Construction Trade Survey indicates increase in activity but highlights skills concerns
The ‘Construction Trade Survey’ for the UK in 4Q14 has been released, revealing that growth has been sustained for a seventh consecutive quarter.
Europe & CIS
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Holcim reports rise in cement sales volumes and net income in FY14
Holcim has reported its FY14 results, which show a positive performance for the year, though with negative currency effects.
Cement news highlights: 16 – 20 February
Catch up with this week’s news from the worldwide cement sector, from industry participation at events to the latest international construction figures.
More than 1 million engineers in Germany
According to recent statistics, there were 1.008 million engineers in employment at the end of 2014, with mechanical engineers taking the largest share.
Production in construction down 3.5% y/y in the euro area in December 2014
The latest estimates from Eurostat indicate that average production in construction for 2014 was 2% higher in the euro area than in 2013 and 3% higher in the EU28.
Gebr. Pfeiffer to supply a second MVR mill to Hauri KG
Hans G. Hauri KG Mineralstoffwerke in Bötzingen, Germany, has ordered an MVR 1800 C-2 vertical roller mill from Gebr. Pfeiffer.
Eurocement plant reaches 75 million t of clinker production
The Ulyanovskcement plant, which is currently undertaking an expansion project, also saw a 4% y/y increase in sales in the first month of the year.
CRH co-opts Lucinda Riches to the Board
Ms Lucinda Riches will join the CRH Board as a non-executive Director effective 1 March 2015.
MPA highlights road safety at the London Bike Show 2015
The UK’s Mineral Products Association attended the London Bike Show, where it helped to promote the new Construction Logistics and Cyclist Safety Standard and raise awareness of key safety messages.
Lafarge completes cost reduction objectives a year ahead of schedule
Lafarge has reported its FY14 and 4Q14 results, which show the positive impact of a 4% increase in cement volumes and the completion of its cost reduction and innovation objectives.
Cement consumption in Cataluña increases but lags behind national growth rate
According to Ciment Català, cement consumption in Cataluña reached 102 262 t in January 2015, 0.3% higher than in January 2014.
German construction equipment industry increased turnover by 8% in 2014
The Construction Equipment and Building Material Machinery Association of the German Engineering Federation (VDMA) has reported an 8% growth in turnover for 2014, at €8.4 billion – higher than originally expected.
ABB develops TCO formula for electric motors
ABB has devised a formula to help motor users make more informed purchasing decisions.
5.2% improvement in Spanish cement consumption in January 2015
According to Oficemen, domestic cement consumption increased in Spain in January 2015, rising by 5.2% y/y to 769 838 t.
Akhangarancement and Oskolcement report increased production levels in January 2015
In January 2015, Akhangarancement reported an 18.5% y/y rise in cement production levels, while Oskolcement recorded a 2.9% increase.