Core Insights - James Hardie Building Products Inc. has launched the James Hardie™ ALLIANCE, a program aimed at providing business support to residential contractors, enhancing their connection with homeowners and improving their operational efficiency [1][2]. Group 1: Program Overview - The James Hardie™ ALLIANCE offers exclusive access to resources such as training, marketing support, and homeowner referrals to help contractors succeed [1][2]. - The program is designed to assist contractors in achieving their business goals, whether it be expanding their business or streamlining operations [2]. Group 2: Member Benefits - Members can access a redesigned digital portal featuring personalized accounts, comprehensive training courses, and industry-leading marketing resources [2]. - Additional benefits include exclusive discounts on tools and services, as well as the opportunity to earn Hardie™ Rewards Points for business resources [2]. Group 3: Tiered Benefits - Contractors advancing to the top three tiers of the program receive added benefits such as a tier logo for credibility, direct homeowner referrals, and enhanced marketing support [3]. - A directory listing on the James Hardie™ ALLIANCE contractor locator is also provided for increased visibility to homeowners [3]. Group 4: Homeowner Focus - The program is designed with homeowners in mind, facilitating easier connections with trusted contractors within the network [4]. Group 5: Company Commitment - James Hardie emphasizes its dedication to supporting homeowners in their re-side experience and providing high-quality products [5]. - The investment in the James Hardie™ ALLIANCE represents a significant step in advancing the company's mission [5].

Group 1 - The building materials sector has faced significant challenges over the past year due to economic uncertainty and rising interest rates [1] - The overall performance of the industry has been impacted, reflecting broader economic conditions [1] Group 2 - The article does not provide specific financial data or performance metrics related to individual companies within the building materials sector [1] - There are no mentions of particular investment opportunities or risks associated with specific companies in the sector [1]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total net sales were 4% below last year's record second quarter, at just under $1 billion globally [30] - Adjusted EBITDA for the quarter was $263 million, with an adjusted EBITDA margin of 27.4% [31] - Adjusted net income in the quarter was $157 million, modestly ahead of expectations [31] - Year-to-date, operating cash flow generated was $364 million, with $225 million invested in capital expenditures [46] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - North America net sales declined 5% in the quarter, primarily driven by a 7% decline in volume [35] - Asia-Pacific net sales rose 1% in US dollars, but decreased 2% in Australian dollars, primarily due to a 10% decrease in volumes [39] - Europe net sales were roughly even with the prior year, but decreased 1% in euros [43] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - North America shipped 717 million standard feet in the quarter, near the midpoint of guidance [35] - Asia-Pacific saw low single-digit volume growth and mid-single-digit sales growth in Australia and New Zealand [40] - European markets remain challenged, particularly in Germany, with a gradual improvement anticipated [16] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on investing across the value chain to capture repair and remodeling opportunities as affordability pressures moderate [14] - A commitment to zero harm and sustainability is emphasized as foundational to the company's operations [20][21] - The long-term aspiration includes growing North America revenues by double-digits and expanding EBITDA margins by 500 basis points [59] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expects demand to meaningfully recover in both new construction and repair and remodel end markets as affordability conditions improve [11] - The company is planning for recovery and growth in both repair and remodel and new construction [57] - Management remains confident in the ability to expand product reach and capitalize on market growth opportunities [58] Other Important Information - The company repurchased $75 million of stock during the quarter, completing a $300 million repurchase program [31][49] - Capital expenditures for FY '25 are now anticipated to be between $420 million and $440 million, down from a previous range of $500 million to $550 million [48] Q&A Session Summary Question: Planning assumptions for FY '26 regarding price increases - Management is still working with customers on price increases and targets a mid-single-digit increase annually [64] Question: Cost assumptions and SG&A expectations - SG&A control has been good, and management will adjust spending as necessary while maintaining long-term investments [66] Question: HOS savings contribution to performance - HOS discipline has contributed positively to EBITDA margin despite raw material challenges [72] Question: Volume expectations for North America - Management expects December quarter volumes to be above September quarter, driven by customer buying in anticipation of growth [86] Question: Impact of the Philippines exit on Asia-Pacific - Year-over-year APAC volumes are expected to be down about 30% in the second half due to the exit from the Philippines [93] Question: Price realization and market performance - ASP is expected to trend up for the full year, with management confident in outperforming market trends [95][96]

