ALFA reports 2Q24 EBITDA of US $445 million and raises its 2024 Guidance

Rhea-AI Summary

ALFA reported strong 2Q24 results, with EBITDA reaching US $445 million, up 23% year-over-year. The company raised its 2024 EBITDA guidance by 5% to US $1.590 billion, driven by Sigma's exceptional performance. Sigma achieved its 13th consecutive quarter of year-on-year sales growth, with record volume of 462 ktons. Sigma's 2024 EBITDA is now expected to reach a historic US $1.0 billion, 9% higher than initially estimated.

Alpek's Comparable EBITDA of US $312 million for 1H24 is on track to meet full-year expectations, despite industry headwinds. The company completed cost reduction initiatives expected to save US $75 million annually. ALFA's consolidated Net Leverage ratio stands at 3.3 times, with Alpek at 3.3x and Sigma at 2.0x. ALFA continues to focus on debt reduction to complete its transformation process.

Positive

• EBITDA increased 23% year-over-year to US $445 million in 2Q24
• 2024 EBITDA guidance raised 5% to US $1.590 billion
• Sigma achieved 13th consecutive quarter of year-on-year sales growth
• Sigma's 2024 EBITDA expected to reach historic US $1.0 billion, 9% above initial estimate
• Alpek completed cost reduction initiatives expected to save US $75 million annually
• Sigma's Net Leverage ratio of 2.0 times is lowest in nearly 11 years

Negative

• Alpek faced headwinds such as low reference margins in the global petrochemical industry
• ALFA's consolidated debt outside of Alpek totaled US $3.251 billion at the close of 2Q24, requiring reduction for adequate post-separation leverage

Financial Analyst

ALFA's Q2 2024 results demonstrate robust performance, particularly driven by its Sigma division. The company reported an impressive $445 million in EBITDA, marking a 23% year-over-year increase. This strong showing has led ALFA to raise its full-year 2024 EBITDA guidance by 5% to $1.59 billion.

Sigma, ALFA's food division, is the star performer this quarter. With 13 consecutive quarters of year-on-year sales growth and a record volume of 462 ktons, Sigma's EBITDA reached $279 million, up 28% year-over-year. The division's strong performance across all regions has prompted an upward revision of its 2024 EBITDA guidance to $1 billion, a 9% increase from the original estimate.

Alpek, the petrochemical arm, faces industry headwinds but remains on track to meet its full-year guidance. Its comparable EBITDA of $312 million for the first half of 2024 aligns with expectations. Notably, Alpek has completed structural cost reduction initiatives expected to yield $75 million in annualized savings, which should help mitigate ongoing industry challenges.

ALFA's debt reduction efforts are important for its transformation process. The company's consolidated Net Leverage ratio stands at 3.3 times, with Alpek at 3.3x and Sigma at a more comfortable 2.0x. The focus on debt reduction through non-core asset sales is critical for ALFA's planned separation of its businesses.

Overall, ALFA's Q2 results and raised guidance paint a positive picture, with Sigma's exceptional performance offsetting challenges in the petrochemical sector. The company's strategic initiatives and debt reduction focus position it well for its ongoing transformation.

Market Research Analyst

ALFA's Q2 2024 results reveal intriguing market dynamics, particularly in the food sector. Sigma's outstanding performance, with 13 consecutive quarters of growth, suggests a resilient and expanding market for processed foods. This trend may be indicative of changing consumer behaviors, possibly influenced by post-pandemic habits or economic factors driving demand for convenient, packaged food options.

The contrast between Sigma and Alpek's performances highlights the divergent paths of the food and petrochemical industries. While Sigma thrives, Alpek faces "certain headwinds such as low reference margins" in the global petrochemical industry. This dichotomy underscores the importance of diversification in ALFA's portfolio, allowing it to offset challenges in one sector with strengths in another.

Sigma's success across all regions, including standout performances in Mexico and the U.S., points to effective market penetration strategies and possibly favorable macroeconomic conditions in these markets. The appointment of Juan Ignacio Amat as CEO of Sigma Europe, with his experience in implementing transformational plans, suggests a strategic focus on enhancing profitability in this key region.

Alpek's cost reduction initiatives, expected to save $75 million annually, reflect a proactive approach to navigating a challenging industry landscape. This move could potentially set a trend for other players in the petrochemical sector facing similar pressures.

ALFA's focus on debt reduction through non-core asset sales aligns with broader market trends of corporate streamlining and focus on core competencies. This strategy, coupled with Sigma's strong performance, positions ALFA favorably for its planned transformation, which could reshape its market position and investor perception in the near future.

SAN PEDRO GARZA GARCÍA, N.L., Mexico, July 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- ALFA, S.A.B. de C.V. (BMV: ALFAA) ("ALFA") announced today its unaudited results for the second quarter of 2024 ("2Q24"). All figures have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS").

