PPC is currently finalising its results for the year ended 31 March 2025 (“the current period”).
Shareholders are advised that PPC is satisfied that a reasonable degree of certainty exists that the expected earnings per share (“EPS”) and headline earning per share (“HEPS”) for continuing operations in the current period will differ by at least 20% from that of the previous corresponding period, being the year ended 31 March 2024 (“the prior period”). Accordingly, a trading statement is required in terms of the JSE Limited Listings Requirements.
The main driver of the significant increase in both EPS and HEPS is management’s continued focus on the execution of the turnaround plan announced in both its half-year results on 18 November 2024 and in its operational update on 3 March 2025. The improvement in the results is primarily due to improved cost control in the current period and the commencement of savings due to operational efficiencies. This resulted in the cost of goods sold decreasing in absolute terms across all the operational segments. Administrative and other operating expenses were also strictly controlled and, again, reduced across all the segments compared to the prior period.
The financial information on which this trading statement is based is the responsibility of the directors of PPC and has not been reviewed or reported on by the group's independent external auditor. Full details of the groups’ performance will be contained in the group’s audited consolidated financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2025, which are expected to be released on or about 9 June 2025.