Unlock stock picks and a broker-level newsfeed that powers Wall Street.
Midsona AB (FRA:9KF) Q3 2024 Earnings Call Highlights: Strong EBIT Growth and Financial ...

In This Article:

  • Organic Sales Growth: 2.6% for the quarter.

  • EBIT: Improved to SEK 32 million from SEK 18 million last year.

  • Gross Margin: Increased from 25.2% to 28%.

  • Net Debt/EBITDA Ratio: Reduced to 2.0 from 4.0 last year.

  • Net Result Improvement: Improved by SEK 27 million.

  • Cash Flow from Operating Activities: SEK 42 million, SEK 45 million weaker than last year.

  • Private Label Business Growth: 6.6% during the quarter.

  • License Brand Growth: 19.2% driven by increased scope in Finland.

  • Available Cash: SEK 575 million, representing 15% of last 12 months net sales.

Release Date: October 23, 2024

For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript.

Positive Points

  • Midsona AB (FRA:9KF) achieved organic sales growth for the second consecutive quarter, with a growth rate of 2.6% in Q3.

  • The company's EBIT improved significantly from SEK 9 million last year to SEK 32 million this year, indicating strong operational performance.

  • Gross margin increased from 25.2% last year to 28% this year, despite high raw material prices.

  • Net debt to EBITDA ratio improved significantly, reducing from 4 times last year to 2 times this year, showcasing enhanced financial stability.

  • The Nordic division showed strong performance, with a 35% improvement in operating profit to SEK 66 million, driven by a more profitable product mix.

Negative Points

  • Overall sales were slightly down due to currency effects, despite organic growth.

  • The company faced production constraints in its German factories, limiting potential sales growth in the organic segment.

  • Conventional health food brands saw a decline due to the termination of less profitable contracts.

  • The North division posted a loss of SEK 3 million, although it was an improvement from the previous year's loss.

  • Market conditions remain challenging, with some markets and channels still depressed, affecting overall growth potential.

Q & A Highlights

Q: Could you provide an update on the progress of SKU reduction and the remaining work in this area? A: We are more than halfway through the SKU reduction process. It has improved our model profile despite some lower net in certain categories. We are setting up a central purchasing organization and hiring a purchasing director, which will continue into 2025. Our focus remains on improving our modern profile while achieving organic growth targets. - Peter Asberg, CEO

Q: Regarding the new organizational structure, will this lead to higher OPEX due to new hires, or is it just an adjustment? A: It's primarily an organizational adjustment. We are flattening the organization with a stronger headquarters and fewer resources in divisions. This should not significantly increase OPEX, although we are hiring a sourcing director. Tight cost control remains crucial. - Peter Asberg, CEO