Concrete

Cement demand picks up in June quarter

Published

4 years ago

June 9, 2022

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Cement transported by rail in May 2022 were 2% higher than in April

Demand for cement increased in the June quarter, the peak season for construction before the monsoon.

Cement volumes transported by rail in May 2022 were 2% higher than in April, and up 30% from a year earlier. The year-on-year (YoY) growth is also expected to have been supported by the previous year’s lower base due to lockdowns, as per JM Financial Institutional Equities data.

In May, volumes were also 3% higher than average volumes in January-February 2022, though March volumes are lumpy and not comparative. The cement volumes are expected to have increased well in May, too.

Volume growth can push operating leverage at a time cost headwinds remain increased. However, the approaching monsoon season may cap volume growth in the forthcoming months as construction activities slow down during monsoon.

Analysts already have a cautious view of the cement sector looking at cost headwinds posed by higher fuel prices and also more increased logistics costs. The March quarter and FY22 earnings hold testimony.

UltraTech, India’s largest cement manufacturer, witnessed a consolidated revenue increase of 18% YoY in FY22, led by a 9% and 8% growth in sales volume and combined realisation respectively. However, the 14% YoY rise in per tonne operating expenses led to a decrease in operating margins, while earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and a mortisation (Ebitda) remained flat. The story was no different for others.

Dalmia Bharat saw a 20% rise in expenses while the prices improved by just 3%.The Jefferies report said cement coverage registered inline YoY Ebitda reduction of 20% for FY22, on cost forces. Volumes were flat YoY while growing 17-18% QoQ, pushing Operating leverage led QoQ uptick in unit Ebitda.

Head of retail research at HDFC Securities Ltd, Deepak Jasani, said that in cement, cost forces would continue to pose headwinds for producers. Cement makers have raised prices several times in the past few months as demand picked up. However, price improvement persists to lag with soaring prices.

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Also read: Indian cement industry likely to add 80 million tonne capacity by 2024

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Concrete

Top 10 Cement Companies in India

Leading cement makers are driving India’s infrastructure growth

Published

9 hours ago

May 12, 2026

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India’s cement industry is the backbone of the country’s infrastructure and real estate growth. With massive investments in highways, metros, housing, and industrial corridors, demand for cement continues to rise steadily. In 2026, the industry is not just expanding in capacity but also evolving through sustainability initiatives, digitalisation, and advanced manufacturing technologies.

From producing low-carbon cement to expanding distribution networks across urban and rural India, leading companies are playing a crucial role in shaping the nation’s-built environment. Here’s a detailed look at the top 10 cement companies in India driving this transformation:

1. UltraTech Cement

UltraTech Cement is India’s largest cement manufacturer and a flagship company of the Aditya Birla Group. With an extensive presence across the country and global operations, it dominates both retail and institutional markets.

The company has consistently focused on capacity expansion, making it a preferred choice for mega infrastructure projects such as highways, metro rail systems, and commercial developments. UltraTech is also investing heavily in sustainability, including waste heat recovery systems and green energy usage.

Key highlights:

Largest cement producer in India
Strong pan-India distribution network
Focus on low-carbon and sustainable cement

2. Ambuja Cements

Ambuja Cements is widely known for its strength, durability, and environmentally responsible manufacturing practices. Now part of the Adani Group, the company is aggressively expanding its footprint in the Indian market.

Ambuja has been a leader in sustainable construction, with initiatives focused on reducing carbon emissions and promoting eco-friendly building materials. Its products are particularly popular in residential and coastal construction due to their high resistance to environmental conditions.

What sets it apart:

Strong sustainability focus
High-performance cement for varied conditions
Growing market presence under new leadership

3. ACC Limited

ACC Limited is one of the oldest and most trusted cement brands in India, with a legacy spanning decade. Also, part of the Adani Group, ACC is known for its consistent quality and innovation.

The company has a robust supply chain and a wide distribution network, making its products easily accessible across the country. ACC is also focusing on digital transformation and sustainable production processes.

Core strengths:

Strong brand trust and legacy
Reliable quality across projects
Focus on innovation and digitalisation

4. Shree Cement

Shree Cement is one of the fastest-growing cement companies in India, known for its cost efficiency and operational excellence. It has built a strong reputation for delivering high-quality cement at competitive prices.

The company is also a leader in energy efficiency, using alternative fuels and renewable energy sources to reduce costs and environmental impact.

Why it stands out:

Cost-efficient operations
Strong presence in North and East India
Focus on energy conservation

5. Dalmia Bharat

Dalmia Bharat Group has emerged as a major player in the cement industry with a strong emphasis on sustainability and innovation. The company aims to become carbon negative in the coming years, setting new benchmarks for green manufacturing.

Dalmia Bharat supplies cement for large-scale infrastructure projects and is known for its durable and high-performance products.

Key advantages:

Industry leader in sustainability
Strong presence in infrastructure projects
Focus on green cement solutions

6. The Ramco Cements

Ramco Cements is a well-established name in South India, known for its high-quality cement and strong customer base. The company has steadily expanded its footprint while maintaining product reliability. Ramco is also investing in modern technologies and renewable energy to improve efficiency and reduce environmental impact.

