JHX vs MKC Comparison

James Hardie is a manufacturer of fiber cement-based building products, selling primarily to the residential construction industry. North America is the primary geography, generating about 80% of group earnings. Here, it is the largest manufacturer of fiber cement, which is mainly used for exterior siding on houses. Following the Azek acquisition in 2025, it also produces wooden composite decking materials, siding trims, and accessories for outdoor areas including stair and deck railing. Businesses in Australia, New Zealand, and Europe, make up the rest of earnings.

In its 135-plus-year history, McCormick has become the leading global manufacturer of spices, herbs, extracts, seasonings, and other flavorings. In addition to its namesake brand, the firm's portfolio includes Old Bay, Zatarain's, Thai Kitchen, Frank's RedHot, French's, and Cholula. This mix will be complemented by the pending addition of Unilever's food brands, primarily Knorr cooking aids and Hellmann's mayonnaise. After the deal close, the combined business is slated to generate 70% of sales from consumers and 30% from restaurants and other packaged food and beverage manufacturers. Around 40% of sales are slated to come from faster-growing emerging markets, with Europe (23%) and North America (36%) accounting for the remainder.