In this interview, Amit Kumar, Chairman of the Board, ArcelorMittal Construction India Pvt Ltd, says that by highlighting their products’ long-term benefits, such as energy savings and faster installation, they demonstrate their superior value proposition.

How do you perceive the demand for sustainable building materials in the Indian market?

Our business revolves around producing various products for the building industry, catering to commercial, agricultural, non-residential, and industrial segments, including warehouses and storage facilities, airports, and railway stations. Our product range encompasses single-skin solutions, composite solutions like sandwich panels, and other built-up solutions like solar panel-enabled and vegetative roofs. We’re committed to sustainable practices and have invested decades in research and development to bring these products to Europe, where we hold a significant market share. We are expanding into India with the dual aim of tapping into its growth potential and driving the adoption of sustainable building materials.

How can steel consumption be boosted in the construction and infra projects?

The potential for increased steel consumption in India is evident, particularly in the construction sector, where steel is predominantly used for structural strength. However, steel offers more than just strength; it presents architectural versatility and aesthetic appeal. By introducing innovative products like sandwich panels coated with various colours, we aim to revolutionise the construction landscape in India. Through education and collaboration among stakeholders, including government bodies and regulatory authorities, we can promote steel as a preferred material in construction and across various industries.

What are the key advantages of sandwich panels, particularly in tropical climates, and how can they enhance architectural designs?

Sandwich panels offer a multitude of benefits, especially in tropical climates. Comprising steel sheets with insulation in between, they provide durability, thermal efficiency, and aesthetic appeal. Our panels come in various colours and coatings, mimicking other materials like wood, thus offering architects ample design possibilities. Moreover, they possess corrosion resistance and acoustic insulation properties, making them suitable for diverse applications such as swimming pools and discotheques. By showcasing these capabilities, we aim to encourage architects to incorporate sandwich panels into their designs, enhancing both functionality and aesthetics.

How does your business educate stakeholders about your products’ long-term benefits and value proposition, especially tailored for Indian conditions?

Our approach is rooted in educating stakeholders about the total cost of ownership rather than just the initial price. We demonstrate the superior value proposition by highlighting the long-term benefits of our products, such as energy savings and faster installation. Additionally, our solutions are tailored to suit Indian conditions, including urban environments where water scarcity and rapid construction are prevalent. Through continuous innovation and investment in research and development, we ensure that our products meet the highest quality and performance standards, thereby offering unmatched value to our customers.

Could you elaborate on the standardisation of your products for the Indian market, particularly about quality control and regulatory compliance?

While standardisation is essential, especially concerning quality control and safety regulations, we believe in a dynamic approach to product development. Our focus is on continuous innovation rather than rigid standardisation. We invest significantly in research and development to address specific challenges and requirements of the Indian market. Our products undergo rigorous testing to ensure compliance with relevant standards and regulations. However, we also recognise the need for flexibility and customisation to cater to diverse applications and environmental conditions. By staying at the forefront of innovation, we aim to set new benchmarks in product quality and performance, driving the adoption of sustainable building materials in India and beyond.