Highlights:

Strong regional dominance in South India
Consistent product quality
Focus on technological upgrades

7. JSW Cement

JSW Cement, part of the JSW Group, is known for its eco-friendly approach and innovative product range. The company focuses on producing green cement using industrial by-products like slag. JSW Cement is rapidly expanding its capacity to compete with established players and strengthen its market position.

Key features:

Eco-friendly cement production
Focus on innovation and sustainability
Rapid expansion strategy

8. JK Cement

JK Cement is a leading manufacturer of both grey and white cement in India. It is particularly well-known for its white cement products, which are widely used in decorative and architectural applications. The company has also expanded into international markets, strengthening its global presence.

Specialties:

Leader in white cement segment
Strong brand recognition
Growing international footprint

9. Birla Corporation

Birla Corporation, part of the MP Birla Group, offers reliable and cost-effective cement solutions. It has a strong presence in central and eastern India. The company continues to focus on capacity expansion and improving operational efficiency to meet rising demand.

Strengths:

Affordable and reliable products
Strong regional presence
Continuous expansion efforts

10. HeidelbergCement India

HeidelbergCement India, a subsidiary of the global giant Heidelberg Materials, is known for its premium-quality cement and advanced technology. The company focuses on niche markets and high-performance products, catering to specialized construction needs.

Key points:

Backed by global expertise
Focus on premium products
Strong emphasis on quality and innovation

Conclusion

India’s cement industry is becoming increasingly competitive, with companies focusing on capacity expansion, sustainability, and technological innovation to stay ahead. As infrastructure and real estate projects continue to grow, these top cement companies will remain central to India’s development story.

The future of the industry lies in green cement, digital manufacturing, and efficient supply chains, making it an exciting space to watch in the coming years.

Concrete

Rs 20 Million Road Revamp Linking Andada To National Highway 48 Begins

Five point five metre reinforced concrete link to improve rural connectivity

Published

9 hours ago

May 12, 2026

admin

The resurfacing of the road linking Andada village in Ankleshwar to National Highway 48 has begun, with the foundation stone laid by the local member of the legislative assembly. The project is estimated to cost Rs 20 million (Rs 20 mn) and was announced as part of a wider district package. Local leaders and a large number of villagers attended the inauguration and the ceremony underscored the priority given to rural connectivity.

The scheme calls for the construction of a five point five metre wide reinforced cement concrete (RCC) road to replace the existing surface and improve year round access. Contractors will also build a bund and a protective wall along the roadside to ensure efficient drainage of rainwater and to reduce flood related damage. Execution will follow standard engineering practices and local authorities have scheduled phased work to minimise disruption.

The road is funded from a Rs 3 billion (Rs 3 bn) development package allocated by the state government for Bharuch district, of which Rs 20 mn has been earmarked for this corridor. The allocation covers surfacing and ancillary measures aimed at improving durability and safety for motorised and non motorised traffic. Officials said the upgrade will reduce travel time and improve access to services for residents.

Once complete, the link will provide direct connectivity from Andada to National Highway 48 and is intended to support local commerce and daily commuting. Project documents note benefits for farmers, traders and school transport and improvements in emergency access. District authorities will publish progress reports as work advances.

Local contractors will coordinate with the district public works department and traffic management teams to maintain safe passage during construction. Employment opportunities for local workers will be generated during the peak phases of activity, offering short term labour engagement. Community representatives will monitor the implementation and report on milestones to district officials.

Concrete

Shree Cement Posts Strong Q4 as Volumes Rise

Revenue and Premium Sales Drive Margin Improvement

Published

1 day ago

May 11, 2026

admin

Shree Cement reported results for the quarter and year ended 31 March 2026, with consolidated net revenue of Rs61,010 million (mn) and consolidated EBITDA of Rs13,840 mn. Standalone net revenue was Rs56,430 mn and profit after tax stood at Rs5,320 mn, improving from the prior year. Cash profit and operating metrics strengthened quarter on quarter. The board recommended a final dividend of Rs70 per share, taking total payout for the year to Rs150 per share.

Total domestic cement sales rose 11 per cent year on year from nine point five two mn tonnes (t) to 10.56 mn t, with quarter on quarter gains of about 24.5 per cent. Sales of premium products increased to 22 per cent of trade volume from 16 per cent in the prior quarter, supporting margin expansion.

The ready mixed concrete operations totalled 26 plants at year end and 10 new commercial plants inaugurated in March are under commissioning, which will raise the count to 36. The company commissioned an integrated project of three point six five mn t clinker and three point five mn t cement capacity in Karnataka, taking installed cement production capacity in India to 69.3 mn t.

Sustainability metrics included 61 per cent green electricity share in the quarter and green power generation capacity of 666.5 megawatt (MW). Manufacturing sites maintained zero liquid discharge and a water positivity index greater than eight times. Management said energy efficiency and digitalisation measures were helping to mitigate cost pressures from the West Asia conflict.

Management expressed confidence in medium term demand backed by infrastructure spending and Union Budget measures, while noting short term risks from geopolitics and monsoon forecasts. The company has incorporated a wholly owned subsidiary for overseas operations and is pursuing multiple expansion opportunities to accelerate capacity build up.