June 21, 2012 – Concrete Products

Economists differ on 2013 construction market outlook

June 21, 2012 Concrete News

Sources: Associated Builders and Contractors, Arlington, Va.; CP Staff

During a June 20 national online news conference, American Institute of Architects Chief Economist Kermit Baker, National Association of Home Builders Chief Economist David Crowe and ABC Chief Economist Anirban Basu shared their thoughts on the 2013 construction market forecast. Baker began by reinforcing the market’s state: “Construction unfortunately is the last major sector in the economy yet to recover from this downturn we’ve been through. We’ve seen some progress on the residential side and really none yet in non-residential construction activity.”

Propex, Brock White extend Fibermesh presence in Canada

June 21, 2012 Concrete News

Source: Propex Operating Co. in Chattanooga, Tenn.

Propex’s Fibermesh brand of concrete reinforcing fibers will be available in western Canadian markets through Brock White, a St. Paul, Minn.-based construction materials distributor with 14 upper Midwest locations, plus 10 additional outlets north of the border.

Euclid adds Brazilian admixture business

June 21, 2012 Concrete News

Source: RPM International, Cleveland

RPM International Inc. has acquired Viapol Ltda., a leading Brazilian manufacturer and marketer of building materials and construction products, including concrete admixtures. Based in Cacapava, near Sao Paulo, with annual sales of approximately $85 million, Viapol will become part of RPM’s Euclid Chemical Co.