LafargeHolcim Bangladesh PLC posted an 8 per cent year-on-year increase in net profit in the second quarter (April-June) of 2026, driven by higher revenue, strategic price adjustments and strong demand for premium products.
The multinational cement manufacturer reported a profit after tax of Tk 1.05 billion for the April-June quarter, up from Tk 967 million in the same period a year earlier.
Earnings per share (EPS) rose to Tk 0.90 from Tk 0.83 in the corresponding quarter of 2025, according to the company's second-quarter financial results released on Wednesday.
Revenue climbed 14 per cent to Tk 7.40 billion during the quarter from Tk 6.47 billion a year earlier, driven by strategic pricing realignments and robust sales of premium products.
The company said disciplined cost management and operational efficiencies helped preserve profitability despite persistent inflationary pressure, higher energy costs and rising gas tariffs.
"In the face of persistent inflation, elevated energy costs and intense market pressures, LafargeHolcim Bangladesh has once again proven the strength of its strategic foundation," Iqbal Chowdhury, chief executive officer of LafargeHolcim Bangladesh, said in a statement.
He attributed the results to the company's strong brand equity, customer confidence, disciplined pricing strategy and continued product innovation.
The company's specialised product portfolio, including Holcim Water Protect, Supercrete Plus, Holcim Coastal Guard and Powercrete, continued to gain market traction, he said.
"Our aggregates business has demonstrated significant price momentum and volume growth, positioning it as a high-potential segment capable of driving disproportionate growth and unlocking significant long-term value for our stakeholders," he added.
The company also highlighted progress in its sustainability initiatives, noting that its waste management arm, Geocycle, co-processed nearly 21,000 tonnes of non-recyclable waste into alternative fuel during the quarter.
However, the cement maker's half-yearly profit fell 8 per cent year-on-year to Tk 2.17 billion for the January-June period, although net sales increased 3 per cent to Tk 15.44 billion.
Looking ahead, the company expects macroeconomic challenges and elevated energy costs to persist in the second half of 2026 but remains optimistic about sustaining performance through greater use of alternative energy, product diversification and expansion of its aggregates business.
"While external macro factors and elevated energy prices will continue to present a demanding backdrop in the second half of the year, LafargeHolcim Bangladesh is well positioned to navigate these challenges," the company said.
Annual performance
In 2025, LafargeHolcim posted a 34 per cent year-on-year profit growth to Tk 5.11 billion, driven by higher sales of premium cement products and solid expansion in its aggregates business.
Its annual net sales for the year rose 6 per cent year-on-year to Tk 29.31 billion, supported by steady business momentum and stronger customer engagement.
Based on profit growth, the board had declared a total 40 per cent cash dividend for the year, including an 18 per cent interim dividend.
babulfexpress@gmail.com