Posted by AGORACOM-JC
at 8:10 AM on Monday, April 19th, 2021
Announced that its cutting edge Additive Manufacturing (“AM”) NexGen™ Powder production line, incorporating all the improvements previously announced (increased production rate, lower CAPEX, lower OPEX, narrower particle size distribution) is now in place and producing powders.
PyroGenesis’ game-changing NexGen™ Plasma Atomization System, with its production rate exceeding 25kg/h, has shattered all published plasma-atomized production rates for titanium known to management.
MONTREAL, April 19, 2021 — PyroGenesis Canada Inc. (http://pyrogenesis.com) (TSX: PYR) (NASDAQ: PYR) (FRA: 8PY), a high-tech company, (hereinafter referred to as the “Company” or “PyroGenesis”), that designs, develops, manufactures and commercializes plasma atomized metal powder, environmentally friendly plasma waste-to-energy systems and clean plasma torch products, is pleased to announce that its cutting edge Additive Manufacturing (“AM”) NexGen™ Powder production line, incorporating all the improvements previously announced (increased production rate, lower CAPEX, lower OPEX, narrower particle size distribution) is now in place and producing powders. PyroGenesis’ game-changing NexGen™ Plasma Atomization System, with its production rate exceeding 25kg/h, has shattered all published plasma-atomized production rates for titanium known to management.
As previously disclosed, there are several major top-tier aerospace companies, and OEMs, awaiting powders from PyroGenesis’ new, state of the art, NexGen™ production line. The Company will, over the next several weeks, perform a number of test-runs to confirm batch to batch consistency. The Company now expects to start delivering powders before the end of Q2 2021.
“We have reached this milestone which many have been waiting for. We are proud to be announcing today, the launching of our state-of-the-art production line incorporating the never seen before benefits of our NexGen™ technology,” said Mr. P. Peter Pascali, CEO and Chair of PyroGenesis. “It was important that we incorporate these improvements into our process before locking it down for commercial orders. As such, we are now able to say that we are producing powders at never seen before production rates using plasma. We are proud to be serving the Additive Manufacturing industry and, once again, opening doors for further advancement.”
“While incorporating the NexGen™ improvements, it became clear that there were opportunities for further refinements with respect to our downstream powder process,” said Mr. Massimo Dattilo, Vice President, PyroGenesis Additive. “In addition to the increased production rates and yields afforded by NexGen™, the downstream changes that we have also incorporated into the process now allow for even further control over powder morphology, or more specifically, powder particle shape and distribution. This now provides AM printer manufacturers with opportunities to further optimize printer parameters for faster build speeds and/or stronger final parts”.
About PyroGenesis Canada Inc.
PyroGenesis Canada Inc., a high-tech company, is a leader in the design, development, manufacture and commercialization of advanced plasma processes and products. The Company provides its engineering and manufacturing expertise and its turnkey process equipment packages to customers in the defense, metallurgical, mining, advanced materials (including 3D printing), and environmental industries. With a team of experienced engineers, scientists and technicians working out of its Montreal office and its 3,800 m 2 and 2,940 m 2 manufacturing facilities, PyroGenesis maintains its competitive advantage by remaining at the forefront of technology development and commercialization. The Company’s core competencies allow PyroGenesis to provide innovative plasma torches, plasma waste processes, high-temperature metallurgical processes, and engineering services to the global marketplace. PyroGenesis’ operations are ISO 9001:2015 and AS9100D certified. For more information, please visit www.pyrogenesis.com .
This press release contains certain forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements containing the words “may”, “plan”, “will”, “estimate”, “continue”, “anticipate”, “intend”, “expect”, “in the process” and other similar expressions which constitute “forward- looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements reflect the Corporation’s current expectation and assumptions and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties including, but not limited to, our expectations regarding the acceptance of our products by the market, our strategy to develop new products and enhance the capabilities of existing products, our strategy with respect to research and development, the impact of competitive products and pricing, new product development, and uncertainties related to the regulatory approval process. Such statements reflect the current views of the Corporation with respect to future events and are subject to certain risks and uncertainties and other risks detailed from time-to-time in the Corporation’s ongoing filings with the securities regulatory authorities, which filings can be found atwww.sedar.com, or atwww.sec.gov. Actual results, events, and performance may differ materially. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. The Corporation undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward- looking statements either as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws. Neither the Toronto Stock Exchange, its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Toronto Stock Exchange) nor the NASDAQ Stock Market, LLC accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.
