Industry leaders at this year’s South African Readymix Association (SARMA) Conference will outline the way forward for the local construction industry as it enters a new phase of development fuelled by growing requirements from the public and private sectors.

Johan van Wyk, general manager of SARMA says the industry is in a state-of-change with new requirements and new expectations surfacing on a constant basis. As a result the annual conference has been bolstered with a formidable line-up of construction industry leaders who will discuss developments within the industry, as well as examining technical issues and technological advancements that have been made in recent times. A pair of world-class speakers has also been added to the line-up to deliver hard-hitting presentations aimed at assisting companies to gain a competitive edge in these changing times.

“This year’s conference will not only address these issues, but will also usher in a new era for SARMA, as we broaden our focus from mainly influencing standards and regulatory matters, to further focus on promoting the use of readymix and engaging all stake-holders (including end-users) to redefine requirements in a changed environment.

“A lot has happened in the last few years and our construction industry has gone from riches to rags and back too many times to remember. As a result the rulebook has changed requiring us to invite speakers who are able to look at the future role of readymix concrete from both an end-user perspective, as well as from producers and suppliers perspectives.

“They will be examining solutions based on current requirements rather than those from a decade or two ago and will provide delegates with quick and easy solutions to an array of building and construction related challenges. The conference will therefore have a broad appeal and will benefit all role-players within the construction industry – from architects and engineers, to contractors and site foremen.

“A strong contingent of readymix plant operators will also be present at the conference and our aim this year is to bring everyone together to communicate and find solutions to everyday construction challenges. There will also be discussion centred on the crucial role of maintaining standards in the readymix industry and the benefits of dealing with SARMA accredited suppliers,” maintains Johan.

Other hot topics to be discussed include how to deal with claims in the event of concrete failures or damages, the effects of imported cement on the local industry and a look at latest international trends and uses of readymix.

The conference will be held at the Alpha Conference Centre in Broederstroom on 1-2 August 2013. There will be indoor and outdoor exhibitions, as well as practical demonstrations of new equipment and modern techniques being used to make readymix concrete. A special dinner with “thought provoking” entertainment will be held for delegates on the first evening of the conference.

Following the conference on Friday, members will be given the opportunity to make their voices heard at the association’s annual general meeting, as well as cast their votes on the adoption of a new constitution.

For more information visit: www.sarma.co.za