Etex Acquires BGC’s Plasterboard and Fibre Cement Businesses, Bolstering Sustainable Construction in Australia and New Zealand
Belgium's Etex Group has finalized the acquisition of BGC’s plasterboard and fibre cement divisions, aiming to enhance its sustainable product offerings in the Australian and New Zealand markets.
Etex, a global leader in the production of building materials and a proponent of lightweight construction based in Belgium, has successfully completed the acquisition of the plasterboard and fibre cement segments of BGC, an Australian construction materials company. This strategic move is set to expand Etex's sustainable construction activities within the lucrative markets of Australia and New Zealand, offering significant opportunities for growth.
Bernard Delvaux, CEO of Etex, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, highlighting the addition of 200 new team members from BGC. He emphasized the strategic nature of integrating BGC’s plasterboard and fibre cement operations with Etex's existing gypsum activities in Australia, which is expected to enhance the availability of sustainable products and services for customers. Delvaux also noted Etex's ascent to a top-three position in the fibre cement market in the region.
The acquisition includes BGC’s plasterboard manufacturing facility in Western Australia, spanning 56,000 square meters in Perth, alongside a robust network of nine warehouses across Australia and New Zealand. The fiscal year 2023 saw the acquired activities contributing AUD 155 million (EUR 93 million) in sales.
Gavin Burton, Regional Head for Etex’s Building Performance division in Asia-Pacific, expressed excitement about merging expertise and expanding operations to Western Australia. He anticipates long-term market growth in Australia, driven by population increase and the widespread adoption of key products like plasterboard and fibre cement sidings.
Danny Cooper, CEO of BGC, extended gratitude to the employees of the Plasterboard and Fibre Cement divisions for their dedication and contributions to the company's success. He expressed confidence that these businesses would continue to thrive and add value under Etex's ownership.
With this acquisition, Etex's presence in Australia now encompasses 24 sites, almost 600 team members, and leading commercial brands such as Siniat plasterboards, Promat passive fire protection, high-temperature insulation, and EQUITONE fibre cement cladding panels. Additionally, Etex Australia stands out as the only manufacturer in the country to offer an opt-in carbon-neutral program for a range of its Siniat products, underlining its commitment to sustainability.
Source: Etex Group
