Lahore, December 28, 2022 (PPI-OT):Cherat Cement’s Ratings reflect its prominent presence in the cement sector emanating from its major market share (~7%) predominately in the north region. The latest period reported a reduction in cement production reflecting on economic downturn. Increase in prices of all the construction materials has impacted demand for cement as well. However, cement’s demand is expected to come full circle once the macro level fundamentals improve.
Though, industry wide volumetric decrease in sales has been reported but better selling prices have absorbed their impact. Consequently, company’s revenues soared to PKR 9,050mln and PKR 32,085mln at the end of 1QFY23 and FY22 respectively (1QFY22: PKR 7.16bln, FY21: PKR 25.21bln). Company managed to improve margins in said period on back of efficient cost management enhanced through recently added captive solar power plant. The Company’s leveraging is currently at an adequate level, especially with the repayments being made.
Moreover, keeping in view the economic turndown the management has decided to delay the greenfield expansion project. The financial risk profile incorporates liquidity profile, evident from healthy cash flows and improved coverages. Further, the Ratings assigned to Cherat Cement also draw support from the strong financial profile of the Company’s sponsor, Ghulam Faruque Group having a presence across multiple sectors mainly including Cement, Sugar, Packaging, Software Solutions, Air Conditioning and specialized engineering equipment.
The ratings remain dependent on upholding company’s market position along with sustenance of business volumes, margins and achieving optimal utilization of production capacities. The company’s good business performance as compared to other players in current stretched economic scenario – challenges on demand front – remains vital for ratings.
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