Post-merger interims show strong revenue and EBITDA growth for Vectura

British pharmaceutical firm Vectura Group has released solid interim results showing a "step-change" in financial performance after the completion of its merger with Skyepharma

The FTSE 250 company reported "substantial" revenue growth from several recently launched products, resulting in 31% revenue growth and 63% EBITDA growth.

The £18.6m in losses before tax was markedly higher than the £2.7m in the comparative period, but this was primarily due to the amortization of £33m. EPS rose to 3.7p from 1.2p in 2015, a 208% increase.

Vectura reported strong cash generation and period end cash of £92m after an outflow of £36.9m due to the Skyepharma merger. 

Broker N+1 Singer said today's interims from were solid, with profitability ahead of expectations and strong pipeline development:

"The expected newsflow from Vectura over the coming months is significant: Utibron® vs. Anoro® Phase III data is due later this year, to be followed by the expected US launch of Utibron® and FDA approval of VR315/Generic Advair® by 10th May 2017. With two major near-term US launches ahead, we retain our Buy recommendation."

CEO James Ward-Lilley said the results represented a step-change following the merger with Skyepharma during the period. The group saw sustained momentum in recurring revenues from its latest products:

"Vectura now owns or is partnered with seven assets that are currently in Phase III development or under regulatory review and we have made substantial pipeline progress with our innovative and generic assets at both late and earlier stages.

 

We are making excellent progress with the merger integration process including completing the portfolio review, adding new programmes and implementing the new organisation structure. We remain on course to at least deliver the identified synergy savings and look forward to strong financial performance and continued progress across our pipeline in the remainder of the year and beyond."