Holcim Apasco - Holcim Apasco Begins Construction of New Cement Plant in Hermosillo, Sonora

Hermosillo, Sonora, February 19, 2008. Cement producer Holcim Apasco commenced construction here of what will be its seventh cement plant in Mexico, with an investment estimated at US$400m, generating 1,200 jobs for the state. Sonora Governor Eduardo Bours Castelo and Pierre Froidevaux Chavan, CEO of Holcim Apasco, presided over the ceremony of laying of the first stone.

Also attending were Sonora state and municipal authorities, business association representatives and Holcim Apasco associates that will be involved in the construction process.Late last year saw the first earthmoving work, as well as the installation of power lines and preparation of trailer parking, storage areas and offices, in order to clear the way for the start of construction of the new plant.

The Hermosillo plant features optimized use of electrical and thermal power, and minimal water consumption. The administrative building will be erected in accordance with the concept of sustainable development, making use of natural sunlight for illumination and heating, and recirculation of water throughout for cooling and sprinkling. To prevent dust contamination in raw material and fuel storage yards, these will be roofed and equipped with efficient dust elimination systems, meeting the strictest Mexican and international standards.

In addition, all internal roadways will be paved, to prevent generation of dust by vehicle traffic.With regard to technology and innovation, the plant will be equipped with three new high-efficiency cement grinding systems and the latest production and control systems.In line with Holcim Apasco's commitment to the environment, several plant species native to the state have been rescued during site preparation. "We chose species with high biological value with regard to the flora of the region, such as the saguaro cactus, and the ironwood and palo verde trees. These were taken to an area called the transplant area, ensuring the protection of the species on the site, and thus avoiding any damage to the ecosystem," said Froidevaux.

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Holcim Apasco produces and markets cement, ready-mix concrete, aggregates (crushed stone, sand and gravel) and other products and services for construction. The company has a presence throughout Mexico, with 6 cement plants and a current installed capacity of 11.3 million tons per year, 23 cement distribution centers, 4 maritime terminals, over 100 ready-mix concrete plants, 5 aggregate plants, and a Concrete Technology Center. Holcim Apasco is part of the Holcim Group, a world leader in cement, ready-mix concrete, aggregates (crushed stone, sand and gravel), and other products and services for construction. The Group holds majority and minority interests in more than 70 countries on all five continents.Contact:Verónica DíezTel: +52 (55) 5724-0000 ext. 1378veronica.diez@holcimapasco.com.mx