NEWS RELEASE 30 May 2008
Epicore 2008 Third quarter results for the period ended 31 March 2008; Currency in US Dollars
Epicore BioNetworks Inc. has released the results of its third quarter of fiscal year 2008 operations. Epicore's sales continued to grow in fiscal 2008 with sales increasing over a record prior year third quarter. Revenues increased 7.5 per cent over prior year ($940,300 versus $874,900). Gross profit increased 0.1 per cent ($634,500 versus $633,800). Expenses at $400,500 were 1 per cent lower than prior year third quarter, however taxes were higher. The company recorded net income of $210,100 versus $219,600 in prior year third quarter. Net income per share for the current quarter was 0.9 cent, the same as last year and higher than second quarter, which was 0.3 cent. All financial amounts are reported in United States dollars, unless otherwise indicated.
Epicore sales revenue increased $65,400 over prior year third quarter. Quarterly sales reflected the company's commitment to aquaculture and its strong position in the world shrimp aquaculture markets. Aquaculture represented over 97 per cent of sales. Latin America was the largest sales region with the non-Ecuador hatchery sector substantially ahead of prior year. Ecuador remained the company's largest sales country despite lower sales in the farm sector due to intense competition and horrific flooding. Epicore's Epicin-in-feed farm program continued to offer Ecuadorian farmers the best performance for the money, but lower-unit-priced probiotics took market share. The comany's Ecuadorian hatchery sales benefited from new products, such as Epicore's low-cost Epilite liquid feeds and new Epicin-G2 probiotic. Sales grew in Central and the rest of South America aided by additional local marketing personnel.
Strong sales continued in Asia as major hatcheries employed Epicore products in their switch from Penaeus monodon to Penaeus vannamei. Epicore's experience and contacts in Latin America opened doors with important Asian groups. The region represents 80 per cent of world shrimp aquaculture potential and now contributes a significant percentage of Epicore sales. Recent Asian success shows that the company's years of effort and investments are starting to generate strong results.
Non-aquaculture sales benefited from the RootX municipal distribution deal signed last year.
Opportunities for developing new areas of potential continue to be actively progressed.
Quarterly operating expenses were slightly lower than prior year ($400,500 versus $402,600).
Cash at the end of September was $300,000, compared with $280,000 in prior year and $330,000 in second quarter. Operating activities, including changes in non-cash working capital balances, consumed $200,000 of cash during third quarter mainly due to higher accounts receivable. While market conditions remain difficult in several regions, the company has positioned itself well to succeed in the important markets. Long-term prospects for Epicore aquaculture technology remain attractive as the opportunities for developing new areas of potential are developed.
NEWS RELEASE 29 February 2008
Epicore 2008 Second Quarter Results for the period ended 31 December 2007; currency in US Dollars
Epicore BioNetworks Inc. reports the results of its second quarter of fiscal year 2008 operations. Epicore’s business continued its good start to fiscal 2008 with sales increasing over a record prior year quarter two. Epicore’s first half fiscal year was stronger than normal because of increasing southern hemisphere sales. Revenues increased 10% over prior year ($782,300 versus $711,100). Gross profit decreased 11% ($476,900 versus $534,500) because of product mix, higher raw material costs and increased conversion costs. Expenses at $391,100 were 2% above prior year quarter two as the Company increased marketing expenses and continued to invest in enhancing future opportunities. The Company recorded net income of $65,700 versus $138,400 in prior year quarter two. Net income per share for the current quarter was $0.003 versus $0.006 in prior year quarter two. Cash reserves were $0.33 million versus $0.24 million in prior year quarter two.
Epicore sales revenue increased $71,200 over prior year quarter two, building on the strongest quarter two in Company history. Quarterly sales reflected the Company’s commitment to aquaculture and its strong position in the world shrimp aquaculture markets. Aquaculture represented over 97% of sales. Latin America was the largest sales region with the non-Ecuador hatchery sector substantially ahead of prior year. Ecuador remained our largest sales country despite lower sales in the farm sector due to intense competition. Our EPICIN-in-feed farm program continued to offer Ecuadorian farmers the best performance for the money but lower unit-priced probiotics took market share. Our Ecuadorian hatchery sales benefited from new products, such as our low cost EPILITE liquid feeds and new EPICIN-G2 probiotic. Sales grew in Central and the rest of South America as our EPIFEED-MBF maturation feed gained popularity and as Brazil began to cope with IMNV virus.
