Expects double-digit growth in India foods biz – Tata Consumer
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Expects double-digit growth in India foods biz – Tata Consumer
Edited Excerpts of an interview with Mr. Sunil D’Souza, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Tata Consumer Products with CNBCTV18 on 4th Aug, 2021:
- Tata Consumer delivered a decent 1QFY22 results led by strong domestic business performance. The gross margins were primarily affected due to high tea prices.
- Even though the tea prices are high, management is comfortable going forward as the spike in tea prices is once in 5-10 years phenomena.
- In 2QFY21 the prices were at peak and thereafter the prices have started to normalize. This gets reflected in margins of India Tea Business as it has improved from 19% in 2QFY21 to 26% in 1QFY22 and will continue the uptrend for couple of quarters.
- The combination of price hike taken and tea prices going down will keep the company in good shape. The basic building blocks put in place and execution parameters lead the company to greater confidence.
- Working capital is down by 2 days, free cash flow is 101% of EBITDA (excluding one offs), company has 8,20,000 direct outlets and plans to take the number to 1 mn by Sep-21.
- The advertisement and promotion expenses are up 41% YoY as company plans to focus and strengthen the India brand building.
- Expects strong double-digit growth for India food business on the back of Salt and “Sampann” portfolio.
- The market share of Salt is 33-34% as compared to other players still at low single digit. The premium portfolio grew by 34% YoY and the mass category is expected to grow in South market where it is underpenetrated.
- On margin front, India beverages business is under pressure because of high tea prices. With tea prices normalizing and price increases taken, company expects the margins to improve significantly sequentially.
- Company is confident of coming out much stronger on the back of stronger share, stronger premium portfolio and better systems on execution in the market.
- Tata Consumer was formed to fulfill the aspirations of Tata group in the FMCG space. Last 12-15 months have been focused on putting the systems together, building execution systems and getting distribution panel in order.
- Company plans to expand the portfolio both organically and inorganically. Tata Consumer had acquired NourishCo which has performed well even during lockdowns. Integration of Soulfull has been completed in 1QFY22. The Company is in a strong position with net cash of Rs 21bn available for integration/acquisitions.
- The contribution of E-commerce to total sales have increased from 2% to 7% currently in 15-18 months’ time. Company expects it to touch double digit soon.
- Tata Consumer added 45-50 Starbuck stores in FY21 and has an ambitious target for FY22E as well.
Asset Multiplier Comments
- Store expansion, acquisitions & premiumization strategy in salt & tea in India market is expected to drive sales & margins.
- We believe the company is taking a step in the right direction by increasing the distribution reach, especially to rural areas. Increased distribution coupled with product launches will act as key growth drivers.
Consensus Estimate (Source: market screener websites)
- The closing price of Tata Consumer was ₹ 768/- as of 5-Aug-21. It traded at 61x/ 50x/ 42x the consensus EPS estimate of ₹ 12.3/15.1/18.1 for FY22E/ FY23E/FY24E respectively.
- The consensus target price of ₹ 743/- implies a PE multiple of 41x on FY24E EPS of ₹ 18.1/-.
Disclaimer: “The views expressed are for information purposes only. The information provided herein should not be considered as investment advice or research recommendation. The users should rely on their own research and analysis and should consult their own investment advisors to determine the merit, risks, and suitability of the information provided.”
