Lahore, March 25, 2022 (PPI-OT):Pakistan Services Limited’s (The Company) has a leading position in the hospitality industry. Hospitality and tourism industry has rebounded now after the severe breakdown of Covid-19. Hotel industry is allowed to operate under specific SOPs, which led the Company to have increased capacity utilization, thus, company has achieved profitability in IHFY22. Occupancy rate and increased average daily room rate has given an up-rise trend towards revenues. Company has managed to achieve alignment of its cash flows with current debt repayments and the previous deferment of long-term debts has given an ease to liquidity pressures.

Currently, company has strong cashflows to cater the current needs and it is expected to have adequate liquid position in near future as proceeds from disposal of non-core assets of the company materializes. Company has developed a detailed strategic plan towards the future trajectory and it is entering into new franchise agreements which will help in growth and increased margins of the company. Company has also strengthened its marketing department by going into digitalization and to cater the new prospects. Capital structure of the Company reflects leveraging with large asset base and coverages has become strong due to improved cashflows. Financial support from sponsors remains imperative.

Ratings are dependent on effective implementation of envisaged strategy to improve cashflows while maintaining modest leveraging and strengthening coverages. Any significant delay in commencement of new projects and or further deterioration in margins coupled with low occupancy rate leading to weak coverages and pressure on liquidity, will have a negative impact on ratings. Meanwhile, maintaining sufficient cushion for debt repayment remains crucial. Outlook on the entity is negative while rating watch maintained. In this respect, removal of material uncertainty related to going concern as documented by the external auditors is important.

For more information, contact:
Analyst,
The Pakistan Credit Rating Agency Limited (PACRA)
Awami Complex, FB1, Usman Block New Garden Town,
Lahore, Pakistan
Tel: +92-42-5869504-6
Fax: +92-42-5830425
Email: hammad.rashid@pacra.com
Website: www.pacra.com