Ireland: CRH’s sales revenue grew by 4% on a like-for-like basis to Euro21.8bn in the first nine months of 2019. Its earnings before interest, taxation, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) rose by 7% to Euro3.2bn. Sales grew fastest in its European and American heavy materials divisions with earnings growth more pronounced in North America than in Europe. The group reported growth in ready-mixed concrete and cement sales in North America as it continued to consolidate Ash Grove into the business. Sales in Europe were generally good, although declining construction activity in the UK was noted due to market uncertainty related to the country’s attempt to leave the European Union. CRH also reported falling sales volumes in the Philippines due to a slowdown in infrastructure spending.
