Holcim acquires eight Lafarge units

Holcim has acquired eight pits and quarries and four ready-mix concrete plants in France and Switzerland from rival Lafarge.

Switzerland-based cement maker Holcim described the deal - the value of which was not disclosed - as "strategically attractive".

"The acquisition serves to secure high-quality aggregates reserves in this attractive economic area. As some gravel pits are located directly on the river Rhine, Holcim will be able to supply gravel and sand by ship not only to Switzerland and south Germany but also to Luxemburg and the Netherlands," Holcim said.