Concrete Thinking is the name of the strategic review conducted by the major UK cement and concrete companies into how best to meet demand in the decades ahead. The underlying market research and strategy development was provided by Leading Edge Management Consultancy. As a direct result of the Concrete Thinking initiative, a new organisation is being established to serve those who design and construct in concrete with an emphasis on training, research and innovation.

The new body’s primary aim will be to help designers and constructors to get the best out of concrete and improve effectiveness and profitability. It will do this by providing:

• world-class education and training resources - including CPD
• the management of research, development and innovation
• a central focus for experts to assist and advise on matters such as sustainability and durability
• a nationwide group of regional advisors to assist designers at local level
• a rapid response Helpline for questions relating to the use and performance of concretes.

Operational by Autumn 2003, Concrete Thinking will support the interests of all those involved in the design and use of concrete: client companies, architectural practices; civil and structural engineering consultancies; building/civil engineering contractors; house-builders. Staffed by qualified professionals with backgrounds in concrete construction, concrete technology, engineering and architecture, the organisation will focus on every aspect of concrete use from design and construction methods, education and training, research management, new product/process development, through to the performance of concrete in practice.

The new organisation will work closely with other well-established concrete bodies such as The Concrete Society, The British Precast Concrete Federation and The British Ready-Mixed Concrete Association, to pursue common aims and bring together the expertise of these important industry organisations for the benefit of designer and constructor alike. There will also be a close association with the Quarry Products Association and the British Cement Association. (The Reinforced Concrete Council (RCC) and the Ready-mixed Concrete Bureau (RCB) will be integrated into the new organisation.) Funding for the new body will come from the major UK cement and concrete companies.

For more information on the new concrete organisation call 01344 762676 or email .

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