CRH Reports Q1 2025 Financial Results with Revenue Increase but Net Loss

CRH Public Limited Company reported its financial results for the first quarter of 2025, revealing total revenues of $6.76 billion, a 3% increase from $6.53 billion in the same period of 2024. The company's gross profit rose to $1.84 billion, up from $1.81 billion year-over-year. However, CRH experienced a net loss of $98 million, a significant decline from a net income of $114 million in the prior year, resulting in a diluted loss per share of $0.15 compared to earnings of $0.16 per share in the first quarter of 2024.

The financial performance reflects several operational challenges, including increased costs associated with labor and depreciation, which rose by 8% and 22%, respectively. Selling, general, and administrative expenses also increased by 3% to $1.83 billion, driven primarily by higher labor costs due to wage inflation and increased headcount from acquisitions. The company noted that adverse weather conditions negatively impacted activity levels in many regions, contributing to the decline in net income.

Strategically, CRH completed eight acquisitions during the quarter for a total cash consideration of $585 million, a decrease from $2.2 billion spent on acquisitions in the first quarter of 2024. The acquisitions are expected to enhance CRH's operational footprint and product offerings. The company also reported proceeds from divestitures and disposals of long-lived assets amounting to $36 million, down from $729 million in the previous year. The company’s total assets increased to $51.92 billion as of March 31, 2025, compared to $46.33 billion a year earlier, reflecting growth from acquisitions and operational investments.

In terms of operational metrics, CRH's cash and cash equivalents stood at $3.35 billion, a slight decrease from $3.72 billion at the end of 2024. The company reported a net cash used in operating activities of $659 million, an improvement from $712 million in the same quarter of 2024. Looking ahead, CRH maintains a positive outlook for 2025, expecting continued demand in key markets supported by significant public investment in infrastructure. The company plans to leverage its strong balance sheet and market position to drive growth, despite the challenges posed by macroeconomic uncertainties and seasonal weather impacts.