AQUILA reports a 19% increase in revenues in Q1 2025 and continues the regional consolidation through the acquisition of KITAX

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 revenues of nearly RON 740 million in the first quarter of 2025, marking a 19% increase compared to the first quarter of 2024. This performance was primarily driven by the growth in revenues from the distribution segment, which accounts for approximately 94% of the Group's turnover. Romtec and Parmafood companies, whose acquisition was completed in 2024, generated 8% of the Group's revenues. Their integration created significant synergies, which supported sales growth across all distribution channels, especially in the modern channel, where a 35% increase was recorded, and in the HoReCa channel, which recorded a 31% growth.

Cătălin Vasile, CEO AQUILA:

"Our strategy, focused on expanding our presence in the channels with high growth potential and attractive margins, and on the swift integration of recently acquired companies, is already proving its effectiveness. In the first quarter, AQUILA recorded a 16% increase in EBITDA, maintaining a solid operating margin despite the pressures from recent legislative changes. An important strategic step was the completion of the acquisition of KITAX, one of the leading distribution companies in its field, with nationwide coverage in Hungary. Through this transaction, we have strengthened our position in existing markets and accessed a new international market, opening new growth opportunities. We maintain our ambitious goal of doubling EBITDA by the end of the 2026 financial year, focusing on operational efficiency, digitalization, and sustainability. Operational excellence and regional consolidation will remain at the core of our actions in the period ahead."

In revenue structure, the distribution and logistics business segments recorded growth of 19% and, respectively, of 25%, while the transportation business segment saw a decline of 12%.

Revenues from own brands have seen a 35% increase compared to the first quarter of 2024, reaching over RON 30 million. Consequently, the own brands from the food products category (Gradena, LaMasă, and Yachtis) and non-food products category (JetXpert, AquaXpert, ExpertWipes) already account for a significant share of total revenue.

The gross margin from the sale of goods was 22.2%, up from 20.6% in Q1 2024, influenced by the product mix and the focus on the channels with better performance.

EBITDA recorded a 16% increase, reaching RON 46 million. The net profit for the first three months of 2025 is RON 19 million, slightly lower compared to the same period last year, due to the impact of the newly introduced turnover tax and the decrease in financial income.

For 2025, AQUILA has budgeted revenues of over RON 3.6 billion (+23%), and EBITDA is forecasted to exceed RON 211 million (+20%), with a margin of 6%. The approved investment budget for 2025 exceeds RON 150 million – the highest since the company’s listing – and is allocated to fleet upgrades, logistics equipment, and automation.

More details about AQUILA's activities and achievements in Q1 2025 can be found in the report.