mold tek packaging ltd share price Management discussions


1. COMPANY OVERVIEW -

MOLD-TEK PACKAGNG LIMITED started in 1986, has been credited as the first company to introduce

IML Technology in India. Today, the Company is the Indias largest producer of Plastic Packaging Pails. The Companys commitment to research and development is evident through its advanced R&D center in Hyderabad, where it has registered three patents and four currently being applied for. MOLD-TEK believes in practicing excellent corporate governance and maintaining a culture of professional management, which provides the Company with a competitive advantage in the marketplace in the long run. The Company has a well-diversified business model in terms of markets and products to meet the evolving needs of customers, customized innovation, agility in job execution, scale, global reach and warehousing facilities. By remaining focused on its strategy and unique value proposition for customers, with a capable and experienced team and a people-first approach, MOLD-TEK will continue to drive long-term value creation for shareholders and other stakeholders.

2. GLOBAL ECONOMY-

At first glance, there are indications that the worldwide economy is on track for a steady revival after being hit hard by the pandemic and Russia Ukraine war. China has made a strong comeback following the reopening of its economy, and the supply chain disruptions are gradually resolving. Additionally, the disruptions caused by the war on energy and food markets are diminishing. At the same time, the coordinated and significant tightening of monetary policies by most central banks is expected to yield results, with inflation moving back towards its targets. Potential downside risks would include sticky inflation (especially in advanced economies), the fallout of bank collapses in the US spreading to the wider global economy and an escalation of the war in Ukraine which has now entered its second year. According to the latest projections from the IMF, the global growth rate is expected to reach its lowest point at 2.8% in 2023 and then increase slightly to 3.0% in 2024. Meanwhile, global inflation is expected to decrease, albeit at a slower rate than previously anticipated, from 8.7% in 2022 to 7.0% this year and further down to 4.9% in 2024. In many cases, emerging markets and developing economies are experiencing strong growth, with growth rates (Q4 over Q4) increasing from 2.8% in 2022 to 4.5% this year.

However, advanced economies, particularly the Euro area and the United Kingdom, are facing a slowdown with expected growth rates (also Q4 over Q4) of 0.7% and -0.4%, respectively, this year before rebounding to 1.8% and 2.0% in 2024.

3. INDIAN ECONOMY-

The Indian economy is now widely seen as the bright spot in an otherwise gloomy global economic outlook, as per IMF Chief Kristalina Georgieva. Staying with the IMFs data points in its April 2023 world economic outlook, the Indian economy saw a growth rate of 6.8% in 2022, and 5.9% in 2023, and is estimated to grow at a rate of 6-6.3% in 2024.

Despite, global headwinds, the Russia-Ukraine war and associated price volatility in crude oil, fertilizer and food prices India finds enter a phase of sustained rapid growth going forward. This is further reinforced by Deloittes India economic outlook, April 2023, which suggests that to ensure India attains sustained non-inflationary growth, an increase in private investments on manufacturing capacity building is necessary in addition to the country capitalizing on its comparative services advantage.

There is data to back Indias potential meteoric rise. For instance, India breached record exports in F.Y 23 with $ 770 Billion with a surge in services exports, thanks to greater acceptance among multinationals (MNCs) to run operations remotely. More importantly, service exports were not limited to traditional sectors such as IT, but also so an increase in the share of business and professional services such as accounting, audit, research and development, quality assurance and aftersales services.

In the manufacturing sector (and associated exports of goods and products), India is seen to be on the cusp of becoming the next big manufacturer in the world. From an increase in electronics exports such as mobile phones to visible signs of the country improving its capacity building in pharmaceuticals and FMCG – Indias future looks bright. This has been supported by multiple government initiatives such as the National Infrastructure Pipeline, PM Gati Shakti and National Logistics Policy, among others, that will help reduce the cost of logistics while improving the ease of doing business. Similarly, the agriculture sector of the Indian economy grew at 3.5% in F.Y 23 with agriculture exports touching $ 50.2 Billion in the fiscal year, as per the Press Information Bureau.

