KT&G Strengthens Global Competitiveness Aiming for Top Market Position
KT&G Corporation, a prominent player in the tobacco industry based in South Korea, has recently announced its impressive annual results for 2024, showcasing a robust performance and strategic initiatives aimed at reinforcing its position in the global market. With a reported revenue of 5.91 trillion KRW, marking a 0.8% increase from the previous year, and an operational profit of 1.185 trillion KRW, which grew by 1.5%, KT&G has set a solid benchmark in its financial performance.
The growth trajectory of KT&G is supported primarily by its outstanding performance in the global cigarette segment. The company achieved a remarkable increase in worldwide sales volume, which rose by 10.3% compared to last year, significantly benefiting from its flagship brand, ESSE. This brand has shown resilience and allure in various markets, contributing substantially to the overall sales uplift.
Particularly noteworthy is KT&G's expansion into new territories, including Romania, Spain, Portugal, and Andorra, where the sales volume surged by 28% year-on-year. This expansion strategy has not only increased their market footprint but has also dramatically amplified their operational profit by an incredible 84.2%. Such figures illustrate KT&G's commitment to qualitative growth centered around profitability and market demand.
Looking ahead to 2025, KT&G is poised to continue this momentum. The company has established offices in ten locations around the world, including Europe, Indonesia, Taiwan, Russia, and Kazakhstan, thereby enhancing its operational capabilities and market accessibility. Currently employing 5,463 individuals across 148 countries, KT&G is determined to bolster its presence in Europe further and expedite its ascent into the elite tier of global companies.
Positive prospects have also been noted in the financial markets, with HSBC forecasting sustained growth in overseas cigarette sales due to KT&G's successful market expansions. CLSA, a leading global investment group based in Hong Kong, corroborates this view by categorizing KT&G as 'Outperform,' predicting that the company's active efforts to widen distribution channels and tap into new markets will propel its growth.
In the domestic market, KT&G is recognized as the leading force in combustible cigarettes, Next Generation Products, and health-oriented foods. It has consistently earned an AA MSCI ESG rating for four consecutive years, earning a reputation as an ESG leader in its sector. Moreover, KT&G has been included in the prestigious Dow Jones Sustainability Indices, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable practices and financial viability.
The recognition from global rating agencies, reflected in SP's and Moody's assessments of 'A- (Stable)' and 'A3 (Stable)' respectively, underscores KT&G's financial stability and reliability as a corporate entity.
KT&G's relentless pursuit of market excellence and strategic innovation places it on a promising path towards further success in the global arena. With strong brand performance and strategic operational enhancements, KT&G is set to navigate the complexities of the global marketplace, positioning itself at the forefront of the industry.