Connect with us

Businessuite Markets

FosRich Year To Date Revenues Growing 13% As New Molynes Road Superstore & Corporate Offices Completion Date Projected For Q2, 2024.

Published

on

Cecil Foster Managing Director for FosRich Company has released the following Management Discussion & Analysis And Summary Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements Six Months Ended 30 June 2023.

Financial Highlights –

Year-to-date
• Revenues – $2,025 million, up $226 million or 13% from $1,799 million in the prior period.
• Gross Profit – $817 million, up $29 million or 4% from $788 million in the prior period.
• Operating Profit – $186 million, compared to $298 million in the prior period.
• Earnings per stock unit – $0.03, compared to $0.06 in the prior period.

Quarter 2
• Revenues – $941 million, up $42 million or 5% from $899 million in the prior period.
• Gross Profit – $372 million, compared to $401 the prior period.
• Operating Profit – $47 million compared to $139 million in the prior period.
• Earnings per stock unit – $0.01, compared to $0.03 in the prior period.

Business Overview
FosRich is primarily a distributor of lighting, electrical and solar energy products, and aims to differentiate itself from its competitors in the Jamaican marketplace by providing a quality and cost-effective service, and by collaborating with clients on technical solutions.

FosRich partners with large global brands seeking local distribution such as Huawei, Philips Lighting, Victron Energy, Siemens, NEXANS and General Electric.

FosRich has a staff complement of over one hundred and seventy (170) persons across nine (9) locations in Kingston, Clarendon, Mandeville, and Montego Bay. FosRich also has a team of energy and electrical engineers who offer technical advice and install solar energy systems, solar water heaters and electrical panel boards.

Income Statement

Income
Year-to-date income was $2,025 million, compared to $1,799 million for the prior reporting period. An increase of $226 million.

Gross Profit for the year-to-date is $817 million compared to $788 million for the prior reporting period. This represents an increase of $29 million. These increases were attributed primarily to increased sales in eight (8) of our twelve (12) Product Groups.

During the second quarter the company generated income of $941 million compared to $899 million for the prior reporting period, representing an increase of $42 million.

Gross profit for the quarter was $372 million compared to $401 million for the prior reporting period.

Administration Expenses
Administration expenses for the year-to-date was $527 million, reflecting an increase of $122 million on the prior reporting period amount of $405 million. The changes were driven primarily by increased staff related costs for salary adjustments, increased sales commission due to improved sales performance and improvements in staff benefits; increased travelling and motor vehicle expenses; increased insurance costs due to increases in policy renewal rates and increased depreciation due to increases in the carrying values of property plant and equipment.

Finance Cost
Finance cost for the year-to-date was $108 million compared to $91 million for the prior reporting period, an increase of $17 million. This increase is being driven primarily by increases in Bond renewal rates and increases in bank financing.

Operating Profit
Operating Profit generated for the period was $186 million, compared to the $298 million reported for the prior reporting period.

Earnings Per Stock Unit
Earnings per stock unit was 3 cents, compared to the 6 cents reported for the prior reporting period.

Balance Sheet

Inventories
The company continues to proactively manage inventory balances and the supply-chain, with a view to ensuring that inventory balances being carried are optimised, relative to the pace of sales, the time between the orders being made and when goods become available for sale, to avoid both overstocking and stockouts. Monitoring is both at the individual product level and by product categories. Inventories have remained stable over both periods. Shipping delays experienced in the prior period did not have a significant impact on the results for the current year.

Receivables
We continue to actively manage trade receivables with an emphasis being placed on balances over 180 days. We have implemented strategies to collect these funds as well as to ensure that the other buckets are managed. Sixty percent (60%) of receivables are within the current to 60-day category, down from the sixty-four percent (64%) for the prior reporting period. Receivables also include advance payments made to foreign suppliers for the increasing levels of inventories required to support increasing sales.

Trade Payables
Our trade payables are categorised by foreign purchases, local purchases and other goods and services.

We have concentrated primarily on the foreign payables as the bulk of our inventories are sourced from overseas. We continue to manage payables, for the most part, within the terms given by our suppliers.

Non-current Liabilities
Non-current liabilities reflect a net increase of $585 million. This increase is caused primarily by the secured and unsecured bonds, which were current at year end, but have now been refinanced.

Liquidity
At balance sheet date the excess of current assets over current liabilities amounted to $1,778 million (31 December 2022 – $1,235 million), with an improvement in the ratio to 2.69:1, up from 1.69:1 at 31 December 2022. It is expected that FosRich will continue to be able to generate sufficient cash to meet obligations when they fall due. Liquidity is provided primarily from sales revenues and loan financing.

