How LafargeHolcim fared in third-quarter 2020

Third-quarter aggregate sales were down about about 9 percent at LafargeHolcim’s North American operations, the company reports.

According to LafargeHolcim, its North American aggregate operations sold 35.6 million metric tons (mt) in the third quarter. By comparison, LafargeHolcim sold 39 mt of aggregate in the third quarter of 2019.

LafargeHolcim’s third-quarter aggregate sales were down in two other global markets, including Europe (down 1.5 percent) and Middle East Africa (down 33.3 percent). The company’s third-quarter aggregate sales were, however, up in Asia Pacific (up 3.9 percent) and Latin America (up 20.3 percent).

North America

Jenisch

The North America region delivered improved recurring EBIT (earnings before interest and taxes) margin, LafargeHolcim says. Volumes in all business segments were impacted by the pandemic and an unfavorable comparison base due to deferred sales, the company adds.

The strong recurring EBIT margin was supported by an over-proportional cost decline compared to volumes, as well as effective price management, according to LafargeHolcim. North America was also impacted by the slowdown in the oil and gas industry in Western Canada, the company says.

“As we navigate the pandemic, our No. 1 priority is to keep our people and communities safe,” says Jan Jenisch, LafargeHolcim CEO. “I would like to sincerely thank all our people who are going above and beyond to make this happen around the world. In particular, I would like to applaud our many front-line workers who have never stopped providing products and services to our customers during these challenging times.”