Alkern's turnover up 25% in 2011

Alkern chairman Denis Sicard says the French concrete block and slab manufacturer has earmarked several acquisitions for 2012 in order to increase its productivity. The company currently has 37 production sites – compared to 30 at the end of 2010. In 2011, the acquisition of six companies resulted in an additional output capacity close to 0.5million tonnes, mainly in concrete blocks. Turnover rose 25% to €150million in 2011

The merger plans between French concrete block and slab manufacturer Alkern and its competitor precast concrete producer Duroux have been finalised.

The new entity will represent turnover of €200 million (US$249.25 million) and will provide Alkern with a national geographical presence.

Chairman of Alkern's supervisory board, Philippe Renauld, said that the acquisition will enable Alkern to accelerate growth for its outdoor solutions branch.