Sales increased in Asia as major hatcheries employed Epicore products in their switch from Penaeus monodon to Penaeus vannamei. Epicore’s experience and contacts in Latin America opened doors with important Asian groups. The region represents 80% of world shrimp aquaculture potential and now contributes a significant percentage of Epicore sales. Recent Asian success shows that the Company’s years of effort and investments are starting to generate strong results.
Non-aquaculture sales benefited from the RootX municipal distribution deal signed last year.
Quarterly operating expenses were slightly higher than prior year ($0.39 versus $0.38 million) due to increased marketing efforts and higher corporate expenses.
Cash at the end of September was $0.33 million versus $0.24 million in prior year and $0.50 in quarter one. Operating activities, including changes in non-cash working capital balances, consumed $0.2 million of cash during quarter two mainly due to higher accounts receivable. While market conditions remain difficult in several regions, the Company has positioned itself well to succeed in the important markets. Long-term prospects for Epicore aquaculture technology remain attractive as the opportunities for developing new areas of potential are developed.
Dateline Eastampton, New Jersey USA: December 10
2007
Epicore BioNetworks Inc. Announces New Business Director
Epicore BioNetworks Inc. is pleased to announce the appointment of a new Aquaculture Business Development Director, Fernando Garcia Abad. The appointment represents an expansion of Fernando’s role, from responsibility for business development in Latin America to worldwide responsibility. It supports Epicore's widening involvement in the worldwide aquaculture industry.
Fernando has over 17 years experience in aquaculture in both academic and production areas of the business. He graduated with a degree in aquaculture engineering from the prestigious Universidad Politecnica del Litoral in Ecuador. He has consulted to the industry and has held management positions in production facilities at the three key levels of the shrimp industry: maturations, hatcheries and farms.
Fernando has worked with Epicore for 12 years. For the last eight years he has been involved with technical support and business development in Latin America, where Epicore has run a very successful marketing program that encompasses the Americas as a whole. It has steadily increased its market position in the region.
Fernando now brings his extensive experience to our worldwide operation. The worldwide shrimp industry has moved to focus on culturing P. vannamei in which Epicore has extensive experience. We believe Fernando’s promotion will be welcomed in Asian markets, and will serve to support and enhance our customer focused, value added approach to meeting their needs.
Dateline Eastampton, New Jersey USA: December 1
2007
Epicore 2008 First Quarter Results for the period ended
30 September 2007; currency in US Dollars
Epicore BioNetworks Inc. reports the results of its first quarter of fiscal year 2008 operations. Epicore’s business got off to a good start in fiscal 2008 with sales increasing over a record prior year quarter one. Although Epicore’s first fiscal quarter one historically has been its weakest, the last two years have bucked this trend because of strong southern hemisphere sales. Revenues increased 5% over prior year ($615,600 versus $587,000). Gross profit decreased slightly ($398,700 versus $422,700). Expenses at $346,100 were 5% above prior year quarter one as the Company increased marketing expenses. The Company recorded net income of $39,800 versus $93,600 in prior year quarter one. Net income per share for the current quarter was $0.002 versus $0.004 in prior year quarter one. Cash reserves increased $0.26 million over fiscal 2007 yearend as prior period sales were collected.
Epicore sales revenue increased $28,600 over prior year quarter one, which previously was the strongest quarter one in Company history. Quarterly sales reflected the Company’s commitment to aquaculture and its strong position in the world shrimp aquaculture markets. Aquaculture represented over 97% of sales. Latin America was the largest sales region with the non-Ecuador hatchery sector substantially ahead of prior year. Ecuador remained our largest sales country despite lower sales in the farm sector due to intense competition. Our EPICIN-in-feed farm program continued to offer Ecuadorian farmers the best performance for the money but lower unit-priced probiotics took market share. Our Ecuadorian hatchery sales benefited from new products, such as our low cost EPILITE liquid feeds and new EPICIN-G2 probiotic. Sales grew in Central and the rest of South America as our EPIFEED-MBF maturation feed gained popularity and as Brazil began to cope with IMNV virus.
Sales increased in Asia as major hatcheries employed Epicore products in their switch from Penaeus monodon to Penaeus vannamei. Epicore’s experience and contacts in Latin America opened doors with these Asian groups. Non-aquaculture sales grew strongly because of the RootX municipal distribution deal signed last year. The region represents 80% of world shrimp aquaculture potential and now contributes a significant percentage of Epicore sales. Recent Asian success shows that the Company’s years of effort and investments were well worth it.
