CLADDING // CONCRETE // INSULATION // STEEL // THATCH // TIMBER // TRANSLUCENT // WATERPROOFING // COMPONENTS
REGULARS: PERSONALITY PROFILE
A watertight outlook
We caught up with Lola Verlaque of Polymers Waterproofing Supplies to soak up the latest trends in the local waterproofing market.
By Candace Sofianos King
Despite South Africa’ s rocky economic climate, it’ s business as usual – with an extra dash of optimism – for Lola Verlaque, managing director of Polymers Waterproofing Supplies, distributor of Alchimica Building Chemicals.
Specialising in the development and production of unique polyurethane materials for construction and industrial applications, Alchimica provides products and services to architects, engineers, home builders, contractors and building owners on a global scale.
“ Alchimica boasts more than 600 European standard-rated products in its range,” notes Verlaque, adding that Alchimica is continually launching new products, a positive sign of business.
Prior to joining the construction world, Verlaque studied agriculture and was involved in travel.“ I’ ve been involved in several industries – I get bored very quickly,” she chuckles,“ I started out in construction working with a plant and equipment hiring company for more than 20 years. At some point I felt I needed a change and found a gap in the waterproofing industry.”
In the eye of the economic storm
Since taking on the joint business venture with Alchimica, Verlaque says business is booming.“ It’ s a tough industry yet we have seen our business grow everyday over the past five years. In an environment where there is a lack of new developments, we have been able to secure healthy business in refurbishments.
“ While there will always be a need for waterproofing, namely specialised coatings, the industry at large is not without its challenges as business is battling and large construction
Candace Sofianos King
Lola Verlaque, managing director of Polymers Waterproofing Supplies.
“
Those who manage to stay in business will only grow.”
companies are closing shop or are experiencing liquidation. Another challenge is bad credit – we have a non-paying culture in South Africa which is a huge problem. Added to this is the lack of compliance with industry standards.”
Sealing in success
It’ s certainly a tough time, however Verlaque says the industry remains hopeful.“ Those who manage to stay in business will only grow.” This is where innovation and adopting eco-friendly business practice comes into play, highlights Verlaque.“ We are heavily looking into energy efficient products going forward.”
Apart from stocking quality standard recognised products, Verlaque says that maintaining personal relationships with clients is equally crucial for the success of a business in this industry.“ I ensure I maintain personal relationships with clients and that I know and understand them. Most importantly, I see value in having patience and respect when it comes to your customers.”
On future goals, Verlaque says she would like to remain a small- to mediumsized intimate company offering a tailormade service to clients.“ I would like to double the size of my business and remain a niche company in the market,” says Verlaque.
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OCTOBER 2018