Marico Ltd - Quarterly Operational Update for Q4 FY22

Marico Limited in a notification to the stock exchanges has provided an overall summary of the operating performance and demand trends witnessed during the quarter ended 31st March, 2022.

During the quarter, consumption trends remained subdued amidst weak rural sentiment and inflation in global commodities aggravating due to geo-political tensions. While companies effected price hikes across FMCG categories to cope with the cost-push, persistent inflation continued to hurt consumer wallets across rural and urban. As a result, FMCG volumes declined in the Jan-Feb'22 period on a year-on-year basis (per Nielsen).

Despite the challenging macro context, the India business stayed relatively firm, riding on focused execution and market share gains. Revenue growth in the quarter was in low single digits, while volumes were marginally positive on an exceptionally high base (25%), leading to a double-digit volume growth on a 2-year CAGR basis. Parachute Coconut Oil volumes were marginally lower yearon-year, mainly due to a daunting base (29%). Value Added Hair Oils grew in low single digits in value terms and continued to deliver as per medium term aspirations over a 2-year time frame. The Saffola franchise grew in high teens in value terms, with Foods growing healthily. Premium Personal Care posted broad-based double-digit growth. Digital-first brands, Beardo and Just Herbs, also performed in line with expectations.

The International business delivered double-digit constant currency growth on a strong base, with all markets faring well. The business has registered a stellar mid-teen constant currency growth in FY22.

Consolidated revenue growth in the quarter touched high single digits.

Among key inputs, copra prices remained soft, however edible and crude oil prices spiked due to geopolitical tensions. In response, the Company also took calibrated price increases in the Value Added Hair Oils and Saffola Edible Oils portfolios during the quarter. Consequently, gross margin is expected to be at similar levels as the same quarter last year. A&P spends were higher on a year-on-year basis, as we maintained investments towards strategic brand building of core and new franchises. In view of the above, we expect marginal growth in profits in the quarter.

In its pursuit of INR 850-1000 cr. Foods portfolio in FY24, the Company further expanded the total addressable market of the brand 'Saffola', through the launch of Saffola Peanut Butter (made with jaggery and no refined sugar) and Saffola Mayonnaise (eggless and with milk cream). Both offerings are available online and will be soon be present in offline channels as well.

The Company maintains its aspiration of delivering sustainable and profitable volume-led growth over the medium term, enabled by the strengthening brand equity of its core franchises and new engines of growth reaching critical mass.

Shares of Marico Limited was last trading in BSE at Rs. 543.90 as compared to the previous close of Rs. 529.95. The total number of shares traded during the day was 37730 in over 1659 trades.

The stock hit an intraday high of Rs. 547.65 and intraday low of 532.20. The net turnover during the day was Rs. 20426054.00.

Source : Equity Bulls

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Marico INE196A01026 QuarterlyUpdate OperatingPerformance