2Q24 HIGHLIGHTS

ALFA	•  Accumulated EBITDA of US $870 million, up 18% year-over-year driven mainly by Sigma. ALFA's 2024 EBITDA Guidance increased 5% to US $1.590 billion to incorporate upward revision from Sigma •  ALFA actively pursuing debt reduction initiatives to complete transformation; various non-core asset sale processes advanced further •  Consolidated Net Leverage ratio of 3.3 times; Alpek 3.3x and Sigma 2.0x
Sigma	•  Thirteenth consecutive quarter of year-on-year sales growth supported by record volume of 462 ktons, up 3% versus 2Q23 •  Accumulated EBITDA of US $542 million, up 33% year-on-year driven by strong growth across all regions •  Upward Guidance revision: Sigma's 2024 EBITDA expected to reach historic milestone of US $1.0 billion, 9% higher than original estimate •  Net Leverage ratio of 2.0 times represents lowest level in nearly 11 years
Alpek	•  Accumulated Comparable EBITDA of US $312 million is on track to reach full-year guidance of US $600 million. The global petrochemical industry continued to face certain headwinds such as low reference margins •  Completed structural cost reduction initiatives which are expected to deliver US $75 million in annualized cost savings •  Net Debt decreased 5% quarter on quarter driven by solid cash flow

Message from ALFA's Chairman & CEO

"ALFA's consolidated results exceeded our initial estimations as both business units continued to successfully capitalize on resilient demand and better-than-expected dynamics in the food sector. EBITDA grew at double-digit rates year-on-year in 2Q24 and the first half of 2024 (1H24) driven by Sigma, which is key to completing ALFA's transformational process.

Alpek's Comparable EBITDA of US $312 million during the first half of 2024 is on track to meet our petrochemical business' expectations for the full year. In addition, Alpek completed its structural cost reduction initiatives which are expected to deliver US $75 million in annualized cost savings to mitigate the impact of sustained global industry headwinds.

Sigma maintained its growth momentum, reporting the thirteenth consecutive quarter of year-on-year increase in Revenues. Moreover, EBITDA reached a new quarterly record-high of US $279 million. Importantly, all regions contributed to these strong results, including outstanding performance in Mexico and the U.S.

Looking ahead, Sigma expects its 2024 EBITDA to reach the historic milestone of US $1.0 billion, 9% higher than its original guidance of US $920 million. Accordingly, ALFA's consolidated, full-year EBITDA guidance was raised to US $1.590 billion, up from US $1.510 billion.

During the second quarter, Sigma announced an organizational update to its European operations. The company appointed Juan Ignacio Amat as CEO of Sigma Europe, effective on June 1st. Juan Ignacio brings over 20 years of experience in large consumer goods companies across Europe, holding various leadership positions where he was responsible for the successful implementation of transformational plans. We welcome Juan Ignacio and support Sigma's commitment to raise profitability in its second largest region.

Sigma was also active on the financial front, successfully tapping the local debt capital markets for a second time this year. The latest issuance includes the only tranche from a Mexican corporate that has a twelve-year term, with a bullet amortization and a fixed rate. The proceeds were used mainly to complete the full redemption of the remaining principal of Senior Notes due 2026, extending Sigma's average debt maturity to 5.7 years.

Sigma's solid financial position and extraordinary operating performance provide essential support in the final phase of ALFA's transformation process. On the other hand, Alpek is fully capable of operating as an independent business unit. However, the aggregate debt outside of Alpek, which totaled US $3.251 billion at the close of 2Q24, must be reduced to ensure an adequate leverage post-separation.

To achieve the desired financial conditions, our near-term efforts remain focused on obtaining funds to pay down debt. Various formal sale processes involving non-core assets advanced further during the second quarter.

We are confident that the strategic initiatives to accelerate debt reduction, as well as the better-than-expected operating results from Sigma and Alpek put ALFA on the right path to complete the transformation process and realize its unique value potential in the near term. Thank you for your support and trust".

All the best,

Álvaro Fernández

Important note on changes to ALFA's
Consolidated Financial Statements

ALFA's shareholders approved to spin-off ALFA's share ownership of Axtel into a new, listed entity called "Controladora Axtel" on July 12, 2022. The shares of "Controladora Axtel" were distributed to ALFA shareholders and began trading on the Mexican Stock Exchange on May 29, 2023. In accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), Axtel meets the definition of a "Discontinued Operation" for purposes of ALFA's Consolidated Financial Statements. "Discontinued Operations" are the net results of an entity that is either being held for disposal or which has already been disposed of.

