Rating Release
Agusto & Co. hereby assigns an “A” rating to Vitafoam Nigeria Plc with a stable outlook
The rating expires on 31 March 2026.
Agusto & Co. hereby assigns an “A” rating to Vitafoam Nigeria Plc (“Vitafoam Nigeria,” “Vitafoam,” or “the Company”), reflecting its market leadership position in the Nigerian foam industry, adequate cash flows and satisfactory profitability despite the challenging business environment. The rating is supported by the Company’s diversified product portfolio, cost-plus pricing strategy, robust distribution network and strong brand equity, all of which contributed to its operational resilience. In assigning the rating, we also considered the positive impact of Vitafoam’s hedging strategy, including advance raw materials procurement and the use of cash-backed letters of credit (LC), which has helped moderate supply chain and foreign exchange risks associated with imported raw materials. However, the rating is constrained by the Company’s sustained investments in inventory and prepayments to suppliers, which continue to weigh on working capital management. We also note the vulnerability of Vitafoam’s future earnings to lingering macroeconomic headwinds, including currency depreciation, escalating global trade tensions, high inflation and rising interest rates, which have driven up financing and operating costs while weakening consumer purchasing power.
Vitafoam Nigeria Plc is a leading manufacturer of polyurethane foam products in Nigeria. Incorporated in August 1962, Vitafoam specialises in the production of a wide range of flexible, reconstituted and rigid foam products, including mattresses, pillows, back supports and flexible mats, catering to various consumer needs. The Company operates four manufacturing facilities in Lagos, Kano, Plateau and Abia states, with a combined installed capacity of 25.5 million kilograms (kg).
The opinions expressed in this rating release do not represent investment or other advice and should therefore not be construed as such.
