Associate Professor Dr. Chalio Witoorakorn, Deputy CEO of Eastern Polymer Group Public Company Limited (EPG), a leading global manufacturer and distributor of polymer and plastic products, announced that in the first quarter of FY 67/68 (April – June 67), the company achieved sales of 3.577 billion baht, a new high, increasing from 2.986 billion baht in the same period last year, representing a growth of 20%. The gross margin stood at 33%, with a net profit of 256 million baht, down 17% due to the company setting aside a credit loss provision of 111 million baht. The company is currently addressing these issues and closely monitoring operations. For FY 67/68 (April 67 – March 68), the company is confident that sales will grow by 8 - 10% and maintain a gross margin of 30 - 33%, in line with its targets based on the operations of three business groups as follows:

The thermal insulation/cooling business under the Aeroflex brand aims for sales growth of 6 - 8%, driven by growth in both domestic and international markets. In the United States, there is an increasing demand for premium-grade thermal/cooling insulation and products for the Ultra Low Temperature Insulation and Air Ducting system industries, particularly among project customers in the U.S. such as the Semiconductor, Data Center, and Electric Vehicle manufacturing sectors. The Japanese market and domestic market continue to grow well, with Aeroflex benefiting from the relocation of production bases to the EEC.

The automotive parts and accessories business under the Aeroklas brand targets sales growth of 10 - 12%. Despite a slowdown in the overall automotive industry this year due to reduced production, Aeroklas remains committed to continuous growth through expertise in manufacturing polymer and plastic automotive parts that are lightweight and durable, capable of completely replacing metal materials, thereby reducing the weight of pickup trucks, energy consumption, and carbon dioxide emissions. This fiscal year, Aeroklas will recognize full-year revenue from new orders from Japanese automotive manufacturers and is in the process of improving production processes to increase the speed of new product manufacturing for higher efficiency. Aeroklas is also dedicated to developing innovative products suitable for both combustion engine and EV applications.

For the Australian business under Aeroklas Asia Pacific Group (AAPG), sales are increasing by maximizing existing resources while reducing operational costs.

The plastic packaging business under the EPP brand aims for sales growth of 3 - 5%. Although the demand for plastic packaging in the domestic market has decreased, EPP will leverage its strengths in technology and innovation in production and various standards such as TIS, GMP, HACCP, BRC, and FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) to expand its customer base, particularly in the industrial sector.

For joint ventures in the thermal insulation/cooling business and automotive parts and accessories business in Thailand, India, and China, growth is strong in line with industry trends. In South Africa, the company and other investors have sent consultants and experts to closely monitor and resolve issues while enhancing operational efficiency, with gradual improvements being observed.

Additionally, Aeroklas Co., Ltd. is preparing to establish a new subsidiary in South Africa to expand the production of automotive parts and accessories for a major global automotive manufacturer, a new customer in South Africa, with a registered capital of 150 million rand (approximately 290 million baht). Aeroklas Co., Ltd. will hold 100% of the registered capital of this new subsidiary, with plans to commence establishment within October 2024 and begin commercial operations by 2026, Dr. Chalio stated.