Shareholders’ Equity
Shareholders’ equity now stands at $1,943 million, up by $158 million from $1,785 million on 31 December 2022. The net increase of $158 million arose primarily as a result of retained profits for the year amounting to $162 million.

We now have 5,474 shareholders, an increase of 388 or 8% on the 5,086 on 31 December 2022.

New Activities
Construction of our new FosRich Superstore & Corporate Offices at 76 Molynes Road has commenced. The completion date is projected to be Q2, 2024.

We are cognizant that despite the challenges ahead within this operating space, that we have the right talents and leadership to deliver on our plans for the ensuing period. We will continue to execute on our plans to ensure that we remain competitive and deliver value solutions to our customers.

As we report on the performance of our Company, we thank our shareholders, employees, customers, and other stakeholders for their support as we continue to expand our business and bring greater value to our various stakeholders.

For more information CLICK HERE

Businessuite Markets

Listing GraceKennedy Financial Group on the JSE

The acquisition and delisting of Key Insurance and the potential listing of GraceKennedy Financial Group on the JSE represent a transformative strategy. This approach not only streamlines the group’s organizational structure but also positions it to capitalize on emerging opportunities in the financial services industry, ultimately driving value for customers and shareholders alike.

Published

on

GraceKennedy Financial Group’s (GKFG) recent J$403.71 million bid to acquire the remaining 27% of Key Insurance Company Limited (Key) presents a pivotal opportunity for strategic restructuring within the GraceKennedy conglomerate.

Currently holding approximately 73% of Key’s shares, GKFG’s move towards full ownership could lead to significant organizational changes, including the potential delisting of Key from the Jamaica Stock Exchange (JSE) and the subsequent listing of GKFG.

Delisting Key Insurance from the JSE

Under the JSE Main Market rules, a company may be delisted if a single shareholder controls more than 80% of its listed shares . Should GKFG’s acquisition increase its stake in Key beyond this threshold, delisting becomes a probable outcome. This would allow GraceKennedy to integrate Key’s operations more seamlessly into its financial services division, enhancing operational efficiencies and strategic alignment.

 

Listing GraceKennedy Financial Group on the JSE

Introducing GKFG as a listed entity on the JSE’s Main Market could offer several strategic advantages:

Consolidation of Financial Services: Listing GKFG would enable the consolidation of GraceKennedy’s insurance, banking, and financial subsidiaries under a single holding company. This unified structure could streamline operations, reduce redundancies, and present a cohesive financial services portfolio to investors.

Enhanced Capital Raising Opportunities: As a publicly listed entity, GKFG would have direct access to equity markets, facilitating capital raising for expansion initiatives, strategic acquisitions, and technological investments. This access is crucial for staying competitive in the rapidly evolving financial services sector.

Increased Market Visibility and Investor Confidence: A publicly traded GKFG would likely attract a broader investor base, enhancing market visibility. Transparency associated with public listings can bolster investor confidence, potentially leading to a higher valuation and increased shareholder value.

Strategic Implications and Future Outlook

The potential restructuring aligns with GraceKennedy’s long-term vision of becoming a global consumer group by 2030, focusing on both food and financial services . By fully integrating Key Insurance into GKFG and positioning GKFG as a listed entity, GraceKennedy can leverage synergies across its financial services, drive innovation, and enhance customer offerings.

Moreover, this move could set a precedent for other conglomerates in the Caribbean, demonstrating the benefits of strategic realignment and market repositioning to achieve growth and operational excellence.

In conclusion, the acquisition and delisting of Key Insurance and the potential listing of GraceKennedy Financial Group on the JSE represent a transformative strategy. This approach not only streamlines the group’s organizational structure but also positions it to capitalize on emerging opportunities in the financial services industry, ultimately driving value for customers and shareholders alike.

Continue Reading

Businessuite Markets

GraceKennedy Financial Group Moves to Fully Acquire Key Insurance

Published

on

GraceKennedy Financial Group (GKFG), the financial services division of GraceKennedy Limited (GK), has announced a J$403.71 million takeover bid to acquire the remaining 27% of Key Insurance Company Limited (Key). This strategic move reinforces GKFG’s commitment to expanding its presence in the general insurance market while driving growth and value for customers and shareholders.

