Listed bricks manufacturer Willdale Limited (Willdale) trimmed its local procurement by 6,5 percent in 2025, citing a strategic shift toward environmentally sustainable sourcing practices designed to reduce the ecological footprint of its supply chain.
According to the company’s latest figures, expenditure on domestic supplies fell to US$2,07 million, distributed among 149 suppliers.
This marks a decline from US$2,2 million spent across 595 suppliers in 2024, underscoring a deliberate move to engage a smaller pool of vendors that meet sustainability standards.
In comparison, the group’s local procurement stood at US$2,53 million in 2023, involving 348 suppliers.
Of the 2025 total, small to medium enterprises accounted for US$1,04 million, while youth-led businesses received US$1,01 million. Women-led enterprises were allocated US$11 162.
In its annual report for the financial year ending September 30, 2025, Willdale said its sustainability agenda centres on responsible sourcing practices that aim to minimise environmental harm while continuing to support local industry and employment.
During the year ended 30 September 2025, the Zimbabwe Stock Exchange-listed group’s performance was as follows;
• Revenue: US$6,044,955, a decrease from US$11,079,621 recorded in prior comparable period, driven by a 41 percent reduction in sales volumes.
• Operating loss was recorded at US$3,846,686, compared to a loss of US$1,836,986 in FY2024, reflecting lower throughput and higher operating costs.
• Loss after tax: A net loss of US$953,490.
• Total assets increased to US$42,422,647, primarily due to the revaluation of property assets.
• Basic Earnings Per Share (EPS) stood at 0.0005 US cents.
The company noted that it has incorporated recycled materials into its operations, including plastics, as part of efforts to reduce pollution and ease pressure on ecosystems.
“We have embraced green procurement measures to lessen the environmental impact associated with our supply chain,” the report stated.
However, the group acknowledged ongoing environmental challenges linked to its operations, particularly the use of coal in brick firing, which contributes to resource depletion. It also warned that sourcing pallets from suppliers who rely on timber could exacerbate deforestation if not accompanied by reforestation initiatives.
Willdale said it prioritises suppliers with strong environmental credentials, conducting annual assessments that combine data analysis with on-site inspections to monitor compliance and identify risks.
“Our supplier evaluation process includes both desk reviews and physical site visits to ensure sustainability standards are upheld and to allow for corrective action where necessary,” the company said, adding that its rating system favours vendors with robust environmental management practices.
Despite progress on sustainability, the company’s financial performance weakened during the year under review. Production levels were affected by cash flow constraints, driven by narrowing margins and rising operating costs, which disrupted access to raw materials and maintenance schedules. – TML