polo queen industrial and fintech ltd Management discussions


Global Economic Overview

The global economy is gradually recovering from the impact of pandemic and at the same time facing new challenges emerging from Russias invasion of Ukraine. Tightening of monetary policy by most Central Banks is expected to have a positive impact. According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the global economy experienced a GDP growth rate of 3.4% in 2022, which was lower compared to the previous years growth rate of 6.1%. Despite this moderation, there were notable developments in the tourism sector, with international tourist arrivals rebounding to reach 63% of pre-pandemic levels. Particularly, the Middle East and Europe exhibited robust recovery in this aspect, reflecting positive trends in the tourism industry. The relatively slow global growth of 2022, unprecedented inflation, and pandemic induced slowdown in China, higher interest rates, global liquidity squeeze and quantitative tightening by the US Federal Reserve.

Outlook

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has projected a growth rate of 2.8% for the year 2023. The inflation outlook appears promising, with an anticipated decrease from 8.4% in 2022 to 7.0% in 2023. While the inter-country trade is a significant driver of global economic growth, certain geopolitical factors, such as trade tensions between the United States and China, as well as the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, may contribute to a slower expansion in inter-country trade. However, despite these challenges, there are still opportunities for economic progress and cooperation among nations. By working collectively, these obstacles can be addressed, leading to sustained growth in the global economy.

India has emerged as the worlds fastest-growing major economy, and it is predicted to be one of the top economic powers in the next decade, owing to its robust democracy and strong partnerships. The Government adopted a slew of measures to save lives and livelihoods, and enhance healthcare facilities.

Indian Economy Overview

Despite global volatility, the Indian economy grew by 6.8% in 2022 - making it the fifth largest economy globally in terms of nominal GDP (US dollars). This growth has been supported by: (1) reduction in Covid-19 cases leading to opening up of the economy; (2) expansion of manufacturing footprint by both global and Indian firms, aided by Government policies (eg Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme, PM Gati Shakti, corporate tax cuts); (3) capex recovery; and (4) cyclical upturn in many sectors (eg Banking, Auto). Indias digital infrastructure has strengthened in the last few years and the widespread adoption of real-time digital payments is estimated to have unlocked 0.56% of GDP.

However, inflation headwinds were also felt by the Indian economy with increase in crude oil prices and we saw interest rate hikes done were by the Reserve Bank of India to control inflation. The Indian rupee weakness against the US dollar also added to the inflationary pressures.

Outlook

According to the International Monetary Fund, Indian economy is projected to deliver robust growth of 5.9% for 2023, highest amongst the emerging economies, driven by strong domestic demand and healthy consumption growth supported by an improvement in labour market conditions, increasing consumer confidence, an expected recovery in rural demand and higher purchasing power with moderating of inflation. In the Union Budget for FY2023-24, the government announced a 33% increase in capex allocation to INR 10 trillion, which is expected to boost private investments. The Budget has also targeted a lower fiscal deficit in FY2023-24 at 5.9% and the government has committed to bring it down to below 4.5% by FY2025-26.

Risks to the outlook remain with weakness in the global economy impacting exports, volatility in food and crude oil prices, slowdown in private consumption and aggressive monetary tightening by global central banks to moderate inflation.

Industry Structure and Developments

Fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector is Indias fourth-largest sector and has been expanding at a healthy rate over the years as a result of rising disposable income, a rising youth population, and rising brand awareness among consumers. With household and personal care accounting for 50% of FMCG sales in India, the industry is an important contributor to Indias GDP.

Growing awareness, easier access and changing lifestyles have been the key growth drivers for the sector. The urban segment (accounts for a revenue share of around 55%) is the largest contributor to the overall revenue generated by the FMCG sector in India.

However, in the last few years, the FMCG market has grown at a faster pace in rural India compared to urban India. Semi-urban and rural segments are growing at a rapid pace and FMCG products account for 50% of the total rural spending.