The changes in ALFA's Consolidated Financial Statements are as follows:

• The Consolidated Statement of Financial Position no longer presents Axtel's assets as "Current assets from discontinued operations" nor its liabilities as "Current liabilities from discontinued operations" at the close of 2Q23.
• The Consolidated Statement of Income presents Axtel's net revenues and expenses as a single line item "Profit (loss) from discontinued operations" as follows:
  • 2Q23: accumulated figures for the one month and 29 days ended May 29, 2023
  • 1Q24: no figures presented related to Axtel
  • 2Q24: no figures presented related to Axtel
  • 2023: accumulated figures for the four months and 29 days ended May 29, 2023
  • 2024: no figures presented related to Axtel
• The Change in Net Debt no longer presents Axtel's net inflows and outflows in "Net Debt from discontinued operations"

SELECTED FINANCIAL INFORMATION (US $ MILLION)

				(%) 2Q24 vs.
	2Q24	1Q24	2Q23	1Q24	2Q23	2024	2023	Ch. %
ALFA & Subs
ALFA Revenues	4,197	4,106	4,221	2	(1)	8,303	8,306	-
Alpek	1,921	1,903	2,050	1	(6)	3,825	4,112	(7)
Sigma	2,246	2,170	2,143	3	5	4,416	4,134	7
ALFA EBITDA1	445	425	360	5	23	870	736	18
Alpek	170	168	148	1	15	338	335	1
Sigma	279	264	217	6	28	542	409	33
ALFA Comparable EBITDA2	433	411	425	5	2	844	821	3
Alpek	158	154	201	3	(21)	312	408	(23)
Sigma	279	264	229	6	21	542	421	29
Majority Net Income3	52	60	4	(14)	-	112	(10)	-
CAPEX & Acquisitions4	67	75	196	10	66	142	282	50
ALFA Net Debt	4,977	5,094	4,994	(2)	-	4,977	4,994	-
Alpek	1,726	1,807	1,879	5	8	1,726	1,879	8
Sigma	2,019	2,084	2,012	3	-	2,019	2,012	-
ALFA Net Debt/EBITDA5	3.3	3.5	3.3
ALFA Interest Coverage6	3.6	3.6	4.1

1 EBITDA = Operating Income + depreciation and amortization + impairment of assets

2 Comparable EBITDA = Operating Income + depreciation and amortization + impairment of assets + extraordinary items

3 Majority Net Income includes Majority Net Income from Discontinued Operations (Axtel) for 2Q23

4 Includes divestments

5 Times. LTM= Last 12 months. Ratio calculated with Discontinued Operations for all periods

6 Times. LTM= Last 12 months. Interest Coverage= EBITDA/Net Financial Expenses with Discontinued Operations for all periods

2Q24 EARNINGS CALL INFORMATION

Date:            Thursday, July 25, 2024

Time:            1:30 p.m. EDT (NY) / 11:30 a.m. CST (CDMX)

Registration:  https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_dxVDIKZLSb68HL9KGBdXMQ

Replay:         https://www.alfa.com.mx/en/events/

About ALFA

ALFA is comprised mainly of two businesses with global operations: Sigma, a leading multinational food company, focuses on the production, marketing, and distribution of quality foods through recognized brands in Mexico, Europe, the United States, and Latin America. Alpek is one of the world's top producers of Polyester (PTA, PET, PET sheet and rPET), and the leader in the Mexican market for Polypropylene (PP) and Expandable Polystyrene (EPS). In 2023, ALFA reported revenues of Ps $291,207 million (US $16.4 billion), and EBITDA of Ps $24,783 million (US $1.4 billion). ALFA's shares are quoted on the Mexican Stock Exchange and on Latibex, the market for Latin American shares of the Madrid Stock Exchange. For more information, please visit www.alfa.com.mx

Disclaimer

This release may contain forward-looking information based on numerous variables and assumptions that are inherently uncertain. They involve judgments with respect to, among other things, future economic, competitive and financial market conditions and future business decisions, all of which are difficult or impossible to predict accurately. Accordingly, future results could vary from those set forth in this release. The report presents unaudited financial information. Figures are presented in Mexican pesos or U.S. dollars, as indicated. Where applicable, peso amounts were translated into U.S. dollars using the average exchange rate of the months during which the operations were recorded. Financial ratios are calculated in U.S. dollars. Due to the rounding up of figures, small differences may occur

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SOURCE ALFA, S.A.B. de C.V.

FAQ

What was ALFA's EBITDA for 2Q24 and how did it compare to the previous year?

ALFA's EBITDA for 2Q24 was US $445 million, representing a 23% increase compared to the same quarter in the previous year.

How has ALFA revised its 2024 EBITDA guidance?

ALFA has raised its 2024 EBITDA guidance by 5% to US $1.590 billion, up from the original US $1.510 billion, primarily due to Sigma's strong performance.

What is Sigma's revised EBITDA expectation for 2024?

Sigma now expects its 2024 EBITDA to reach a historic milestone of US $1.0 billion, which is 9% higher than its original guidance of US $920 million.

How did Alpek perform in the first half of 2024?

Alpek's Comparable EBITDA for the first half of 2024 was US $312 million, which is on track to meet the company's full-year expectations despite facing industry headwinds.

What is ALFA's current consolidated Net Leverage ratio?

ALFA's consolidated Net Leverage ratio stands at 3.3 times as of 2Q24.