Case Studies
Sep 1, 2012

Assessing the Market Potential for Housing Construction Products in Mexico

Publication: Journal of Construction Engineering and Management
Volume 139, Issue 6

Abstract

Studies on international construction activities tend to focus on project contracting or exporting of raw material (such as cement or steel). However, globalization and free-trade agreements are creating new opportunities for international trade in manufactured housing products (such as roofing systems and other components). The aim of this work is to understand the factors that impact the potential profitability of housing construction products in international markets and develop a process for profitability assessment. This was done in a test market (the Mexican market) through reviewing pertinent literature in conjunction with conducting interviews with experts in this domain. The analysis shows that six major processes have to be undertaken: (1) analysis of market conditions (preventure analysis); (2) assessing competencies; (3) evaluation of product and service; (4) analysis of proper distribution channels (supply chain); (5) evaluation of marketing strategies; and (6) analysis of cost-price-value relationship. A set of factors and best practices has been identified to support and guide the conduct of each process.

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Go to Journal of Construction Engineering and Management
Journal of Construction Engineering and Management
Volume 139Issue 6June 2013
Pages: 717 - 725

History

Received: Feb 3, 2012
Accepted: Aug 29, 2012
Published online: Sep 1, 2012
Published in print: Jun 1, 2013

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Authors

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Sales Engineer, Lafarge Canada, 10655 Southport Rd. SW, Suite 1200, Calgary, AB, Canada T2W 4Y1. E-mail: [email protected]
T. E. El-Diraby [email protected]
Associate Professor and Director, Centre for Civil Informatics, Dept. of Civil Engineering, Univ. of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada M5S 1A4 (corresponding author). E-mail: [email protected]

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