James Hardie Industries plc (JHX) reported second-quarter fiscal 2025 results, wherein adjusted earnings per share (EPS) and sales declined from the year-ago period, given lower volumes due to weak demand in North America and Europe.Stay up-to-date with all quarterly releases: See Zacks Earnings Calendar.Shares of this leader provider of high performance, low maintenance building products and solutions lost 2.75% during the trading session yesterday.Despite volume and margin pressures across key markets, Ja ...

Company announces progress in business integration, product resiliency and community impact SYDNEY and CHICAGO, Aug. 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- James Hardie Industries plc (ASX: JHX; NYSE: JHX), ("James Hardie" or the "Company"), a leader in providing high-performance, low-maintenance building products and solutions, and a company inspiring how communities design, build and grow, today released its latest annual sustainability report detailing progress across the four primary pillars of the company's environm ...

T I urfinguss Please note all $ figures in $AUD, not $USD, unless otherwise stated. Introduction It's no secret that the economy has been weak, particularly for those companies that sell high-ticket or discretionary products like cars, luxury goods, and vacations. As consumers tighten their belts, these businesses are facing reduced demand and increased pressure to offer discounts or incentives to maintain sales, which can further strain their financial stability. The building materials space has been no ex ...

- U.S. leading hard siding company becomes exclusive siding and trim supplier for nation's fifth largest homebuilder - CHICAGO, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- James Hardie Building Products Inc. (James Hardie), a subsidiary of James Hardie Industries plc (ASX: JHX; NYSE: JHX) and a North American leader in home-building products, today announced a multi-year exclusive agreement with Meritage Homes (NYSE: MTH), the fifthlargest public homebuilder in the United States. The exclusive agreement bolsters the exist ...

The house-building product company's addressable end market is getting weaker. Shares in James Hardie Industries (JHX 0.32%) declined 15.1% in the week through Friday morning. The negative result came when the fiber cement siding and fiber gypsum company reported disappointing fourth- quarter earnings. A value opportunity? The move is particularly notable because it contrasts the stock price move of its engineered wood siding and oriented strand board (OSB) rival Louisana-Pacific (LPX 0.12%). The difference ...

Core Viewpoint - The sluggish housing market is negatively impacting James Hardie Industries, leading to a significant drop in stock price following the release of its quarterly report [1]. Sales Performance - James Hardie reported earnings of $0.40 per share on revenue of $1 billion, which was approximately $10 million below analyst consensus estimates [2]. - For the full fiscal year ending March 31, the company experienced a sales growth of 4% [2]. Market Conditions - The company's performance is closely linked to the housing and renovation markets, which have cooled due to rising interest rates, with an expected 2% decrease in demand in North America for calendar year 2024 compared to 2023 [3]. Competitive Position - Despite the challenging market, James Hardie continues to grow revenue, suggesting it may be gaining market share. The durability of cement fiber products positions them favorably against traditional alternatives, although installation costs are higher [4]. Stock Performance - Following recent declines, the stock is now 25% below its high for 2024, indicating a reset in expectations. Investors may need to exercise patience as the company navigates through the current market cycle [5].

