This week we welcomed Paul Adeleke, the new CEO of the Mineral Products Association to our Rugby Cement Plant, accompanied by Corin Crane, CEO of the Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce and Board Member of the British Chambers of Commerce. They were taking part in a GB News special broadcast,  exploring the essential role of cement and the wider mineral products sector in supporting UK construction, infrastructure, housing and economic growth.

The visit, coordinated by Dan Mann, Public Affairs, provided a valuable opportunity to introduce a national audience to an industry that often has low public visibility, explaining what Cement is, why it matters and the everyday realities of running one of Britain’s biggest Cement Plants. Discussions highlighted the plant’s role as a major local employer and community partner, providing high-quality, well-paid jobs while contributing to the local and regional economy.

Among those interviewed alongside Paul and Corin, were Cemex’s Craig Williamson, Steve Redwood and Mary-Ann Macinnes Collins. They discussed both the industry’s significant contribution and the acute practical challenges facing UK manufacturing today. A particularly powerful theme was Cemex’s generational connection with the local community, with members of the same families building long and successful careers with the business. This reflects the strong local ties created by plants, quarries, factories, depots, wharves and railheads across the mineral products sector.

A big thank you to everyone who supported the visit, with a special shout-out to Jamie Jordan for hosting our guests and showing them around the site. Thank you also to Craig, Steve and Mary-Ann for sharing their insights and representing Cemex, Rugby Cement Plant and our wider industry so positively.