Uniwax Côte d’Ivoire reported CFA1.001 billion in operating profit for the first nine months of 2026, reversing a CFA349.8 million loss in the same period last year. The BRVM-listed wax-print manufacturer has returned to a positive operating result even as sales remained virtually flat, according to its activity report for the period ended 30 September, released on 28 October.
Revenue edged up 0.04% to CFA22.483 billion from CFA22.474 billion a year earlier. The near-flat performance came after the Woodin brand left the company’s operating scope following the sale and transfer of shareholdings. Uniwax put the sales impact of that change at CFA508.6 million, while revenue generated by its own brand increased 2.4%.
Management attributes the recovery to resilient demand, the retention of customers gained in 2025 and higher production volumes. Tighter cost control and a more favourable product mix also helped the manufacturer absorb its industrial costs more effectively.
Net profit approaches CFA1 billion
The operating improvement carried through to profit from ordinary activities, which reached CFA973.7 million after a CFA370.5 million loss a year earlier. Net profit stood at CFA990.8 million, compared with a restated loss of CFA546.6 million in 2025. For that comparison, Uniwax removed an exceptional disposal gain recorded in the previous year.
The financial result nevertheless remained negative at CFA27.7 million, compared with a CFA20.8 million deficit a year earlier. The company cited less favourable banking relationships and terms, even as stronger manufacturing performance supported its return to profitability.