4. INDUSTRY OVERVIEW-

MOLD-TEK PACKAGING LIMITED, a leading player in the rigid packaging industry, has built a strong presence in the industry. With its extensive product portfolio of IML, HTL, decorated containers, the Company caters to the diverse packaging needs of Paint, Lubes and Food & FMCG industries. Further, with a focus on innovation, a customer-centric approach and sustainability, MOLD-TEK continues to drive growth and create value for its stakeholders across these industries.

The global packaging industry has experienced robust growth over the past few decades, driven by demographic factors like population growth and rapid urbanization, increased trade, and greater demand for packaging. Sustainability and digitalization are increasingly popular trends that present challenges and opportunities for the industry. Other factors such as changing consumer preferences, margin compression and food safety have also impacted the industry and driven demand for new packaging products and innovations.

The global packaging industry in F.Y 21 was approximately $ 1,002.4 Billion and is expected to reach $ 1,275 Billion by 2027. The global rigid packaging market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.7% from $ 207.8 Billion in 2022 to $ 262.5 Billion in 2027. The growth of the Rigid plastic packaging market is attributed towards growing of food, beverages, healthcare, cosmetics, Industrial and others. Rigid plastic packaging is widely used in the food & beverage industries as it increases the shelf life of the products, thus preventing food loss. The market for rigid plastic packaging in the healthcare segment is also projected to grow at a high rate, owing to the increase in consumption of pharmaceutical products due to the aging population and growth in incidence rates of chronic diseases. Rigid plastic packaging offers aesthetic appeal and durability to the product, which increases its marketability; hence, it is used in the cosmetics & toiletries industry. The growth of the rigid plastic packaging market is majorly driven by rapid expansion of the Paint, Lubes and food & beverage industry.

5. BUSINESS SEGMENTS AND PERFORMANCE-

During F.Y. 23 the Food and FMCG-pack business continued to grow at 32.62% and Lube-pack business recorded 30.71% volume growth and Paint-pack business registered a 5.64% growth in volume. During F.Y. 23, Paint Pails constitute 49.13% share of our company revenue, Lubes-Packs business is 24.62% and Food & FMCG is 26.26%. The revenues from new projects are expected to flow from next financial year.

Overall, our Company achieved historically highest volume growth of 16% during the reporting period and recorded highest profits and poised to maintain similar or better volume growth in the near future.

6. DISCUSSION ON FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE- We are pleased to report another year of spectacular performance. For the Twelve months ended March 31, 2023, revenue from operations increased by 16% to 730 crores from 631.47 crores. Though revenues are inflated by steep increase in RM, Company achieved an impressive 16% volume growth. EBDIT for the period increased by 12% to 136.82 crores from 122.25 crores. Net Profit increased by 26.35% to 80.43 crores as compared to 63.66 crores in the previous corresponding period. During the year, despite tremendous price volatility of key raw materials, the EBITDA margin has been maintained at a healthy 18.75%.

FINANCIAL AND OPERATIONAL PERFORMANCE - OVERVIEW

lakhs except EPS

Particulars 2022-23 2021-22 2020-21 2019-20 2018-19
Revenue 72,992 63,147 47,893 43,744 39,409
EBITDA 13,682 12,225 9,656 8,120 7,328
Exceptional items - - 108 286 1,150
PBT 10,272 8,651 6,405 4,908 3,996
Net Profit 8,043 6,366 4,808 3,819 2,410
BEPS (Face Value of 5) 24.40 22.12 16.86 13.78 8.70

The Company has 10 state of the art manufacturing facilities spread across India, with a total installed capacity of 45,290 MT per annum. In addition to being a market leader in the Rigid Plastic Packaging sector, Mold-Tek has emerged as a complete packaging solutions provider with wider range of products and value added services.

7. KEY FINANCIAL INDICATORS-

In accordance with the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015 ("Listing Regulations") the Company is required to give details of significant changes (i.e. change of 25% or more as compared to the immediately previous financial year) in key financial ratios. There is no significant change (i.e. 25% or more) in key financial ratios viz. Current Ratio, Debt Equity Ratio, Inventory Turnover, Operating Profit Margin & Net Profit Margin.

