients, many of whom still rely on outdated systems or manual processes. Poor data accessibility and dispersed procurement intelligence. Many vendors are not tech-savvy; they place orders, provide quotes, and negotiate over the phone or via email. That lacks real-time supply chain visibility.

Our reliance on unpredictable commodity markets (such as petroleum derivatives and epoxy resins) creates unpredictability in strategic sourcing. That impact procurement becomes reactive, with a focus on firefighting rather than optimisation.

What cutting-edge waterproofing technologies are you developing to ensure long-term structural integrity and prevent moisture damage?