Strong Outlook for Firestone Building Products Through Acquisition

Firestone Building Products has a strong outlook ahead as LafargeHolcim announced the smooth and successful completion of its’ acquisition ahead of schedule. All regulatory approvals have been followed and the transaction has been a smooth one in collaboration with Bridgestone, with all 1,900 FSBP jobs safeguarded.

The agreement was signed for the US-based leader in commercial roofing and building envelope solutions in a deal worth $3.4 billion. LafargeHolcim has hailed the acquisition as a milestone in its ‘transformation to become the global leader in innovative and sustainable building solutions’.

New growth profile

Firestone Building Products (FSBP) has been part of the global Bridgestone family since 1980 and has experienced strong organic growth ever since. LafargeHolcim aims to establish a new growth profile, strengthening its biggest market in the US, reaching $6 billion annual sales and leveraging the European footprint.

With the current flat roof market estimated to be worth around $50 billion worldwide, LafargeHolcim hopes to deliver above-market growth with FSBP and plans to make good use of its position in the repair and refurbishment sector.

A warm welcome for the Firestone team

LafargeHolcim has taken on all 1,900 FSBP employees in the acquisition and is excited about the future growth prospects. The team will continue to be headquartered at the Nashville, Tennessee site and will transition to LafargeHolcim.

Jan Jenisch, LafargeHolcim CEO said: “I warmly welcome the Firestone Building Products team into the LafargeHolcim family. Together, we will lead this iconic company’s next era of growth to become the global leader in flat roofing systems.

“As we expand its leadership in the US to Europe and Latin America, I want the world to know that ‘NOBODY COVERS YOU BETTER’ than Firestone. I am excited about the strong growth prospects, accelerated by the many opportunities from President Biden’s ‘Build Back Better’ plan. With its leading roofing systems, Firestone Building Products makes us a partner of choice from rooftop to foundation. This truly is a milestone for LafargeHolcim as we become the global leader in innovative and sustainable building solutions.”

Taylor Cole, the President of Firestone Building Products said: “Today opens an exciting new era in Firestone Building Products’ rich history. The Firestone Building Products team is thrilled to join the LafargeHolcim family. Together, we are in a prime position to accelerate our growth by combining Firestone Building Products’ advanced technologies and know-how with LafargeHolcim’s global scale and reach.”

Paolo Ferrari, Bridgestone Americas President, CEO & COO said: “This transaction will create new growth opportunities for Firestone Building Products and allow Bridgestone to focus its resources to further invest in the company’s tire business and rapidly growing mobility solutions business. Like Bridgestone, LafargeHolcim is a global company with a strong financial position and thriving culture. We know they will take great care of our Firestone Building Products employees and customers, and ensure the business enjoys growth and success for many years to come.”

PermaRoof UK looks ahead

PermaRoof UK is one of the largest importers and distributors of Firestone flat roofing supplies in Europe and has a strong position in both the domestic and commercial markets in the UK. We are delighted to be a part of this exciting new chapter of FSBP and are looking forward to continued growth. PermaRoof UK is a part of the wider PermaGroup.

Now is the perfect time to be in the flat roofing sector. If you’ve been considering the expansion of your flat roof business, talk to us. We have a wide range of opportunities, whether you’re a contractor, sole trader, stockist or project manager. Give the team a call today on 01773 608 839.

Visit our commercial division at PermaRoof UK Commercial.

PermaGroup has established links with some of the biggest names in our industry thanks to our reputation of excellence. Read more about becoming a supplier or stockist here.