France: Vicat Group's financial results for the first half of 2014 show consolidated sales of Euro1.22bn, a 6.1% improvement over the same period of 2013 and 10.8% higher at constant scope and exchange rates. Vicat's cement sales were up by 17.1% at constant scope and exchange rates.

The group's consolidated earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) came to Euro208m, an increase of 3.1% in absolute terms and an increase of 8.8% at constant scope and exchange rates.

The cement sector remains Vicat's most important activity, accounting for 53.5% of income as opposed to 53.4% in the first half of 2013. Vicat highlighted that continued growth in India, West Africa and the USA, a return to growth in Egypt and favourable winter weather conditions in mainland Europe (especially France and Switzerland) helped drive its increased sales. It noted a fall in volumes in Turkey but this was partially offset by increased sales prices in that country.

"Over the first half, Vicat saw strong growth in business volumes and operating profit," states the group report. "Nearly all regions contributed to this performance, particularly Egypt which saw a return to growth, India, which saw significant progress despite continued competitive pressures and the USA, which is once again generating positive operating profits. In France, despite a promising first quarter helped by good weather conditions, performances were down slightly, due to a persistently unfavourable macroeconomic and sector conditions."