Ratio FY 2022-23 FY 2021-22 % Change Explanation
Current Ratio 2.43 3.72 (34.07) Decreased due to increased in debt on account of increase in current liabilities which primarily comprises of borrowings.
There has been an increase in working capital loans availed during the period.
Debt Service Coverage Ratio 7.54 5.37 40.55 Increased due to lower finance cost and principal repayments of loans during the year
Net working Capital Turnover Ratio 5.16 3.18 62.15 Increased primarily due to decrease in inventory & trade receivables and increase of current liabilities
Return on Investment 2.01 16.73 (88.00) Decreased due to receipt of dividend during the year

8. FUTURE OUTLOOK-

Your Company plans to change the packaging landscape by creating sustainable and innovative packaging solutions. The F.Y. 2022-23 has continued to see bouts of uncertainty that have tested the growth conditions across the world.

Headline inflation continues to remain elevated, exceeding the comfort zone of the monetary authorities and it would result in continued uncertainties in the financial markets and a carry-on impact on the economic conditions. These interdependencies were clearly at play during the recent upheaval in the banking sector in the US and Europe. While the turmoil appears to be contained for now, risk indicators continue to remain a matter of concern. Multi-lateral agencies have already cautioned about the slowdown in global growth with geopolitical tensions adding another layer of ambiguity to the existing uncertainties. Amidst these uncertainties, the Indian economy is expected to be an oasis of stability, offering continued growth momentum. While this momentum may not be entirely impervious to global developments, domestic anchors are firmly in place to propel the economy forward. Businesses, across geographies, would need to be vigilant and exhibit flexibility, working with dynamic operating models to adapt to the evolving conditions while simultaneously building resiliency in their business models to ensure sustained performance.

9. NEW PRODUCTS & DEVELOPMENTS:

Mold-Tek has progressed considerably in the last few years with its products, technological and engineering capabilities, keeping in mind the evolving needs of the packaging industry, along with environmental concerns.

Sultanpur Commercial Supplies: Construction of Sultanpur, Hyderabad plant (Block-A) has been completed (78,000 sq. ft.) and started commercial supplies with effect from 27 March, 2023.

New Products & developments: At Sultanpur Hyderabad, Company started Food and FMCG products manufacturing. However, the pharma division will start operations around October/November, 2023 onwards.

Status of New Plants for Aditya Birla Group: Company has acquired land of 11,210 Square Meters at Cheyyar and 7875 Square Meters at Panipat for setting up of 2 new manufacturing plants for Aditya Birla Group. The Panipat plant will be ready in December, 2023 and Cheyyar plant will be operational by January, 2024. Company has applied for land for another plant for ABG at Mahad, Maharashtra.

Capex on new Plants and additional Capacities: As announced earlier, Company has spent 148 crores during the year on the new projects/manufacturing facility at Sultanpur, lands at Daman, Cheyyar and Panipat and additional capacities were added at Unit-1, Unit-8 and Unit-9 and enhanced Unit-6 printing capacity. This is historically highest annual investment by the Company. Company expects to invest similar amount during the F.Y. 23-24 on 3 plants for ABG, Pharma division at Sultanpur, Hyderabad, Daman-II and Sandila-UP projects.

10. ENTERPRISE RISK MANAGEMENT-

The Companys business is subject to risks and uncertainties that could have both short-term and long-term implications. In a rapidly changing business environment with dynamic customer requirements, business risks are constantly evolving. As a result, there are many emerging risks landscape across businesses. The Company constantly monitors external environment to identify potential emerging risks and their impact on its business.

The following factors, could adversely affect the Companys financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

1. Gap between Market Demand and Supply: Strategic risks can be in form of changes in consumer demand, loss of market share on account of increased competition, intellectual property challenges and Shift of end-consumers/ dealers due to a higher number of choices. Our risk mitigation activities include staying ahead in the new product development curve, relying on the patent, trademark, copyright and trade secret laws of the countries in which we operate and launch of differentiated products, new variants in our existing portfolio, focus on ease of use as well as differentiated features. Our Key Account Team works with the purpose to maintain good customer relationships and keep the attrition at manageable level.

