Holcim is planning to reduce its global data centres from 10 to four, expecting to save over US$20m in the move. IBM, Tata Consultancy Services, Infosys, Wipro and NIIT Technologies are in the running for the five-year contract to assist the global cement producer, according to the Hindu Business Line (HBL).

"Holcim has been on a leadership journey for several years with the aim to improve its financial and operational performance. Improving the efficiency and effectiveness of its IT systems, including data and shared services centre consolidation in Europe and around the world, are key focus areas of this operational excellence program,” said Peter Schumacher, founder and CEO of management consultants Value Leadership Group.

Holcim has been one of the early adopters in outsourcing its IT services with ongoing projects in different regions of the world. Tata Consultancy Services, NIIT Tech and IBM are part of the cement maker's current supplier list, said HBL.