Use of readymix is growing exponentially as the Southern Africa Readymix Association (SARMA) continues its drive to make accredited readymix concrete the building material of choice.
The large-scale uptake of readymix concrete in 2015 by role players across the construction industry has led to a notable increase in suppliers seeking SARMA membership as they apply for accreditation from the respected industry body.
SARMA GM, Johan van Wyk, says the trend is positive as the construction industry’s move to professionally mixed and supplied concrete frees firms from time-consuming and often wasteful onsite mixing. Professionally mixed concrete also brings assurance of consistent concrete quality.
“Our comprehensive accreditation process for members gives role players the assurance that they are pouring concrete that conforms to standards and specifications.
The use of SARMA-accredited concrete has also increased professionalism within the industry and is driving competition among readymix suppliers to improve services and product offerings.
“The construction industry has realised that quality materials and speed of construction makes the difference between good business and bad, and profit or loss.
While readymix concrete is becoming the construction material of choice, there are numerous entrants into the market, many of whom are inexperienced while others want to make a quick buck. For this reason we feel it is important for professional readymix suppliers to gain accreditation and join SARMA.
“It is in their best interest as we are continuing to engage with all professional bodies, educating them about the benefits of dealing with accredited suppliers. As a result it is becoming increasingly difficult to sell readymix concrete unless you are a SARMA-accredited member,” says Van Wyk.
In addition to membership increasing, the number of companies, roads agencies and government entities that have committed to specifying only SARMA-accredited readymix on their sites has also grown – signalling the commitment of the local construction industry to embrace quality concrete from professional suppliers.
“The SARMA accredited logo on a member’s letterhead, or the SARMA sticker on a concrete mixer, is a symbol of professionalism that offers peace of mind,” concludes Van Wyk
More information from Johan van Wyk, Tel: +27(0)11 791 3327 / email: johan@sarma.co.za/www.sarma.co.za
