Welsh company, Concrete Canvas, has seen its innovative flexible concrete fabric used in construction and civil engineering projects all over the world.
The manufacturer, which is based in Pontyclun in South Wales, creates a flexible cement material that hardens on hydration to form a thin, durable, waterproof and fireproof concrete layer.
Its products, which are chemically resistant, highly impermeable and prevent erosion, were originally intended for use in disaster relief but have gone on to have a range of applications, including in shelter construction and water infrastructure projects. 10-times faster to install than conventional concrete solutions, the unique invention also has a longer lifespan and offers carbon savings of 50% compared to traditional concrete.
Founded in 2005, Concrete Canvas experienced rapid international growth following its first export deal, a contract in Asia in 2009, and now boasts a loyal global customer base. Today, exports account for over 85% of its trade, with the company having worked in over 100 countries across Europe and South East Asia, as well as all over North America.
Having seen its exports to the USA grow significantly over the last 12 months, including signing its biggest US deal to date worth over $1.4 million, Concrete Canvas expects its sales in North America to triple by 2026 to account for 30% of its global trade.
A key part of Concrete Canvas’ growth plans relate to its focus on sustainability, with the company having invested heavily in green energy generation, including £1m in solar power for its factory and machinery, which now covers 70% of its energy needs.
The company is also member of the Welsh Government’s ‘Export Cluster Programme’ which brings together talented companies across five key sectors including High Value Manufacturing to learn from one another, share best practice, receive expert export advice and jointly develop export capabilities.
Based in Wales since 2007, Concrete Canvas credits the strong transport links, extensive government support, and access to skilled talent available in the country for its export success, helping it to meet and partner with other businesses overseas.
Will Crawford, director at Concrete Canvas said: “It’s been incredible to see how our exports have grown over the years. We now have around 60 distributors worldwide who have exclusive contracts to sell our products. Having a global network has accelerated our growth and built our resilience to disruptions in global markets.
“A huge part of our success has been finding the right sales partners on the ground in new markets. We’re always looking to expand our networks and find other suitable international partners that we can collaborate with and form strong lasting relationships with.
“The great thing about being in Wales is that there are government initiatives in place to help successful and growing Welsh business connect with distributors and customers overseas so we’re looking forward to continuing to expand our international portfolio in the future.”
