This podcast episode explores the aggregates industry, with a focus on Vulcan Materials, the leading producer in the United States. Aggregates, crushed rocks used primarily in construction, are indispensable for infrastructure development. The industry is characterized by its long-lived quarries, strategic geographic distribution, and high logistics costs. Vulcan's success stems from its extensive operations, geographical dominance, and effective use of technology to improve efficiency and cost optimization. The company's strong financial performance, marked by high profit margins and a robust EBITDA margin, makes it a compelling investment, despite the risks and opportunities associated with quarry expansion and mergers and acquisitions.