Unifreight posts strong half-year results

 

Unifreight Africa Limited has reported strong financial and operational results for the first half of 2025, driven by fleet expansion, growth in its fourth-party logistics (4PL) division, and rising cross-border trade volumes.

For the six months ended 30 June 2025, group revenue reached ZWG 545.5 million, a sharp increase from ZWG 164.5 million in the prior year. Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) rose to ZWG 100.9 million, while profit before tax improved to ZWG 51.6 million, up from ZWG 20.3 million in 2024. Profit for the period more than doubled to ZWG 202.4 million, reflecting both revenue growth and tighter cost controls.

The logistics company credited its improved performance to continued cross-border fleet expansion, particularly along the Beira corridor, and the success of its 4PL business, which subcontracts excess volumes to trusted partners. The division has quickly scaled operations, enabling Unifreight to meet client demand more efficiently.

Operationally, the company was recently recognised by the Financial Times as one of Africa’s fastest-growing firms, a development it says underscores its competitive positioning and strategy execution.

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Looking ahead, Unifreight said preparations are underway for the 2026 tobacco season, which is expected to drive higher demand for freight capacity. The group plans to grow its fleet from the fourth quarter of 2025 into early 2026 to meet this demand.

Despite the positive performance, challenges remain. Inflationary pressures, liquidity constraints, and foreign currency uncertainties continue to weigh on the operating environment. The group also highlighted ongoing labour disputes with former employees, with claims amounting to ZWG 13.7 million still under litigation.

The balance sheet showed total assets of ZWG 1.35 billion as at June 2025, down from ZWG 1.5 billion in December 2024, with cash and cash equivalents reducing to ZWG 14.5 million from ZWG 42.2 million. Borrowings stood at ZWG 144.8 million, with interest rates on USD facilities ranging between 12.15% and 13%.

Unifreight did not declare a dividend for the half-year period. The company’s interim financials were reviewed by Grant Thornton Chartered Accountants, who issued a qualified conclusion citing non-compliance with IAS 21 on foreign exchange reporting.

Board chairperson Peter Annesley praised management and staff for navigating a difficult trading climate, saying the group remains focused on fleet growth, regional

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