The product is sold worldwide with a majority of customers located in Europe, particularly in Austria, Germany, Italy, Poland and Hungary. Processed material is also shipped to customers in Asia, South America and the Middle East. The mineral’s ability to protect against corrosion and its complementary stickiness has also led to its use in adhesives.

Although the leucophyllite product line represents less than 10 per cent of the production volume of the company, it accounts for approximately 30 per cent of contribution margin. By supporting a vibrant, local community and extending the mining operation’s life by over 60 years and generating enviably high operating profits, the operation and its leucophyllite are a model for sustainable business in the niche world of industrial minerals.

Bruce McMichael is a UK journalist who writes about the world’s natural resource industries, the environment and international affairs.