Quarterly operating expenses were slightly higher than prior period ($0.35 versus $0.33 million) due to increased marketing efforts and higher corporate expenses.
Cash at the end of September was $0.49 million versus $0.16 million in prior year. Operating activities, including changes in non-cash working capital balances, produced $0.3 million of cash during quarter one versus prior year when these activities consumed $0.2 million of cash. Investments in trademarks and in a real estate partnership consumed $0.15 million of cash. While market conditions remain difficult in several regions, the Company has positioned itself well to succeed in the important markets. Long-term prospects for Epicore technology remain attractive.
The financial statements of the Company have been prepared in accordance with Canadian GAAP. Epicore BioNetworks Inc. is a public corporation with a registered office in Calgary, Alberta, Canada and with shares listed on the TSX Venture Exchange (symbol EBN). [The TSX Venture Exchange has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.]
This press release contains forward-looking statements that involve significant risks and uncertainties. The actual results, performance or achievements of the Company might differ materially from the results, performance or achievements of the Company expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements include, without limitation, those regarding the development plans of the Company and the expected timing and results of such development. We can provide no assurance that such development will proceed as currently anticipated or that the expected timing or results of such development will be realized. We are subject to various risks, including the uncertainties of product development, markets for our products and regulatory review, our need for additional capital to fund our operations, our reliance on collaborative partners, our history of losses, and other risks inherent in the biotechnology industry.
For more information, please contact: Mr. William P. Long (Chief Executive Officer) USA. Tel: 609-267-9118 Eastampton, NJ 08060
Dateline Eastampton, New Jersey USA: 26 October 2007
Epicore BioNetworks Inc. Record Results in Fiscal Year 2007 for the period ended 30 June 2007
With net income increasing by over 300%, Epicore recorded a positive net income for the fourth year in a row. Despite challenging market conditions in terms of low shrimp prices and in some markets the prevalence of virulent diseases, Epicore’s business grew substantially in fiscal 2007 with sales growth in almost every market sector. Revenues increased by over $1 million (56%) with increased sales in the Americas and Asia. Epicore sales exceeded the $3 million mark for the first time. Operational expenses increased by 25% but relative to sales improved from 62% of sales to 50% of sales.
Aquaculture remains the Company’s most important market sector, with 97% of total sales. Epicore biotechnology and specialty feed technology offer answers to problems of pollution, disease and poor nutrition in aquaculture operations around the world.
Market conditions appear to have bottomed-out and are recovering slowly after a weak year in 2007. However, Epicore has successfully adapted its product offering to meet changing market situations. The new application method for our EPICIN biological aquaculture treatment continues to provide producers with increased yields in low stocking density farms. To facilitate application to feed, two new formulations of EPICIN were introduced. New lower cost liquid hatchery feeds, sold under the name EPILITE that were developed in response to depressed post-larval shrimp prices sold well in price sensitive markets.
Distributors in Indonesia, Mexico, India, Thailand, Brazil and Venezuela made major contributions to fiscal 2007 results, confirming the value of our mixed marketing approach. Most distributors posted strong year-on-year sales growth. The movement from Penaeus monodon to Penaeus vannamei culture in Asia opened doors at major producers for Epicore’s Latin American experience with products for P. vannamei. The shift in species made Indonesia our second largest market in 2007. Latin America remained our largest revenue generator as sales grew 26% in fiscal 2007.
Epicore gross profit increased by $0.7 million, whereas operating expenses increased only by $0.3 million in fiscal 2007. Revenue growth resulted in higher income taxes, which were partially decreased by our accumulated net operating losses. The Company generated a net income of $0.5 million versus $0.1 million in prior year. Basic net income per share was $0.019 versus prior year of $0.005.
|
2007(US$) |
2006(US$) |
|
| Sales |
3,131,000 |
2,011,000 |
| Gross Profit |
2,113,000 |
1,377,000 |
| Expenses |
1,557,000 |
1,249,00 |
| Other Income (Expense) |
(27,000) |
6,000 |
| Income Taxes |
72,000 |
25,000 |
| Net Income (Loss |
457,000 |
108,000 |
Cash at the end of June was $0.2 million, a decrease of $0.2 million from prior year mainly due to investment in the Company’s New Jersey site. With these funds, expected sales revenue growth and continued relatively low operating costs, management expects there will be sufficient cash to meet the fiscal year’s financial requirements, to fund expansion of aquaculture and environmental remediation marketing efforts and to investigate new strategies for enhancing shareholder value.
