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GraceKennedy Q1 Profit Before Tax Up 50% Over Prior Year Period

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Revenues Up 11.3% or $2.93 Billion over Prior Year Period

Kingston, Jamaica, May 14 – While classifying the first quarter of this year as a period of great uncertainty, the GraceKennedy Group is announcing that results for the period have been the highest in recent times.

In terms of the company’s financial performance for the quarter, Mr. Wehby acknowledged that while GraceKennedy and other companies will be heavily impacted by the impact of COVID-19, “GraceKennedy, being a diversified group, has so far been able to manage the impact of the system-wide risk of the Covid-19 pandemic on our Group’s performance. As we navigate this period of great uncertainty we continue to adjust our structure to be nimble and agile.”

He added that GraceKennedy’s status as a provider of essential services (manufacturing, distribution, and retailing of food products, and remittance, banking, and other financial services) has enabled the Group to keep its operations open.

For the three months ended March 31, 2020, the Group achieved revenues of J$28.85 billion, an 11.3% increase, or J$2.93 billion over the corresponding period of 2019.

Profit before tax for the period was J$1.99 billion, a 50.6% increase over the corresponding period of 2019. Net profit after tax for the period was J$1.45 billion, an increase of 42.8% or J$435 million over the prior-year period, while net profit attributable to stockholders was J$1.32 billion, 46.9% or J$421 million higher. Profit before other income was J$1.28 billion, 44.7%, or J$396 million higher than that of 2019 corresponding period, indicating an improved operating margin. Earnings per stock unit for the period was J$1.33.

The Food Trading segment recorded improved revenue and profitability for the reporting period when compared to the corresponding period of 2019. Our food businesses both in Jamaica and internationally have seen improved sales as more individuals are buying our products to prepare meals at home.

Our Jamaican Foods Distribution business experienced growth in both revenue and pre-tax profits coupled with improved margins.

Catherine’s Peak spring water reflected significant growth in sales volumes.

Hi-Lo Foods Stores, our chain of Jamaicansupermarkets, showed improved performance when compared to the corresponding period of 2019.

In manufacturing, Grace Agro Processors continued to broaden and strengthen its supplier base for raw materials. Given the difficulties, many of our local farmers are facing in finding markets for their produce as a result of the closure or slowdown in major industries, GraceKennedy Limited committed to the Ministry of Agriculture in Jamaica that we would purchase hot peppers from farmers with whom we do not have a contractual arrangement. Increased purchases from small farmers have also been supported by growth in demand from our Hilo Foods Stores for fresh produce.

GraceKennedy Foods (USA) LLC continues to show significantly improved performance for the three month period when compared to the corresponding period of 2019. For the month of March, sales for Grace Frozen Patties showed triple-digit growth, closing the first quarter of 2020 with a 68% increase in volumes compared to the corresponding period of 2019.

Grace Foods UK and Grace Foods Canada also reported increased revenue for the three month period when compared to the corresponding period of 2019.

For the Financial Services Division, First Global Bank (FGB) experienced strong growth in its loan and deposit portfolios, while the Insurance segment reported an increase in revenue and strong operating performance.

In March, GraceKennedy completed its acquisition of 65% of the issued shares of Key Insurance Company Limited, as a strategic driver for growth.

The Money Services segment reported an increase in both revenue and pre-tax profit, seeing an increase of over 100% in the use of its digital remittance channels. To further expand its digital capabilities, GraceKennedy Money Services (GKMS) began the implementation of an Electronic Registration system for Jamaica, Guyana and Trinidad, and significantly advanced the implementation of the Bill Express Online service for Trinidad.

While highlighting the company’s financial performance, GraceKennedy Group CEO, Don Wehby spoke to the company’s focus on its corporate social responsibility for the last couple of months, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. “Our financial performance is important, but so is GK’s ‘we care’ ethos. There is a great need as a result of this pandemic, and where we can, we have been playing our part in assisting in the countries and communities in which GK operates,” he said.

In Jamaica, contributions have included a donation of J$10M towards the Private Sector Organization of Jamaica’s initiative to purchase ventilators for the island’s hospitals, and the provision of a 3D printer from our STEM Centre to assist with the production of face shields for the protection of our nation’s healthcare workers.

Through the GraceKennedy Foundation’s “Feed the Future Initiative”, the Group has also been providing food packages to students who have not been able to leave the University of the West Indies, Mona, and the University of Technology campuses.

The Group and its Grace and Staff Foundation have also increased its support of those in under-resourced communities with the provision of food products and toiletries. We are committed to continuing our support for our communities.

GK’s overseas subsidiaries are also providing support to their local communities. Grace Foods Canada has donated cases of Grace Coconut Water to first responders and front line health care providers. In the USA, displaced hospital workers have been given meals and products by the Grace Foods team, while in Belize and UK, products have been donated to the Belize Mental Health Association, the Brixton Soup Kitchen, and The National Health Service.

