Australian dairy firm Warrnambool Cheese and Butter Factory said today (18 January) that its half-year profits were likely to come in at around four times the level generated in the company’s previous fiscal year.

WCB said it estimated that net profit after tax for the six months for the end to December at A$35-37m (US$34.9m-36.9m) – up sharply from A$8.9m last year.

Last February, WCB reported its then half-year profit had risen to A$8.9m from A$1.4m a year earlier – a year when its earnings slumped due to falling dairy prices.

The forecast for the current financial year comes from WCB’s internal management accounts and the company plans to formally report its first-half results by the end of February.

However, WCB said “strengthening international dairy commodity prices” and “a favourable shift in the volume mix of the business to reflect an overall higher margin contribution” had boosted its bottom line.

Nevertheless, WCB warned that its full-year results normally fell below those posted after the first six months of the financial year. The co-op said it may be subject to increases in milk prices in the second half, as well as seasonal milk flow that results in the “less effective utilisation of plant”.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

Late last year, fellow Australian dairy firm Bega Cheese bought a 15% stake in WCB, which sought the investment from its rival to strengthen its balance sheet and raise funds for expansion.