Gulf Construction Online - Kobaisi system meets ‘overwhelming’ response

Bahrain Review

Kobaisi system meets ‘overwhelming’ response

01 January 2013

In an exclusive interview with Gulf Construction, HINRICH-DETLEF TODE, general manager of KBS and KPC, elaborates on the Kobaisi Building System (KBS) and the company’s plans to promote it in the region.

• How has the response been to the new division that comprises Kobaisi Building System (KBS) and Kobaisi Precast?

The response to the new system has been overwhelming. People with a technical background in the construction industry were amazed about its advantages. We have taken traditional masonry works into the factory, thus eliminating human error and ensuring quality control. This is the future, which will replace the traditional method of masonry workmanship.

• What are the key strengths of the division that give it a competitive edge in the market?

A distinct advantage of KBS over traditional masonry is its speed of delivery and ease of installation, flexibility and services. These contribute directly to lower the total cost of ownership (TCO) which is the sum of four cost components: quality, service, delivery and price. KBS, especially, when produced in our certified plant, boasts the additional benefit of higher quality. Controlled production under controlled conditions consistently creates a better product than that produced in the traditional way. Compared to traditional methods, it is much quicker and less risky to have prefabricated block walls delivered and installed the same day rather than to excavate, form, pour and strip, lay blocks and cure for construction.

KBS is a hybrid at its best: The combination of prefabricated block-walls with modern precast components gives us the best cost efficiency and performance benefits on the local construction market. This new hybrid system brings accuracy, high-quality finishes and speed of erection to any construction project.

Precise specifications: KBS is teamed with engineers, technicians, skilled installers and owners to guarantee precise and reliable workmanship and ensure that the quality of service from KBS is maintained in the factory and on the site.

The accuracy and factory-controlled conditions are ideal for producing precise, sharp details. This relies on skilled professionals and the application of computerised machines which makes even minute details possible.

Plug and play: KBS carries out preinstalled utility services and fixtures, whether these are communications, plumbing or even windows and doors. Value-adding components will be cast or fitted within the product and wall elements can include connection plates ready to receive cooling and light fittings on site.

Minimum waste: Modern methods of construction (MMC) manufactured off-site negates the need for temporary works and reduces material wastage, resulting in a more efficient use of material. Even small amounts of scrap or waste – including cement, slurry and processed water – in the process of manufacturing in the factory can be recycled.

• What are the major projects that the company has secured using KBS?

KBS launched operations in May 2012 and has just completed some in-house projects. This has been done to ensure proper training of our new employees and fine-tuning of the production process design. We have just taken on the first orders of approximately 600 villas and some commercial buildings such as a mid-sized shopping centre and an extension building for King Hamad University Hospital. We are currently negotiating projects, which will keep us busy for the next three years.

• How has business been over the past year? How does this compare to 2011, and what are the prospects for the coming year?

While Bahrain’s economic performance for 2013 is forecast to be restrained, KBS is not affected at all. As the cost leader in our segment and following the Blue Ocean marketing strategy, we are in the best position to take a comfortable market share for social and residential housing projects.

• What is the company’s marketing plans for 2013 such as building one house per day?

‘To build one house in one day’ is part of our promotion campaign for 2013, where we will show our targeted customers the potential of KBS. The core of our strategy is our ‘Value Innovation’ for the local market. For 2013, we will be focusing on creating awareness of the advantages of this system compared to traditional construction methods, and in terms of cost planning and achieving a sustainable competitive advantage. Looking back at the last six months and the overwhelming positive feedback from the market, we are sure that we will exceed our marketing targets for 2013.

• In terms of integrating the Hidd factory with all other elements of the construction process, when do you expect this to happen?

So far we have integrated MEP (mechanical, electrical and plumbing) services and aluminium and glass. These products are provided by SBUs (strategic business units) within our group. Installation and commissioning is in progress for our new aluminium factory and for joinery next to our production facilities to ensure timely supply of semi-finished products for our system. This will secure controlled “just in time” deliveries.