Activities of Saudi Arabia’s National Water Company (NWC) have triggered most growth at a Jeddah-based valves manufacturing company as the water firm takes more control of the kingdom’s utility systems, a senior official of the valves company says.

AVK Saudi Valves Manufacturing Company (AVK SVMC) managing director Ole Hedegaard commented that with NWC playing an increasingly large role, his company had seen a decrease in activities from the Royal Commission and Aramco. That decline could probably be a reflection of “several projects being postponed or just taking longer to get awarded than what we have been used to,” he explained.

AVK SVMC has seen steady growth over a recent 12-month period not only in Saudi Arabia but also from several of its export markets in the region and Asia.

“Some of the largest growth we have seen is probably in the desalination segment where we also see some of the largest potential going forward,” said Hedegaard. 

“We are presently working on several projects together with our sister companies Wouter Witzel Eurovalve, Netherlands, and InterApp AG from Switzerland. Both companies have extensive experience in the desalination segment and strong contacts to EPC contractors.”

AVK Saudi Valves recently introduced a new concept called “the Leakage Package,” a 24/7 service to NWC and their related contractors for onsite assistance on leak repair in emergencies.

“We are continuing to develop new products for the local market in cooperation with our clients such as Aramco to suit local requirements and demands. These products will be manufactured in Saudi Arabia to ensure fast and reliable deliveries,” the official stated.

Storage of AVK SVMC's dry-barrel fire hydrants

Investment plans
“We have full confidence in the Saudi Arabian market and other GCC markets which has also given us appetite to invest in further manufacturing facilities and marketing activities. These investments are fully supported by our European headquarters. This will give us a more complete product package and improve our service offer to the benefit of our local customers. Further this will assist the Saudi Government in their drive to create more jobs for Saudi’s and help the Saudisation process.”

AVK SVMC, established in April 1985 in Jeddah, is a part of the AVK International Group which has more than 20 factories worldwide making valves for the water, sewage, gas and oil industries. AVK SVMC has its factory in Jeddah, sales offices in Jeddah, Riyadh and Al Khobar and sales agents in Yanbu and Tabuk.

Over the years,  the company has developed to become the only manufacturer with capability to offer gate valves complying with all major national and international standards such as ISO, CEN, Saso, DIN, NF, BS, AWWA. 

The range of locally manufactured products has expanded to cover all valves and accessories needed for water distribution schemes, sewage systems, sewage treatment plants and firefighting networks. Its valves are suitable for desalination plants and process industry use.