Company Overview - James Hardie is the world's 1 producer and marketer of high-performance fiber cement and fiber gypsum building solutions, with significant market presence in the USA, Australia, Europe, New Zealand, and the Philippines[12]. - The company reported a diverse product portfolio, including fiber cement products marketed under the Hardie brand and fiber gypsum products under the fermacell brand, catering to both external and internal applications[25]. - The company operates three segments: North America Fiber Cement, Asia Pacific Fiber Cement, and Europe Building Products, with a focus on residential building applications[25]. Product Development and Innovation - Significant new products launched include HardieFlex NexGen™ fiber cement boards with MoldBlock™ Technology in the Philippines and the Hardie Architectural Collection in North America, enhancing product offerings tailored to regional markets[31]. - The company has developed proprietary technology for producing lighter-weight fiber cement products, enhancing handling and durability compared to traditional building materials[27]. - The company has invested significantly in research and development (R&D) to maintain its product leadership and innovate new products and technologies[57]. Market Position and Strategy - James Hardie aims to increase market share against competitors such as natural wood, vinyl, and stucco through targeted marketing programs highlighting product performance and cost advantages[33]. - The largest application for fiber cement products in the US and Canada is external siding for the residential building industry, indicating a strong market demand[32]. - James Hardie does not experience significant seasonality, but business activity aligns with trends in the building and construction industry[38]. Manufacturing and Capacity - The company has a total manufacturing capacity of 4,679 million square feet (mmsf) for fiber cement in the United States, with plans to increase this to 5,879 mmsf[69]. - Average capacity utilization for fiscal year 2024 was 85% in the United States, 68% in Europe, and 88% in Asia Pacific, compared to 89%, 81%, and 95% respectively in fiscal year 2023[71]. - The company operates manufacturing plants across the United States, Europe, Australia, and the Philippines, strategically located for efficient distribution[67]. Raw Materials and Supply Chain - The principal raw materials for fiber cement products include cellulose fiber, silica, Portland cement, and water, with established supplier relationships to mitigate supply chain challenges[39]. - The company sources high purity silica locally, primarily using silica sand, and processes quartz rock in certain locations to ensure quality[42]. - The company has confidentiality agreements with pulp producers and has obtained patents in the U.S. and other countries for its unique pulping formulas[41]. Financial Performance - Fiscal Year 2024 net sales reached US$3.9 billion, a 4% increase compared to fiscal year 2023[124]. - Adjusted EBIT for fiscal year 2024 was US$941 million, reflecting a 21% increase year-over-year[124]. - Adjusted net income for fiscal year 2024 was US$708 million, up 17% from the previous fiscal year[124]. Capital Expenditures - Total capital expenditures for fiscal year 2024 amounted to $449.3 million, a decrease of 24% from $591.3 million in 2023[75]. - Significant capital expenditures in progress include the Prattville Greenfield expansion with an investment of $439.0 million and expected completion in FY25, increasing capacity by 600 mmsf[77]. - The Europe Building Products capital expenditures rose to $89.7 million in 2024, up from $57.8 million in 2023, indicating a 55% increase[75]. Leadership and Governance - Jill Kolling has been appointed as Chief Sustainability Officer since March 2022, focusing on the integration of sustainability with overall business goals[98]. - The Board of Directors includes members with extensive experience in finance, manufacturing, and marketing, aiding in James Hardie's growth strategy[103]. - Anne Lloyd, appointed as Chair of the Board in November 2022, has a background as CFO of Martin Marietta Materials, enhancing financial oversight[104]. Executive Compensation - Total target compensation for CEO Aaron Erter was US$7,603,600, including a base salary of US$1,038,000[127]. - Approximately 86% of the CEO's total target compensation is performance-based "at risk" compensation, with an average of 66% for other Senior Executive Officers[139]. - The company maintained a pay-for-performance philosophy, aligning executive remuneration with shareholder interests[131]. Sustainability and ESG Initiatives - The company achieved a CDP score increase from B- to B during FY23 due to expanded ESG reporting, meeting all key targets[187]. - The company aims for 30% gender diversity in senior leadership by FY26 and a 42% absolute reduction in Scope 1+2 greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 compared to the CY21 baseline[194]. Future Outlook - The company aims for a High Value Product Growth of 15% in the Asia Pacific region and an EBIT margin of over 29%[194]. - The company plans to achieve incremental Hardie Operating Systems (HOS) savings totaling more than $160 million globally over the three-year period versus the FY23 baseline[194]. - The company targets a working capital improvement of $75 million by FY25 and $100 million by FY26 from the March 31, 2023 baseline[194].