SMG Marble and Granite Factory: Diversifying for continued success

With a reputation as a leading international granite producer, SMG Marble and Granite Factory Co. Ltd. has further established itself by adding a tile plant to its already extensive operation

Once blocks are processed, the stone can be cut into standard, cut-to-size or modular tiles.

SMG Marble and Granite Factory Co. Ltd. has established itself as a leading granite producer worldwide. The company, which is a subsidiary of WAJHAT Industrial Investment Co. (WIIC), was originally established in 1991. Today, the company owns and operates 14 quarries in Saudi Arabia as well as 19 showrooms and 10 stores. SMG’s most recent expansion included a new tile factory, which was built in 2013.

The new facility spans 80,000 square meters, with 21,000 square meters of interior space. The tile plant is equipped with a full state-of-the-art line-up of machinery from Pedrini, including block cutters, a trimming machine, grinding machine, polishing machine, crosscutter and chamfering machine.

Currently, SMG’s tile factory produces 45,000 square meters of material per month. Standard and cut-to-size tiles are produced in a range of sizes, including 12 x 24, 12 x 12, 16 x 16 and 24 x 24 inches with a thickness of 2 or 3 cm. Additionally, modular tiles are produced in 12- x 12-, 18- x 18-, 16- x 16-, 24- x 12- and 24- x 24-inch format with thicknesses of 1, 1.2, 1.5, 2
and 3 cm.

At the present time, SMG is running only one shift. It employs nearly 200 workers at the plant, and the number continually increases, according to the company. Among SMG’s primary markets are the U.S., Europe, Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and Africa.

In addition to its manufacturing facilities, SMG has registered offices worldwide. In Qatar, the company operates an office, warehouse and logistics center so that it can fully cater to projects in that country. Moreover, it has offices in Italy, New York, Shanghai and Dubai. In 2013, SMG established two new agencies to facilitate its export activities. One is located in Germany and the other is in Turkey.

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As Group Editorial Director of Stone World, Contemporary Stone & Tile Design and TILE, Jennifer Richinelli has been covering the stone and tile industries since she launched her career at BNP Media in 1996. Throughout her tenure, she has visited and reported on numerous national and international quarries, stone fabrication shops, trade shows and other industry events. She has also collaborated with members of the A&D community, including many renowned architects, on articles about designing with stone and tile.

Contact Jennifer at richinellij@bnpmedia.com or (201) 245-5204.