The financial statements of the Company have been prepared in accordance with Canadian GAAP. Epicore BioNetworks Inc. is a public corporation with a registered office in Calgary, Alberta, Canada and with shares listed on the TSX Venture Exchange (symbol EBN). [The TSX Venture Exchange has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.]
This press release contains forward-looking statements that involve significant risks and uncertainties. The actual results, performance or achievements of the Company might differ materially from the results, performance or achievements of the Company expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements include, without limitation, those regarding the development plans of the Company and the expected timing and results of such development. We can provide no assurance that such development will proceed as currently anticipated or that the expected timing or results of such development will be realized. We are subject to various risks, including the uncertainties of product development, markets for our products and regulatory review, our need for additional capital to fund our operations, our reliance on collaborative partners, our history of losses, and other risks inherent in the biotechnology industry.
For more information, please contact: Mr. William P. Long (Chief Executive Officer) USA. Tel: 609-267-9118
Dateline Eastampton, New Jersey USA: September 11 2007
Epicore Personnel Changes
Epicore Bionetworks Inc.'s Keith Blackman has accepted the position of Epicore chief financial officer and company secretary. Mr. Blackman is the president of Karver Consulting Services and has been Epicore's lead accountant since March, 2006. He is a certified management accountant with extensive business experience.
Mr. Blackman joins the company in a period of strong sales growth. The board is particularly pleased that this growth trend continued into fiscal quarter four, the exact results of which are subject to the continuing annual audit and will be released in October. Mr. Blackman's varied experience is expected to contribute significantly as the company looks to expand its core aquaculture business and to explore new business growth initiatives.
Epicore Bionetworks has granted stock options to directors and employees of the company. The number of options granted is 200,000, which is equivalent to 0.9 per cent of Epicore's issued common stock. Under the terms of the Epicore stock option plan, options may be issued from time to time in any amount up to 10 per cent of the issued and outstanding Epicore common shares. These options have an exercise price of 17 cents and expire in five years. The grant to directors follows company board compensation policy.
Dateline Eastampton, New Jersey USA: May 25,
2007
Epicore Third Quarter Results for the period ended 31 March 2007; currency in US Dollars
Epicore BioNetworks Inc. reports the results of its third quarter of fiscal 2007 operations. Sales set another quarterly record in fiscal 2007, increasing 18% above prior year quarter three ($874,900 versus $743,600). Gross profit increased from $517,700 to $633,800. Expenses at $412,200 were 22% above prior year quarter three. The Company recorded a net income of $219,600 versus $164,800 in prior year quarter three for a net income per share of $0.009 versus $0.007 in prior year.
Sales for the quarter reflected the Company’s commitment to aquaculture and its strong position in the major world markets. Fiscal quarter three historically is the Company’s strongest due to the production cycle of the shrimp aquaculture industry. This year was no exception delivering the best quarterly sales and profit in Company history. Sales were strong in all regions with exceptionally large increases in Asia. Ecuadorian pond and world hatchery sales grew well and offset small declines in Asian and Central American pond sales. Sales of non-aqua products were twice prior year quarter three levels as our agriculture sales recovered in Europe and RootX produced initial sales.
Asian sales in quarter three were dominated by Indonesia where our distributor has been very effective in penetrating major hatcheries. In addition to several years of market planning, we have benefited by the farm movement to Penaeus vannamei and the relocation of Latin Americans to the region. Indonesia adds another southern hemisphere market to our portfolio that will help lessen seasonal variations in our sales pattern. With this growth in Asia, Epicore sales are now almost equally split between Ecuador, the rest of Latin Americana and Asia.
Gross profit increased by $0.12 million due to sales volume. Operating expenses were 22% higher than prior year due to increased marketing activity, activities aimed at accelerating company growth and an increase in bad debt provision.
Cash at the end of December was $0.27 million, a 16% increase from quarter two and an 11% increase from prior year quarter three. While market conditions remain difficult in several regions, the Company has positioned itself well to succeed in the important markets. Long-term prospects for Epicore technology remain attractive.
The financial statements of the Company have been prepared in accordance with Canadian GAAP. Epicore BioNetworks Inc. is a public corporation with a registered office in Calgary, Alberta, Canada and with shares listed on the TSX Venture Exchange (symbol EBN). [The TSX Venture Exchange has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.]
Dateline Eastampton, New Jersey USA: March 20,
2007
Epicore BioNetworks Inc. Announces New Board Director
The Board of Directors of Epicore BioNetworks Inc. is pleased to announce a new director has joined the board, effective March 19, 2007. The Board welcomes Mr. Fred N. Boulos of Beaconsfield, Quebec, Canada.
