Successful year for HeidelbergCement

Company reports marked increase in operating income in preliminary figures for 2015

HeidelbergCement say 2015 was the company’s most successful year since the financial crisis. In its preliminary, unaudited figures for the 12 months ended 31 December, the company reported a marked increase in operating income with stable sales volumes in cement and ready-mixed concrete.

Last year revenue rose by 7% to €13.5 billion, operating income before depreciation increased by 14% to €2.6 billion and net debt reduced to around €5.3 billion.

According to HeidelbergCement, significant drivers behind this success were the company’s programmes to improve efficiency and margins, price increases in key markets, energy costs that were slightly below the previous year, and positive exchange rate effects due to the weakening of the euro.

‘2015 was by far the best year for HeidelbergCement since the financial crisis,’ commented Dr Bernd Scheifele, chairman of the managing board.

‘Despite the slowdown of the global economy in the course of the year, we were able to significantly increase our operating income as anticipated.

‘Our strict focus on improving efficiency and margins in recent years, our advantageous geographical positioning, and continuous investments in growth have made a significant contribution.’

Looking ahead, Dr Scheifele said he was confident about the future while being aware of the growing geopolitical risks.

‘In 2016, we will once again benefit from the economic development in the industrial countries, particularly in North America and the UK,’ he commented.

‘In view of our strong positioning in raw material reserves and production sites in attractive locations, the unique vertical integration, and our excellent product portfolio, we believe we are well equipped for the opportunities and challenges of 2016.’

HeidelbergCement’s complete consolidated financial statements, including the outlook, will be published on 17 March 2016.