FMCG market reached US$ 56.8 billion as of December 2022. Total revenue of FMCG market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 27.9% through 2021 to 2027, reaching nearly US$ 615.87 billion. In 2022, urban segment contributed 65% whereas rural India contributed more than 35% to the overall annual FMCG sales. Good harvest, government spending expected to aid rural demand recovery in FY24. The sector had grown 8.5% in revenues and 2.5% in volumes last fiscal year. In the January-June period of 2022, the sector witnessed value growth of about 8.4% on account of price hikes due to inflationary pressures. In Q2, CY22, the FMCG sector clocked a value growth of 10.9% Y-o-Y - higher than the 6% Y-o-Y value growth seen in Q1.

Indian food processing market size reached US$ 307.2 trillion in 2022 and is expected to reach US$ 547.3 trillion by 2028, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 9.5% during 2023-2028.

Digital advertising will grow at 14.75% CAGR to reach Rs. 35,809 crore (US$ 4.3 billion) by 2023, with FMCG industry being the biggest contributor at 42% share of the total digital spend. (Source: IBEF)

Outlook

After global and national pandemic-induced lockdowns, there have been a lot of changes that have revolutionized the FMCG industry. The global pandemic has increased the demand for online consumer goods. This has compelled FMCG companies to opt for a direct-to-customer approach and digital channels for offering their goods.

India is a land of diverse languages, cultures, and religions. Thus, businesses planning to enter Indias FMCG industry must make multiple marketing efforts to take advantage of these aspects. Apart from localizing their products to meet the Indian consumers needs, they also need to set a price that can appeal across customer segments.

Moreover, firms also have to face a wide array of legal and regulatory challenges to set up their business in this land. So, they must join hands with the right people who have in-depth knowledge of the market and can help establish their company.

Businesses can expect an increase in consumer goods because of global population growth. The rise in individual income, easy access to goods via e-commerce platforms, launching of new products, and effective advertising are all responsible for the exponential growth of this industrial sector.

Company Overview

Polo Queen Industrial and Fintech Limited belongs to the House of Rajkamal which was founded by late Shri Jiwanram Sanghai over 5 decades ago. It is a publicly traded Multi-Division Company engaged in activities encompassing Minerals Trading, Pharmaceuticals, FMCG products and Information Technology. The House of Rajkamal has been well-known for its highest level of integrity, long-term stability and commitment to its various endeavours. In its long decades of existence, the House has been exposed to most advanced business processes and requirements to the benefit of its customers and associates. Over the period, the House companies have been engaged in wide ranging activities such as marketing of textile products both in domestic as well as export markets and trading and export of speciality chemicals. Polo Queen Industrial and Fintech Limited has diverse activities through multi-divisional operation.

Division Doan Rajkamal

Doan Rajkamal is the FMCG Division of Polo Queen Industrial and Fintech Limited. It leverages the immense number years of experience of the group in marketing on a Pan-India basis and brings this to the fore in its FMCG business. Doan Rajkamal has significant range of high quality consumer products for Personal, Home, Kitchen and Fabric Care which enjoy unbridled loyalty from users in the Indian Civil market as well as the Indian Defence Forces. Through our comprehensive range of products, we touch the lives of all consumers, in all age groups, across all social boundaries. New products are regularly added to Doan Rajkamals range, each of which offers a unique and superior value proposition to the discerning consumers, giving them a wide array to choose from, and to our valued Dealer, Distributor and Retailer network, a bouquet comprising of an extensive gamut of products from this sector to promote.

Brand POLOQUEEN

With the conception of POLOQUEEN, we have envisioned a future where consumers have a superior experience and feel fully empowered to take care of their day-to-day needs in the FMCG segment. A brand is a commitment to consumers and POLOQUEEN is a blend of innovation, cutting-edge technology, product effectiveness and smart pricing that have made them the common mans choice. POLOQUEEN brand of products are diversified enough to provide an excellent solution for almost every household need. From Personal Care to Kitchen Care, Fabric Care to Home Care, POLOQUEEN has not missed any household need and is the perfect companion for every consumer. Brand POLOQUEEN is rapidly growing and is backed by a vision to be one of the largest FMCG product Companies in India.

