Lubricating Efficiency, Productivity: Alchisa

Q: What are the primary market needs within the mining sector, and the specific scenarios in which mining companies seek products like yours?

A: The mining sector is searching for efficiency and productivity to achieve better yields. Our Mobil Lubricants aim to deliver the quality and performance required for efficient and uninterrupted mining processes. Beyond products, we also provide additional services and comprehensive support. We have transitioned to offering different services as requested by our clients. The industry has evolved, as more brands enter the market. But ExxonMobil continues to be globally recognized as one of the premier brands and remains the brand typically chosen for companies’ most critical processes.

Q: What are the distinguishing features of your solutions that position Alchisa as a leader in the market?

A: Our lubricants are renowned for their superior performance and backed by the quality of the products used in their formulation. We also offer laboratory services that ensure the optimal performance of our clients' machinery so they can have the best production possible. We also offer bulk delivery, enhancing efficiency and inventory management for our clients.

We do not see ourselves as just product suppliers; we strive to be strategic partners for all our clients. Instead of just having salespeople, we assembled a team of experts to provide tailored solutions that drive efficiency and productivity in mining operations. Whether it is identifying the right machinery, equipment, or products, we are dedicated to optimizing processes and ensuring clients’ success.

Q: What other sectors do you serve apart from mining, and in which regions?

A: In addition to the mining sector, we serve the transportation, export, automobile, and motorcycle industries, among others. We work with about 70% of the mines in Chihuahua.

Q: What innovations or technologies has Alchisa implemented to enhance its competitiveness?

A: Our strategic partnerships with industry leaders such as ExxonMobil, DOWSIL, and MOLYKOTE enable us to offer a wide range of lubricants and oils to meet diverse needs. For the export industry, we supply DOWSIL silicone products and specialized high-grade MOLYKOTE greases, ideal for food applications or high-temperature environments. We also distribute John Deere construction machinery, supporting the mining, construction, and agriculture sectors. 

With these brands, we have established a strong presence in key states such as Chihuahua, Sinaloa, Sonora, Baja California, and Baja California Sur. In the last two and a half years, our expansion efforts have taken us into new territories, including Jalisco, Colima, and Nayarit. In addition to these brands, our nationwide rental fleet streamlines machinery logistics through mobile camps. With our extensive presence and service network, we effectively cover every corner of Mexico. Looking ahead, we are poised to expand both our product line and our geographic presence to better serve our growing customer base.

Q: How has the new Mining Law affected Alchisa?

A: Mexico’s regulatory framework has left a mark on both mining customers and their suppliers, as the strict regulations have caused a decrease in demand. The refusal to open new mines due to the lack of concessions has had the greatest impact. So far, our mining-specific product line has experienced a 20%-30% reduction in demand. Our strategic diversification has helped us to cushion the effects of this slowdown. 

Q: How do you foresee demand evolving after the federal elections?

A: We do not know what will happen, but we are seeing a pause in activities nationwide, as clients are not sure what the future holds. In the construction sector, clients are doubtful about SEDENA's participation. In agriculture, it is not only the electoral uncertainty that is a concern, but also the severe drought that is plaguing the country. In mining, regulatory changes, such as the proposed change in responsibilities under the Mining Law, add another layer of uncertainty for our clients. No matter which party wins, we see a difficult outlook. 2024 and 2025 look like challenging years, so we are preparing ourselves to be flexible and adapt to whatever comes our way.

Alchisa, part of Grupo Hema, provides lubricants for the mining industry, motor vehicles & transformation industry. It is the exclusive distributor of ExxonMobil in the state of Chihuahua and delivers technical advice and services to boost industrial performance.