2. Operational Risks:

Operations risks encompass various factors such as attracting and retaining key personnel, global health outbreaks, and information technology vulnerabilities. The Company prioritizes creating a supportive work environment that promotes personal and professional growth to attract and retain key talent. Recognizing the potential impact of information technology disruptions, Mold-Tek has implemented measures to mitigate risks, although its systems and networks remain susceptible to advanced and persistent threats that could disrupt operations and compromise sensitive data of customers, employees, and vendors.

3. Financial Risks:

Financial risks encompass exchange rate risks, interest rate risks, and internal control risks. To mitigate exchange rate risks, the company utilises various derivative contracts, such as foreign exchange forward contracts. These instruments are employed to effectively manage and hedge against foreign currency exchange risks and interest rate fluctuations. In terms of interest rate cash flow risk, the Company follows a policy to minimize exposure on long-term financing.

While the Company is exposed to market interest rate changes through variable interest rate bank borrowings, it maintains adequate internal financial controls that comply with the criteria established by the Company, considering the essential components of internal control outlined in the guidance note issued by the ICAI (Institute of Chartered Accountants of India).

4. Legal and Compliance Risks:

In response to concerns surrounding safety, Greenhouse Gas Emissions, climate change, and plastic recycling, various countries have enacted and are expected to enact regulations and legislations. Mold-Tek is proactive in taking necessary measures to ensure its operations and products fully comply with safety, health, and environmental regulations. The Companys legal and R&D functions work diligently to protect its patents and proprietary technology across different geographical regions. The Company has implemented robust systems and processes within and in line with the size and scope of its operations, to monitor and ensure compliance with relevant laws, rules, regulations, and guidelines. By doing so, Mold-Tek strives to uphold legal and regulatory compliance at all levels of the organization.

5. Risk of injury or occupational hazard:

The manufacturing operations of the Company require employees to interact with machinery and material handling equipment which carry an inherent risk of injury and potential exposure to hazardous material/waste. Adherence to standards pertaining to Occupation Health & Safety, the Companys Environment Health and Safety policy, ESG Policy and highest operational standards for handling hazardous materials, if any. Periodic risk assessments using quantitative risk assessment and closure of action plans arising out of such assessments; Continuous progress in the Behavior Based Safety journey by all plants will mitigate these kinds of risks.

6. Information Risk:

Loss of sensitive and confidential information and impact on the reputation of the Company. The risk can be mitigated by continuous protection of confidential information across the IT landscape; by investment in contemporary IT tools to ensure adequate protection of underlying data; by periodic audits to ensure adherence to the processes.

11. OPPORTUNITIES:

1. Innovative packages: Marketers are acutely aware of the significant value and perception associated with brands. In the FMCG industry, many companies are embracing the idea of refreshing their packaging designs to align with the core values their brands represent. It is crucial to recognize that packaging not only safeguards the product but also safeguards the brand itself. MOLD-TEK First is fully committed to creating inventive packaging solutions that entice customers and boost sales. The Companys focus is on developing packages that captivate consumers and effectively communicate the essence of its brands.

2. E-commerce: The growth of e-commerce, which was already on an upward trajectory, received a significant boost during the pandemic as consumers prioritise hygienic packaging when making their purchases. This surge in e-commerce activity has heightened the demand for packaging, especially for new products, and has also led to innovations in last-mile delivery solutions to meet these evolving requirements.

3. Digitization and Internet of Things (IoT): Companies are harnessing digital initiatives not only to reduce expenses but also to gain a competitive advantage among consumers. One such example is the integration of technology in packaging, which enhances customer value and service. With the rise of IoT (Internet of Things), packaging is becoming more intuitive and capable of providing instant information to consumers about the products they purchase. This evolution positions packaging as an enabler, facilitating seamless communication and interaction between products and consumers.

4. Sustainable packaging solutions: Mold-Tek first recognizes that sustainable packaging solutions present the most significant opportunity for the Company, and it is committed to achieving that goal. As the awareness of sustainable packaging requirementscontinuestogrow,the Companyviews it as an opportunity to meet these demands rough its products and manufacturing processes. The Company understands that consumers increasingly seek more sustainable packaging options, and it collaborates closely with its customers to ensure its products meet their sustainability needs. Through partnerships with leading global brands, Mold-Tek First offers structure rationalization and recyclability solutions in various categories such as biscuits, noodles, tea and coffee sachets, and soap wrappers, among others. In its pursuit of a better tomorrow, Mold-Tek First invests in research and development to expand its specialty film portfolio, providing sustainable solutions. The Companys initiatives include the development of Biodegradable containers etc.

