Sika acquires GAF in Qatar to boost local production, expand regional presence, and support energy-efficient construction market growth.
Sika, a global leader in construction chemicals, has announced the acquisition of Gulf Additive Factory LLC (GAF), a well-established manufacturer of construction chemical products in the State of Qatar. This strategic acquisition significantly enhances Sika’s presence in the region and offers promising growth opportunities in one of the Middle East’s fastest-growing construction markets.
GAF is widely recognized in Qatar for its commitment to quality and its deep technical knowledge in the construction chemicals industry. The company produces an extensive range of solutions that cater to diverse construction needs, including concrete admixtures, mortars, waterproofing systems, flooring products, and facade systems such as the Exterior Insulation and Finish System (EIFS). These products are manufactured at a modern, large-scale production facility situated close to Doha, placing it in a geographically strategic location for serving the domestic market and facilitating regional expansion.
With this acquisition, Sika gains access to a well-equipped local manufacturing base that complements its existing product portfolio. The integration of GAF’s capabilities into Sika’s operations will enable the company to respond more effectively to increasing demand for energy-efficient and sustainable construction solutions in the region. The locally produced EIFS system, for example, is well-suited to meet the rising market interest in "cool house" technologies, which are critical for building energy-efficient structures in Qatar's hot climate.
Additionally, the acquisition provides Sika the opportunity to streamline its operations in the country by consolidating activities into a single, state-of-the-art manufacturing site. This consolidation is expected to yield considerable cost savings and operational efficiencies while improving supply chain responsiveness and customer service.
Qatar's construction sector is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) exceeding 4% through 2028. This growth will be fueled by significant investments in infrastructure, particularly in sectors such as energy, utilities, transportation, healthcare, tourism, and industrial manufacturing. The nation’s strategic development goals, outlined in Qatar National Vision 2030, aim to diversify the economy beyond hydrocarbons and emphasize sustainable development, which aligns well with Sika’s global strategy and product offerings.
Christoph Ganz, Regional Manager EMEA at Sika, commented, “With this acquisition, we are strengthening our local presence and production capabilities in Qatar. It provides a robust platform to accelerate our growth and fully participate in the country’s ambitious investment plans in infrastructure and commercial construction. We are pleased to welcome the GAF team into the Sika family and look forward to a collaborative and successful future.”
This move marks an important milestone in Sika’s ongoing efforts to enhance its footprint in high-growth markets and deliver innovative, localized solutions tailored to regional needs.
