The Xiameter Web-enabled marketplace from Midland-based Dow Corning Corp. this week launched an expanded business and new Web site to provide more products, better functionality, and an easier method to order silicone-based products.
The new Xiameter features double the number of standard silicone products than previously available, a new order entry platform with enhanced self-service functionality, volume quantity options, and the ability to buy from distributors for the first time.
"We're meeting customer needs by taking a proven successful business model and making it more powerful," said Xiameter global executive director Shelley Bausch. "Standard silicones will be more easily accessible with greater efficiencies and convenience."
Introduced by Dow Corning in 2002 as the first of its kind in the silicone marketplace and unrivaled to date, the Xiameter business model allows customers to buy high quality, standard silicones ranging from rubber bases and compounds to dimethyl fluids and emulsions, to sealants and silanes at market-driven prices online. These materials are widely used as performance enhancers by multiple industries, including personal care, textile, energy, construction and automotive where they provide qualities such as durability, stability, adhesion and weather resistance.
The changes are part of a business transformation strategy announced by Dow Corning recently that focuses on helping customers be more efficient, innovative and sustainable.
Key enhancements to the Xiameter business include:
* All standard silicone products manufactured by Dow Corning around the world will now be available under the Xiameter brand.
* Volume and price options are now available to allow customers to determine what works best for them.
* Xiameter brand products will be available from local distributors for customers who prefer local convenience, customized services or for those that cannot meet minimum order quantities.
* The Xiameter Web site is now available in Chinese and Korean, in addition to English.
"While we have made significant changes, we have kept our industry-recognized commitment to delivering high-quality, reliable standard silicones," said Bausch.
Products will be manufactured to the same specifications using the same Dow Corning manufacturing locations. Chemical equivalency documents will be provided under the Xiameter brand to help customers transition between the Dow Corning brand to the Xiameter brand.
"Using an online business model makes efficient use of a customer's time, allowing them to place an order when and where it's convenient for them, with immediate confirmation of price, quantity, and ship date," Bausch said.
The expanded online capabilities are part of a process begun in 2002 when Dow Corning introduced a two-brand strategy -- focusing the Dow Corning brand on full service and solutions offerings for customers who want innovation, customization and expertise in addition to a portfolio of highly specialized products. The Xiameter brand was introduced with a focus on customers whose purchasing decisions were driven by the needs for efficiency, high quality products and large volume purchases without additional services. The Xiameter business model essentially unbundled the services offered by the Dow Corning brand.
"We are making these changes because not only is the economy changing, but our customer needs are changing. We want to deliver what they need," Bausch said. "This is part of a transformation for Dow Corning as a whole that will enable us to focus on both innovation through the Dow Corning brand as well as efficiency through the Xiameter brand. Our ultimate goal is to create a competitive advantage for our customers and provide economic, environmental and social benefit across the globe."
More at www.dowcorning.com/goxiameter or www.xiameter.com.
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