Throughout the recent Automechanika Dubai 2013, Mineral Circle Bearings (MCB) Marketing Manager Hassanein Alwan noted among other things, that an increase in new and re-sales of especially Korean-made vehicles in the MENA region, particularly in Iraq, Egypt, Libya, and Sudan, is garnering demand for Korean-built bearings required in multiple technical applications for these vehicles.
"Statistics about specific new and used autos in this region is not compiled by reliable sources, so events like Automechanika Dubai, where we have the chance to meet and speak with individuals who are knowledgeable about the market is invaluable to helping establish our business strategy," said Alwan.
Operating out of the Jebel Ali Free Zone in Dubai since 1984, MCB supplies among the highest quality bearings produced by global manufacturers, as well as by their own bearing manufacturing company, MCB. Utilizing trained engineering staff, this top MENA region supplier-distributor customizes orders to precise specifications to meet bearing requirements for refurbishment of used vehicles, as well as for a multitude of motorized and mechanical operations in gas and oil, construction, and agricultural industries.
Speaking from MCB head offices in Jebel Ali, Alwan remarked that MCB staff had plenty of its own information to share. "In Egypt there are 3 million vehicles today, but that number is expected to double within five years. This growth is due in part to the local production of some models of Chevrolet and Hyundai. The Iraqi market is booming as well. Car production there is expected to reach 2 million in 2015, from only 1 million in 2011. Gauging this sort of market growth allows us to stock accordingly," he said.
Alwan admits that regional turmoil can throw a wrench in the works of any forecast. "We are aware that Syria purchased many Iranian-brand vehicles and Iranian-built Kia cars as well. When the dust settles in Syria, we know what their needs will be."
Alwan states that MCB has remained the 'go-to' bearing supplier in the region primarily by having amassed an array of stock to be ready suppliers of diverse needs in the shifting sands of the MENA market. At its JAFZA site, MCB maintains more than 6,000 different items in a warehouse of 100,000 square feet.
He said, "Attempts to purchase directly from manufacturers will always result in disaster because bearing manufacturers do not retain stock. Maintenance people who wait until the last minute to source bearings can at least be assured they will find it through us."
"We have to carefully leverage our awareness of the unpredictable against the stable. I always say that we must swim with - not against - the economic tide. We are at the top of our game because we've got a bright team with technical and engineering prowess. Everyone's input on regional travails is taken into consideration," he added.
"It was a pleasure learning and sharing our knowledge with new clients at Automechanika Dubai, and MCB looks forward to celebrating our 30th anniversary serving the automotive industry at Automechanika Dubai in 2014!" Alwan concluded.
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