Armacell Zamil Middle East Company Ltd (AZMEC) announced that its new factory in Dammam has recently begun commercial production of technical rubber insulation materials. The products will be marketed to the public and private sectors in Saudi Arabia, the Gulf and other Middle East customers through sole distributors and direct contracts. The new factory progressed from planning to production in less than a year's time, according to the company statement. Abdulla M. Al-Zamil, chief operating officer of Zamil Industrial, said “the launch of production demonstrates our commitment to serving our home market with technologically advanced insulation products that are globally acclaimed for high quality and unmatched performance.” He indicated that the new factory would play a key role in developing construction and building materials on both a regional and global basis and represent a significant expansion of Zamil Industrial's insulation manufacturing capabilities. AZMEC is the result of a strategic partnership that was announced in April 2008 between Zamil Industrial Investment CompanyZamil Industrial Investment Company and Armacell International Holding GmbH of Germany, the world leader of flexible technical insulation materials - including industrial insulators of the world famous “ARMAFLEX” brand. Mark Harakal, CEO of Armacell International Holding GmbH, said: “With our joint venture in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, we are the first globally active manufacturer of flexible insulation materials to commit itself to the Gulf region by setting up its own production facilities here. Our insulation products protect air-conditioning equipment against condensation and reduce energy losses. In this way we conserve limited supplies of fossil fuels and protect our environment at the same time.” The new factory combines the industrial expertise and resources of both companies under a single corporate umbrella, and ensures the innovation and constant supply of quality flexible technical insulation materials to expanding markets across the Middle East and North Africa. “Our marketing priorities with regard to the new product take into consideration the trends of the local marketplace, the elements of competition between local and international manufacturers, and the demands of various segments in the region,” Al
