Ceramic Industries launches Gryphon porcelain tile factory

Ceramic Industries, South Africa’s leading tile and bathroomware manufacturer, celebrated its 40th anniversary this year with the official launch of its latest state-of-the-art tile factory, Gryphon.

Opened in Vereeniging (Gauteng) on 25 April, this is the eighth facility in the Group’s manufacturing portfolio and the sixth in the tile operation, which includes Samca Floor, Samca Wall, Pegasus and Vitro, as well as Centaurus in Australia.

The 35,000 sq.m tile factory is custom-built to produce large format (60x60 cm) white-bodied glazed porcelain tiles and has an annual production capacity of 8.5 million sq.m.

This cutting-edge facility combines a highly efficient production process with a low environmental-impact footprint.

"We are proud to launch one of the most technologically advanced and efficient factories of its kind in Africa, and one which will rival its international peers," said Lance Foxcroft, CEO of Ceramic Industries in his speech at the official launch. "We have partnered with global leaders Sacmi and System to build a plant that raises tile manufacturing standards to a new level in this country. Gryphon will be a benchmark in the market thanks to the technical and aesthetic quality of its products."

We discussed the project and its aims with Lance Foxcroft.

• Read the complete interview published on Ceramic World Review 118/2016.