Sigma Paints intends to create a lasting impression on visitors to the premier building materials show.

Sigma will showcase its range of decorative, protective and industrial paints and coatings at the Saudi Build 2000.

The offering will include a range of environmentally- friendly products.

"We will also present our new tamper-proof, re-sealable plastic drums as well as several new products for interior and exterior protection and decoration. Also the new, improved version of the interactive paint specifying software SigmaStar will be on display," says assistant marketing manager Hussam Al Masri.

Sigma Paints SA is joint venture with SigmaKalon, which is part of the Total-Fina group.

The company, established in 1981, has its head office and two production facilities in Dammam and branches and agents all around the Gulf and the Middle East. With a staff of 280, Sigma also has its own research and development facilities.

Sigma manufactures paints, primers, solvents, sealant and textured finishes.

Sigma reports very encouraging response to its participation in Saudi Build in 1998 and 1999. Many business leads were acquired, says Al Masri.

"The Saudi Build is the largest and most prestigious exhibition for building materials in the region. It is also a great opportunity to introduce new products and developments to both the professionals and the public. Another factor to our continued participation in Saudi Build is the positive response from the visitors," he continues.

On the business trends, he says: "Our business has grown as compared to the past couple of years due to our investment in new machinery which has led to higher production efficiency.

Introduction of a few new products to the market as well as implementation of a more aggressive sales and marketing progamme has helped, says Al Masri.

Sigma recently opened its second production facility in the Second Industrial City in Dammam, increasing its production capacity from 40,000 tonnes per year (tpy) to 60,000 tpy.

"We have expanded our export area beyond the Gulf and the Middle East to reach the Maldives Islands," he says.

He expresses concern over the increasing level of competition in the market and the resultant price war.

"There are around 40 licensed manufacturers and possibly more than 20 unlicensed ones in Saudi Arabia. This has created a severe competition in the market, which has led to a tough price war.

"This situation has opened the door for producers to compromise the quality of their products in order to compete, which is ultimately not to the benefit of the educated consumer," says Al Masri. "Our commitment to research, product development, investment in IT and latest technologies will maintain our leadership in our field and ensure that our customers get nothing but the best," he adds.

Sigma has been involved with some of the prestigious projects recently in the region. They include the 120-villa Al Saraya project in Bahrain and the Emirates Towers in Dubai, King Abdul Aziz Historical Centre, Saudi American Bank regional office building, Gasco Headquarters and many others in Saudi Arabia.

Sigma Paints will be at Stand No. 833 in Saudi Build 2000.