The Group advised that its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on May 27 will not be held in the usual manner, as shareholders will not have access to attend physically, given the restrictions placed on public gatherings in January. This decision was taken in the interest of health and safety and to comply with the Government’s orders.

Group CFO Andrew Messado, announced a dividend of $0.25 per share or approximately J$248 million payable on June 15, 2020.

GraceKennedy Limited (GK) – Unaudited 1st Quarter Financials for the period January to March 2020

 

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ANSA McAL Group Announces Formation Of Joint Venture Company, Globus ANSA Private Limited, With Globus Spirits Limited In India.

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A. Norman Sabga Executive Chairman of the ANSA McAL Group of Companies has announced the formation of the joint venture company, Globus ANSA Private Limited, with Globus Spirits Limited in India.

In a release posted on the Trinidad and Tobago Stock Exchange ANSA McAL confirmed that with effect from 4th April 2024, ANSA McAL Limited (“ANSA McAL”) entered into a joint venture agreement with Globus Spirits Limited (“GSL”) to establish Globus ANSA Private Limited (“GAPL”).

Each party will hold fifty percent (50%) of the issued and allotted ordinary share capital of GAPL.

“This collaboration signifies a new era in the Indian alcoholic beverages industry, driving innovation and growth, ‘

“Globus ANSA Private Limited will specialise in manufacturing and distributing alcoholic beverages across the Indian subcontinent, leveraging the strength of both ANSA McAL and Globus Spirits Limited,” said Mr. Shekhar Swarup, Managing Director for Globus Spirits Limited. “This collaboration signifies a new era in the Indian alcoholic beverages industry, driving innovation and growth, ‘he stated

 

 

 

Globus Spirits Ltd is one of the leading players in the Alcohol industry in North India distributing brands in the Consumer Segment including:
• GR8 Times.
• Rajputana.
• Globus Spirits Dry Gin.
• White. Lace.
• Governors’ Reserve Red.
• Governors’ Reserve Blue.
• Oakton.
• Laffaire. Napoleon.

Trinidad and Tobago conglomerate ANSA McAL Group has over 142 years of rich history representing many world-renowned brands, including some of their own home-grown successes. The partnership marks a significant milestone in ANSA McAL Group’s journey, merging cultures and expertise to revolutionise the beer industry in India, with their icon Carib brand and leading the charge.

Norman Sabga Executive Chairman of the ANSA McAL Group of Companies, highlighted the immense opportunities in India and their commitment to delivering unparalleled value through this partnership.

“We are confident that our collaboration will allow us to seize the growing demand for high quality beverages by captivating palates with our distinctive products” he said

ANSA McAL is now poised to be an equal Shareholder of GAPL, an Indian company which
would produce, market, sell, distribute and retail beer and other beverages.

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Jamaica Broilers Group Reporting Strong Top and Bottom Line Performance for January 2024 Quarter

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Christopher E. Levy Group President & CEO of Jamaica Broilers Group Limited now release the following unaudited financial results for the quarter ended January 27, 2024, which have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS).

The Group produced a net profit attributable to shareholders of $1.3 billion, for the quarter ended January 27, 2024. The operations of the Group continue to be strong, and our gross margins are consistent with expectations.

Quarterly Group revenues amounted to $23.6 billion, a 4% increase above the $22.7 billion achieved in the corresponding quarter.

Our gross profit for the quarter was $5.9 billion, a 7% increase above the $5.5 billion achieved in the corresponding quarter in the prior year.

Jamaica Operations reported a segment result of $5.9 billion which was $448 million or 8% above last year’s segment result. Total revenue for our Jamaica Operations showed an increase of 2% over the prior year nine-month period. This increase was primarily driven by the growth in the sale and export of poultry and implementation of cost containment efforts.

Our US Operations reported a segment result of $3 billion which was $226 million or 8% above last year’s segment result. This increase was driven by increased volumes of poultry meat and eggs, as well as the implementation of cost management initiatives.
Total revenue for the US Operations increased by 3% over the prior year nine-month period.

We have begun to realise additional volumes through the US operations, which has resulted in increased financing requirements primarily around working capital.

For More Information CLICK HERE

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Main Event Reporting Net Profit Of JA$100M For Quarter Ended January 2024

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Solomon Sharpe Chief Executive Officer of Main Event Entertainment Group Limited has released the following unaudited financial statements for the quarter ended January 31, 2024 (Q1).

The company continues to have solid results in an increasingly competitive and largely difficult environment. The company’s performance was anchored by diversifying our client base through strategic targeting and efficient management of our operations.

The company reported net profit of $100.254M for the quarter ended January 31, 2024, representing a decline of 15% or $17.695M relative to the corresponding period of 2023. Consequently, earnings per share decreased by 15% to $0.33 per share.

Total revenues for the quarter ended January 31, 2024 declined by $59.235M to $567.752M, reflecting a decrease of 9% over the corresponding period. This was mainly due to a one-off event for one of our major clients which is not likely to reoccur in subsequent periods.