GKFG, which currently holds approximately 73% of Key’s shares, is offering J$2.70 per share. The offer opens on March 24, 2025, and closes on April 22, 2025. Deputy CEO of GKFG, Steven Whittingham, who oversees GK’s insurance segment, highlighted the benefits of the acquisition, “This transaction aligns with GK’s strategy of unlocking value in the general insurance sector. By fully incorporating Key into GKFG, we can enhance efficiencies and strengthen our competitive position. Our focus remains on innovation, customer satisfaction, long-term stability, and delivering superior products and services.”

Grace Burnett, CEO of GKFG, emphasized GK’s longstanding commitment to general insurance, “GK has been serving general insurance customers for over 50 years. Since acquiring a majority stake in Key Insurance in 2020, we have significantly strengthened its operations and expanded its market reach. Key marked its 40th anniversary in 2022 and has built a reputation for reliability and excellence over the decades. We are dedicated to preserving that legacy while driving future growth for the business.”

GraceKennedy Group CEO, Frank James, noted that the move supports GK’s Vision, which includes a focus on expanding and enhancing the Group’s financial services and delivering strong shareholder returns.

“GKFG’s bid to acquire full ownership of Key underscores GK’s commitment to maximizing stakeholder value. The transaction is expected to unlock operational efficiencies, drive synergies, and enhance customer service, solidifying Key Insurance’s role within our Group.”

Key Insurance is currently listed on the Main Market of the Jamaica Stock Exchange (JSE).

Continue Reading

Businessuite Markets

R.A. Williams Distributors Experienced 8% Decline In GP Margin Due To Lower Margins On Government Sales

Published

on

Audley Reid CEO R.A. Williams Distributors Limited has released the following unaudited financial results for the third quarter ended January 31, 2025, prepared in accordance with IFRS Accounting Standards.

FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE

Revenues for the quarter totalled $438.9 million, up from $380.8 million in the same period last year, demonstrating sustained strong demand for our products. However, the Company experienced an 8% decline in gross profit margin, which stood at 46% for the quarter, primarily due to lower margins on government sales. The net profit margin after tax was 3%, compared to 16% in the prior year, demonstrating our ability to maintain profitability despite market challenges.

Operating expenses as a percentage of revenue increased to 40%, up from 33% in the previous year, mainly due to increased costs related to the right-of-use for our New Brunswick Village location, depreciation on acquired assets, and higher staffing and distribution expenses. Additionally, total assets grew by 56% year-over-year, signalling a positive trajectory and reflecting the ongoing progress of our strategic initiatives as we continue to execute them over the medium to long term.

PRODUCT LAUNCHES AND MARKET EXPANSION

This quarter marked a significant milestone with the official launch of Iracet (Levetiracetam 500 mg), a key addition to our product portfolio. As the first generic of its kind on the Jamaican market, this antiepileptic drug has received a positive response from the medical community. By the end of the quarter, Iracet was also made available at National Health Fund’s Drug-Serv Pharmacies, greatly expanding access for patients. This marks a major achievement in our mission to improve patient outcomes through affordable and accessible medications. In addition to Iracet, we introduced several products under our partnership with Fourrts. These include Cofex, an over-the-counter cough and cold remedy, as well as Sucrafil and Sucrafil-O, prescription medications used in the treatment of stomach ulcers and hyperacidity. These additions further strengthen our diverse product offering and position us to meet the growing needs of the healthcare market.

Furthermore, our Ryvis product line, launched in May 2024, continues to gain momentum. We are excited to announce the upcoming addition of 21 prescription drugs, spanning areas such as pain management, gastrointestinal health, cardiovascular care, and antibacterial treatments. This expansion enhances our market position and supports our strategy to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for patients and healthcare providers.

OUTLOOK

As we continue to expand our product portfolio and strengthen our market presence, we remain focused on delivering value to our stakeholders. We are confident in our ability to navigate the evolving healthcare landscape, leveraging our diverse offerings and strong industry partnerships. We look forward to building on our successes in the coming quarters and achieving sustained growth.

Audley Reid CEO R.A. Williams Distributors Limited

For More Information CLICK HERE

Continue Reading

Businessuite Markets

Lumber Depot Associate, Atlantic Plumbing And Hardware To Offer 20% Of Its Share Capital To Raise JA$500 Million In Planned IPO.

Atlantic is engaged in the supply of plumbing and hardware items to retail hardware establishments across Jamaica. Atlantic has a well-established position in this important market segment and will continue to focus directly on this business. Atlantic has performed generally in line with expectations and contributed $12.2 million to the year-to-date profit of the business.

Published

on

Jeffrey Hall Chairman Lumber Depot Limited has released the following results of the operations for the nine-month period ended January 31, 2025.

Lumber Depot generated net profits of $118.85 million on revenues of $1,134.95 billion. Our annual return on equity continues to be strong and exceeds 15%.

