Sirca Paints Management Discussions


Indian Economy

With a remarkable growth rate of 8.7% in FY22, the Indian economy is poised for sustained expansion in FY23, projecting a real growth rate of 7%. This substantial growth can be a ributed to the significant contributions of private consumption and capital formation, leading to increased employment opportunities and a decline in the urban unemployment rate. The success of Indias second-largest vaccination drive, which has administered over 2 billion doses, has played a crucial role in boosting consumer confidence and fostering a continuous recovery in consumption.

The positive outlook for Indias growth is supported by various favourable factors. The revival of private consumption has stimulated production activities, and increased capital expenditure (CAPEX) has further strengthened the economic prospects. With widespread vaccination coverage, individuals have regained confidence to engage in contact-based services such as restaurants, hotels, shopping malls, and cinemas. Additionally, the return of migrant workers to urban areas has significantly reduced housing market inventory, revitalising the construction sector.

The strengthening of corporate balance sheets and well-capitalised public sector banks will facilitate credit supply and support credit growth for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). Notably, credit growth to the MSME sector has been remarkably high, averaging over 30.6% from January to November 2022, supported by the extended Emergency Credit Linked Guarantee Scheme (ECLGS) introduced by the Union government. The recovery of MSMEs is evident from their contribution to the Goods and Services Tax (GST), while the ECLGS has alleviated their debt servicing concerns. Furthermore, the central governments increased

Capital Expenditure (CAPEX) of 63.4% in the first eight months of FY23 has been a significant driver of Indias economic growth, a racting private CAPEX since the first quarter of 2022.

Looking ahead, India is expected to witness GDP growth ranging from 6.0% to 6.8% in FY24. This anticipated growth will be supported by robust credit disbursal and a favourable capital investment cycle as the corporate and banking sectors strengthen their balance sheets. Additionally, the expansion of public digital platforms and the implementation of transformative measures such as PM GatiShakti, the National Logistics Policy, and Production-Linked Incentive schemes will enhance manufacturing output and provide further support to economic growth.

Source: Ministry of Finance, Government of India

Paints and Coating Industry Overview

As we step into FY23, the paint and coating industry in India continues to shine, with a market value estimated to be around H62,000 crore as per Indian Paint Association (IPA). The industry has been growing at a rapid pace, making it one of the fastest-growing major paint markets globally, with double-digit growth for over two decades. The organised sector is leading the way in this industry, holding a significant 75% market share, while the remaining 25% is shared by the unorganised sector.

The Indian paint industry is categorised into two segments - decorative paints and coatings, and industrial paints and coatings. Decorative paints and coatings continue to dominate the market, accounting for 74% of market value and 85% of market volumes, while the industrial segment takes up the remaining share. The decorative paint category has witnessed tremendous growth, with consumers shi_ing their preference from traditional whitewash to premium quality emulsion and enamel paints. This segment includes a wide range of products such as interior and exterior paints, design range, premier, enamel, wood finishing, and waterproofing.

In the industrial paints and coatings segment, products such as automotive paints, performance coating liquids, powder coating, marine coating, and refinishes are included.

Outlook, Trends, and Scenario

The paints and coatings industry has faced various challenges in the past years, including the increased input costs and inflation, and supply chain disruptions, which have hampered overall sentiments. Geopolitical tensions, Russia-Ukraine war, resurgence of COVID-19 sporadically in certain Chinese cities and other parts of the world, etc., have further exacerbated supply chain issues. However, the industry is expected to regain momentum in the coming year due to low probability of severe waves of COVID-19, resilient GDP growth in India and increased economic activity including rising income levels, industrial production, infrastructure and construction spending. So, the paints and coatings industry is expected to thrive in the upcoming years. Strong consumer demand, increased disposable income, and growing nuclear families are driving the trend for luxury home improvement solutions. Also, the rising popularity of working from home has encouraged people to invest more in home renovations and decor, highlighting the importance of aesthetics in furnishings. Moreover, the Indian governments housing for all and infrastructure spending initiatives are fuelling the countrys housing demand, which is expected to further boost the growth of the sector.

HISTORICALLY, THE PAINTS AND COATINGS INDUSTRY HAS GROWN 1.5 2X FASTER THAN THE GDP; THUS, WITH INDIAS GDP PREDICTED TO GROW AT A GOOD RATE IN THE FUTURE, THE PAINT SECTOR IS POISED FOR SUCCESS.

