18 Jan 2022 07:00
Elementis plc
Trading Update
FY 21 adjusted operating profit modestly ahead of expectations
Leverage reduction on track
Elementis plc ("Elementis" or the "Group"), a global specialty chemicals company, today issues a trading update for the three months and year ended 31 December 2021.
Business performance
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The Group has delivered a good fourth quarter performance, with double-digit year-on-year underlying revenue growth, agile supply chain management and self-help actions. As a result, adjusted operating profit for 2021 is expected to be in the range of $105-107m, modestly ahead of expectations*.
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· Coatings performed well in Q4, and ahead of the prior year. As a result of pricing actions and volume growth, the business will deliver improved operating margins versus 2020.
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· Personal Care performance in Q4 improved on the prior year. Demand continued to recover in cosmetics, as social and travel restrictions begin to ease, albeit still at levels below 2019.
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· Talc performance in Q4 was below prior year as semi-conductor supply shortages continued to reduce automotive related demand.
· Chromium performance improved on the prior year as strong industrial demand was supported by improved pricing trends as global industry capacity utilisation increased.
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In the fourth quarter we have continued to successfully deliver our Innovation, Growth and Efficiency strategy. For the full year 2021 we launched over 20 new products, won more than $35m of new business and delivered $10m of in year cost savings.
Balance Sheet
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Net debt (excluding lease liabilities) at the end of 2021 is anticipated to be approximately $400m, representing a leverage ratio of 2.6x net debt to EBITDA**, and a significant reduction compared to 3.2x reported at the 31 December 2020.
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Full 2021 results will be released on 3 March 2022 at 7am (UK) and will be available via the Elementis Plc website.
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Enquiries
Elementis plc
James Curran, Investor Relations Tel: 020 7067 2994
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Tulchan
Martin Robinson Tel: 020 7353 4200
Olivia Peters
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* Based on company compiled consensus, the Board believes the average market forecast for 2021 adjusted operating profit to be $104m.
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**Excluding IFRS 16 impact
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