Analyst
Ayesha Qasim
ayesha.qasim@pacra.com
+92-42-35869504
www.pacra.com
Applicable Criteria
Related Research
PACRA Maintains Entity Rating of Gharibwal Cement Limited
Rating Type | Entity | |
Current (20-Nov-17 ) |
Previous (06-Jun-17 ) |
|
Action | Maintain | Maintain |
Long Term | A- | A- |
Short Term | A2 | A2 |
Outlook | Stable | Stable |
Rating Watch | - | - |
The ratings reflect Gharibwal Cement's improving business profile appended by (i) gradual increase in sales volume and, (ii) capacity utilization levels (1QFY18: 65%, FY16: 65%). The company focuses on geographies closer to the plant location; Gujranwala division remained company’s home market - Lahore, Faisalabad and Multan are company’s next focus. Announced capacity expansion 2.2mln tons with contract finalized with a Chines Supplier (CITIC HIC), however, now management is considering to revise this to review cost and capacity. Over last few years business profile has shown steady improvement - on account of strong demand. Owing to demand potential in local market, the profitability of the company is likely to remain healthy in the medium term. Continuation in demand trend and Gharibwal Cement's ability to build requisite efficient supply chain remains important. The financial profile of the Company is expected to remain adequate. The leveraging is expected to increase in medium term in pursuit of expansion.
The ratings are dependent on upholding of the company’s business vis-à-vis financial risk profile. Any significant deterioration in the sector’s outlook particularly any unfavorable change in demand and expansion matrix, thereby exerting pressure on prices and margins, may negatively impact the ratings.
About
the Entity
Gharibwal Cement Limited, commenced operations in 1965, is listed on PSX. The company is engaged in manufacturing, marketing and sale of Ordinary Portland Cement. The company has installed cement capacity of 2.1mln tpa (market share: 4.5%). Also, announced expansion of 2.2mln tons, planned CoD: Dec18, with an estimated cost of PKR 13bln. The company is majority owned by Mr. Tausif Peracha (~58%), founder of Gharibwal Group, followed by Rafique Family (~33%) having interest in real estate business abroad. Gharibwal Group has interests in glass manufacturing, lubricants and real estate projects locally and shipping and truck manufacturing in Nigeria.
The overall control of the company vests with eight member BoD, including two independent director (One nominee director by BOP). Peracha family has four representatives, including CEO. The Chairman and two other directors represent Rafiq Family on board. Mr. Tousif Peracha, the CEO, is supported by a team of experienced individuals.