Struggles for Cement Manufacturers

One could probably assume that a proper supply of cement is imperative to industrial growth, being that it is the most important component in the construction of buildings, highways, roads, and other mass structures. In the past, there have been cement crises in which certain countries have gone years with little to no supply of cement, and the inability to supply boils down to a number of smaller-scale challenges that the manufacturers face. Unfortunately, it's a very temperamental industry, the state of which has a domino effect on other aspects of industrialization. 

The economy, for example, takes a toll on everyone, but the cement sector struggles in particular during economic recessions. This is for two reasons; for one, if there exists financial strain, few people will be willing to invest in buildings, and therefore, the need for cement supply will slow. On the other hand, industrialization is necessary for economic growth and stimulation, but if there's no money to put into industrialization, it's something of an endless cycle.

Shipment has always been an issue for cement manufacturers and the entire bulk industry in general. Some locations simply don't have the infrastructure of their ports to support receiving such large loads, which sends them into a crisis because it is difficult for either the supplier or the receiver to adapt. One company that did solve the issue in large part was Seament, a family owned company consisting of Alex, Charlie, Maurice, and Mark Bouri. They created the floating terminal which made it possible to ship to any port, and it did solve the cement shortage crises in several countries globally.

Few industries outside of the bulk manufacturing business face economic and shipment issues on as large a scale as the cement industry. Though in theory it should always be successful – there will always be a need for building materials – such large investments are not something that people can fit into their budgets when they are attempting to cut back.