1QFY2021: Sino Grandness Reports 155.7M RMB Net Loss, Beverage Segment Shows Growth Potential

Financial Analysis and Investment Recommendation for Sino Grandness Food Industry Group Limited (1QFY2021)

Business Overview

Core Operations
Sino Grandness Food Industry Group Limited focuses on the production and distribution of canned fruits, vegetables, and bottled beverages, primarily fruit juices. The company operates through two main segments: canned products and beverages, with a significant footprint in the People’s Republic of China (PRC) and some international markets. Its beverage segment showed stronger growth in 1QFY2021, driven by domestic recovery from COVID-19.

Industry Position and Competitors
Operating within the food and beverage industry, Sino Grandness competes with other regional and global food processing companies. Despite a challenging year, the company maintained a resilient stance, investing in brand visibility and expanding its market share through enhanced advertising efforts in key Chinese regions.

Revenue Streams and Customer Base
Revenue streams primarily include domestic and overseas sales of canned products and beverages. Domestic sales in the beverage segment have been a key revenue driver. However, the international market, especially for canned products, saw a 63% decline in sales, reflecting challenges in global logistics and demand volatility.

Supply Chain and Competitive Advantage
The company emphasizes localized production and leverages its geographic proximity to its primary consumer base in China. Despite operational setbacks due to COVID-19, Sino Grandness benefits from its strong brand presence in the PRC. Recent advertising campaigns reflect its strategy to enhance brand loyalty and expand its market footprint.

Financial Statement Analysis

1. Income Statement Highlights

Revenue: Revenue increased by 7.5% year-over-year, from RMB 187.2 million in 1Q2020 to RMB 201.2 million in 1Q2021. This growth is mainly attributable to a rise in beverage sales, offsetting the decline in canned product sales internationally.
Gross Profit: The company reported a gross loss of RMB 7.2 million, down from a profit of RMB 60.3 million in 1Q2020, due to increased costs. Gross profit margin fell sharply from 32.2% to -3.6%, impacted by COVID-19-related operational challenges.
Operating Income: Other operating income saw a significant decline, mainly due to the absence of fair value gains on exchangeable bonds, which contributed substantially in the prior period.
Net Loss: The group’s net loss was RMB 155.7 million, compared to a profit of RMB 13.5 million in 1Q2020, marking a substantial downturn influenced by increased distribution costs and reduced international sales.

2. Balance Sheet Highlights

Assets: Property, plant, and equipment holdings remained steady, while inventories increased from RMB 5.7 million to RMB 21.5 million due to stockpiling as recovery from COVID-19 accelerates.
Liabilities: Current liabilities rose slightly to RMB 1,367.8 million due to increased bank borrowings and bond obligations.
Equity: The group’s equity fell by RMB 155.7 million from December 2020, reflecting the net loss for the period.

3. Cash Flow Statement Highlights

Operating Activities: A net cash inflow of RMB 40.7 million, though impacted by operational losses, was driven by improved working capital.
Investing Activities: Cash outflows for investing activities totaled RMB 14.3 million, primarily for production equipment.
Financing Activities: Minimal changes in financing activities, with a net outflow due to loan repayments.

Key Financial Metrics and Points of Interest

Earnings Per Share (EPS): The basic and diluted loss per share for 1Q2021 was RMB -13.54 cents, a significant decline from positive earnings in the prior year.
Net Asset Value (NAV): Decreased from RMB 166.9 cents to RMB 153.4 cents per share.
Dividend: No dividend declared for the quarter, as the company aims to conserve cash.

Strategic Initiatives

Advertising and Branding: Increased spending on targeted advertising, especially in high-consumer areas within China.
Supply Chain Expansion: Ongoing construction of new production plants in Anhui, Hubei, and Sichuan to enhance capacity.
Proposed Beverage Business Listing: Efforts continue toward listing the beverage business, which could unlock shareholder value.

Investment Recommendation

For Current Stockholders

Given the recent challenges, it may be prudent for existing shareholders to hold their investment, awaiting the potential listing of the beverage business, which could offer a value unlock opportunity. The ongoing investment in production and advertising indicates a long-term growth focus, though near-term volatility is likely due to current financial stress and international demand uncertainty.

For New Investors

New investors should consider delaying entry until further clarity on the company’s cash flow situation and profitability recovery. The elevated expenses and declining profit margins, coupled with rising liabilities, present high risk for immediate investment.

Conclusion and Disclaimer

While Sino Grandness shows potential in the long-term with targeted growth strategies and brand-building efforts, the current financial stressors and profitability challenges warrant a cautious approach for investors.

Disclaimer: This analysis is based solely on data provided in the 1QFY2021 report and should not be considered as financial advice. Investors should conduct their due diligence or consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.