The aggregates industry is closely linked to the cement industry in several aspects. Not only are cement companies commonly diversified owners of downstream operations, but some of the aggregates companies have forged a pathway into cement and are controlled by similar strict regulatory codes of practice and increasing legislation. In this article Jim O’Brien, president of the European Aggregates Association (UEPG), Belgium, looks at why aggregates can be considered cement's best friend.
In recent years, the aggregates industry has increased its profile and is now recognised as providing a strategically- important and fundamental building material. Many of the major cement manufacturers are also significant producers of aggregates, ie, crushed stone, sand and gravel. This article gives an overview of the European and global aggregates business, and offers insights as to why it is an increasingly attractive complementary business opportunity for the cement industry.
