REBARMATUK launches a sustainable steel alternative for UK and Ireland construction
REBARMAT®, a leading manufacturer of Glass Fibre Reinforced Polymer (GFRP) rebar, has launched its UK offering, making its advanced composite reinforcement products available to the UK and Irish construction and onshore and offshore wind markets for the first time.
Aberdeenshire entrepreneur and businessman, Ian Skene formerly of Recycl8 and Agile Energy Recovery has agreed a distribution and sales agreement with Latvian company Rebarmat to launch the UK entity, RebarmatUK for an undisclosed amount.
At a time when the construction industry faces growing pressure to reduce emissions and boost efficiency, REBARMAT® presents a high-performance, low-carbon alternative to traditional steel rebar. With an embodied carbon footprint of approximately 0.8 tonnes of CO₂ per tonne of product, compared to 2.0 to 2.6 tonnes for conventional steel rebar, it offers a significant reduction in (CO2 footprint) emissions.
Additionally, REBARMAT® is significantly lighter and up to four times stronger than steel, fully resistant to corrosion, and non-conductive. These attributes help reduce transport, installation, and long-term maintenance costs by up to 50% compared to traditional steel.
REBARMAT UK who have opened a base in the Thainstone Business Centre, will create up to 20 jobs by 2027, starting with regional sales roles and growing to a full operational team and local manufacturing.
Ian Skene, Managing Director of REBARMAT UK, said: “We are thrilled to launch REBARMAT® to the UK and Ireland markets at a time when the construction industry is seeking smarter, longer-lasting solutions. As an alternative to traditional steel, REBARMAT will provide an opportunity for businesses to rethink the way they build, with an alternative that delivers performance, savings, and sustainability.”
Ian added, “By switching from metal rebar to composite GFRP, customers can achieve significant cost savings thanks to reduced material quantities, easier handling, and lower installation and shipping costs. The product’s durability means structures require far less maintenance over time, making it a highly economical choice for both public and private sector projects. The material has been extensively utilised worldwide since it was originally manufactured in New Zealand in 2008, but until now it’s not been available in the UK and Ireland, so to now be able to offer this opportunity will be game-changing for the regions.”
Ian Skene, Managing Director known for his expertise in sustainable developments and environmental compliance. He also founded sustainable technology firm, Recycl8 and waste to energy facility, Agile Energy Recovery Limited (Inverurie).
Suitable for a broad range of applications, from residential buildings and civil engineering projects to coastal structures and major infrastructure developments, REBARMATUK® delivers durable, efficient reinforcement where conventional materials fall short.
To find out more about REBARMATUK®, including technical specifications and use cases, visit https://rebarmatuk.com/
ENDS
Pic caption: Ian Skene, Managing Director, RebarmatUK with samples of the Rebar and also the Rebar Mat/ Mesh.
Notes to editors
REBARMATUK® manufactures Glass Fibre Reinforced Polymer (GFRP) rebar, a high-performance, corrosion-resistant alternative to traditional steel reinforcement. The company is focused on delivering advanced, cost-effective solutions for the construction industry.
REBARMAT® GFRP rebar was originally developed in New Zealand in 2008, and global demand for composite rebar is projected to grow significantly in the years ahead.
REBARMAT (UK) Ltd is based in Thainstone, Inverurie, Aberdeenshire.
Managing Director Ian Skene previously co-founded Recycl8 Ltd and brings extensive experience in sustainable construction innovation.
REBARMAT® GFRP rebar is manufactured under license from Rebarmat, Latvia.
Carbon footprint: ~0.8 tCO₂ per tonne for composite rebar vs. 2.0–2.6 tCO₂ per tonne for steel rebar.
REBARMATUK® is suitable for use in environments where strength, non-corrosion, and long service life are essential.
· GFRP rebar is significantly stronger than steel, does not rust, and is up to 75% lighter. It reduces overall project costs by up to 50%, thanks to lower transportation, installation, and maintenance expenses.
The UK entity of REBARMAT® will support distribution, technical guidance, and customer service for clients across the UK and Ireland. For technical data, case studies, and further product information, visit https://rebarmatuk.com/
