PACRA Maintains Entity Ratings of Reliance Weaving Mills Limited

The ratings reflect sound business profile of Reliance Weaving Mills Limited ("Reliance Weaving" or "the Company") emanating from growth in revenues and better margins. Over the years, the Company has undertaken continuous BMR translating into operational efficiencies and higher production volumes. The Company has sustained its overall margins despite the higher cotton price and rising interest rates. However, significant rupee devaluation has provided a requisite breather to the Company in the shape of higher exports and better pricing. The Company has a sizeable strategic investment in the energy sector in a group company. However, it is still evolving and yet to generate any profits. The company has a relatively squeezed financial capacity when considering leverage. However, the overall borrowing has reduced in 1QFY20 and the assigned ratings incorporate strong sponsors support and the explicit guarantee provided by majority sponsors on all debt related obligations of the Company.
The ratings are dependent on the management's ability to prudently mange the liquidity and debt profile of the Company, particularly working capital, while sustaining its business margins. Going forward, support from sponsors would remain critical.

About the Entity
Reliance Weaving Mills Ltd. (Reliance Weaving), a listed concern, commenced operations in 1990. The Company is engaged in the manufacturing and marketing of yarn and greige fabric. Reliance Weaving operates with five units, constituting two spinning and three weaving units, having capacities of 61,920 spindles and 392 looms, respectively. The Company caters its power needs via in-house production (12.5 MW), as well as MEPCO and LESCO connections. Fatima Group, a leading corporate group in Pakistan, owns majority stake (79%) in Reliance Weaving. The Group has diversified interests in fertilizer, sugar, textile, energy, transmission, packaging, and foreign trade.

The board comprises seven members. Five directors are representatives of sponsoring group – including two executive directors - while the remaining two are independent directors. Mr. Fawad Ahmed Mukhtar is the Chairman of the BoD. The board members have diversified experience, and relatively long association with the Company. Mr. Faisal Ahmed (Executive Director), a textile industry veteran, primarily manages the Company’s affairs. He is supported by a team of seasoned professionals.