Although our business remains strong and highly competitive, the prevailing economic circumstances have led to some softening in sales (down 2.07% relative to the prior year) coupled with necessary increases in selling, general and administrative costs. As a result of these factors, profit before tax was down 3.94% relative to the prior year profit before tax of $126.15 million.

Lumber Depot operates a full-service hardware store in Papine that serves the needs of large and small scale building contractors, as well as homeowners doing construction projects, renovations and repairs. The Lumber Depot business has been in operation for over 20 years and during this time has established a market leading position in the communities we directly serve and a strong reputation for excellent service and good value across the wider corporate area.

We consider our location in Papine to be an important part of our success. The facility in Papine is now owned by the company. Papine is a vibrant and fast-growing university community that also serves as a main access point to the St. Andrew hills. Our location is immediately within the most trafficked part of the community, is purpose-built and well established. Over the course of this year, we improved the facility in Papine through investments in our buildings and yard space.

Notwithstanding the strong market position of our Papine location, Lumber Depot has concluded that its long-term profit growth will benefit from investment in selective, other opportunities within the hardware industry, but outside of the core Papine location. This focus on growth opportunities led to the acquisition by Lumber Depot of a 35% interest in Atlantic Plumbing and Hardware Limited (“Atlantic”). Atlantic is now an associated company of Lumber Depot and representatives of Lumber Depot have been appointed to its board.

Atlantic is engaged in the supply of plumbing and hardware items to retail hardware establishments across Jamaica. Atlantic has a well-established position in this important market segment and will continue to focus directly on this business. Atlantic has performed generally in line with expectations and contributed $12.2 million to the year-to-date profit of the business. Subsequent to the acquisition of our interest, Atlantic has relocated to a new and improved sales and warehousing facility on Marcus Garvey Drive and overhauled its information technology systems to strengthen its inventory control and service levels.

During the Lumber Depot fourth quarter, Atlantic intends to offer new shares amounting to 20% of its share capital on the Junior Market of the Jamaica Stock Exchange and in so doing, raise $500 million. The proceeds of this initial public offer will be used to reduce the debt and debt service costs of Atlantic and to support the overall growth of the business. The initiative will also reduce the income tax charge on the company and generally improve its business prospects. Lumber Depot intends to participate in the offering.

We are pleased that despite the current challenges Lumber Depot continues to trade positively and to deliver strong results and, importantly, to maintain excellent service levels and customer endorsements. Our strategy is to consistently offer competitive prices on our products and to maintain our service standards and inventory availability.

We will continue to judiciously manage our cash with a view to paying solid dividends and improving shareholder returns. Our board and management is also committed to maintaining the financial capacity to boldly seize and execute on the expansion and acquisition opportunities that we expect to arise once construction growth resumes.

For More Information CLICK HERE

Continue Reading

Businessuite Markets

Single Tax Rate on Dividends to Attract Investors To Jamaica

“When you hear non-resident companies and non-resident individuals, don’t immediately think foreign companies or foreign individuals. These may also be companies registered abroad that are owned by Jamaicans. There are also Jamaican individuals who live abroad in countries that have lower dividend rates that receive dividends from Jamaican companies,” she explained.

Published

on

The Government of Jamaica will be applying a single tax rate of 15 per cent to dividends for resident and non-resident companies and individuals, which is expected to make Jamaica more attractive to both local and foreign investors.

Minister of Finance and the Public Service, Hon. Fayval Williams, made the disclosure when she opened the 2025/26 Budget Debate in the House of Representatives on March 11.

Mrs. Williams said Jamaica has had a difference in the tax rate on dividends for resident companies and individuals, which is 15 per cent, and for non-resident companies and non-resident individuals, it is 33 1/3 per cent and 25 per cent, respectively.

“When you hear non-resident companies and non-resident individuals, don’t immediately think foreign companies or foreign individuals. These may also be companies registered abroad that are owned by Jamaicans. There are also Jamaican individuals who live abroad in countries that have lower dividend rates that receive dividends from Jamaican companies,” she explained.

The Minister said that reducing tax on dividends and establishing one rate for resident and non-resident companies and individuals of 15 per cent will encourage investments in Jamaica.

“This benefit is one way to say to those Jamaicans who have companies abroad in jurisdictions with lower dividend tax rate than what currently prevails, we are saying to them, we are lowering the rate for you. Bring your capital back to Jamaica,” the Minister said.

By: Rochelle Williams, JIS

Photo: Adrian Walker

Continue Reading

Trending

0
Would love your thoughts, please comment.x
()
x