Abstracts » Business

Aggregate Industries

Article Abstract:

Aggregate Industries is a building materials company that could become a target, and has been left outside the main companies in the sector, following a period of takeovers. Aggregate does not have funds for a major acquisition, but has been able to acqure regional and local assets. The company has acquired 35 businesses for a total of 274 million pounds sterling in the US since 1997, and is likely to make further acquisitions. The company should be helped by speending on roads in the US and Britain, though a tax on aggregates in Britain could create problems.

Aggregate Industries PLC

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Off the floor

Article Abstract:

Hewetson is involved in cement-based products, timber and flooring. The company supplies complex joinery such as sash windows, and should benefit from firmer prices due to the disappearance of capacity from this market. A revival in commercial real estate should help the flooring business. Exports are increasing from 12% of turnover for 1996, and debt has been reduced. The company's profit is forecast at 3.3 million pounds sterling for 1997 by Beeson Gregory.

Hewetson PLC

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Building from a small base

Article Abstract:

Ensor is involved in construction materials and has sold its commercial vehicle division. The company is affected by price competition since there is little to differentiate between some products. Chief executive Ken Harrison has given the company a clearer focus, and the improved performance is evident in results for 1997. Construction materials account for three quarters of Ensor's turnover. The company could carry out an acquisition to enlarge its manufacturing activities.

Ensor Holdings PLC

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