ACC 3Q17 sales volume rises 18%

ACC delivered sales volume growth of 18 per cent in the 3Q17 (July-September 2017) compared to five per cent in 3Q16. Sales volume reached 19.29Mt for the first nine months of 2017. The stabilisation of Jamul and Sindri cement plant capacities have contributed to this growth. Premium product sales rose by 18 per cent YoY.

"ACC's results demonstrate our capacity to respond quickly and resolutely to changing market dynamics and execute strategies with focus and determination. Our approach to customers and operational efficiencies is taking shape with a positive impact on results," said Neraj Akhoury, ACC's managing director and CEO.

"ACC has delivered a string net sales growth of 25 per cent [to US$469m], EBITDA has improved by 47 per cent [to US$639m] and profit before tax has increased significantly by 98 per cent [to US$40.8m], demonstrating positive operating leverage. This string result has been achieved through an increased focus on premium products, improved customer service levels and by relentlessly driving productivity and cost optimisation.

"ACC is working with the LafargeHolcim group to adopt global best practices upon commercial transformation and cost management . As one of India's leading cement companies, we believe that India continues to offer attractive opportunites for us to work with the Government's vision on smart cities and infrastructure."

Meanwhile, the company's ready-mix division maintained a steady growth trend of 11 per cent over the same quarter of the previous yearly largely through supplies to diversified customer segments. Two new ready-mix plants were commissioned in Jharkhand. The company now operates 57 ready-mix plants in the country.