Mr. Boulos has over thirty three years business experience in operations management of Canadian and international companies. His experience includes engineering and construction of oil exploration and pipeline systems and many other interesting projects. He has had contract management and procurement responsibility for multi-million dollar projects. Much of his work experience is in the Middle East and Africa region, which is growing in importance to aquaculture suppliers. Mr. Boulos holds degrees in engineering, marketing and investment analysis. The Board expects that his knowledge and experience will be of great benefit to Epicore.
The Board of Directors has approved issuance to Mr. Boulos of 150,000 options to buy Epicore common shares, pursuant to the terms of the Company's stock option program. The shares will be priced at Cdn $0.125 per share.
Dateline Eastampton, New Jersey USA: February 16,
2007
Epicore 2007 Second Quarter results for the period ended 31 December 2006; currency in US Dollars.
Epicore BioNetworks Inc. reports the results of its second quarter of fiscal 2007 operations. Sales set a quarter two record in fiscal 2007. Sales were 41% higher than prior year quarter two ($711,100 versus $504,600). Gross profit increased from $373,700 to $534,500. Expenses at $385,700 were 24% above prior year quarter two. The Company recorded a net income of $138,400 versus $61,100 in prior year quarter two. Net income per share for the current quarter was $0.006 versus $0.003 in prior year quarter two.
Sales for the quarter reflected the Company's commitment to aquaculture and its strong position in the major world markets. Fiscal quarter two historically is one of the Company's weakest. The shrimp aquaculture industry is located predominately in the northern hemisphere so it experiences a winter slowdown at calendar year-end. This pattern is changing for Epicore as sales grew in southern hemisphere markets such as Ecuador, Indonesia and Venezuela. These factors caused revenues to increase dramatically compared to prior year quarter two.
Ecuador was our largest sales region, representing over 40% of sales. However, sales grew in other South American markets as well as in Asia. Asian sales were dominated by India, where Epicore has an excellent distributor and in Indonesia, where our distributor is benefiting from a well organized marketing program.
Gross profit increased by $0.16 million mainly due to volume. The quality of business as measured by margin percentage was higher than prior year (75% versus 74%) due to product sales mix.
Quarterly operating expenses were 24% higher than prior period ($385,700 versus $312,100) due to increased marketing activity, especially in Ecuador, increased board of director activities aimed at accelerating company growth and an increase in bad debt provision in Ecuador.
Cash at the end of December was $0.24 million, a 47% increase from quarter one mainly due to higher sales. Cash was 42% lower than prior year quarter two mainly due to acquisition of the Company's New Jersey site. While market conditions remain difficult in several regions, the Company has positioned itself well to succeed in the important markets. Long-term prospects for Epicore technology remain attractive.
The financial statements of the Company have been prepared in accordance with Canadian GAAP. Epicore BioNetworks Inc. is a public corporation with a registered office in Calgary, Alberta, Canada and with shares listed on the TSX Venture Exchange (symbol EBN). [The TSX Venture Exchange has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.]
Dateline Eastampton, New Jersey USA: December 19,
2006
Epicore Signs Distribution Agreement with RootX Inc.
The Board of Directors of Epicore BioNetworks Inc. is pleased to announce that the Company has signed an agreement with RootX Inc. of Salem Oregon wherein RootX Inc. will become the exclusive distributor for Epicore's municipal grease digestion products in North America and certain other territories. RootX Inc. has over 30 years in the pipeline maintenance business and currently manufactures and sells the pipeline root control product RootX® for municipal sewer agencies and Drain Cleaning Contractors. RootX Inc. markets and sells the RootX® root control product in the United States and Canada with a direct sales force and plans to include the Epicore municipal grease digestion products in this same program.
Epicore BioNetworks Inc. is a leading producer of environmental biotechnology and animal nutrition products. It manufactures in the USA and markets worldwide to a variety of industries to reduce environmental pollution and increase operational productivity. Epicore's technology includes biological and biochemical products to digest grease and other organic matter that can block water discharge lines.
The alliance of Epicore grease digestion technology and RootX Inc. marketing excellence is expected to yield impressive results for both organizations. The alliance lessens Epicore's heavy reliance on aquaculture business and provides a base for the development of an environmental division for Epicore.
