LB makes strong recovery

In spite of forecasts for a tough 2012, LB Technology of Fiorano Modenese is expected to maintain the excellent results achieved last year. A leading company in the field of ceramic plant, dry grinding and press decoration systems, LB has now returned to pre-crisis turnover levels.

Headed for more than a year by Sergio Viola, a manager with extensive international experience at major groups including Pirelli, General Electric, BNL holding and Korn Ferry International, the company reported 40% year-on-year revenue growth in 2011 and an EBITDA back in positive territory for the first time in several years. One of the first tasks facing the new managing director was to restore operating margins and profitability in order to improve the company’s state of health and to allow for a more robust process of growth and development. These results have enabled LB to maintain its R&D efforts aimed at expanding its range of technology. At Tecnargilla 2012 it will be introducing a new dry grinding system that delivers further energy savings and reductions in the environmental impact of ceramic production.

LB is also making changes to its commercial organisation, particularly the direct and indirect sales networks. The team led by Sergio Viola has already been strengthened in recent months in order to consolidate the company’s leadership position in various markets and to enhance its penetration of strategic markets. The goal is to make the company’s performance increasingly independent of the domestic market in favour of more dynamic economies that are ready to embrace the advanced technology offered by LB’s plant and machinery.
Particularly strong results have been achieved in recent months in the Middle East, North Africa and Central and South America.