PPC - January 2015
PPC’s earnings in the six months to the end of March 2015 could tumble by between 25 and 45 per cent YoY, according to a recent company trading statement. Despite positive cement sales, consolidation of Safika Cement (South Africa) and growth in both Zimbabwe and Botswana, the operating environment in South Africa is expected to remain challenging in both 2015 and 2016. Much of the decline is blamed on weak economic growth and power shortages although increased competition is also taking its toll with new players expected to enter the market despite overcapacity remaining an issue.