Analyst
Muhammad Hassan
muhammad.hassan@pacra.com
+92-42-35869504
www.pacra.com
Applicable Criteria
Related Research
PACRA Assigns Initial Entity Ratings to Sefam (Pvt.) Limited
Rating Type | Entity | |
Current (20-Nov-18 ) |
||
Action | Initial | |
Long Term | A- | |
Short Term | A2 | |
Outlook | Stable | |
Rating Watch | - |
Ratings reflect Sefam (Private) Limited’s (the Company) reputable image as one of the leading players in clothing/home textile retail industry, with several established brands. The Company operates a complete range of clothing brands targeting all segments of the retail market. Major portion of the Company's raw material is sourced from group companies, which allows it to maintain profitability while ensuring quality. The Company has witnessed growth over the years amid positive industry dynamics and higher consumer spending. Margins continued to maintain an upward trend indicating efficient operations and improved profitability. Ratings draw strength from the Company’s strong financial profile, characterized by a low leveraged capital structure, strong coverages and efficient management of working capital.
The ratings are dependent on the Company’s ability to improve governance framework. Additionally, working capital management and ensuing borrowings should be monitored closely. Adverse movement in margins and/or coverages would be critical for the ratings.
About
the Entity
Sefam (Private) Limited, incorporated in 1989, is part of Sarena and Ali Group of Industries, most famous for its fashion brand Bareezé. The Company operates a total of 10 brands which cater to different segments of the market. Additionally, the Company sells high end foreign brands (Ralph Lauren & Giorgio Armani) through its wholly owned subsidiary, S-Luxe (Private) Limited. Moreover, the Company also operates 6 ‘The Entertainer’ franchises across the country.
Ownership of the company lies with the four children of Mr. J.A Zaman (late). Mr. Zaman founded Ali Embroidery Mills (Private) Limited in 1972, which later became the launching pad for Sarena & Ali Group of Industries. Mr. Hamid Zaman and Ms. Seema Aziz hold 42% of the Company, each. Meanwhile, Mr. Tariq Zaman and Ms. Ambreen Zaman hold the remaining 16% equally. Ms. Seema Aziz is the Managing Director of the Company, whereas various brands are managed separately by dedicated teams.