SOURCE PyroGenesis Canada Inc.
For further information please contact: Rodayna Kafal, Vice President, IR/Comms. and Strategic BD Phone: (514) 937-0002, E-mail: [email protected]
Posted by AGORACOM-JC
at 12:45 PM on Friday, April 16th, 2021
MONTREAL, April 16, 2021– PyroGenesis Canada Inc. (http://pyrogenesis.com) (TSX: PYR) (NASDAQ: PYR) (FRA: 8PY), a high-tech company, (hereinafter referred to as the “Company” or “PyroGenesis”), a Company that designs, develops, manufactures and commercializes plasma atomized metal powder, environmentally friendly plasma waste-to-energy systems and clean plasma torch products, issues this press release in response to today’s trading activity, and the sudden decline in its stock price. The Company wishes to reassure investors that all projects are all on track and that there are no undisclosed events to warrant the recent decline.
The Company prefers not to opine on stock price and trading activity, however, given the recent decline, and inquiries from investors, the Company confirms the following:
Everything material has been disclosed by the Company in either its press releases or financial reports. PyroGenesis further confirms that none of the contracts previously disclosed are at risk. Last, but not least, the Company wishes to reassure PyroGenesis’ investors that the Company remains on track with current and prospective projects.
“We just want to take the time to reassure investors that the recent decline in stock price cannot be explained by any undisclosed events taking place within the Company,” said Mr. P. Peter Pascali, CEO and Chair of PyroGenesis. “Although we rarely speak to our pipeline, I feel it appropriate to make an exception under the current circumstances. If we are conservative and define the pipeline as being those contracts where we are either in final discussion as the sole supplier, or in a leadership position in a competitive bid, and if we further narrow the definition by looking only at contracts that are expected to be signed within 6 months, then the pipeline is in excess of $65 million. Most of that pipeline would be expected to be completed within 18 months after signature. As such, the Board is of the opinion that the Company continues to strengthen its position and has never been better placed.”
About PyroGenesis Canada Inc.
PyroGenesis Canada Inc., a high-tech company, is a leader in the design, development, manufacture and commercialization of advanced plasma processes and products. The Company provides its engineering and manufacturing expertise and its turnkey process equipment packages to customers in the defense, metallurgical, mining, advanced materials (including 3D printing), and environmental industries. With a team of experienced engineers, scientists and technicians working out of its Montreal office and its 3,800 m 2 and 2,940 m 2 manufacturing facilities, PyroGenesis maintains its competitive advantage by remaining at the forefront of technology development and commercialization. The Company’s core competencies allow PyroGenesis to provide innovative plasma torches, plasma waste processes, high-temperature metallurgical processes, and engineering services to the global marketplace. PyroGenesis’ operations are ISO 9001:2015 and AS9100D certified. For more information, please visit www.pyrogenesis.com .
Posted by AGORACOM-JC
at 8:27 AM on Monday, April 12th, 2021
Announced that it will be presenting at the virtual Planet MicroCap Showcase on Wednesday, April 21, 2021 at 10:00 AM Eastern Time.
Mr. P. Peter Pascali, CEO and Chair of PyroGenesis, will be hosting the presentation and answering questions from investors
MONTREAL, QC / April 12, 2021 / PyroGenesis Canada Inc. (TSX:PYR)(NASDAQ:PYR)(FRA:8PY), (the “Company” or “PyroGenesis”), a high-tech Company that designs, develops, manufactures and commercializes plasma atomized metal powder, environmentally friendly plasma waste-to-energy systems and clean plasma torch products, today announced that it will be presenting at the virtual Planet MicroCap Showcase on Wednesday, April 21, 2021 at 10:00 AM Eastern Time. Mr. P. Peter Pascali, CEO and Chair of PyroGenesis, will be hosting the presentation and answering questions from investors.
