Despite Volatility, Cement Industry Continues Steady Gains

Portland Cement Association expects consumption to increase by 5 percent by end of 2015

SKOKIE, Ill.—  Despite volatility in equity markets and concerns about global growth conditions, PCA Chief Economist and Group Vice President Edward Sullivan said “the fundamentals in the United States are sound and should support sustained growth in construction activity.”

The U.S. economy is characterized by steady and strong gains in net job creation, low inflation, low interest rates, improving business and consumer confidence all of which paints an optimistic near term outlook.  While some sectors have been hurt by a strong dollar and low oil prices, these factors hold the potential of a growth dividend later in the forecast horizon.

PCA’s Market Intelligence group expects construction activity will grow 4.8 percent this year and even stronger growth is expected for next year.  Cement consumption is expected to grow 5 percent this year and 6.5 percent in 2016.  Each of the three key sectors on cement consumption, residential, nonresidential and public construction are experiencing growth.  Typically, when all three sectors are positive strong volume gains materialize.

About PCA
PCA represents America’s cement manufacturers and has been a widely-recognized authority on the technology, economics, and applications of cement and concrete for nearly 100 years. PCA is a vocal advocate for sustainability, economic growth, sound infrastructure investment, and overall innovation and excellence in construction.  More information on PCA is available at www.cement.org.