Firm A. Mercieca was established in Malta in 1970 selling products purchased from local suppliers. A small garage which served as its first retail outlet was later transformed into an ironmongery store. Importing electrical and water fittings on a small scale from the Far East were the kick off and we have never looked back since.
Business was improving and imports diversified to other products, mainly ceramic tiles and sanitary ware. In 1979, the expansion of the firm necessitated the allocation of more space for stores and showrooms. Hence a larger outlet was built in Zejtun to cater for the growth of the business. Concurrently, more stores were built and rented so as to accommodate the volume of material which was being imported.
By that time, exclusivity was acquired for the importation and distribution of several products manufactured by Bostik (UK), Norslo Elka (UK), Univolt (Austria), Ceramiche Giovannini (Italy), RESP Rubinetterie (Italy), Rubinetterie Paffoni (Italy), Ceramica Impero Gres (Italy), Ceramica Aurora (Italy), Ceramica Lea (Italy) and many others.
In 1988, due to further expansion of the business, a new showroom was once again required. So an ambitious project was initiated and a three storey building, comprising of 5,000 square meters of floor space was finished by the end of 1990. In June 1991 Alex Mercieca Bathroom Centre Malta opened its doors from the newly constructed premises.
In the meantime, sourcing of new companies and bathroom products shifted from Italy to Spain, where production of ceramic tiles and sanitary ware was rapidly increasing. Importation started immediately, and another proud achievement for the firm was the sole exclusivity for Cabrera S.A., Realonda S.A. and many others which were obtained in a very short time. In 1992, business relationships started with Spain’s main manufacturer of ceramic tiles, bathroom sanitary ware and bathroom accessories, namely ROCA S.A.. By 1993, full load containers started to be imported by the Firm on a regular basis, and later the exclusive rights were granted.