Construction supplier defies credit crisis and expands

UAE-based Kanoo Machinery, a supplier of equipment to the construction industry is strengthening its presence by building two new purpose-built offices, warehouses and product support facilities in Dubai's Jebel Ali Free Zone and in Mussaffah in Abu Dhabi, the company has announced.

Kannan Chandrasekaran, group product manager, said:

"With the recent economical crisis hitting the world hard, the only solace for most companies is the Gulf region, because of its committed long-term project investments.

"Our recent expansion proves we are keeping pace with the UAE and other GCC countries' construction boom, and we want to make sure this continues."

"Within the last year, we have signed distribution agreements with GEDA, a German manufacturer of personnel and material hoists. This allows us to offer a full range of hoisting options from 250kg ladder lifts - well-suited to villa developments - up to three tonne twin cage machines for high-rise buildings of up to 450 metres.

The company has recently opened branches in Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah to cater to growing economic activity in the northern emirates. Demand for plant, construction machinery, vehicles and equipment is expected to grow by 20% over the next four years in the Middle East.