CEMEX is optimizing its supply chain to meet shortages experienced throughout the western United States. The plan includes investing around $15 million to fire up an idled kiln at its CPN cement plant in northwest Mexico, yielding more powder for terminals north of the border by the second quarter of 2021.
“Many cement customers in California, Arizona and Nevada have been impacted by supply constraints this past year,” said Joel Galassini, executive vice president – cement commercial at CEMEX USA. “The decision to recommission this kiln was made with our customers top of mind, to give them reliable access through a local supply chain to help meet their growing needs. Our unique network of production facilities in this region allows us to make these types of investments that will have a meaningful impact on meeting our customers’ needs.”
The producer presently supplies more than 3 million tons of cement annually across Arizona, California and Nevada from its Victorville, Calif., plant and sea-borne imports. The CPN kiln restart, increased Victorville efficiencies, and other supply chain modifications are planned to help deliver hundreds of thousands of additional tons of cement through its local supply chain.
“With the kiln going back into operation, we are leveraging our strong network and local assets at CEMEX to help meet the increased construction needs in the region,” said David Nabavi, CEMEX USA regional president – Arizona region. “We strive to provide our customers a superior customer experience and deliver the materials they need when they need them.”
For now, CEMEX continues to import cement through its California marine terminals to help meet its customers’ supply requirements, the company said.
