Diversified listed concern Meikles Limited on Thursday said its net loss accelerated to $10,8 million in the six months to September from $2,8 million during the same period last year.
Operating costs were up from $202 million to $225 million. The group recorded a $4 million loss on discounting Treasury Bills as well as a $3,6 million fair value loss on disposal of available-for-sale financial assets.
During the six months, investment income fell 76 percent to $1,7 million.
Total group revenue increased by 15 percent to $ 225 million. Turnover from the group’s PicknPay and TM supermarkets increased by 17 percent to $196,7 million.
Tanganda, the tea business was adversely affected by a decrease in international tea prices. Average prices fell to $1,28/kg from $1,32/kg in the comparative period. Revenue from the agricultural unit was flat at $11,1 million.
The group said its hospitality unit recorded a seven percent decline in revenue to $8,2 million as a result of the 15 percent value-added tax (VAT) levied on foreign tourists for accommodation and tourism-related services.
Meikles operates two five-star hotels in Zimbabwe, the Meikles in Harare and its 50 percent-owned Victoria Falls Hotel. African Sun owns the other 50 percent.
Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) increased by $6,4m relative to the previous period.