IPMUDA builds legacy on lasting relationships
Malaysia is no exception when it comes to the ups and downs in the construction industry. This is why the phenomenal success of IPMUDA as one of the country's largest distributors of building materials is truly notable. Celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, the company goes beyond continuously strengthening its one-stop-shop reputation and excellent customer service. IPMUDA distinguishes itself by cultivating lasting business relationships with customers and suppliers, and by implementing a prudent risk management strategy rooted on an aggressive diversification programme.
"Through our employees, we've built connections from the first generation of contractors, developers and suppliers through to the second," says CEO David Chua. "We've groomed our talents well, making sure that succession planning is always in place."
Many of its employees have been with IPMUDA since the beginning. With the accumulated expertise, the company is able to advise customers on the best products to use. Comprising exclusive brands from regular suppliers and its own labels made by original equipment manufacturers, IPMUDA carries the complete range from structural steel and cement all the way to finished products such as tiles, sanitary wares, faucets and tap fittings, ironmongery, locksets, kitchen cabinets and wardrobes. Its product portfolio includes international labels such as the long-renowned French-German bathroom and tableware specialist Villeroy & Boch, Dutch bathroom expert Geesa and leading Italian taps manufacturer Ottone Meloda. These products complement the company's own brands such as Ipcera, Ortolani and Roset.
"We know our clients well and never compromise on the quality of service we provide them," Chua says. "We've won their trust by giving them support not just from a pricing perspective."
The company effectively assists customers with branches all over Malaysia, while its long-standing relationship with many manufacturers assures steady supply even during shortages. IPMUDA's robust financial position built on an excellent risk-management strategy also allows the company to provide clients materials even ahead of payments.
"We always try to look for opportunities within our segment, whether it's upstream or downstream," Chua says. "This approach is critical to our sustainability in this highly cyclical industry."
