To view the PDF file, sign up for a MySharenet subscription.

PPC - Trading Update

Release Date: 23/01/2006 14:32
Code(s): PPC
Wrap Text

PPC - Trading Update PRETORIA PORTLAND CEMENT COMPANY LIMITED (Registration number 1892/000667/06) ("PPC" or "the company") JSE code : PPC ISIN code : ZAE000005559 TRADING UPDATE - CHAIRMAN"S STATEMENT AT THE AGM The Chairman announced at the AGM held at 12:00 at PPC today that trading conditions in the first quarter of this financial year have continued to be favourable with regional cement sales volumes ahead of our expectations. Production facilities ran at high utilisation levels and this resulted in a further improvement in the cement operating margin. The Jupiter plant situated in Germiston, Gauteng, is on schedule to commence cement production in this quarter which will augment current industry capacity. Contracts for the supply and erection of equipment for the "Batsweledi" expansion project at the Dwaalboom factory have been signed and are within the budgeted cost at this stage. Site establishment has commenced and the project is on track for completion in the second quarter of 2008 as planned. In spite of Porthold in Zimbabwe experiencing very difficult conditions cash generation and profitability are ahead of expectations following stronger than anticipated sales volumes. Lime profitability and volumes remained satisfactory and in line with expectations whilst Afripack benefited from plant efficiencies and strong cement sack sales. All resolutions, including the special resolution to repurchase shares, were passed with the requisite majority. Sandton 23 January 2006 Sponsor JPMorgan Equities Limited Date: 23/01/2006 02:32:02 PM Supplied by www.sharenet.co.za Produced by the JSE SENS Department

Share This Story