"Maximus Mega Slab" is expected to allow entry into new product categories; driving sales in line with the company's new growth strategies

Dubai, 10 February, 2015: RAK Ceramics, a global hi-tech manufacturer of lifestyle ceramics solutions with a turnover of one billion USD, announced today the launch of the largest ceramic tile in the GCC region. Maximus Mega Slab in Gres Porcellanato, produced using Continua Technology will be the largest single pressed ceramic tile in the region measuring a gigantic 1.5 x 3 metres.

The innovation was launched at Cevisama Exhibition, one of the largest international exhibitions in the ceramic tiles, sanitaryware and natural stones industry, taking place in Spain from the 9th - 13th February 2015.

This striking tile can be used on walls, floors or to create surfaces. The large size of Maximus Mega Slab reduces the need for multiple joins and grouting on floors or walls and can provide an alternative to traditional granite surfaces in kitchens, bathrooms and other spaces. RAK Ceramics is the only manufacturer in the region to have installed SACMI Continua Technology and is chartering new territory - Maximus Mega Slab is not just a tile. A breakfast bar, a kitchen counter, a bathroom counter, a general work or living space counter - Maximus Mega Slab can be all of these things and more.

 Maximus Mega Slab expands the reach of RAK Ceramics and will enable the company to compete in new arenas. Where traditionally natural stone or granite has been used to create kitchen, bathroom or other work/living space counters, now RAK Ceramics can offer Maximus Mega Slab.

Abdallah Massaad, RAK Ceramics CEO commented on the launch, saying: "Cevisama provides a truly global exposure for us as it attracts the biggest buyers and trade visitors from markets such as North Africa, the Middle East, Russia and Eastern Europe, all of which are market priorities for our new expansion and growth strategy. We have prepared an exhibition stand with the aim of attracting all 75,000 exhibition visitors, which will set a strong benchmark for our marketing initiatives in 2015."

"In fact the new Maximus Mega Slab range should more rightfully be described as being individual works of art, not tiling. This is all possible thanks to RAK Ceramics's continuous investment in the latest technological advancements." Abdallah continued.

The Maximus Mega Slab will be showcased throughout 2015 at a number of high profile trade shows and exhibitions around the world. Following the launch at Cevisama in Valencia, Spain, the stand will move to Revestir in Sao Paulo, Brazil in March, then to the International Sanitation and Heating Fair (ISH) in Frankfurt, Germany and finally to the Coverings exhibition in Orlando, USA. In addition to launching the Maximus Mega Slab, RAK Ceramics will also launch ceramic tiles in a range of new and unique sizes and more than 70 new design concepts.

RAK is a pioneer in introducing hi-tech innovations including digital technology, slabs, anti-bacterial, glow in the dark, double charge, roll feed and water jet designs in addition to robotic glazing techniques, wide body products and high pressure casting with sanitary ware.  The launch of Maximus Mega Slab is in line with the company's growth direction which includes focusing on expanding "core business" activities in the UAE, India and Bangladesh and scaling down of "non-core operations" such as contracting activities in the UAE.

About RAK Ceramics
RAK Ceramics is a USD 1 billion global conglomerate that supplies products to over 160 countries and has been officially recognised as the world's largest ceramics manufacturer with a global annual production output of 117 million square metres of ceramic and porcelain tiles, 4.6 million pieces of sanitaryware and 24 million pieces of tableware. The Ras Al Khaimah-based public-listed company was established in 1991 by H.H. Sheikh Saud Bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah and UAE's Supreme Council Member and H.H. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Saud Al Qasimi, Crown Prince of Ras Al Khaimah and the Chairman of RAK Ceramics who has been guiding the company towards a leadership position among global competitors.

Media Contacts:
RAK Ceramics
Melanie Kamdar
melanie@rakceram.com

FTI Consulting
Racha Mhanna
+97144372100
racha.mhanna@fticonsulting.com 

© Press Release 2015