20 September 2021

Pakistan: The government of Punjab has granted no-objection certificates (NOCs) for 22 new cement plants. Pakistan Press International News has reported that 10 plants are currently under construction in the state.

France: Hoffmann Green Cement Technologies recorded sales of Euro540,000 in the first half of 2020, more than five times the Euro96,000 recorded in the first half of 2020. Its cement sales were 1880t, more than double its first-half cement sales in 2020. During the period, its orders increased by 29% to 200,000t from 155,000t at 31 December 2020. The company recorded negative earnings before interest, taxation, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) of Euro2.56m, up by 22% from Euro2.10m in the first half of 2020. It loss declined by 39% to Euro2.68m from Euro4.14m.

Australia: Boral has sold its roofing and masonry business to private equity firm Lutum. Quarry Magazine has reported that Boral will retain ownership of its Emu Plains, New South Wales, concrete roofing plant and other ‘relevant infrastructure’ to support its on-going building materials operations.

Australia: Researchers from Murdoch University in Western Australia have developed a cement-free concrete called Colliecrete. ABC News has reported that the concrete comprises of 80 – 90% fly ash. Other ingredients are bauxite residue and recycled aggregates. Developer Ramon Skane said that customers can make Colliecrete ‘anywhere, at room temperature.’

Turkey: Aşkale Cimento has launched new branding including an updated logo. The company said that the rebrand signifies its transition from a local to a global cement company.

CEO Fatih Yücelik said “We took a big step to be an international player with innovator and sustainable solutions, on our new journey to build the future.” He added “We are determined to do our part to build a better future for both our country and the world. Our new corporate identity is our first step, showing that we are fully committed to our goal of being the pioneer of change and transformation in the industry.”