25 Aug, 23

The Titans of the Aggregate Industry: Top Aggregate Producers in the US

Introduction

The aggregate industry is an essential part of America’s infrastructure. With every road, bridge, and building, aggregates—such as sand, gravel, and crushed stone—are required to lay a solid foundation. The production of these aggregates is a significant business in the United States, with companies competing fiercely for their share of the market. In this article, we delve into the top aggregate producers in the US, spotlighting the companies that lead the way in each state and examining the heavyweights that dominate the industry on a national scale.

Construction Aggregate Heavyweights

The latest data from Mineralocity Aggregates reveals that certain names appear recurrently as top producers across multiple states, earning them a notable place among the top aggregate producers in the US. The following is a breakdown of how frequently each of the major players has secured a top-three position among aggregate producers in various states:

Vulcan Construction Materials, LLC – Second Place with Syar Acquisition 

  • Number of Top-Three Appearances Across States: 12 (15 with Syar Acquisition)
  • Notable States of Dominance: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Texas
  • Recent Acquisitions: In 2022, Vulcan acquired Syar Industries Inc., further expanding its foothold in states such as Arizona and California.
  • Insight: Vulcan Construction Materials has cemented its role as an industry titan, consistently producing massive quantities of high-quality aggregates.

Martin Marietta Materials, Inc. – Neck and Neck with Vulcan  

  • Number of Top-Three Appearances Across States: 12
  • Notable States of Dominance: Iowa, Nebraska, North Carolina, Colorado
  • Insight: Martin Marietta Materials, with its strategic reserves and commitment to quality, is a significant force among the top aggregate producers in the US, securing a prominent place in numerous states.

CRH PLC – The Reigning Champ 

  • Number of Top-Three Appearances Across States: 22
  • Notable States of Dominance: Connecticut, Delaware, New Jersey, Pennsylvania
  • Insight: As a global building materials company, CRH PLC maintains a strong presence in the U.S., particularly in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions, where it is a leading producer of aggregates.
Honorable Mention – Holcim 
  • Number of Top-Three Appearances Across States: 6

These companies, due to their extensive operations and aggressive growth strategies, have a remarkable standing across multiple states. Whether through the acquisition of smaller companies, like Vulcan’s 2022 purchase of Syar Industries, or through organic growth and superior operational efficiency, these heavyweights are shaping the landscape of the American aggregate industry.

A Regional Perspective on the Top Aggregate Producers in the US

In the South: Vulcan Construction Materials, LLC is a leading producer among the top aggregate producers in the US, dominating in states such as Alabama, Florida, and Texas. This company alone produced over 29 million tons of aggregate in Texas and over 31 million tons in Georgia.

In the Midwest: Martin Marietta Materials, Inc. stands as a dominant force among the top aggregate producers in the US, with the top rank in states like Iowa and Nebraska, producing over 16 million tons in Iowa alone.

In the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic: CRH PLC, a global building materials company, takes a leading role among the top aggregate producers in the US, particularly in states like Connecticut, Delaware, and New Jersey

What Drives the Success of These Titans Among the Top Aggregate Producers in the US?

There are several factors at play here. These companies have secured extensive reserves of high-quality materials, sophisticated processing technology, strategic locations near growing markets, and a longstanding reputation for reliability and quality. In addition, these giants often engage in acquisitions, thereby extending their reach and capacity, and solidifying their status among the top aggregate producers in the US.

The Implications of the Dominance of the Top Aggregate Producers in the US

The dominant position of these companies has implications for both the industry and consumers. Their extensive operations can drive efficiencies and innovations that may benefit the end-users of aggregates. However, their dominance also raises questions about competition and the ability for smaller players to thrive in this vital sector, which is so heavily influenced by the top aggregate producers in the US.

A Glimpse at Local Players

While the industry giants play a significant role, it’s essential not to overlook the local or regional producers who are critical to their respective states. For instance, HC&D, LLC is the top producer in Hawaii. Syar Industries Inc was a leading producer in states such as Arizona and California until its acquisition by Vulcan Construction Materials in 2022. This acquisition is a recent example of how top-tier companies are expanding their footprint, often by absorbing successful local and regional operators.

Conclusion

As America continues to grow, so does its need for aggregates. The titans of the aggregate industry—Vulcan Construction Materials, LLC, Martin Marietta Materials, Inc., and CRH PLC—are at the forefront of this demand, producing millions of tons of aggregates to support the construction of roads, bridges, and buildings across the nation. They are not just major players; they are among the top aggregate producers in the US.

However, the landscape is as diverse as the country itself, with local and regional producers playing a significant role in their respective states. As the industry evolves, it will be fascinating to see how these companies, including the top aggregate producers in the US, adapt, innovate, and continue to build the literal foundation of America.

To access the complete list of top aggregate producers in each state, download our exclusive report to get detailed insights into this critical sector.

Report cover for the top three construction aggregate producers in each US state.

Unlock exclusive, groundbreaking market data with the 2022 Top Aggregate Producers Report. Don't miss out!

Gain a competitive edge with our 2022 Top Aggregate Producers Report! Get exclusive market share data on top producers in each U.S. state with market trends to strategize effectively. A must-have for every industry player!