Opportunities and Strengths

At an all India level, food continued to witness higher consumption growth up to 4.3% in the first quarter, compared to 1.6% in the last quarter of the previous fiscal, with staples driving this uptick.

The research firm forecasted that the FMCG market would grow 7%-9% for the full year 2023.

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, health and wellness will remain a top priority for consumers in 2023. FMCG Companies will respond by developing more functional and healthy products, such as probiotics, plant-based foods, and supplements. Brands will also continue to focus on natural and organic ingredients, as well as clean labeling.

As people continue to lead busy lives, convenience will remain a key factor in FMCG product development. Expect to see more products that are easy to prepare and consume on the go, such as meal kits, snack bars, and single-serve packaging. Additionally, e-commerce will continue to play a significant role in the FMCG industry, with companies investing in faster and more efficient delivery methods.

As the world becomes increasingly digital, the FMCG industry will continue to embrace technology in new and innovative ways. From smart packaging that tracks product usage to virtual reality shopping experiences, FMCG companies will use technology to improve the customer experience and streamline their operations.

Overall, 2023 promises to be an exciting year for the FMCG industry, with new and innovative products and services that cater to changing consumer needs and preferences. By staying ahead of these trends, FMCG companies can position themselves for success in the years to come.

Consumers will continue to spend on these categories - grocery and daily essentials, such as toothpaste, shampoo and soap. They are likely to manage their budget by moving to cheaper brands. However, discretionary products like convenience goods have a risk of getting dropped out," the report said. If prices go further up, nearly one-fifth of consumers may stop spending on categories such as packaged juices, soups, ketchup, entertainment and eating out

Just when demand seemed to be recovering, a war in Ukraine sent commodity prices shooting up early this year. To tackle high raw material costs, several FMCG companies downsized product packets while keeping the price unchanged. Dubbed shrinkflation, this effectively means consumers are paying the same for less of the products.

"About Mega Project"

The detailed project report for both the Mahad Agro Processing and Data Centre Projects have been finalised and that the Mahad Agro Processing Project has been accorded "Mega Project" status by the Government of Maharashtra.

The company is presently in active discussion with various Merchant Bankers and Financial Institutions for additional capital raising towards execution of the Mahad and Dombivli projects. The Board of Directors are positively confident about achieving success in this endeavour.

It is pertinent to emphasize that the Mahad Agro Processing Project will present significant Social and Environmental benefits to the Nation along with major direct and ancillary employment opportunities. Some of the products that will be produced at Mahad have critical application in the Pharmaceutical and Food segment. The products from Mahad will also be aligned with the Governments focus on creating adequate sources for Green Renewable Energy.

The proposed Data Centre at Dombivli will be an enabler of Digital Infrastructure. Looking at the exponential growth of Data consumption across India and the rapid Digitisation of various processes and interactions at multiple levels ranging from G2C, B2B and B2C it is estimated that the demand for Data Centres is going to continue seeing very significant growth for the foreseeable future. Dombivlis close proximity to the existing Data Centre hubs of Mahape / Navi Mumbai and its road infrastructure seeing significant investment with projects like the "Airoli-Katai Expressway" and "Mothagaon-Mankoli Bridge" the attractiveness of Dombivli as a Data Centre location is very apparent.

An official announcement on the Mahad and Dombivli projects execution will be made once we have achieved financial closure.

External Threats and Mitigation Strategies

We operate in large and growing segments in India and the International markets. The Indian packaged foods consumption growth story remains strong with trends in health, wellness and convenience becoming even more relevant for the consumer as a result of the pandemic. The penetration of branded products still remains low but will continue to increase due to favourable demographics, rising per capita incomes, urbanization, higher awareness and expansion of modern retailing and e-commerce.

