A Relationship Built to Last: Latham Australia and a 40-Year Partnership Across Asia’s Built Environment

In an industry defined by project cycles and transactional relationships, enduring partnerships are rare. Yet, in Singapore and across Southeast Asia, one such relationship has shaped some of the region’s most significant infrastructure and commercial developments.

Established in the mid-1980s, Nikko Industrial & Services Pte Ltd (Singapore) has worked alongside Latham for more than four decades, a personal relationship built on trust that began before Nikko Industrial & Services Pte Ltd was established. As their company spokesperson reflects, “I was already working with Latham products in the early 1980s, alongside David Latham. We were introducing the system into a market that didn’t yet understand expansion joints.”

What began as a technical collaboration evolved into something far deeper, built on trust, shared standards, and a mutual commitment to long-term outcomes in the built environment.

Educating the Market: From Sealants to Engineered Expansion Joint Systems  

When Latham products were first introduced into the Singapore market, the concept of mechanical expansion joints was largely unfamiliar. Conventional methods relied heavily on gap sealants. An approach that, while initially cost-effective, lacked durability and long-term performance.

“In the early days, buyers would ask why they should spend more on a mechanical joint when sealant was cheaper to install. But sealant needs replacing every few years. A Latham system will last 20, 30, even 50 years without issue.” 

This shift from short-term cost thinking to lifecycle performance required sustained education of architects, builders, consultants, contractors and especially owners. Over time, as projects began to demonstrate the reliability and finish of Latham systems, market perception evolved. Today, specification is often driven by informed design professionals who recognise the long-term value embedded in engineered solutions.  

Specification-Driven Growth: Engaging Architects, Builders and Contractors   

Success in this sector depends on influencing the entire construction ecosystem, from architects and specifiers through to contractors and installers. Nikko’s approach has been to engage all stakeholders, ensuring Latham products are understood, specified, and ultimately delivered on-site.

“We start with the architects. Once the product is in the drawings, all the contractors come to us. We are always speaking to designers, builders, and project managers, because each plays a role in the outcome,” This specification-led model has proven critical in complex and high-value projects, where product performance, compliance, and finish cannot be compromised.

Engineering Excellence and Architectural Finish

A defining feature of Latham’s product range is its ability to meet both technical and aesthetic demands, an increasingly important consideration in modern construction.

“When you compare Latham with other systems, the design is unique. The movement capability, including multi-directional performance, is something others cannot replicate. And from an architectural perspective, the finish is superior. That matters to designers,” This combination of engineering precision and architectural quality has positioned Latham as a preferred choice in premium developments, where both performance and visual integration are critical.

Flagship Installations: From Changi Airport to Global Infrastructure Projects 

The impact of this long-standing partnership is best illustrated through its involvement in landmark projects.

One of the earliest and most influential installations was Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 1 completed in 1981. The performance of Latham systems in this environment set a benchmark for the region.

“After Terminal 1, the market understood expansion joints. The product performed so well, with smooth movement, and an excellent finish, that it changed expectations,”

Subsequent projects, including major transport infrastructure, integrated resorts such as Marina Bay Sands, and global developments delivered by leading international contractors, have continued to reinforce Latham’s reputation globally.

In one notable case, despite pressure to substitute alternative products, the client insisted on Latham, requiring urgent airfreight to meet project timelines. The decision was driven by prior experience, confidence in performance and long-term durability.

Durability Without Compromise: Zero Warranty Claims Over Decades 

Perhaps the most compelling testament to the quality of Latham products lies in their long-term performance.

Across decades of installations, including expansion joints, floor grates, entrance matting, and control joints, there have been no reported warranty claims within this partnership.

“We have installations in hospitals, transport systems, and commercial buildings that have been in place for more than 20 years with no issues. In all the time we’ve worked with Latham products, we have never had a warranty claim,” This level of durability not only reduces lifecycle costs but also strengthens trust among architects, clients, specifiers, and contractors.

Responsiveness and Technical Support in a Fast-Paced Market  

In markets such as Singapore, speed and accuracy are critical. Project timelines are tight, and decision-making often requires immediate technical input.

“When we need information or pricing, we get it quickly, sometimes within minutes. That responsiveness allows us to support our clients and maintain momentum on projects,” This alignment between product quality and service delivery has been instrumental in maintaining Latham’s competitive position in fast-moving construction environments.

A Relationship Beyond Business: Trust Across Generations

What distinguishes this partnership is its longevity. Spanning multiple generations of leadership on both sides, the relationship has been shaped by mutual respect and personal connection.

“We don’t see this as just business. It’s built on friendship and understanding. That’s why it has lasted so long,” .

As the next generation steps into leadership roles, the foundations of this relationship: trust, quality, and shared values, continue to guide its evolution.

Looking Ahead: Continuing a Proven Model of Collaboration

With increasing demand for high-performance, low-maintenance building systems, the role of trusted suppliers and proven products is only set to grow.

The partnership between Nikko Industrial & Services Pte Ltd and Latham Australia demonstrates what is possible when technical excellence is matched with long-term commitment. It offers a model for how manufacturers, distributors, and project stakeholders can work together to deliver enduring outcomes in the built environment.

Latham Australia

Latham has been manufacturing premium quality flooring products in Sydney, Australia for 70 years. End-to-end control and oversight of procurement, manufacturing, and quality control results in the industry’s most reliable and high-performing products.  

The name Latham is synonymous with quality and Latham have been the recipient of over 30 awards including numerous Australian Design Awards. Latham products can be found in many prestigious buildings around the world including the Sydney Opera House, Singapore’s Changi Airport Terminals and the Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur.    

To find out more about Latham products, please visit latham-australia.com. To talk to a Latham product expert, call 1300 LATHAM (528 426) or email sales@latham-australia.com.