Europe & CIS

Reports indicate that Turkish cement manufacturer Akcansa (a joint venture between the Sabanci Group and HeidelbergCement) is interested in entering the Azerbaijan market.

Lafarge has announced that it will demolish the mothballed Westbury cement factory due to market conditions.

Turkey is often described as a crossroads linking the European Union, the Mediterranean and the Middle East. Its global role is growing, but what impact has the global downturn had on this rapidly developing country? Paul Maxwell-Cook reviews recent developments and provides an update on the country’s cement industry in this article, taken from WORLD CEMENT’s June issue – available for subscribers to download now.

As the EU considers toughening carbon emissions targets, Holcim has warned that cement producers could be forced to relocate their facilities.

At a press conference held on 7th June 2010, Holcim presents its Corporate Sustainable Development Report 2009. CEO Markus Akermann is pleased to confirm "that Holcim has met its targets on schedule and in the case of the reduction in carbon dioxide emissions even earlier than planned".

Tighter EU emissions reduction targets this year could force energy-intensive companies to reconsider investment strategies.

Lafarge and STRABAG are combining their cement activities in several countries of Central Europe.

Italgen, an Italcementi Group company has acquired a 49% stake in Gardawind, a company that is operating two wind farms.

A new sand production plant is helping Cemex UK boost efficiency and reduce the environmental impact of its largest UK sand and gravel quarry.

Titan Group Turnover for the first quarter of 2010 reached €286 million, down by 7% compared to the first quarter of 2009. EBITDA fell by 5% to €61 million. The Group’s net profits, after minority interests and taxes, stood at €25 million, up by 16% compared to last year.

HeidelbergCement has introduced a carbon neutral initiative for customers in Benelux.

Creating a uniform approach to health and safety is no easy task. But when your company spans many cultures, geographies and operates in a high-risk area, it’s even more of a challenge, but it’s one that Holcim was determined to take on.

Ciments Français (Italcementi Group) has released its Q1 results. Against a difficult economic background, the first quarter of 2010 was characterised by very bad weather conditions in Western Europe and North America.

HeidelbergCement issues statement of first quarter results. The company continues to cut costs and repay debt, and admits that it cannot be sure whether poor Q1 results are due to the continuing economic crisis or poor weather.

An independent study by Ecofys/Emission Care (commissioned by CEMBUREAU) has been launched on the consequences of an industrial NOx and SO2 emissions trading scheme on the European cement sector.