The company was strategic in its efforts to protect the margins and the gross profit for the quarter was $315.822M compared to the $312.611M earned in 2023. This demonstrates the company’s ability to be alert and responsive to market conditions. Gross margins improved to 56%, up from 50% in the corresponding period.

The company continues to generate revenues from activities requiring reduced external support.

For more information CLICK HERE

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The LAB Reporting Higher Net Profits Based On Strong Focus On Agency Segment

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Kimala Bennett Chief Executive Officer for Limners and Bards Limited (The LAB) has released the following unaudited financial statements for the three months ended January 31, 2024, which have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). The consolidated results include the subsidiary Scope Caribbean Limited (Scope) whose principal business is the scouting, placement and management of talent while expanding and maintaining a database of quality talent.

The LAB achieved higher net profits when compared to the corresponding period last year. This was based on the strong focus on the Agency Segment of the business for this quarter, as the company continued to build brands. The Agency Segment provides the highest profit margin and as such bolstered the results for the period. The company also implemented cost containment measures, which resulted in a 19.2% reduction in administrative expenses when compared to prior period. We continue to maintain a strong balance sheet and our cash position grew stronger over the period. Our asset base increased, as we reinvested in the business through further upgrading film studio facilities.

Revenue for the three months ended January 31, 2023, was $219.4 million, down 11.4% relative to the prior period. This decline was primarily attributable to a reduction in production during the period due to its cyclical nature. Notwithstanding this, the Agency segment outperformed the comparable period. The revenue achieved was derived from the company’s core business lines: Media totalling $118.3 million, followed by Production with $29.3 million and Agency with $71.6 million.

The company remains fully focused on executing its strategy of diversifying its income, through engaging new clients and the introduction of new service lines. These strategic endeavours are aligned with our company’s expansion strategy into emerging markets, all aimed at fostering sustainable growth, increased revenues, enhanced profitability; while proactively anticipating the evolving needs of our valued clients and enhancing shareholders’ value.

Gross Profit for the three months was $88.9 million, down 3.3% when compared to the corresponding period. Net Profit achieved was $26.2 million, up 295.7% relative to the comparable period. due to higher gross profits from the agency segment and lower administrative expenses. Administrative expenses decreased by $16.3 million or 19.2% in comparison to the corresponding period last year. These decreases are primarily due to reduction in contractor and staff cost.

The consolidated Balance Sheet saw total assets increasing by $119 million or 15.1% to $909.3 million compared to $790.2 million in the corresponding period. This increase in assets is driven by building and film studio facilities improvement and purchases of new production equipment to facilitate future growth.

Current Assets amounted to $731.7 million, increasing by $107.6 million over the prior year, primarily due to a 43.6% increase in cash and cash equivalent. Management continues to maintain tight monitoring and control over receivables. Cash and cash equivalent increased by $142.4 million over the corresponding period last year. Shareholders’ equity grew to $624 million, up from $548.1 million or 13.9% over the corresponding period last year.

The LAB is pleased to report significant progress in our strategic initiatives. We have successfully completed the pilots for two TV/web series, “SEEN” and “Jenna In Law,” as outlined at our last Annual General Meeting (AGM). Additionally, Pre-production for our first feature film, “Love Offside,” is currently underway, with production scheduled to commence in June 2024.

In line with our strategic objectives, we are actively engaging with international networks and digital streaming platforms to secure distribution opportunities for our content upon production completion. This proactive approach ensures that our creative endeavours have a suitable platform to reach global audiences.

For More Information CLICK HERE

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Maximum Participating Voting Share Capital Of Companies Listed On The Junior Stock Exchange Moving From JA$500 Million To JA$750 Million

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“Utilizing equity capital is an effective avenue to stimulate innovation and reduce operating costs thereby allowing companies to drive growth, improve productivity and increase their chances of sustainability. We commend the Government for this decision and encourage small and medium sized companies to take advantage of this opportunity.”

The Government of Jamaica through the Ministry of Finance and the Public Service has announced that they have increased the participating share capital limit from $500 million to $750 million for companies on the Junior Market of the Jamaica Stock Exchange.

“This is very exciting news for the Exchange,” commented Dr. Marlene Street Forrest, Managing Director of the Jamaica Stock Exchange. “This is an exceptionally good move by the Government as this will allow small and medium sized companies to come to market to raise additional capital for business expansion and assist new companies to raise capital and to consider this capital raising option as viable. She stated that “Utilizing equity capital is an effective avenue to stimulate innovation and reduce operating costs thereby allowing companies to drive growth, improve productivity and increase their chances of sustainability. We commend the Government for this decision and encourage small and medium sized companies to take advantage of this opportunity.”

The Junior Market was established in 2009 to allow small and medium sized companies (SMEs) to raise a maximum of $500 million dollars during an initial public offering (IPO). The Government’s new initiative towards companies listed on the Junior Market now allows them to raise up to $750 million dollars, an increase of $250 million dollars.

Source Jamaica Stock Exchange

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