2009 was a challenging business climate for our industry. Where do you see business going in 2010?
We agree that 2009 was a tough year for almost everyone. However, we introduced a few products at Surfaces in 2009 that gained some pretty good traction. Although we might not see the light at the end of the tunnel, we feel that the darkest and deepest part of the tunnel is behind us.
We are confident the economy will start to turn around in 2010, and we feel some of the products we introduced in 2009 will continue to build momentum, and we are very excited about some products that we will introduce at Surfaces in 2010. Bostik introduced TruColor at Surfaces in 2009, which is a premixed, urethane grout technology. TruColor really has the features and benefits to replace epoxy and cementitious grouts in many applications. It is by far the hottest product in the Ceramic Installation Market Segment in 2009.
We are confident that “green technologies” are just going to open up opportunities for progressive companies and markets. In the past, green technologies cost a bit more for the “feel good” aspect of using the products. However, I feel “green technologies” have evolved and are now offering better value propositions for the market. Products with recycled or rapidly renewable content not only give you the feel good aspect, they offer true features and benefits. Bostik strives to include renewable/recycle content in all our new products, which improves product performance and/or convenience to the installer
Green is hot, as outlined above. But “green products” that offer true features and benefits really will separate Bostik from competition. From Moisture Cure Urethane Adhesives, to Urethane Grouts, to Rubber Flooring Adhesives, we are on the cutting edge of Green Product Development.
Robert McNamara, Director of Sales and Marketing, Construction & Industrial Business Unit
2010 will be a great year for companies that are bold and innovative. Although the past two years were tough, we are looking forward to real growth opportunities for Bostik and our Distribution Network as our products will truly offer products that differentiate ourselves from others.