25 Aug, 23

Top Aggregate Producing States: Texas and Georgia in 2022

In 2022, as the nation strove for economic recovery and revitalization of infrastructure, the aggregate industry in the United States proved itself more than just a backbone—it emerged as a vital force in national construction efforts. Aggregates, the sand, gravel, and crushed stone used to build the roads, bridges, and buildings we rely on every day, are an unsung hero of American industry. In this context, two states — Texas and Georgia — have demonstrated exceptional prowess as top aggregate producing states, leading the way with staggering production figures, and setting the gold standard for other states to follow. Texas is king, by a long shot, but Georgia (while not in the #2 spot on production) has stood out as a notable and growing producer.

This isn’t just about rocks and numbers. It’s about economic health, job creation, and sustainable development, where meeting today’s demands doesn’t compromise the needs of tomorrow. It’s about the livelihoods of countless individuals whose efforts in these key states reverberate across the nation.

Behind every mile of highway, every modern office building, and every growing community lies the story of aggregates. And in 2022, Texas and Georgia were writing captivating chapters of this story. Here, we dive into the data, explore the leading producers, and uncover the secrets of their success.

Texas: The Lone Star Leads the Nation

In 2022, Texas was the nation’s top aggregate producer, with a staggering total of 315 million tons produced throughout the year. It maintained impressive production figures across all four quarters, despite a 15.7% seasonal decrease in the fourth quarter.

Top Aggregate Producers in Texas (2022)

  • Vulcan Construction Materials: Approximately 29 million tons
  • Martin Marietta Materials: Approximately 28 million tons
  • Heidelberg Cement AG: Approximately 21 million tons

These titans of industry play a critical role in Texas’ substantial output, powering both the state’s infrastructure projects and its economy.

Georgia: The Peach State's Solid Production

Georgia, another leading state in aggregate production, reported a total of nearly 80 million tons in 2022. Unlike other states, Georgia reported growth in three of the four quarters, with a notable 13.5% increase in the third quarter. On production numbers alone there are several other states between Georgia and Texas, but the solid growth of aggregate demand in the peach state tells a compelling story.

Top Aggregate Producers in Georgia (2022)

  • Vulcan Construction Materials: Approximately 32 million tons
  • Martin Marietta Materials: Approximately 11 million tons
  • Imerys S.A.: Approximately 7 million tons

These leading producers significantly contribute to Georgia’s rank as a top aggregate producing state, supporting major construction projects throughout the region.

What Drives These Exceptional Figures?

Several factors contribute to Texas and Georgia’s leading positions in aggregate production:

Abundant Natural Resources: Texas has vast reserves of limestone, while Georgia is rich in granite deposits and has a great supply of high-quality sands across the Coastal Plain.

Strategic Locations: Proximity to major construction markets, such as Houston in Texas and Atlanta in Georgia, plays a pivotal role.

Dominant Industry Players: Companies like Vulcan Construction Materials, Martin Marietta Materials, and CRH PLC operate extensively in these states, bolstering high production figures.

Economic Impact and National Perspective

The scale of production in Texas and Georgia has broader economic implications. In Texas, the aggregate industry generated billions in revenue, a testament to the critical role aggregates play not only in construction but in the economic health of the state itself.

Nationally, the total U.S. aggregate production in 2022 was reported at 2.44 billion metric tons, despite a 7.4% decrease in the fourth quarter. This national figure underscores the significance of top-producing states like Texas and Georgia in the broader U.S. context.

Conclusion

As America’s infrastructure continues to evolve and expand, the demand for aggregates shows no sign of slowing. States like Texas and Georgia, with their robust production figures, exemplify the pivotal role that aggregates play in our nation’s growth. These states, led by prominent producers such as Vulcan Construction Materials, LLC in the South and Martin Marietta Materials, Inc. in the Midwest, have set a remarkable standard.

This growth story is not just about tons of aggregate produced; it’s a narrative of innovation, resilience, and sustainable development—a narrative that will undoubtedly continue to shape America’s future. With dynamic players like CRH PLC in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions, the competitive landscape promises exciting developments ahead.

Where do these trends lead, and what new strategies will industry titans and smaller players alike adopt in response to the changing needs of our growing nation? These questions are vital for anyone involved in or tracking the construction and aggregate industries.

For a deeper dive into the data that paints this compelling picture, Mineralocity Aggregates is your go-to source. With comprehensive, up-to-date information and insightful analysis, Mineralocity Aggregates provides the resources industry professionals need to stay ahead of the curve. From detailed production figures to in-depth profiles on top producers, the data that shaped this article and so much more is readily available for you at Mineralocity Aggregates.

To access the complete list of top aggregate producers in each state and explore more exclusive insights, download our exclusive report from Mineralocity Aggregates.

Report cover for the top three construction aggregate producers in each US state.

Unlock exclusive, groundbreaking market data with the 2022 Top Aggregate Producers Report. Don't miss out!

Gain a competitive edge with our 2022 Top Aggregate Producers Report! Get exclusive market share data on top producers in each U.S. state with market trends to strategize effectively. A must-have for every industry player!