3Q: Dan Mircescu, general manager, Final Distribution

How would you describe the local construction materials market in terms of competitiveness, especially the gutters and downspouts production?

The local rain systems market (gutters and downspouts) has so far been dominated by importers. It is estimated at EUR 20 million, of which local production represents less than 30 percent. In this context, we concluded that this was a niche with growth potential and we decided to reinvent ourselves after five years of activity as an importer and distributor on the Romanian market of premium roofing tiling products. So we entered strongly on the production segment through our own brand of gutters and downspouts – Novatik, which completes our roof products portfolio.

We charge a competitive price for the Novatik system, made possible through its local production, which makes it accessible to most clients. What’s more, we have the advantage of offering four distinct product categories in the Novatik range. For the first year of activity on the rain system products market, we aim to reach a market share of 5 percent in Romania.

We understand that you will focus your strategy on exports in the near future. What are your specific plans in this regard and how much will you invest?

Currently, we are discussing the export of products in the Novatik range with potential business partners. The investments in starting exports will focus on improving efficiency and increasing the production capacity of the line in Baicoi, Prahova. Currently, the production line has a volume for gutters of 3.5 million ml/year and 1 million ml/year for downpipes, following an investment of EUR 500,000 in the second half of last year. In 2011, we will continue to make investments of around EUR 300,000 in equipment for the production of accessories and components for the Novatik system.

Do you also plan on expanding your production line to include other materials?

For the moment, we are focusing on the development of the new segment of activity, the production of Novatik gutters and downspouts. We will continue to make investments to reach a larger share on the Romanian market and develop towards export.