Vicat - H1 2025 Results

Core Insights - The company reported a consolidated sales decline of 2.7% to €1,885 million in the first half of 2025, with a slight increase of 0.2% on a like-for-like basis [4][45] - EBITDA decreased by 6.3% to €331 million, while consolidated net income rose by 1.1% to €116 million, reflecting resilience in the business model despite challenging market conditions [7][10] - The company achieved a significant reduction in net debt by €190 million year-on-year, with a leverage ratio of 1.81x, aligning with its 2025 debt reduction targets [23][24] Financial Performance - Consolidated sales: €1,885 million in H1 2025, down 2.7% reported, up 0.2% like-for-like [4][45] - EBITDA: €331 million, down 6.3% reported, down 2.0% like-for-like [7][45] - Recurring EBIT: €169 million, down 10.0% reported, down 4.4% like-for-like [45] - Consolidated net income: €116 million, up 1.1% reported, up 6.3% like-for-like [10][45] - Free cash flow: €44 million, a significant improvement from -€23 million in H1 2024 [22][45] Market and Operational Highlights - The company experienced a slowdown in cement activity in the U.S. and a recovery in Switzerland, with emerging markets like Brazil and the Mediterranean showing stronger performance [4][5] - The cement business reported a 1.7% increase in sales at constant scope and exchange rates, despite a 2.5% decline in volumes [14][70] - The integration of Cermix's construction chemicals activities contributed to a 17.5% increase in sales for Other Products & Services [14][72] Geographical Performance - France: Sales increased by 2.4% to €608 million, but EBITDA fell by 13.6% [15][47] - Americas: Sales decreased by 5.8% to €465 million, with a notable decline in the U.S. market [52][54] - Asia: Sales fell by 15.9% to €204 million, impacted by competitive pressures in India [58][59] - Mediterranean: Sales were stable, with a strong increase in Egypt, while Turkey showed recovery [61][65] Strategic Developments - The company is advancing its market plan with the start-up of Kiln 6 in Senegal and the acquisition of Realmix in Brazil, enhancing vertical integration [3][28] - Adjustments to 2025 operating profitability guidance were made to account for significant currency effects [3][31] Outlook - The company anticipates sales growth on a like-for-like basis and EBITDA growth of 2% to 5% at constant scope and exchange rates for 2025 [31][32] - The outlook considers ongoing macroeconomic and geopolitical uncertainties, particularly regarding currency fluctuations [31][35]