AQUILA ends 2024 with revenues of nearly RON 3 billion, up by 17%
AQUILA (symbol AQ), one of the largest players in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) distribution sector from Romania and the region, with 30 years of experience in this industry, recorded in 2024 record revenues of nearly RON 3 billion, an increase of 17% compared to the previous year. This performance was primarily driven by the expansion of the distribution segment and by the integration of the three companies acquired in 2024 – Romtec-Europa SRL, Parmafood Group Distribution SRL, and Parmafood Trading SRL, which generated approximately 6% of the revenues.
Cătălin Vasile, CEO AQUILA:
"Our growth strategy, based on strengthening the distribution segment, diversifying our portfolio, and developing our own brands, has proven its effectiveness. Regarding the M&A component, we completed two transactions in 2024, and the synergies are evident, including an increase of 17% in sales and of 14% in EBITDA. Additionally, we have advanced discussions for the acquisition of KITAX Ktf, for which we received shareholders' approval in January 2025. Through this acquisition we will become an active player in the Hungarian market, complementing AQUILA’s strategy of integrating new business lines with immediate growth potential and attractive profit margins. The strategic actions undertaken position us to achieve our goal of doubling EBITDA by 2026, using 2021 as a benchmark."
In the revenue structure for 2024, the distribution and logistics business segments recorded a growth of 18% and respectively of 10%, while the transport business segment saw a slight decline of 3%. Revenues from own brands, from the food products category (Gradena, LaMasă, and Yachtis), and the non-food products category (JetXpert, AquaXpert, and ExpertWipes), increased by 40% in 2024, reaching approximately RON 128 million.
The company acquired in 2021, Trigor AVD, one of the leading players in the consumer goods distribution market in Moldova, also achieved an increase in revenues of 17%.
The gross profit margin remained at 20%. EBITDA increased by 14%, reaching RON 176 million, while the net profit recorded was RON 90 million, a decrease of 7%. The minimum profit tax of 1% of revenues, which came into effect in 2024, along with higher employee costs, were factors that impacted the net result.
In 2024, AQUILA made investments of RON 65 million for the purchase of transportation vehicles, warehouse equipment, and automation.
More details about AQUILA's activities and achievements in 2024 can be found in the report.