Gypsum industry news
Gypsum revenue grows at Superior Plus in fourth quarter of 2015 19 February 2016
Canada: Gypsum revenues grew at Superior Plus in the fourth quarter of 2015. Revenue for its Construction Products Distribution division grew by 11% year-on-year to US$244m from US$220m in the previous period in 2014. It attributed the growth to improved US sales volumes as a result of on-going improvements in the US residential construction sector, an increase in average selling prices and currency effects. Canadian revenues fell slightly year-on-year for the quarter.
Overall Superior Plus reported an increase in its gross profit of 11% year-on-year to US$241m for the fourth quarter from US$248m in the previous year. However, its revenue fell by 15% to US$814m from US$957m. The company operates a diverse portfolio of businesses in construction products distribution, propane distribution, speciality chemical supplies and energy services.
Fletcher Building net profit rises 51% to US$114m in first half of 2015 – 2016 year 19 February 2016
New Zealand: Fletcher Building has reported that its net profit rose by 51% year-on-year to US$114m in the half year that ended on 31 December 2015 from US$75.6m in the same period in 2014. Its sales rose by 2.5% to US$2.94bn from US$2.87bn. It attributed this to growth in its building products and distribution businesses making up for weaker earnings from Formica and New Zealand housing developments.
Fletcher Building reported that gypsum wallboard volumes via its Building Products division rose by 9% in the half year. Volumes of performance board rose by 12%. Sales volumes of insulation rose by 12% in New Zealand and 9% in Australia. It noted that its market share has also improved in both insulation markets due to competitive pricing following the strengthening of the US Dollar.