Expansion plans
According to its annual report 2012 – 2013, Madras Cements Ltd aims to install a fourth cement grinding unit at Vizag to serve the market in Coastal Andhra Pradesh, Odisha and Chattisgarh. The facility will have a 1 million tpa capacity and is due to be commissioned in the second quarter of 2014 – 2015. Clinker will be transported form the company’s Jayanthipuram plant and flyash and slag are available within 25 km of the plant, helping to reduce transport costs.
The cement producer plans to address the current power shortage by increasing the capacity of its thermal power plants at Alathiyur, Jayanthipuram and Ariyalur. A 6 MW turbine will be added to each plant.
Production and sales figures
In April 2012 – 2013, Madras Cements produced 84.75 lakh t of cement, an increase of 13% y/y. Clinker production rose by 13% y/y. Sales of cement also grew, rising by 11% y/y to reach 83.60 lakh t. Exports were also up on a y/y basis, rising from 0.46 lakh t to 0.84 lakh t.
Name change
The company has proposed changing its name to Ramco Cements Ltd, Ramco being the current brand under which its products are sold. It is hoped that aligning the brand and company name will strengthen the manufacturer’s identity.
Adapted from company report by Louise Fordham.