DX: volumes are continuing to rise
DX, a provider of delivery solutions, including parcel freight, secure, courier and logistics services, has provided a trading update for the 52 weeks ended 27 June 2020.
As an essential service provider, DX continued to maintain operations at all of its depots and service centres after the UK Government’s COVID-19 ‘lockdown’ measures came into effect, with the health and safety of all employees and customers remaining paramount.
Since the Company’s last update on 28 May 2020, trading in both the Freight and Express divisions has continued to improve, and Group revenue for June was only 3% below previous forecast levels (set prior to the COVID-19 pandemic). This improved performance across both divisions mainly reflects recovery in volumes from existing customers but also some new business wins.
As a result, the Board expects that revenue and adjusted EBITDA for the full year (both on an IAS17 and IFRS16 basis) will be in line with current market forecasts and that the Company will report an adjusted pre-tax profit on an IAS17 basis. This will be DX’s first full year adjusted pre-tax profit since the current management team initiated its turnaround plan for the business in spring 2018. The net cash position of £12.3 million at the year-end (2019: net debt of £1.3 million), was better than market expectations, although it has benefited from payment deferrals of £11.9 million in total, including VAT and other agreed payment holidays.
Volumes are continuing to rise, supported by strong levels of customer service. Both divisions are experiencing a business mix slightly more weighted to B2C than previously anticipated. The Company’s £10.0 million capital investment programme, to be completed over the course of FY20 and FY21, is progressing as planned.
Full year results are expected to be announced in late September.
Ronald Series, Chairman of DX, commented: “Having launched our turnaround plan two and a half years ago, we are delighted to report the Company’s expected return to adjusted pre-tax profit. It demonstrates the hard work, expertise and resilience of our people. We have a clear vision for ongoing growth and remain wholly focused on the next stage of the Company’s development.”
