CRH stays stable in UK market

CRH, the Irish-based materials group, made an operating profit of £21m in the UK in the first half of 2003, exactly the same as in the comparable period last year. UK turnover was slightly ahead at £238m (£231m).

Ibstock's first half brick volumes were broadly in line with 2002, while prices moved ahead. The underlying profit from CRH's concrete and insulation activities also improved.

After a period of prolonged growth, CRH's group turnover dipped slightly in the first half, easing back 3% to £3.3bn, although CRH continues to push its boundaries forward. Now with a global presence, CRH spent £400m on 20 deals.

Since the half-year, CRH said that its UK market has softened slightly, but further Ibstock price increases should strengthen its profit in coming months.