James Hardie Announces European Operations Divestiture
Key points
- Sale of Fermacell to Holcim for €840 million
- Expected to accelerate deleveraging and return capital to shareholders
- Board authorizes $250 million share repurchase program
Full summary
James Hardie Industries plc, a leading provider of exterior home and outdoor living solutions, has announced a strategic divestiture of its European operations. The company has entered into an agreement to sell its sustainable walling and flooring solutions business Fermacell in Europe to Holcim, a global provider of building materials, for €840 million. This transaction is expected to accelerate deleveraging, support return of capital to shareholders, and be accretive to the company's margin profile and ROIC. Additionally, James Hardie intends to close its European fiber cement business to enhance focus on core growth regions. The company's Board has also authorized a $250 million share repurchase program. The transaction is expected to close in the first half of calendar 2027, subject to customary closing conditions.
Guidance
Expected to close in H1 2027, €840 million sale price
Outlook
The divestiture is expected to strengthen the balance sheet, deliver value to shareholders, and position Fermacell for long-term success under Holcim's ownership.
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