Trendlines Newsletter- October 2026

Alabama Cement Shipments Finish First Six Months Narrowly Ahead of 2025

Recently released data from the U.S. Geological Survey indicate Alabama cement shipments increased 2.1% in June 2026 compared with June 2025. Based on shipment volumes, an estimated 482,738 cubic yards of ready-mixed concrete were produced during the month. Through the first six months of 2026, both cement shipments and estimated ready-mixed concrete volumes were approximately 1.2% ahead of 2025 levels.

Broader construction indicators continue to present a mixed outlook. According to Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis data, Alabama single-family building permits increased 12.3% through September compared with the same period in 2025. Conversely, the AIA Architecture Billings Index declined to 44.7 in September, while the NAHB/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index fell to 29 in October. Both indexes remain below 50, suggesting continued weakness in architectural billings and homebuilder confidence. The NAHB index is the lowest since 2012. While Alabama’s concrete industry continues to outperform 2025 levels, weakening national construction indicators raise concerns about whether this momentum can be sustained into 2027. It is also unknown if the large demand from data centers can continue at the record pace.