CRH profits over €1bn
CRH has announced pre-tax profits for the year ending December 31, 2004, of €1.017bn, up 18% on the 2003 figure.
Sales were up 16%, from €11.1bn to €12.8bn.
CEO Liam O’Mahony said: "2004 was a landmark year for CR,H with profit before tax up 18%, exceeding €1bn for the first time; our 12th consecutive year of profit growth and testimony to thegGroup’s strategy and performance.
“Two particular challenges in the year were the very rapid and severe escalation of energy prices in the third quarter from already high levels which negatively affected our costs; and the continued decline of the US dollar.
“While there is continuing volatility in energy and currency markets which could impact adversely on economies as the year progresses, the current 2005 outlook for our markets is on the whole positive.”
