ConcreteDirect, a digital solutions brand of LafargeHolcim Ltd., has selected Amsterdam-based HERE Technologies as mapping and location services provider. ConcreteDirect manages orders and tracks deliveries of ready mixed concrete through a mobile application, available on iOS and Android. Customers can place, amend and confirm orders in just a few taps, and subsequently view upcoming deliveries and receive important notifications at their fingertips. They can likewise track the progress of ongoing pours, always informed of where their concrete is and when it arrives.
Supported by HERE Location Services, ConcreteDirect targets more precise estimated times of arrival for customers and drivers, aided by routing algorithms that draw on real-time, predictive and historical traffic data. “Efficient delivery is a key lever of our value proposition,” says ConcreteDirect General Manager, Digital Solutions Sean Ali. “The service from HERE enables timely deliveries of ready-mixed concrete, which are often on the critical path to success for our customers’ projects. Equivalently, it is a critical tool for our drivers as they navigate the stress of congested city roads. Our shared commitment to open innovation makes this partnership valuable both for today and for the changes that will occur tomorrow.”
“World-class logistics requires an enterprise grade mapping platform,” adds HERE Technologies Vice President Erminio Di Paola. “Our visibility into live road conditions, advanced routing algorithms and other location tools enable us to support ConcreteDirect in the effective planning and execution of its daily fleet operations.”
A merger and acquisition specialist serving privately held businesses, Generational Equity has announced the sale of its client, Norwalk Tank Co., to Minnick Services Corp. of Fort Wayne, Ind. Joliet, Ill.-based Norwalk specializes in underground precast structures for drainage and sewer infrastructure. Its plant capacity and output augment Minnick Services’ concrete division, which produces conventional manholes; licensed Redi-Rock retaining wall and Pole Base utility lighting component brands; plus, Wilbert and Triguard burial vaults tied to a sister funeral services division.
The deal “brings together two great family-owned and run companies,” says Generational Equity’s Stephen Dinehart. “Minnick Services ensures continuity in the great customer service Norwalk has always provided to its market, and creates new opportunities for their new team members to continue professional growth.”
On the heels of a professional grade mix launch at World of Concrete 2019, Sakrete has followed up with Pro-Mix, a portfolio of concrete repair products. Formulated for commercial and industrial applications, the mixes exhibit workability and strength characteristics professionals need to complete challenging jobs with confidence. All are formulated to deliver accelerated set times with double the working time of other fast-setting concrete mixes. Pro-Mix debuts with:
- Accelerated Concrete Mix. A high-performance concrete developing 7,000-psi compressive strength and capable of bearing foot traffic in under one hour.
- All-Purpose Cement Mix. Engineered for every commercial project, including vertical and horizontal applications, it develops 9,000-psi compressive strength and exhibits and exceptional feather-edge finishing performance.
- Concrete Repair. Suits vertical, horizontal and overhead applications, it develops strength exceeding 7,000 psi and is equal to challenging repair conditions.
“Sakrete formulated Pro-Mix to address that sweet spot for professionals—a strong, fast-setting concrete that doesn’t set so quickly that it isn’t workable,” says Sakrete North America Senior Vice President Cory Olson. “Pro-Mix is the only pro-grade concrete repair product that delivers the perfect combination of speed, strength and workability to get the job done right.”
Eagle Roofing Products, Rialto, Calif.-based concrete tile market leader, projects a spring 2020 completion for a 90,000-sq.-ft. addition to its Sumterville, Fla., operation. The massive enclosure will provide space for a fourth high speed concrete tile production line, plus added raw material storage and a growing component offering, led by the new Eagle Armor by APOC self-adhered underlayment.
“Enhancing capacity is a two-step process,” says Vice President of Sales and marketing John Campbell. “We began with 40,000 new flat tile molds to add greater flexibility and meet the exceedingly popular architectural trends that support flat tile growth. The second phase is the construction of the fourth line. The equipment is built and we are currently preparing the material delivery systems to support the new line.”
Concurrent with Sumterville plant upgrades, he adds, Eagle Roofing Products will begin construction of a new West Palm Beach stocking facility to better assist its southeast Florida customers.