Key threats to our business include changing consumer preferences, volatility in commodity, inflation and concentration of retailers in developed markets. In FY2022-23, we witnessed exceptionally elevated cost pressures whether it be commodity prices, packaging and freight costs. We took strategic pricing interventions to mitigate some of the effects of input cost inflation while protecting the interests of the consumers.

Segment - wise or Product - wise performance

During the year under review the Company has recorded receipts of Rs. 7790.28 Lakhs as compared to Rs. 5657.46 Lakhs in the previous year. The Company has recorded a Net profit Rs. 228.67 Lakhs as compared to a Net profit of Rs. 141.59 Lakhs in the previous year.

During the year under review the sales turnover of the Company has shown growth close to 40% as compared to the previous year mainly due to wide acceptance of the Companys products in the target market. The Companys profitability also improved by a very healthy 61.50% with profit after tax of Rs. 228.67 lakhs as compared to profit of Rs.141.59 Lakhs.

For further sustained profitable growth your company is constantly working on introducing new products and increasing sales with Modern Trade, Canteen Stores Department as well as Tie II and Tier III cities in Maharashtra. Adequate investment in supply chain is being made commensurate with the increased sales. The pride which the company feels in partnering with and supporting the Indian Defence forces cannot be emphasized enough.

The Companys trading activities in chemicals and minerals are being revitalized with induction of additional technical personnel in the belts having a concentration of foundry and steel industries. Besides the companys management is also attending major international exhibitions to have tie-ups with reputed international companies for sales in India. Sales from chemicals and mineral trading have grown by more than 100% in FY 2022-23 relative to FY 2021-22. Further growth initiatives are being actively pursued for this business area.

Internal Control Systems and their adequacy

Polo Queen has a sound Internal Control System, which aims to assure that operations are effective and well aligned with the strategic goals. The internal control framework is intended to ensure correct, reliable and timely financial reporting and management information. The Company has implemented the Internal Financial Control (IFC) framework to ensure proper Internal Controls over financial reporting. Then internal control system is further supplemented by Internal Audit carried out by an independent firm of Chartered Accountants and periodic review by Management. The Internal Audit process is designed to review the adequacy of internal control checks in the system and covers all the significant areas of the Companys operations. The Audit Committee reviews the adequacy and effectiveness of the internal control systems and tracks the implementation of corrective actions. Significant audit observations and corrective actions taken by the Management are presented to the Audit Committee.

Human Resource

Company operations are challenging as its people centric. Company truly values its human resources, who have committed themselves to the Companys Mission and Vision.

An effective talent management strategy and an optimum workforce helps us meet the demand for talent in our business.

We have been focusing on training and development for enhancing the capabilities of our personnel and building on their core technical skills throughout the year

Performance snapshot

There is no significant changes in the financial ratios as provided below.

Ratio FY 2022-23 FY 2021-22
Current Ratio 0.85 0.89
Debt-Equity Ratio 0.07 0.09
Debt Service Coverage Ratio 3.11 2.23
Return on Equity Ratio 1.24% 0.77%
Trade Receivables turnover ratio 4.34 4.63
Inventory Turnover 28.83 23.82
Trade payables turnover ratio 4.34 4.50
Net capital turnover ratio 0.42 0.31
Net profit ratio 2.94% 2.50%

Forward-Looking Statement

Certain statements made in the Management Discussion and Analysis Report relating to the Companys objectives, projections, outlook, expectations, estimates, and others may constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable laws and regulations. Actual results may differ from such expectations, whether expressed or implied. Several factors could make a significant difference to our operations. These include climatic and economic conditions affecting demand and supply, government regulations and taxation, any epidemic or pandemic, and natural calamities over which we do not have any direct/indirect control.