Switzerland: Swiss-based multinational building materials producer Holcim has reported a 2.5% rise in cement sales to 148Mt in 2012 from 144Mt in 2011. In its media release Holcim mentioned that the increase came, 'despite declines in the European businesses.'

Holcim's net sales rose by 6.4% to Euro17.9bn in 2012 from Euro16.8bn in 2011. Operating earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) rose by 3.1% to Euro3.30bn from Euro3.20bn. However, operating profit fell by 3.7% to Euro1.51bn from Euro1.57bn.

In cement deliveries were up in all major group regions except Europe, where only Russia and Azerbaijan posted significant increases in sales, partly also in connection with capacity expansion.

By region, Holcim singled out its Asia Pacific as its 'key growth' area. Sales of cement rose by 5% to 79.2Mt from 75.6Mt. Total net sales rose by 9% to Euro5.47bn from Euro5bn. Thailand and the Philippines were singled out as performing well, while Australia turned in a 'less dynamic performance than in 2011.'

In Latin America sales of cement increased by 3% to 24.9Mt from 24.2Mt. Total net sales rose by 9% to Euro2.29bn from Euro2.11bn. Amidst positive performance in most countries, Argentina witnessed a 'significant' downturn in 2012.

In Europe sales of cement fell by 2% to 2.3Mt from 2.4Mt. Total net sales fell by 3% to Euro2.16 from Euro2.23bn. As Holcim's annual report put it, 'the severe crisis dogging Southern Europe contaminated other countries, also affecting hitherto relatively stable economies such as France, the Benelux states and Germany, with repercussions for Switzerland'. Only Russia and Azerbaijan avoided this.

In North America sales of cement rose by 5% to 12Mt from 11.4Mt as the US economy recovered. Total net sales rose by 13% to Euro1.13bn from Euro1.01bn.

In Africa/Middle East sales of cement fell by 4.4% to 8.4Mt from 8.7Mt. Total net sales fell by 1% to Euro697m from Euro706m. Here, performance was impacted upon by the 'political uncertainties in North Africa and the civil war in Syria.'

In its outlook for 2013 Holcim anticipated an increase in sales of cement in 2013, led by its Asia Pacific, North America and Latin America regions. Margins are expected to improve as its cost saving programme, the 'Holcim Leadership Journey', continues.