In a move that will reshape the industrial minerals landscape, Martin Marietta Materials, Inc. (NYSE: MLM) announced a definitive agreement to combine with Lhoist North America, Inc. (LNA) in a transaction valued at $13.5 billion.

The mega-merger, consisting of $7.0 billion in cash and $6.5 billion in Martin Marietta common stock, is expected to close in the second half of 2026, subject to regulatory approvals.

The acquisition marks a major milestone for regional economies. Lhoist North America is a vital economic driver across its footprint, notably conducting business and employing residents right here in Cumberland County. While the corporate transition takes place at the executive level, Lhoist’s essential role as a local employer and industrial provider underscores the community-level impact of this multi-billion-dollar deal.

Lhoist North America, a subsidiary of the Belgium-based Lhoist Group, is a premier producer of hi-calcium lime, dolomitic lime, and industrial mineral products. The financial and operational scale of the combination includes:

• Massive Reserves: LNA brings a reserve base of over 2 billion tons of high-quality limestone, representing more than 200 years of useful life strategically located in high-growth Sun Belt corridors.

• Strong Financial Profile: For the twelve months ended December 31, 2025, LNA generated $1.8 billion in gross sales and $786 million of Adjusted EBITDA.

• Synergy Expectations: Martin Marietta anticipates achieving approximately $85 million in annual run-rate cost synergies, expecting the deal to be accretive to earnings and margins in the first full year after closing.

• Ownership Stake: Upon completion, the Berghmans family (owners of Lhoist Group) will own approximately 15% of Martin Marietta on a fully diluted basis and will gain a seat on Martin Marietta’s Board of Directors.

The merger immediately establishes Martin Marietta as the nation’s leading producer of lime and limestone solutions, positioning it to capitalize on historic investments in U.S. infrastructure and advanced manufacturing.

“This transaction represents another transformational milestone for Martin Marietta,” said Ward Nye, Chair, President, and CEO of Martin Marietta. “As the United States continues to invest in infrastructure, advanced manufacturing, energy development and industrial expansion, demand for high-quality lime products is expected to remain resilient for decades to come.”

Baron Berghmans, Chairman of Lhoist Group, echoed the positive outlook, noting that Martin Marietta is a partner that “honors the legacy we have carefully built and ensures it will endure for generations to come.”

The combined network will feature enhanced capabilities to service complex infrastructure “mega-projects,” including highways, data centers, semiconductor fabrication facilities, and energy infrastructure across North America.