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PG posts loss of $2,4 million

by Staff Reporter
01 Oct 2013 at 03:34hrs | Views
PG Industries Zimbabwe posted a loss of $2,4 million for the half year ending June 30, 2013 compared to a loss of $2,7 million due to high level of borrowings.

In a statement accompanying the group's results, PG said net revenue increased by 11% to $17 million on the backdrop of softening demand and tight liquidity conditions.

"Competitive pressure, particularly at the merchandising division, resulted in the overall group gross margin percentage declining from 31% to 27%.

"Net operating expenses declined by 10%. Loss before interest and tax declined to $842 245 from $2 million in 2012," the company said.

Sales for the merchandising division grew by 4% to $11 million, while finance charges for the group amounted to $1,4 million.

"The tight liquidity conditions and competitive pressure that prevailed in the market negatively impacted on the performance of the division. Subdued business activity is expected to continue for the remainder of the year. However, innovative supply agreements with both local and foreign suppliers have resulted in significant improvements in accessing key products for the group to distribute through its branch network," PG said.

During the period under review, Zimtile sales increased by 29% to $4,6 million due to strong demand for concrete, roofing tiles, bricks and pavers while PG Glass sales increased by 22% to $1,5 million on the back of an improvement in stocking levels.

The group revealed that current liabilities exceeded current assets by $8,9 million from $6,8 million in December 2012.

"The conditions give material uncertainty that may cost significant doubt that the group's ability to continue as a going concern and therefore may not be able to realise its assets and discharge its abilities in the ordinary course of business," the group said.

The company disposed off 18,9% of its 27,9% investments in Manica Boards and Doors and the remainder will be for the group's investment.

The group in a statement reported that it managed to dispose of some of its investment in shares and part of loan investments with a book value of $2,4 million, however, continued liquidity problems in the market slowed the sale of properties held for sale.

Source - NewsDay