Market trend in Wood Coating and Finishes

In the world of wood coatings and finishes, India has emerged as a powerhouse in Asia besides China and Japan. Catering to a broad range of needs, from residential to commercial to hospitality, the coatings are an essential component of wooden furnishings, providing durability, adhesion, anti-corrosion properties, and aesthetic value. However, the industry has undergone a significant shiin recent years with a focus on environmentally-friendly alternatives. New regulations, such as Eco-product Certificate Schemes (ECS) in the European Union, have spurred a demand for non-toxic options that are safe for the environment and consumers alike. Unfortunately, many Indian markets are still saturated with toxic solvent-based coatings, which emit harmful VOCs into the environment, endangering both human health and the ecosystem, due to price-sensitivity. But over a period of time, a transition from harmful coatings like Nitrocellulose and Melamine to high-quality Polyurethane coatings is happening because:

WITH AN INCREASING DEMAND FOR LUXURY HOME IMPROVEMENT SOLUTIONS, THE PAINT AND COATING INDUSTRY IS EXPECTED TO CONTINUE ITS GROWTH TRAJECTORY AND REACH H1 LAKH CRORE MARKET IN THE NEXT FIVE YEARS, AS PER IPA.

Water-borne coatings, which are eco-friendly and safe for consumers as compared to solvent-based ones, have therefore grown in popularity, accounting for a significant market share in developed markets. Leading the way in this transition is Sirca S.p.A. (Italy), which already produces a full range of water-based polyurethane coatings. Looking forward, higher disposable incomes and an increased focus on quality and value in the wood coatings market will be the primary growth drivers in the industry. As the industry continues to evolve, it is essential to embrace eco-friendly alternatives to ensure a sustainable and prosperous future.

Company Overview

Sirca Paints India Limited (‘Sirca) stands tall as a beacon of excellence in the Indian wood coatings industry, with a wealth of experience spanning over two decades. The Company is renowned for manufacturing and selling premium wood coatings and decorative paints, under its exclusively licensed brands such as Sirca, Unico, Oikos, and DuranteVivan. Furthermore, the Company has exciting plans to expand its horizons in terms of both product portfolio and geography expansion.

Sirca has been making remarkable strides in the Indian market, particularly in North India, where it has established a dominant presence as a market leader in premium wood coatings. The Company is leaving no stone unturned to expand its reach in other regions of the country. With this goal in mind, Sirca is strengthening infrastructure in the East, West, and South Indian markets, to strengthen its position and cater to the growing demand for its products. The Company currently operates two state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities, one for mass-market wood coatings products in Sonipat, Haryana, and another for wall paints and pu y in the NCR region. Sircas unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and excellence has helped it carve a niche for itself in the Indian paint industry, and with its upcoming expansion plans, the Company is poised for an even brighter future.

Customer Segment

Sirca has primarily divided the market into two major customer segments:

Retail

The retail customer segment, which constitutes almost 70% of the revenue stream, is served by Sircas strong and expanding distribution network of more than 1,823 dealers & distributors, supported by 12 branches & depots as well as 27 Sirca Studios across key markets. Sirca Studios offer an enhanced consumer experience giving customers and influencers a platform to be er understand its products. The Company is expanding its dealer network in Southern, Western, and Central India, and strengthening distribution infrastructure to be er

serve these markets. To enhance brand recall, Sirca is increasing its advertising, marketing, and sales promotion spending, particularly in newly tapped territories, where it has developed a 360? marketing strategy. The Company has launched commercials on television in Hindi and other regional languages, as well as advertisements in various media. Additionally, Sirca is enhancing its outdoor presence by pu ing up shop boards at its dealer network, with over ~1,290 already installed.

OEMs

Sirca has been working with furniture and fixture manufacturers since its inception, providing premium wood coating solutions that have been widely adopted by OEMs. The OEM segment, which accounts for nearly 30% of the total revenue, has around 673 well-diversified clients, including Godrej & Boyce, Jindal Stainless, Indoline, Space Wood, Pyramid, MAS Furniture, Alsorg, and Soundarya Decorators, among others. Sirca has ensured utmost satisfaction and strong customer relationships by providing strong technical and a_er-sales support to OEMs, which has made it the primary, and offen the only,

choice for furniture manufacturers when it comes to wood coatings. The growing prominence of ready- made, modular furniture over on-site furniture will increase this segments performance in the long run. This trend is fuelled by factors such as convenience, faster turnaround times, and a growing range of options. As a result of its ongoing innovation, new product introductions such as NC and Melamine coatings through the Unico brand, and excellent technical assistance, Sirca has become an essential vendor to OEMs and is well-positioned to take advantage of potential prospects in this area.

