Wavin B.V. (Stationsplein 3, NL-8000 AD Zwolle) has taken its first major step towards expansion outside Europe by teaming up with the Australian group GE Crane Holdings Ltd to acquire James Hardie Pipelines, the plastic pipe business of James Hardie Industries. The acquisition will result in joint ventures in Australia, New Zealand, Singapore and Malaysia. James Hardie Pipelines is one of the largest producers of plastic pipe systems in Australasia with manufacturing and distribution outlets in S.E. Asia.

Wavin's stake in James Hardie Industries will be 25% giving it a foothold in the fast growing markets of Australasia. The company has long been a licensee for Wavin's products and technology and is the second largest pipe producer in Australia and the leading supplier in New Zealand. Its 1996 sales volume is put at 80,000 t. In Singapore Wavin and GE Crane will hold an equal share of the business for which Wavin will provide the management.