Key points
- Group underlying EBITDA declined 9.2% due to challenging macroeconomic conditions
- Rural division delivered standout performance with 13.3% EBITDA growth
- Announced bolt-on acquisition of GJ Freight to expand operations into South-West WA
Full summary
Lindsay Australia Limited (ASX: LAU) has announced its financial results for the first half of the 2025 financial year. The company reported group revenues of $435.7 million, an increase of 4.3% on the prior corresponding period, driven by a strong performance in the Rural division and an additional month of trading from the WB Hunter business. However, group underlying EBITDA declined by 9.2% to $47.3 million, impacted by difficult trading conditions, including softening macroeconomic conditions, intensifying competition, weather disruptions, and increased servicing and operating costs. The Transport division saw revenue decline by 0.7%, with EBITDA decreasing by 7.1%, reflecting margin pressure and higher costs. In contrast, the Rural division delivered a strong performance, with sales rising 7.4% to $85.1 million and EBITDA increasing by 13.3% to $4.8 million, supported by effective cost control, sales growth, and inventory management. The Hunter division, which contributed a full six months of trade, saw sales of $50.8 million, but EBITDA decreased by 14.6% to $1.3 million due to challenging trading conditions in the Victorian market. Lindsay Australia declared an interim fully franked dividend of 2.3 cents per share, an increase of 9.5% on the prior corresponding period. The company also announced the acquisition of GJ Freight Pty Ltd, an integrated packaging and transport provider in South-West Western Australia, which is expected to complete on 31 March 2025, subject to customary conditions. The company continues to invest in its fleet, infrastructure, and network expansion, with $22.2 million invested during the period to support consistent and sustainable growth.
Outlook
Lindsay Australia remains focused on executing its enterprise strategy, with a focus on operational fundamentals. The company's strong balance sheet provides the financial flexibility needed to capture market share through both organic growth and strategic acquisitions, despite ongoing market challenges.