GRAKO, the Middle East’s leading high-level access cleaning specialist, has acquired Abu Dhabi based Western Stone Restoration, as it diversifies its service portfolio to offer comprehensive cleaning solutions to properties across the UAE.

Specializing in the treatment and cleaning of marble and granite flooring, the company will continue to operate independently as Western Stone Restoration as a subsidiary of GRAKO. Western Stone Restoration is a member of both The Cleaning Management Institute (CMI) and The British Institute of Cleaning Science (BICSc).

“The acquisition is strategic for GRAKO as we expand our offerings to service the needs of properties and assets that demand high-quality cleaning solutions,” said Alain El Tawil, Managing Partner at GRAKO.

“Quality, on-time delivery and safety are the 3 founding values of our vision since 2004 and have been ever since the driving force to our success, accordingly we invest to ensure our vision is strengthened. Western had the necessary expertise, certifications, and an eco-friendly operation that presented us with the perfect synergy. By combining both our strengths, GRAKO continues to offer customers the finest in quality cleaning solutions on a wider scale.”

Floors made of marble, granite or sandstone are the best when it comes to longevity and beauty, but are also the toughest to maintain. There are several treatment methods, some of which rely heavily on the use of harsh chemicals that negatively affect the stone. Western employs a highly mechanical process with minimal need for chemicals, that delivers outstanding results.

The process includes the use of diamond pads and water to achieve higher treatment quality compared to chemical treatment, while eliminating the negative effects of the chemicals. Western’s unique process selects the best elements of the Italian, Spanish and American standards in specialized stone treatment and restoration , ensuring that these hard-to-maintain surfaces are left looking their best and the stone itself remains healthy.

A concern often overlooked is the threat of chemicals seeping deeper into layers of the flooring during the treatment process, which can weaken or damage the stone over time. Western’s mechanical approach not only reduces the environmental impact from unwanted chemical fumes and dust, but also extends the life and shine of the stone allowing for longer maintenance intervals.

Western currently services 4 and 5 star hotels, namely the Intercontinental Abu Dhabi, Sheraton Abu Dhabi, Crystal Hotel Abu Dhabi, Radisson Blu Dubai Creek, as well as private mansions and villas, with its quality stone restoration services.

GRAKO takes performance cleaning to new heights by customizing cost-effective solutions delivered safely and in complete transparency. The company holds a number of international certifications including ISO 14001 and 9001; as well as IRATA (International Industrial Rope Access) via its rope access division Gecko Middle East. All of these elements ensure the highest levels of quality, safety and environmental considerations.

GRAKO is responsible for keeping some of the UAE’s most prestigious properties and landmarks shining, including architectural marvels, popular shopping malls and hotels.

The company is also the proud winner of the ‘Cleaning Company of the Year 2011’ at the Middle East FM Awards – which are held in the UAE – for its outstanding achievements and level of commitment as a high-level cleaning service provider.