Sika acquires Axim

Sika is to acquire the global concrete admixture and cement grinding aids business of the Italcementi Group (directly or indirectly controlled by Italcementi or ­Ciments Français), which are on the market under the brand name Axim. Axim has approximately 150 employees and through six legal entities operates several production units and sales organizations in Italy, France, USA, Canada, Morocco and Spain. In 2010 Axim generated sales of around 75 million CHF (61 million €). Axim has a history of over 30 years of experience in the market and offers a broad and innovative range of concrete admixtures, cement grinding aids and specialized chemicals that enhance the performance of cement and concrete, as well as improve cement production efficiency. “The agreement”, stated ­Giovanni Ferrario, COO ­Italcementi Group, “will allow the Group to capitalize on the value of this business. Moreover it will further extend the relationship between Italcementi and Sika enhancing the reputation of both companies as innovators in the field of concrete and cement.” This acquisition allows Sika to significantly strengthen its market position in the relevant countries. As Ernst Baertschi CEO from Sika (Fig.) puts it: “This is a major step for Sika in the process of expanding market shares in the admixture business worldwide”. www.sika.com