12. INTERNAL CONTROL SYSTEMS AND THEIR ADEQUACY:

The Company has designed and implemented robust internal control systems in line with the nature, size, geographical spread and complexities of business operations. Internal control policies and procedures are designed to provide reasonable assurance towards the effectiveness and efficiency of its operations, reliability of financial reporting, compliance with applicable laws and regulations, prevention and detection of frauds & errors and Safeguarding of its assets. The Company has a strong governance structure with related authorities and responsibilities assigned to the Committees of the Board, function heads and various process owners. The established policy framework is reviewed periodically to keep them contemporary and relevant to the changing business environment. Detailed procedures, SOPs, work instructions and controls are well documented, digitized and embedded in business processes to ensure the mitigation of risks in operations, reporting and compliance. Such internal controls are regularly tested for adequacy of design and operating effectiveness. Compliance with policies and procedures is an integral part of the management review process. The Companys ERP, system infrastructure and checks are integral parts of the internal control system. The Company has been leveraging data analytics, predictive and visualization tools to identify data exceptions and trends for minimizing errors and avenues to improve the processes. The Company has a strong compliance management system to monitor the compliance status online and to update compliance requirements with the latest changes in statutes and business operations.

MTPL has received certification for quality management systems aligned with ISO 9001:2015 for manufacture, marketing and purchase functions related to supply of injection moulded plastic packaging containers/pails, closures, pharmaceutical & food packaging containers and components and Certification scheme for food safety management systems consisting of the following elements: ISO 22000:2018, ISO/TS 22002-4:2013 and additional FSSC 22000 requirements [version 5.1 for Manufacturing (Mixing of Polypropylene Resin with Master Batches, Impregnation of Labels, Injection Moulding) of In-mould Labelled Plastic Containers, Lids and Dispensing Pumps for Packaging in Food Industry]. Regular communication and awareness towards the Code of Conduct, whistle blower process and various policies and procedures are done to ensure common understanding on these leveraging e-modules and online training sessions. The Company has strong Internal Audit governance to assure the adequacy and effectiveness of internal controls. This Committee periodically reviews the adequacy and effectiveness of the Companys internal financial controls and the implementation of audit recommendations.

13. HUMAN RESOURCES:

Mold-Tek recognizes that its people are its greatest assets, and the belief in people is central to its human resource strategy. The Company places a strong emphasis on talent management, succession planning, performance management, and learning and development initiatives to foster inspiring, strong, and trustworthy leadership. By promoting knowledge, entrepreneurship, and creativity, Mold-Tek utilizes its human capital to drive competitiveness. The Company also embraces workforce diversity and strives to build its employees careers through targeted interventions. Learning opportunities enhance employee engagement, boost productivity, reduce turnover, and cultivate a positive culture. Labor relations in all India operations remained favorable. The Companys plants in India provided various opportunities to encourage an open and supportive work environment, promoting participative decision-making. The Company continued to provide its workers with team-building and collaboration training to strengthen team cohesiveness. The total employee strength as of 31st March 2023 was 627.

14. CAUTIONARY STATEMENT:

This report will include ‘Forward-Looking Statements, such as statements about the implementation of strategic plans and other statements about Mold- Teks potential business developments and financial results. Although these Forward-Looking Statements reflect the Companys current evaluation and potential expectations for the development of the Companys business, a variety of risks, uncertainties, and other unknown factors could cause actual developments and outcomes to vary materially from those expected. General market, macroeconomic, governmental, and regulatory patterns, changes in currency exchange and interest rates, competitive pressures, technical advances, changes in the financial conditions of third parties doing business with the Company, regulatory developments, and other main factors that may have an effect on the Companys business and financial results. Mold-Tek disclaims any duty to update or amend any forward-looking statements to represent events or circumstances that might occur in the future.