FirstFarms A/S Faces Challenges Amid FMD Outbreaks in Q1 Report

FirstFarms A/S Reports Q1 Challenges

Overview of FirstFarms' Financial Performance

FirstFarms' financial results for the first quarter reveal unexpected challenges that have significantly influenced its operational landscape. The company faced notably low pig prices at the quarter's onset, accompanied by a disturbing outbreak of foot and mouth disease (FMD) affecting its largest cattle farm. Additionally, the effects of value adjustments added to the complexities of this quarter.

During this period, FirstFarms generated a turnover of 102 million DKK, slightly down from 104 million DKK the previous year. However, the EBITDA dropped to 12 million DKK compared to 36 million DKK in Q1 2024, illustrating the hardships faced. Moreover, the company reported an EBIT of -4 million DKK, marking a stark decline from the previous 22 million DKK, while pre-tax results plummeted to -14 million DKK from a profit of 13 million DKK.

Michael Hyldgaard, Co-CEO of FirstFarms, highlighted that the disappointing results stem from lower pig prices at the start of the year and a significant 10 million DKK reduction in the value adjustment of biological assets, exacerbated by one-time costs of 5 million DKK. Nevertheless, Q1 proved beneficial for milk and crop prices, with crop sales 12 million DKK higher than in Q1 2024.

Impact of Foot and Mouth Disease

The FMD outbreak was confirmed on March 30, revealing serious operational hurdles for FirstFarms. Following the outbreak at its farm in Slovakia, the company had to cull 3,521 animals, leading to an intricate cleanup and logistical effort to restore normal operations. The plan is for the first cattle to return by November 1, 2025, yet milk production won't fully recover until approximately two years post-resumption.

Fortunately, three additional stables housing 2,500 cattle remain unaffected by the infection, a small relief amid the turmoil. The construction of a new dairy facility at Plavecky Stvrtok is currently halted due to the ongoing epidemic, impacting future expansion plans.

Adjustments to 2025 Expectations

In response to the FMD situation, FirstFarms revised its financial outlook for the year. The previously projected EBITDA was adjusted downward by 45 million DKK to a range of 70-110 million DKK, with an EBIT forecast between 0-40 million DKK. It's important to note that these figures do not yet incorporate any potential assistance from regional or national schemes regarding FMD, as such support is still under discussion.

Co-CEO Søren Bredvig expressed cautious optimism about the other facets of the business. “We anticipate a satisfactory year in our pig and crop production. Even though pig prices were hit earlier this quarter, they are expected to stabilize at reasonable levels going forward,” he remarked. Both pigs and crops are demonstrating resilience, and prices appear likely to remain stable.

Looking Ahead for FirstFarms A/S

Despite the setbacks experienced in the first quarter, FirstFarms is committed to navigating through these difficulties. The proactive management is focusing on the immediate challenges while seeking to leverage favorable developments in crop sales and pig pricing as the year unfolds. Overall, the company is keen to maintain its foundation of sustainable farming practices while working diligently to address current adversities.

As FirstFarms A/S moves through 2025, it aims to adapt effectively and rebuild its operations while maintaining commitments to quality and sustainability, thus continuing to support its investors and communities positively.

For further insights and updates, potential investors or interested parties can connect via the website for the latest information or contact the company chairman directly at the provided phone number.

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the main challenges faced by FirstFarms in Q1?

FirstFarms encountered unexpected low pig prices and an outbreak of foot and mouth disease affecting operations and financial performance.

How did the foot and mouth disease outbreak affect FirstFarms?

The outbreak led to the culling of over 3,500 animals, impacting their milk production and causing a temporary halt in construction projects.

What are the adjusted expectations for FirstFarms in 2025?

FirstFarms has revised EBITDA expectations downward to between 70-110 million DKK and EBIT expectations to a range of 0-40 million DKK due to the challenges posed by FMD.

What positive aspects did FirstFarms report in Q1?

Despite challenges, they noted good milk prices and an increase in crop sales compared to the previous year.

How is FirstFarms planning to recover from the Q1 challenges?

The company aims to stabilize pig prices and capitalize on strong crop sales while working through the operational effects of the FMD outbreak.

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