Economics and markets

Lori Kirk-Rolley, Marketing Director

We have expanded by 20% in this market and intend to grow by another 20% during 2006

“Our export share is one of the highest in the sector at 78 million dollars, including more than 60 million dollars for the markets in USA, Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico”

Rising energy costs and the consequent reduction in profit margins are major causes for concern

According to initial estimates, the Spanish machinery manufacturers and glaze producers have maintained results in line with 2004

turnover up but company profitability down in 2005

Volumes remain stationary at 570 million square metres in 2005 (-3%) Exports down by 23 million square metres (-5%) to 390 million sq.m.

Labelling extended to ceramic sector

Web preview of top ten Spanish producers

The positive figures for the sector’s economic performance were also unveiled

Production down 2.3%, sales down 0.73%, turnover up 3%

400,000 new houses to be built by the end of the year

Installed capacity estimated to have reached 120 million sq.m

Coverings confirms the popularity of Italian tile in the United States

The United States is confirmed as an important market for world tile producers

Production reaches 157 million sq.m in 2004

Production reached 104.209 million sq.m in 2004, 27% up on 2003

Ascer chairman gives an upbeat message during the pre-Christmas meeting with the Spanish press

Assopiastrelle and Giorgio Olivieri & Associati publish annual report entitled “Costs by product type and average revenues in the ceramic tile industry”.

Production just 601.5 million sq.m. Growth of 1% expected in 2005