Can you update us on Kemikals' activities in 2024?

We are a chemical specialty distributor focused on two main segments: coatings and building materials. This focus has been a key advantage, as we avoid spreading ourselves too thin across various industries and products. Over the last few years, we have worked to strengthen our position in coatings, aiming to become a relevant player in the industry. In 2024, our participation in the southeastern market grew significantly, and we are optimistic about our continued efforts in this region.

The past year has been stable for our industry after the volatility caused by the pandemic. Despite currency fluctuations, we have seen good growth and launched long-term projects that transcend annual planning. Sustainability remains a priority; we aim to position ourselves as a provider of sustainable solutions, including products, technology and technical support. This year, the market has started pulling toward sustainability, which validates our efforts. We also made a significant impact at LACS (Latin American Coatings Show) with our conferences and proposals, and we hired a new technical director for coatings to reinforce our expertise.

How are you differentiating Kemikals in the market?

We are deeply committed to being specialists rather than generalists. For instance, we have dedicated laboratories for coatings in Querétaro and for building materials in Monterrey, each staffed with experts. Additionally, we opened a new warehouse in Mexico City to improve logistics and customer service. Logistical challenges like rising costs, road congestion, and security issues demand proximity to clients. 

In addition, our success stems from the incredible team we have built. At Kemikals, we focus on creating an elite team. It is not just about having skilled individuals but ensuring the right tools, technology and relationships support them. We prioritize a strong company culture, and the team embodies that culture. Our company culture plays a pivotal role. Employees want to feel valued and supported. When visitors, clients, or suppliers remark on the positive atmosphere in our offices, it reaffirms that our culture is genuine. 

What role does technology play in addressing logistical challenges?

Technology is essential to our strategy, but we use it to support our people rather than replace them. We are increasingly integrating digital tools and exploring artificial intelligence. We have invested in digital tools, including robust CRM and supply chain management systems, to improve planning and efficiency. These tools allow us to enhance communication with clients and suppliers, ensuring better visibility and quicker responses to changes. Effective planning is essential when managing inventory for six months instead of one, and our digital solutions have been instrumental in navigating these complexities.

How do you view the impact of Mexico's new government on economic activity?

I am optimistic by nature. Over the long term, Mexico continues to grow, attract foreign investment, and strengthen its international presence. However, the next six months will likely be turbulent due to policy adjustments and external factors like US relations under the new administration. Mexico's deep cultural and economic ties with the US and Canada transcend individual governments. While challenges like stricter customs regulations remain, the overall trajectory is positive.

Construction activity has been slow, and infrastructure budgets remain limited. Projects like the Mexico-Querétaro train look promising on paper but have yet to materialize. Housing is the key driver of our industry, and a lack of new housing projects limits growth. We hope for greater activity in housing, as it has a multiplier effect on related industries like paints, waterproofing, and flooring. While there is growing interest in areas like Mérida and the southeast, most industrial activity remains concentrated in the central and northern regions. These areas continue to dominate in terms of production and construction projects. The southeast has potential but needs more development to match the activity levels of other regions.

Do you have any final thoughts or priorities for 2025?

Our primary focus remains on our people and the tools that empower them. We aim to strengthen our elite team further by investing in their development and providing the conditions they need to thrive. As we look to the future, incorporating advanced digital tools and artificial intelligence will be crucial, but always with a human touch. It is about building on our achievements and ensuring that our people remain at the heart of Kemikals' success.