Cemex 1999 Annual Report Download - page 8

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6
Why cement? Cement means progress. The structures of the world
today are most likely set on, or built with, cement. Government
and commercial buildings, houses of worship, museums, and
cultural centers – all literally rest on cement. As long as the
countries of this world remain committed to growth, productivity,
and artistic, religious, and cultural expression, cement will
remain a growth industry.
Why CEMEX? CEMEX is well positioned to capture the world’s
growing demand for cement. Its position as the world’s largest
trader of cement and clinker allows it to keep plants running at
or near capacity – even when domestic demand is low – to sat-
isfy high demand in other parts of the world. Whether a cus-
tomer is building a safer highway, a skyscraper, or his first home
with his own hands, we will be there to provide quality materials
and to help speed the process.
CEMEX enjoys a dynamic, entrepreneurial, multicultural style
and philosophy. We are a global team of operational innovators.
Our superior information technology gives our executives and
managers real-time access to every type of data – inventory, deliv-
ery schedules, and even kiln temperatures – at CEMEX plants
around the world. Every plant and subsidiary is seamlessly inte-
grated into the global CEMEX network.
Our technical expertise and research and development efforts are
committed to creating new products that will serve our clients’
diverse needs. For example, we have developed a new software
package that uses structure type and climate conditions to calcu-
late the precise strength and durability of the cement a customer
will need. Most recently, we have developed business-to-business
e-solutions for our largest distributors and major contractors.
CEMEX is also seeking innovative ways to provide more value for
customers and shareholders and to improve the communities in
which it operates. The company is currently exploring financing
options for the poor in Latin America so that they can build homes.
It is also forming partnerships with federal and local govern-
ments to provide technical and logistical skills in times of crisis
as well as prosperity.
43%
18%
39%
Distribution of production capacity
percentage
CEMEX's geographically diverse asset base is pri-
marily concentrated in the world's most dynamic
cement markets.
North America
South America & Caribbean
Europe & Asia