Finland: Betolar has analysed ash from utilities provider Alva’s power plants in Finland using its AI-driven SidePrime software to map its potential for use as a binder to replace cement in concrete production.
Betolar said that it sees potential for future integration of Alva’s ash into its material network.
UK: A&L McCrae has commissioned its second ready-mix concrete batching plant at Barrachander quarry in Argyll, Scotland. West Coast Today News has reported that the producer already operates five aggregates sites. It employs 21 people in its ready-mix concrete business, and is seeking to hire 15 more.
A&L McCrae says that its next move will be to establish a third ready-mix concrete plant at Achnaba quarry in Lochgilphead.
Canada: Heidelberg Materials North America has locked out 44 employees of its concrete plants in Kamloops, Kelowna, and Penticton, British Columbia, amid unresolved labour negotiations. Castanet News has reported that the workers’ union says it is waiting for dates for a mediation by the provincial Labour Board.
Heidelberg Materials North America Director of Communications Jeff Sieg said "Heidelberg Materials has been in negotiations, unfortunately, attempts to reach a fair and competitive labour agreement have been unsuccessful. Heidelberg Materials remains committed to finding a path forward and is hopeful continued discussions at the bargaining table will enable us to reach a fair and mutually agreeable offer."
US: Hilltop Basic Resources says it will discontinue operations at its Downtown Cincinnati ready-mix concrete batching plant by the end of January 2025. The Enquirer newspaper has reported that the producer will subsequently open a new plant 6km away in Cincinnati Riverside, completing its relocation there later in 2025. The former Downtown site will become a car park in service of local sports and music venues.
