North American Cement-Manufacturing Sector Evaluates $4.2 Billion in Planned Projects

SUGAR LAND--June 25, 2008--Researched by Industrial Info Resources (Sugar Land, Texas)--Capital spending at cement manufacturing plants in North America is being affected by the slowdown in cement consumption, most of which can be attributed to the downturn in residential housing construction that started in 2007. For example, an Eagle Materials Incorporated (NYSE:EXP) subsidiary has deferred a major expansion in Wyoming for several years until market conditions improve. Nevertheless, North American cement producers are developing about $4.2 billion in capital and maintenance spending scheduled to begin construction in 2008 and beyond. Texas Industries Incorporated (NYSE:TXI) has completed a major expansion in California, and a CEMEX SAD de C.V. (NYSE:CX) subsidiary has completed construction on a kiln line in New Braunfels, Texas.