A Closer Look

摘要

Dallas-based Hanson Aggregates North America reported that during the first half of 2005 the division generated operating profit of 74 million dollars, an increase of 8 percent compared with the same period in 2004. Profit margins increased to 9.5 percent. The increases were achieved despite a 2-percent decrease in aggregates volumes during the six-month period ending June 30. Aggregates prices, however, increased 6 percent overall. According to Alan Murray, chief executive of Hanson PLC, aggregates demand is improving in California; is good in Arizona, Mew York and South Carolina; and remains very strong in Texas. For example, aggregates volumes increased 14 percent in Houston, he says. Additionally, in the first half of 2005, Hanson Aggregates North America's selling prices increased 7.3 percent in its Northeast region, 6.2 percent in the Mideast region, 3.7 percent in the Southwest region and 10.6 percent in the West region. Hanson has 198 aggregates operations in 16 states, as well as 51 ready-mixed concrete plants, 39 asphalt plants and one cement plant. The company's top 15 metropolitan markets account for almost 60 percent of its U.S. aggregates volume.