To access the live presentation, please use the following information:
Virtual Planet MicroCap Showcase 2021
Date: Wednesday, April 21, 2021
Time: 10:00 AM Eastern Time / 7:00 AM Pacific Time
If you would like to book 1on1 investor meetings with PyroGenesis, and to watch PyroGenesis’ presentation, please register for the virtual event here: https://planetmicrocapshowcase.com/signup
1on1 meetings will be scheduled and conducted via private, secure video conference through the conference event platform.
For investors that are unable to attend the live presentation, the webcast replay will be available directly on the conference event platform via this link under the tab “Agenda”: https://planetmicrocapshowcase.com/agenda.
Posted by AGORACOM-JC
at 8:21 AM on Tuesday, April 6th, 2021
Mr. P. Peter Pascali, CEO and Chair of PyroGenesis, will be presenting at Zooming with LD on Monday April 12 th , 2021.
MONTREAL, April 06, 2021 — PyroGenesis Canada Inc. (http://pyrogenesis.com) (TSX: PYR) (NASDAQ: PYR) (FRA: 8PY), (the “Company”, the “Corporation” or “PyroGenesis”) a Company that designs, develops, manufactures and commercializes plasma atomized metal powder, environmentally friendly plasma waste-to-energy systems and clean plasma torch products, is pleased to announce that, Mr. P. Peter Pascali, CEO and Chair of PyroGenesis, will be presenting at Zooming with LD on Monday April 12 th , 2021.
LD Micro began in 2006 with the sole purpose of being an independent resource to the microcap world. What started as a newsletter highlighting unique companies, has transformed into the pre-eminent event platform in the space. For more information, please visit ldmicro.com.
In September 2020, LD Micro was acquired by SRAX, a financial technology company that unlocks data and insights for publicly traded companies. Through its premier investor intelligence and communications platform, Sequire, companies can track their investors’ behaviors and trends and use those insights to engage current and potential investors across marketing channels. For more information on SRAX, visit srax.com and mysequire.com.
About PyroGenesis Canada Inc.
PyroGenesis Canada Inc., a high-tech company, is a leader in the design, development, manufacture and commercialization of advanced plasma processes and products. The Company provides its engineering and manufacturing expertise and its turnkey process equipment packages to customers in the defense, metallurgical, mining, advanced materials (including 3D printing), and environmental industries. With a team of experienced engineers, scientists and technicians working out of its Montreal office and its 3,800 m 2 and 2,940 m 2 manufacturing facilities, PyroGenesis maintains its competitive advantage by remaining at the forefront of technology development and commercialization. The Company’s core competencies allow PyroGenesis to provide innovative plasma torches, plasma waste processes, high-temperature metallurgical processes, and engineering services to the global marketplace. PyroGenesis’ operations are ISO 9001:2015 and AS9100D certified. For more information, please visit www.pyrogenesis.com .
This press release contains certain forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements containing the words “may”, “plan”, “will”, “estimate”, “continue”, “anticipate”, “intend”, “expect”, “in the process” and other similar expressions which constitute “forward- looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements reflect the Corporation’s current expectation and assumptions and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties including, but not limited to, our expectations regarding the acceptance of our products by the market, our strategy to develop new products and enhance the capabilities of existing products, our strategy with respect to research and development, the impact of competitive products and pricing, new product development, and uncertainties related to the regulatory approval process. Such statements reflect the current views of the Corporation with respect to future events and are subject to certain risks and uncertainties and other risks detailed from time-to-time in the Corporation’s ongoing filings with the securities regulatory authorities, which filings can be found at www.sedar.com, or atwww.sec.gov.Actual results, events, and performance may differ materially. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. The Corporation undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward- looking statements either as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as requiredby applicable securities laws. Neither the Toronto Stock Exchange, its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Toronto Stock Exchange) nor the NASDAQ Stock Market, LLC accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.
SOURCE PyroGenesis Canada Inc.
For further information please contact: Rodayna Kafal, Vice President, IR/Comms. and Strategic BD Phone: (514) 937-0002, E-mail: [email protected]
Posted by AGORACOM-JC
at 8:00 AM on Thursday, April 1st, 2021
Appointed DGWA, the German Institute for Asset and Equity Allocation and Valuation (“Deutsche Gesellschaft für Wertpapieranalyse GmbH”, “DGWA”), a German investment banking boutique, as its Investor and Corporate Relations advisor in Europe, effective as April 1 st , 2021 for a period of twelve (12) months.
