Heidelberg Materials expands US cement network

Heidelberg Materials acquires Giant Cement to boost US operations

Heidelberg Materials has announced its acquisition of Giant Cement Holding Inc. (GCHI) as part of its strategy to expand operations and strengthen sustainability efforts in the US. The purchase includes a cement plant in South Carolina, multiple terminals, and an alternative fuel recycling business.

The £490 million (US$600 million) deal secures a significant addition to Heidelberg Materials’ portfolio, particularly in the growing Southeastern US and New England markets. Giant Cement operates a cement plant in Harleyville, South Carolina, with a capacity of 800,000 tonnes per year, alongside a network of distribution terminals and import facilities in Georgia, South Carolina, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts.

In addition to its cement facilities, the acquisition includes Giant Resource Recovery, a business focused on alternative fuel recycling, which supports Heidelberg Materials’ decarbonisation and circular economy goals.

Chris Ward, president and CEO of Heidelberg Materials North America, describes the acquisition as a strategic fit: “We are excited to expand our supply network on the East Coast to better serve our broad customer base and expect strong synergies with the Giant Resource Recovery business,” he says.

Highlighting the environmental benefits of the deal, Dominik von Achten, chairman of Heidelberg Materials, said: “We are taking further steps in building a sustainable future and positioning Heidelberg Materials as the front runner on the path to net zero and a circular economy in the key North American market,” he says.

The transaction follows a series of acquisitions by Heidelberg Materials in 2024, including Highway Materials in Philadelphia and Carver Sand & Gravel in New York. Completion of the GCHI acquisition is expected in early 2025, with an anticipated annual contribution of £49m ($60m) to EBITDA in its first year, before additional synergies.

The move strengthens Heidelberg Materials’ position as a key player in North America’s construction materials market while advancing its sustainability commitments.