Martin Marietta and Schmidt dominate Colorado's local aggregate operations market

During the Colorado MLRB's April 16, 2025, Zoom meeting, significant discussions centered on the competitive landscape of the aggregate industry in the state, highlighting the presence of both domestic and foreign-owned companies. Notably, Martin Marietta, a U.S.-owned corporation, was recognized for its responsible operations alongside other major players like Burnco from Canada and Wholesome from Switzerland.

The meeting underscored the unique dynamics of Colorado's aggregate market, where approximately half of the major operators are foreign-owned. This diverse ownership structure presents challenges for local businesses, as competition intensifies from global entities. Participants noted that while competition exists, there is a strong culture of cooperation among operators in Colorado, fostering a high standard of ethics and community involvement. This peer pressure encourages responsible practices, setting Colorado apart from other states.

Transportation costs were also a critical topic, with the discussion revealing that the economics of transporting aggregate materials significantly influence operational locations. Truck-served quarries must be within 50 miles of their primary market to remain viable, while rail-served quarries can extend this distance to about 250 miles. However, Colorado has limited rail-served options, with only one quarry operated by Martin Marietta.

The meeting concluded with a focus on the growing demand for aggregate materials in communities like Colorado Springs, where local quarries are strategically positioned to meet this need. As the industry evolves, stakeholders will need to navigate the complexities of competition, transportation, and community engagement to ensure sustainable growth in Colorado's aggregate sector.