Meeting PZ Cussons’ CEO: Lee and the IC

PZ Cussons, known for brands such as Imperial Leather, Carex and Original Source, has been around for more than a century, but its shape and focus today are very different from its origins.The FTSE 250 consumer goods giant is focusing on core brands and expanding overseas, and owns market-leading products in a host of countries around the world.But M&A deals, both good and bad, have meant there are questions to be asked around the company’s strategy, balance sheet and future priorities, all of which Alex Newman and Lord John Lee put to CEO Jonathan Myers.The trio discuss PZ Cussons’ expansion overseas, its share price valuation, where it can save costs, the stake owned by one of the founders’ families and much more.Let us know your thoughts, or if you have any questions or any suggestions for future guests, by emailing alex.newman@ft.comListen to more podcasts from Investors’ Chronicle by clicking here or heading to Apple, Spotify and YouTubeTimestamps00:00 Intro00:49 What is PZ Cussons?02:56 Lord Lee's involvement06:33 Strategic review10:31 Offers for African business13:39 Value of the brands16:02 Is the valuation low?19:34 Innovation and building new brands24:32 Manufacturing efficiencies27:02 Impact of Iran War29:48 Shareholder register31:15 Involvement of family owners40:08 Confidence in future outlookInvestors' Chronicle has supported private investors in the UK for over 160 years by highlighting rewarding investment opportunities. Investors' Chronicle is a service by the Financial Times. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.