FY23 Performance Review

As we look back at FY23, Sirca Paints India Limited truly made waves, with our Revenue from Operations soaring to an all-time high of H267.75 Crore, reflecting a remarkable growth of 33.9% from the previous year. This phenomenal achievement was driven by a significant boost in volumes of our core Italian PU portfolio, as well as the steady rise of emerging product categories such as wall paints and the Unico range of products.

Our profitability also rose, with our EBITDA margins surging to 23.05% in FY23 from 18.90% in FY22, marking a 415 bps increase. We are proud to share that our PAT grew an astounding 66.3% YoY basis, reaching H46.11 Crore.

SIRCA ACHIEVED AN

UNPRECEDENTED MILESTONE WITH ITS REVENUE SOARING TO AN ALL TIME HIGH OF H265.53 CRORE.

Financial Ratios

Ratios

FY23 FY22 % Change Remarks

Total Debt to Equity (times)

0.00 0.00 NA NA, as the Company is debt free.

Current Ratio (times)

5.42 5.52 (2%) NA

Interest Coverage Ratio (times)

- - NA NA, as the Company is debt free with miniscule Finance Costs.

Debtors Turnover (times)

5.52 4.51 22% NA

Inventory Turnover (times)

3.15 2.97 6% NA

Operating Profit Margin (%)

23.05% 18.90% 22% NA

Net Profit Margin (%)

17.22% 13.86% 25% On account of higher operating margins and operating leverage through higher sales.

Outlook

Sirca Paints India Limited is set to conquer new heights in the Indian paint and coatings market and other home improvement categories by expanding its reach as well as repertoire. The Company plans to expand by broadening its sales channels, introducing new product lines, strengthening its physical infrastructure, and shi_ing manufacturing of Italian products in India. The footprint of Sirca would also further expand in sub-continent markets including Nepal, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. This strategy, combined with the significant opportunity unfolding in the Indian market, positions Sirca to create a market for its products and capitalise on the enormous opportunity that lies ahead.

Internal Control System and Risk Management

Sirca has implemented an effective internal control system designed to protect against unauthorised use or disposition of assets, ensure accurate reporting, and conduct business operations according to prescribed policies and procedures. The Audit Commi ee and management have reviewed the adequacy of the internal control systems and taken suitable steps to improve them. The Company recognises the importance of sound risk management and continues to strengthen its processes to identify, assess, and mitigate potential risks.

Human Resource

Sirca Paints India Limiteds HR domain is commi ed to delivering top-notch services to its stakeholders, empowering them with cu ing-edge business tools, frameworks, and analysis for effective management of the workforce. Skilful management of the workforce is key to achieving transformational goals, enabling managers to tackle daily tasks, from recruitment to development, and furnishing senior management with insights that support strategy and decision-making. To this end, Sirca is continually investing in technology and modern infrastructure, expanding its state-of-the-art so_ware for workforce analysis and planning, a strategic innovation that also supports the Companys innovation and digital agenda. Managers are equipped with people analytics and a workforce planning solution. The strategic planning process leverages workforce tools to create a holistically automated, cost-focussed workforce plan, fully integrated with the business-wide strategic planning process. Moreover, to support employee performance, Sirca India has already introduced the Sirca Parivar App, empowering them to track their performance.

Sirca Paints India Limited is unwavering in its commitment to employee well-being, referring to its workforce as an ‘ASSET of the organisation. The company follows policies and procedures that promote be er productivity and a positive work environment, ensuring that employees are valued and their contributions are recognised.

Cautionary Statement

The Management Discussion and Analysis and the rest of the annual report may contain forward-looking statements describing the Companys objectives, projections, estimates, and expectations. These statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially. Factors that could impact the Companys operations include economic and political conditions in India and other countries, interest rate volatility, changes in government regulations and policies, tax laws, statutes, and other incidental factors. The Company does not undertake to update these statements.