Lahore, January 22, 2018 (PPI-OT):Fazal cloth enjoys a strong business profile in otherwise volatile textile industry. This primarily emanates from its large size – yielding economies of scale – established relationships with a diverse customer base- -export and local – and diversity of operations – spinning and weaving. This has helped the entity to sustain its position despite suppressed textile dynamics exerting pressure on prices. With focused marketing efforts, the company has been able to capitalize on additional capacities thereby generating incremental volumes, mainly in spinning segment.
The management expects improved margins on account of (i) saving in power cost given regular supply of RLNG to industry players, and (ii) export – led relief provided by GoP. The management iscontemplating a gradual entry into value-added segment – dyeing and finishing; once implemented, it is likely to further strengthen business risk profile of the entity. Fazal Cloth’s financial risk assessment encompasses irrevocable and unconditional inter-corporate debt guarantee provided to wholly owned subsidiary – Fazal Weaving Mills Limited – with fall back on Fazal Cloth’s cash flows. Nevertheless, overall financial profile is considered adequate.
Although coverages are low, the company’s designed financial strategy keeps sizeable cushion in short-term borrowing lines to meet shortfalls in operational cash flows in servicing debt obligations; this provides flexibility in management of financial affairs. The ratings are dependent on the company’s ability to yield improvement in margins. Meanwhile, management of debt (current and planned), thereby impacting coverages, is considered important. Improvement in business and financial profile along with effective changes in governance framework would be rating positive.
For more information, contact:
Analyst
The Pakistan Credit Rating Agency Limited (PACRA)
Awami Complex, FB1, Usman Block New Garden Town,
Lahore – Pakistan
Tel: +9242 586 9504 -6
Fax: +9242 583 0425
Email: hammad.rashid@pacra.com
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