Epicore BioNetworks Inc. is a public corporation with a registered office in Calgary, Alberta, Canada and with shares listed on the TSX Venture Exchange (symbol EBN). [The TSX Venture Exchange has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
This press release contains forward-looking statements that involve significant risks and uncertainties. The actual results, performance or achievements of the Company might differ materially from the results, performance or achievements of the Company expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements include, without limitation, those regarding the development plans of the Company and the expected timing and results of such development. We can provide no assurance that such development will proceed as currently anticipated or that the expected timing or results of such development will be realized. We are subject to various risks, including the uncertainties of product development, markets for our products and regulatory review, our need for additional capital to fund our operations, our reliance on collaborative partners, our history of losses, and other risks inherent in the biotechnology industry.
Dateline Eastampton, New Jersey USA: November 30,
2006
Epicore 2007 First Quarter Results
for the period ended 30 September 2006; currency in US Dollars
Epicore BioNetworks Inc. reports the results of its first quarter of fiscal year 2007 operations. Sales in the quarter grew substantially compared to prior year quarter one ($587,000 versus $270,300). Gross profit followed the sales increase ($422,700 versus $180,300). Expenses at $332,200 were 15.1% above prior year quarter one. The Company recorded net income of $93,600 versus a net loss of ($105,700) in prior year quarter one. Net income (loss) per share for the current quarter was $0.004 versus ($0.004) in prior year quarter one.
Epicore sales revenue increased US$0.32 million over prior year quarter one: one of the best period gains in Epicore history. Sales for the quarter reflected the Company's commitment to aquaculture and its strong position in the world shrimp aquaculture markets. Aquaculture represented over 99% of sales. All business sectors showed growth with large increases in Latin America and Asia. Ecuadorian pond sales grew spectacularly. Ecuadorian hatchery sales grew well also. Initial sales of our new EPILITE liquid hatchery feeds and our carrier-free EPICIN-G2 were made. Ecuador now represents over half of Epicore sales.
Sales in the rest of Latin America also grew very strongly. Brazil returned to the buying fold in quarter one. In Central America our shrimp maturation feed is a big success. It allows producers to lower dependence on fresh diet while lowering costs and increasing productivity.
Asian sales grew dramatically in quarter one as our Indonesian distributor began to reap the results of several years of market planning. Indonesia adds another southern hemisphere market to our portfolio so will help lessen seasonal variations in our sales pattern. In India our longest standing distributor continues to grow his business with Epicore products. Asian sales have benefited from a dedicated technical effort. The region represents 80% of world shrimp aquaculture potential and now contributes an increasing percentage of Epicore sales. In 2007 Asia will show that the Company's years of effort and investment were well worth it.
Gross margin increased by $0.24 million due to sales volume and sales mix. The quality of business as measured by margin percentage was healthier than prior year (72% versus 67% of sales) due to sales mix and elimination of some price discounts.
Quarterly operating expenses were higher than prior period ($0.32 versus $0.29 million) due to increased marketing efforts and higher corporate expenses. Additional marketing expenses in Ecuador have produced strong sales growth.
Cash at the end of September was $0.16 million, a decrease of $0.28 million from fiscal 2006 year-end and a 56% decrease versus prior year quarter one. Operating activities, including changes in non-cash working capital balances, consumed $0.1 million of cash during quarter one versus prior year when these activities produced $0.03 million of cash. Investments in trademarks and in a real estate partnership consumed $0.15 million of cash. While market conditions remain difficult in several regions, the Company has positioned itself well to succeed in the important markets. Long-term prospects for Epicore technology remain attractive.
The financial statements of the Company have been prepared in accordance with Canadian GAAP. Epicore BioNetworks Inc. is a public corporation with a registered office in Calgary, Alberta, Canada and with shares listed on the TSX Venture Exchange (symbol EBN). [The TSX Venture Exchange has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.]
This press release contains forward-looking statements that involve significant risks and uncertainties. The actual results, performance or achievements of the Company might differ materially from the results, performance or achievements of the Company expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements include, without limitation, those regarding the development plans of the Company and the expected timing and results of such development. We can provide no assurance that such development will proceed as currently anticipated or that the expected timing or results of such development will be realized. We are subject to various risks, including the uncertainties of product development, markets for our products and regulatory review, our need for additional capital to fund our operations, our reliance on collaborative partners, our history of losses, and other risks inherent in the biotechnology industry.
