News & Markets
Nearly 60,000 Registered Construction Professionals
Second edition of the AAC Pavilion at World of Concrete
The second largest tradeshow in Vegas, covering more than 700,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor space, convened large crowds in bustling exhibit halls, packed competitions and at-capacity training sessions. Over 450 international exhibitors from around the world, a milestone 325 first-time exhibitors, and well-known brand names comprised the tools, resources and tricks fueling the future of the trade. New audiences and the incoming next generation of concrete professionals continue to be a focus for increasing visibility in the sector.
"Every year, World of Concrete serves as the cornerstone where concrete and masonry professionals exchange knowledge and hone skills that propel businesses forward. We are proud to host the global meeting point that resources the tradespeople who are building the future of America," shares Jackie James, Vice President of World of Concrete. "We look forward to continuing to share the latest and greatest in concrete and masonry for another 50 years to come."
In honor of the 50th anniversary, World of Concrete donated 50 trees to the Las Vegas Tree Initiative. The ongoing program aims to lower the urban heat island effect that currently makes Las Vegas the fastest-warming city in the United States.
World of Concrete continues to serve as a hub for exploration and innovation as leading exhibitors announced new products on the show floor, administering first-time reveals of new software, tools and machinery poised to increase efficiencies and safety.
Solidifying the bond the concrete and masonry communities share, WOC also officiated a wedding ceremony this year at the main front entrance, celebrating the pride, commitment and resilience the workers of this field are inspired to carry within their daily lives.
Aercon and Litecrete Unite Forces to Launch Megaacrete LLC: Transforming the AAC Industry in North America
During the World of Concrete 2024, the Zambrano and Herb families, with their respective companies Litecrete SA de CV and Aercon LLC, proudly announced the formation of Megaacrete. This joint venture aims to redefine North America's Autoclaved Aerated Concrete industry.
Background:
In 2019, the Zambrano Family acquired an AAC plant in Monterrey, Mexico, from Xella International with a vision to revamp the industry. With a strong legacy in the building materials sector, the Zambrano family, a founding member of Cemex, a global cement producer, and for its contributions to the adhesive and mortar industry, set the foundation for Megaacrete’s innovative approach.
Aercon, owned by the Herb family, has been an industry leader in AAC production since 2002, boasting American-made products with exceptional thermal and acoustic properties and fire-resistant capabilities.
The partnership between Aercon and Litecrete will propel the AAC industry in the USA with a focus on thin reinforced panels for cladding, flooring, and firewall applications.
Key Highlights:
· Versatility and Performance: Megaacrete will produce AAC thin panels, ranging from 4’ to10’ in length and available in 2, 3, and 4-inch thicknesses, offering versatility and high-performance solutions.
· Benefits of AAC: AAC provides benefits over traditional building methods, including speed of construction, thermal and acoustic abilities, resistance to pests and mold, and superior fire ratings.
· Strategic Manufacturing Location: The first Megaacrete facility will commence operations in 2025 in Kerrville, TX. Spanning approximately 120,000 square feet with three autoclaves, the facility is expected to employ 40 team members initially.
· Partnership with Aircrete Europe: Megaacrete signed a mutually exclusive partnership agreement with Aircrete Europe to develop its new facility. Aircrete Europe is globally recognized for its innovative AAC machinery and technology, ensuring high-quality production.
· Corporate Offices and Training Center: The Kerrville location will house corporate offices and a training center, allowing vendors to experience the advantages of building with AAC.
Quotes:
"Partnering with the Herb Family and Aercon will provide the AAC industry in the USA the technical, operative, and economic support needed to position the AAC thin panels as a mainstream solution." – Mr. Bernardo Zambrano, co-owner of Megaacrete.
“Our AAC thin panels deliver a unique advantage compared to standard framing construction in all its possibilities: firewall, cladding, and flooring. Megaacrete aims to become a standard solution in the U.S. lightweight building industry.” – Salvador Garza, CEO of Megaacrete.
"Megaacrete will set the standard for AAC production in the U.S. and North America for production quality and customer service." – Thomas Herb, co-owner of Megaacrete.
“I am confident with the experienced AAC partners that stand behind Megaacrete; this first Megaacrete factory will be one of many across the USA and the start of a tremendous success story! As exclusive technology partner, Aircrete is excited to be part of the Megaacrete family.” – Ralf Beier, Managing Director of Aircrete Europe.
www.megaacrete.com
World of Concrete will return to the Las Vegas Convention Center January 21-23 (Education 20-23), 2025. Of course, there will also be an AAC Pavilion at the next edition of WOC for which interested exhibitors can already reserve a booth space.
