A new company at Vatnagarðar 22 manufactures steel cladding, flashings and ventilation ducting, and sells through its own web shop.
Málmiðjan has begun operations in the Icelandic building materials market. The company manufactures steel cladding, flashings, ventilation ducting and pipe at its plant at Vatnagarðar 22 in Reykjavík, where new facilities have been built and machinery invested in for the manufacture and processing of metal products. The aim is to offer a competitive product, shorten delivery times and simplify the ordering process.
The raw material is sourced through a partnership with Baosteel, part of China Baowu, the largest steel group in the world.
Júlíus Geir Gunnlaugsson, managing director of Málmiðjan, says the company does not intend to compete on price alone.
We see an opportunity in offering a strong product at a competitive price, but no less in simplifying the entire process for the customer. It matters a great deal to be able to react quickly and handle orders in a clear and efficient way.
The steel is hot-dip galvanised with an aluminium zinc magnesium coating, which gives greater corrosion protection than conventional corrugated iron, not least at cut edges and holes.
Coloured material is primed and coated with PVDF in a 2/2 system over that coating, protecting the steel further against weathering and corrosion. Both are chosen with Icelandic conditions in mind.
Orders are placed in the company's web shop, where customers assemble the order, see the price and estimated delivery time, and follow its status.
We believe there is a great deal of room for progress in this market. People want to see things clearly, complete an order when it suits them and receive the goods without unnecessary delay. That is the thinking we are building the business on.
The construction market is demanding at present, but Júlíus says that is precisely what calls for new entrants with clearer processes and better oversight. Málmiðjan should serve both larger contractors and smaller operators who want reliable service and professional support.
We are stepping into a market where competition is fierce, but we believe there is room for a company that combines strong raw material, modern manufacturing and simpler service. That is the path we intend to take.