Dateline Eastampton, New Jersey USA: November 8,
2006
Announces Board Director Change
Effective Immediately
The Board of Directors of Epicore BioNetworks Inc. announces the resignation of Frank D'Addario from its board, effective November 7, 2006. Mr. D'Addario joined the board in 2003 and helped guide the Company to sales growth and profitability. The Company thanks Mr. D'Addario for his service and wishes him good luck with his future ventures.
Epicore BioNetworks Inc. is a leading producer of environmental biotechnology and animal nutrition products. It manufactures in the USA and markets worldwide to a variety of industries to reduce environmental pollution and increase operational productivity.
Epicore will hold its Annual General and Special Meetings of shareholders at 10:00 am on Thursday, December 7, 2006 at the Calgary Petroleum Club, 319-5th Avenue SW, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
Dateline Eastampton, New Jersey USA: November 2,
2006
Epicore BioNetworks Inc. Abandons IONA Acquisition
Effective immediately, the Board of Directors of Epicore BioNetworks Inc. announces that the Company will not pursue acquisition of the shares of IONA Contractors Ltd. IONA is a Calgary, Alberta Canada based firm that focuses on providing construction related services, including environmental remediation, to the oil and gas, utility and other industries.
In an October 3, 2006 news release Epicore announced the signing of a letter of intent with IONA. While the Company will not pursue IONA, Epicore remains committed to building an environmental division based on synergy with its extensive biotechnology expertise and its expanding international business.
Epicore will hold its Annual General and Special Meetings of shareholders at 10:00 am on Thursday, December 7, 2006 at the Calgary Petroleum Club, 319-5th Avenue SW, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
Dateline Eastampton, New Jersey USA: October 27, 2006
Epicore BioNetworks Inc. Fiscal Year 2006 Results
for the period ended 30 June 2006
Epicore's business continued to grow in fiscal 2006 despite some large swings in regional market vitality and some very challenging market conditions. Revenues increased 7.5% on increased sales in Ecuador and Asia. Epicore exceeded the two million US dollar mark for the first time. Our product sales strategy has given Epicore a high gross margin business (approximately 68% of sales). Operational expenses were held to a small 3.1% increase. Net income increased 11.8% as Epicore recorded a positive net income for the third year in a row.
Aquaculture remains the Company's most important market sector, with 98% of total sales. Epicore biotechnology and specialty feed technology offer answers to problems of pollution, disease and poor nutrition in aquaculture operations around the world. Market conditions remained weak during the year due to an over-supply of shrimp and low shrimp prices. Viral diseases in several markets forced producers to lower stocking densities, which decreased demand for hatchery post-larval shrimp.
As producers must adjust to changing conditions, so Epicore has adjusted. The new application method for our EPICIN biological aquaculture treatment provided producers with increased yields in low stocking density farms. As a result, Ecuador broke all Company sales records in fiscal 2006 and increased sales 70% over prior year. Distributors in Mexico, India and Indonesia made major contributions to fiscal 2006 results. New products, such as our new EPILITE range of liquid hatchery feeds that were launched to meet changing market demands made a significant contribution to 2006 sales.
Latin America remained our largest revenue generator as sales grew 12% in fiscal 2006. A rapidly growing shrimp aquaculture market and excellent distributor efforts made Mexico again our largest distributor market in fiscal 2006. Epicore's focus on the Asian market paid off in 2006 with a 32% increase in sales. Support from our technical manager in Thailand led Indonesia to become our fastest growing country. Epicore gross margin increased by $0.1 million. The quality of business as measured by margin percentage was lower than prior year (68% versus 70%) due to product sales mix and discounted selling prices needed to meet market conditions. Operating expenses increased by 3.1% in fiscal 2006. Ecuadorian revenue growth resulted in higher income taxes. The Company generated a net income of $0.11 million, an 11.8% increase over prior year. Basic net income per share was $0.005 versus prior year of $0.004.
| 2006 (US$) | 2005 (US$) | |
| Sales | 2,011,000 | 1,871,000 |
| Gross Margin | 1,377,000 | 1,316,000 |
| Expenses | (1,249,000) | (1,212,000) |
| Other Income (Expense) | 6,000 | 0 |
| Income Taxes | (25,000) | (7,000) |
| Net Income (Loss) | 108,000 | 97,000 |
Cash at the end of June was $0.4 million, an increase of 40% over prior year. With these funds, expected sales revenue growth and continued low operating costs, management expects there will be sufficient cash to meet the fiscal year's financial requirements and to fund expansion of aquaculture and environmental remediation marketing efforts.
