CRH plc Reports 9% Revenue Growth but Increased Net Loss in Q1 2026

CRH plc reported its financial results for the first quarter of 2026, revealing total revenues of $7.37 billion, a 9% increase from $6.76 billion in the same period last year. The growth was attributed to strong underlying demand, disciplined commercial execution, and contributions from acquisitions. However, the company also reported a net loss of $180 million, compared to a loss of $98 million in the prior year, reflecting an increased loss of $82 million. The diluted loss per share was $0.27, up from $0.15 in the previous year.

The company's gross profit for the quarter was $2.05 billion, an increase of 11% from $1.84 billion in the first quarter of 2025, with a gross profit margin of 27.7%. Selling, general, and administrative expenses rose to $2.06 billion, a 12% increase from $1.83 billion, primarily due to higher haulage and labor costs. Additionally, CRH recorded a loss on impairments of $48 million, which was not present in the same quarter last year. Adjusted EBITDA for the quarter was $586 million, an 18% increase from $495 million in the prior year.

In terms of strategic developments, CRH completed five acquisitions during the quarter for a total consideration of $126 million, a significant decrease from $585 million in the same period last year. The company also announced plans to divest its construction accessories and lawn and garden operations, with expected proceeds of $0.7 billion and $1.1 billion, respectively. These divestitures are anticipated to close in the second quarter of 2026, subject to regulatory approvals.

Operationally, CRH's total assets as of March 31, 2026, were $58.17 billion, slightly down from $58.33 billion at the end of 2025. The company reported a total debt of $18.5 billion, an increase from $17.7 billion at the end of the previous year. Cash and cash equivalents stood at $3.24 billion, down from $4.1 billion at the end of 2025. The company’s employee headcount increased due to acquisitions, contributing to higher labor costs.

Looking ahead, CRH anticipates favorable demand across key end-markets, supported by significant public investment in infrastructure and ongoing reindustrialization activities. The company expects to continue its growth trajectory in 2026, assuming normal seasonal weather patterns and no major geopolitical disruptions. The management remains focused on leveraging its strong balance sheet and strategic acquisitions to drive further value creation for shareholders.