ALUMINIUM Bahrain (Alba) sponsored the Commodity Research Unit (CRU)’s World Aluminium Conference and said it reflected its continuing commitment to remaining at the forefront of initiatives supporting greater interaction with industry peers.

The interaction takes the form of examining trends and developments and promoting informed discussions on challenges and opportunities facing the industry, it said.

CRU’s 18th World Aluminium Conference 2013 took place from May 14 to 16 at the Guoman Hotel, London, UK.

Some of the most influential leaders and key decision-makers from the global aluminium industry were in attendance at the three-day event. The companies represented comprise some of the biggest names in the industry and include those involved in smelting, recycling, rolling, extruding, trade, raw materials, purchasing, technology and finance.

As event sponsor, Alba hosted a welcome reception for all participating delegates on opening day.  Diplomatic attaché Shaikh Ali bin Ahmed Al Khalifa represented Bahrain’s embassy in the UK on this occasion.

An exhibition stand on the sidelines of the conference provided Alba with a platform to showcase its extensive range of high-grade aluminium products, meet with current and potential trade partners and promote Bahrain’s attractiveness as a viable investment destination.

Commenting on Alba’s sponsorship support and participation in CRU’s 18th World Aluminium Conference, the company’s chief executive Tim Murray said: “CRU’s World Aluminium Conference plays a pivotal role in bringing together some of the leading decision-makers from around the world and thus presents a focal point for discussing some of the challenges and opportunities facing the aluminium industry. Alba’s support for this prestigious event indicates our on-going commitment to strengthening the growth of the industry and ensuring its continued success.”

CRU is an independent business analysis and consultancy group focused on the mining, metals, power, cables, fertiliser and chemical sectors. Founded in the late 1960s and still privately owned to ensure its independence, the group employs more than 200 experts in London, Beijing, Santiago, Sydney and key centres within the US.

As well as Murray, Alba officials at the event included  acting manager for sales and marketing (GCC, Middle East and Africa) Amal A Rahman Ahmed, investor relations manager Eline Hilal, acting chief finance and supply officer Ali Al Baqali and the manager for sales and marketing, Europe and Americas, Boris Santosi.