The financial statements of the Company have been prepared in accordance with Canadian GAAP. Epicore BioNetworks Inc. is a public corporation with a registered office in Calgary, Alberta, Canada and with shares listed on the TSX Venture Exchange (symbol EBN). [The TSX Venture Exchange has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.]
Dateline Eastampton, New Jersey USA: October 3,
2006
Epicore Signs Letter of Intent with IONA Contractors Ltd
The Board of Directors of Epicore BioNetworks Inc.
is pleased to announce that the Company has signed a letter of intent
to acquire ownership of all the shares of IONA Contractors Ltd. IONA is
a Calgary, Alberta Canada based firm that focuses on providing construction
related services, including environmental remediation, to the oil and gas,
utility and other industries. The founders of IONA have over fifty years
experience in the environmental field. The acquisition will significantly
broaden Epicore’s environmental business and provide a platform
for further growth in the future in the previously announced program that
is spearheaded by Board Director Frank D’Addario. The acquisition
purchase price is Cdn $1.4 million and one million Epicore common shares
at a deemed price of Cdn $0.14 per share. The purchase is conditional on
due diligence, financing, consideration of tax implications and approval
of the TSX Venture Exchange. Epicore BioNetworks Inc. is a leading producer
of environmental biotechnology and animal nutrition products. It manufactures
in the USA and markets worldwide to a variety of industries to reduce environmental
pollution and increase operational productivity. Epicore BioNetworks Inc.
is a public corporation with a registered office in Calgary, Alberta, Canada
and with shares listed on the TSX Venture Exchange (symbol EBN). [The TSX
Venture Exchange has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for
the adequacy or accuracy of this release.]
Dateline Eastampton, New Jersey USA: September 14, 2006
Epicore Acquires Eastampton Site
The Board of Directors of Epicore BioNetworks Inc. is pleased to announce that the Company has acquired ownership of its main business site in Eastampton, New Jersey, USA. Since the Company's inception Epicore's research and manufacturing have been conducted in Eastampton. Since 1999 corporate management and marketing operations have been centered at the site. During this period the Company leased the facility. The Company formed a limited liability realty partnership with an adjacent business to purchase the combined site for US$1.4 million. Financing was secured from Epicore's main US bank, Wachovia. The acquisition provides security for Epicore operations and offers operating costs savings. The acquisition is supported by Epicore's growing and profitable international aquaculture business. Further, the acquisition is key to the Company's plans to expand its North American business in the environmental market. Epicore BioNetworks Inc. announces that it has granted stock options to directors and employees of the company. The grant includes additional options to Board Director, Mr. Frank D'Addario, who has agreed to lead a new company division that will develop business for the company in the environmental field. This role is in addition to his regular board duties.
Dateline Eastampton, New Jersey USA: August 15, 2006
New Epicore Liquid Hatchery
Feeds Perform Well in Trials
Responding to raw material cost pressure due to falling world shrimp prices, Epicore has developed a new range of liquid larval feeds for shrimp hatcheries. The new feeds, sold under the name EPILITE, performed better then competitive liquid feeds in an Ecuadorian hatchery trial. Tanks utilizing the new feeds had 78% survival versus 73% for the competitive control tanks. The new EPILITE range offers hatchery managers significant feed cost savings over traditional liquid feeds. Early sales confirm a high level of customer acceptance for the new line.
Dateline
Eastampton, New Jersey USA: June 30, 2006
Epicore Board Appoints New Auditor
In order to consolidate audit work under one firm in North and South America, the Board of Directors have decided to change auditors. The new auditors, Mintz & Partners, LLP., are in compliance with National Instrument 52-108. The Board thanks BDO Seidman, LLP for their fine service to the Company and welcomes Mintz & Partners, LLP. Shareholders will be asked to approve the change at our next Annual General Meeting.
Dateline Eastampton, New Jersey USA: June 12, 2006
Epicore
BioNetworks Inc. Director Changes
The Board of Directors of Epicore BioNetworks Inc. is sad to report the retirement of one of its members, Mr. Hugh C. Hart. Mr. Hart was an enthusiastic supporter of Epicore and served the board well in his ten years as a director and eight years as Chairman of the Board of Directors. Mr. Hart guided the Company from its early beginnings as an environmental biotech start-up to become a significant supplier to the world aquaculture industry. He leaves the Company on solid financial footings, ready to grow its business to the next level and to reward the support of its shareholders. In his place, the board has appointed Mr. Philip A.D. Secretan as director and chairman. Mr. Secretan brings to the board over 30 years' experience in aquaculture risk management.