Zoono share price sinks lower despite COVID-19 sales surge

The Zoono Group Ltd (ASX:ZNO) share price is sinking lower on Thursday despite reporting a surge in sales because of COVID-19…

| More on:
digital stock graph against backdrop of world map and covid bugs

Image source: Getty Images

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More

The Zoono Group Ltd (ASX: ZNO) share price has been a poor performer this morning following the release of its fourth quarter.

At the time of writing the biotech company's shares are down 6% to $2.78.

How did Zoono perform in the fourth quarter?

Zoono's strong form continued in the fourth quarter thanks to the increasing demand for its antimicrobial solutions during the pandemic.

According to the release, unaudited fourth quarter revenue came in at NZ$20.9 million. This compares to negligible sales in the prior corresponding period and sales of NZ$15.7 million in the third quarter of FY 2020.

During the quarter the company generated positive operating cash flow of NZ$5.3 million, lifting its cash at the bank to NZ$10.3 million.

What were the drivers of its growth?

This impressive quarter was driven partly by strong sales in both the B2B and B2C markets in the ANZ region.

During the period, Zoono signed agreements with Johns Lyng Group Ltd (ASX: JLG) and Qantas Airways Limited (ASX: QAN). The latter has seen Zoono individual wipes become part of the Qantas "Fly Well" programme.

Management also notes significant sales into the childcare and educations sectors and opportunities in aged care and public transport.

Also contributing to its growth was its UK & Europe segment. It generated quarterly revenue of NZ$7.8 million in these markets thanks to channel partners working across facilities management, transport, and healthcare sectors.

The company's Asia & China segment is also making progress. It recently signed a direct deal with ecommerce giant Alibaba and will open an online store shortly. This will be followed by a TMall flagship store later this year.

Finally, the company has bought out its U.S. distributor and is now selling directly in the country. Its primary goal over the coming years is to grow its North American business. It hopes to replicate the success of its UK business in the lucrative market.

Should you invest?

I've been very impressed with Zoono's transformation over the last 12 months. It has gone from a business fighting for survival to one with explosive sales growth.

However, at this point I believe it is unclear whether these sales will be sustained once the pandemic passes.

In light of this, I think there are too many uncertainties with Zoono for an investment. Especially given its lofty ~$500 million market capitalisation.

Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

More on Share Market News

Smiling man sits in front of a graph on computer while using his mobile phone.
Broker Notes

Top brokers name 3 ASX shares to buy next week

Brokers gave buy ratings to these ASX shares last week. Why are they bullish?

Read more »

A smiling man at a shop counter takes payment from a customer, with racks of plants in the background.
Dividend Investing

Forget BHP shares! Buy these ASX dividend shares instead for passive income

I’d rather dig into these shares than BHP. Here’s why.

Read more »

Smiling man sits in front of a graph on computer while using his mobile phone.
Share Market News

ASX 200 utilities shares led the market last week

Utilities and energy outperformed while the benchmark index weakened a little last week.

Read more »

White declining arrow on a blue graph with an animated man representing a falling share price.
Materials Shares

Experts call time on these rip-snorting ASX 200 mining shares

These 2 ASX 200 mining stocks have risen by 160% and 230%, respectively, over the past 12 months.

Read more »

man and woman calculating financial assests
Share Market News

DroneShield hits $200m milestone as 9.2m options vest and 2025 expense revealed

DroneShield reached a $200m milestone, vesting 9.2m employee options and booking a $23.5m non-cash expense in 2025.

Read more »

growth in housing asx shares represented by little wooden houses next to rising red arrow
Share Market News

Shares vs. property: Which delivered the best capital growth in 2025?

We compare the capital growth of ASX 200 shares to Australia's metro and regional property markets.

Read more »

A man cheers after winning computer game while woman sitting next to him looks upset.
Share Gainers

Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today

It was a happy end to the trading week today.

Read more »

Three business people stand on platforms in the desert and look out through telescopes.
Best Shares

1 ASX dividend share set to excel long term, even while down 13%

Good quality shares don't often sell off at this margin.

Read more »