While the rest of Europe delivers a mixed bag of results, Russia’s cement and construction markets continue to expand. Lafarge has been active in the country since 1996 and ICR asked Lafarge Russia & Ukraine’s CEO, André Martin, for his take on market potential as well as goals for the future.
ICR: You were appointed CEO of Lafarge Russia & Ukraine in September 2013. What positions did you hold previously? Do you have certain goals that you want to achieve during your time in this position?
André Martin (AM): I have been with Lafarge for 19 years holding different positions in a range of countries, like France, Romania and the United States. Before moving to Russia I held the position of senior vice-president, marketing industrial segment, in Lafarge coporate head office in Paris.
As to my goals, I together with my team want to enable an enhanced performance of the company in the Russian and Ukranian markets, contributing to building better cities.
ICR: What is your initial assessment of the economy in Russia and prospects for the construction sector and cement demand?
AM: The Russian economy is one of a few European economies with significant growth potential. For Lafarge, Russia is a key development region. At present the country offers many opportunities to develop its infrastructure and construction industry. It has many interesting investment prospects.
