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Chemex expands international network
Chemex International is expanding its overseas network following a surge in demand for its cleaning and hygiene products. The company is set to open up distribution operations in the Middle East, Western Europe and South Africa.
Since it was formed 22 years ago UK based Chemex has grown to become a leading supplier of cleaning and hygiene materials in Europe with operations in Belgium, Denmark, Ireland, Cyprus and Malta. Now it is looking to strengthen its European arm by expanding into Germany, Holland, Portugal and Spain.
Sean Derrig, Chief Executive of Chemex International says: "Our international business grew by 20% last year and following the introduction of a range of leading edge products we are getting tremendous interest from a number of countries where we are not currently represented.
"In particular the launch of AntiBak - which we believe is the only product guaranteed to kill C.difficile spores on contact - has generated exceptional interest particularly in the international health sector."
AntiBak has been under development for more than three years and has passed international standards confirming its ability to kill some of the world's most dangerous bacteria and viruses including C.diff spores, Norovirus, MRSA, Avian Flu H5N1, Polio, SARS, Hepatitis C and HIV.
"Chemex has a proven track record in developing and delivering new products and high levels of service and this has not escaped the interest of potential franchisees in the UK and abroad," says Sean. "We are currently in negotiations with a number of potential partners and we would hope to have agreements in place later this year."
A gathering of four of the established Chemex International team took place in October. The overseas visitors represented Denmark, Ireland, Malta and Cyprus. Several guest speakers from both within Chemex and externally, spoke on various topics relating to business overseas and the expansion of overseas markets.
The group consisted of established overseas master licensees. These are successful businesses that have been built over a number of years by local entrepreuners who understand their local marketplace. Chemex Malta is headed by husband and wife team Mario and Sandra Fava, Ireland is represented by Colm Clarke and Cyprus by Andreas Protopapas, a keen Chelsea football club supporter. Denmark owner John Lindgaard also brought one of his franchisees, Orla Kristensen, with him to the meeting.
Staff at Chemex thoroughly enjoyed the visit which gave them chance to meet up with the overseas franchisees and chat with them over lunch and between breaks on the two day event held at the Chemex head office in Smethwick.The general consensus of opinion seemed to be that events such as this should be organised on a more regular basis. Andreas suggested that the next one be held in Cyprus.
"The sharing of ideas and discussions between international representatives was informative, very useful for everyone, and extremely positive and constructive," enthuses Sean. "We look forward to the next international meeting and wish everyone a successful year and an even more fruitful 2009."
Chemex International, formerly Chemical Express, was founded in 1985 to supply commercial cleaning, hygiene and maintenance products which are widely regarded as leaders in several market sectors. Its network of 70 franchisees in 10 countries provide products, consultancy and training in hygiene and infection control in the healthcare, hygiene, food preparation and leisure industries.
The company's expertise and excellence of service has earned it a Franchisor of the Year Award from the British Franchise Association.
T: 0121 565 6300
F: 0121 565 6303
15th January 2009