DGWA’s management team has a 25-year track record in trading, investing, and analyzing SMEs around the world.
Based in Frankfurt and Berlin, Germany, the company has been involved in more than 250 IPOs, financings, bond issues, dual listings, and corporate finance transactions as well as road shows and awareness campaigns.
MONTREAL, April 01, 2021 – PyroGenesis Canada Inc. (TSX: PYR) (NASDAQ: PYR) (FRA: 8PY) (the “Company” or “PyroGenesis”), a high-tech Company that designs, develops, manufactures and commercializes plasma atomized metal powder, environmentally friendly plasma waste-to-energy systems and clean plasma torch products, has appointed DGWA, the German Institute for Asset and Equity Allocation and Valuation (“Deutsche Gesellschaft für Wertpapieranalyse GmbH”, “DGWA”), a German investment banking boutique, as its Investor and Corporate Relations advisor in Europe, effective as April 1 st , 2021 for a period of twelve (12) months.
In consideration of the services to be provided, the Company has agreed to pay DGWA a monthly retainer fee payable on the 15 th business day (Germany) of each month. The Company may terminate the Agreement with DGWA, at any time, upon presentation of a forty-five (45) days’ notice. DGWA does not have any interest, directly or indirectly, in the Company or its securities, or any right or intent to acquire such an interest.
DGWA’s management team has a 25-year track record in trading, investing, and analyzing SMEs around the world. Based in Frankfurt and Berlin, Germany, the company has been involved in more than 250 IPOs, financings, bond issues, dual listings, and corporate finance transactions as well as road shows and awareness campaigns.
PyroGenesis has appointed DGWA to help increase awareness of PyroGenesis’ proprietary advanced plasma technology both within the European financial community as well as with the industry.
“We are delighted to be working with DGWA to increase our visibility within the European financial markets, and also raise awareness of our product offerings amongst potential clients in Europe,” said Mr. P. Peter Pascali, CEO and Chair of PyroGenesis. “Our sales growth and momentum in backlog, which should drive near-term profitability, paired with our commitment to green manufacturing while helping mining and metallurgical companies meet their carbon-neutrality goals, matches the expectations of sustainability conscious European investors and stakeholders.”
“We are excited to introduce the PyroGenesis investment opportunity and product offerings to European shareholders and industry players alike.”, adds Mr. Stefan Müller, CEO of DGWA. “The commitment of the company to sustainable development, paired with the booming demand in high-quality, stock exchange listed 3D printing companies are in the favour of growth driven retail as well as institutional investors in Europe.”
Posted by AGORACOM-JC
at 10:45 PM on Wednesday, March 31st, 2021
Revenues of $17,775,029, an increase of 269% over $4,813,978 posted in the prior year,
Net earnings and comprehensive income of $41,768,404 an increase of $50,939,521 over 2019,
Net earnings and comprehensive income from operations (before share-based expenses) of $2.9MM during fiscal year 2020 vs ($7.9MM) posted over the same period in 2019,
Gross margin of 58%, an increase of 21% year over year,
Cash and cash equivalents at December 31, 2020 of $18,104,899 (December 31, 2019: $34,431),
Backlog of signed contracts of $30MM,
Basic Earnings per Share (EPS) of $0.28 for 2020 as compared to ($0.07) in 2019,
Total Assets at December 31, 2020 of $74.5MM (December 31, 2019: $9.6MM),
Shareholders’ Equity at December 31, 2020 of $59.4MM (December 31, 2019: ($6.1MM)).
MONTREAL, March 31, 2021 — PyroGenesis Canada Inc. (http://pyrogenesis.com) (TSX: PYR) (NASDAQ: PYR) (FRA:8PY), a high-tech company, (the “Company”, the “Corporation” or “PyroGenesis”) that designs, develops, manufactures and commercializes plasma atomized metal powder, environmentally friendly plasma waste-to-energy systems and clean plasma torch products, is pleased to announce today its financial and operational results for the fourth quarter and fiscal year ended December 31 st , 2020.
“We are happy to announce Q4, and fiscal year end, results for the period ending December 31 st , 2020, which continue the historical trends began earlier in the year. Our full year revenues of $18MM reflects the successful processing of backlog from signed contracts previously disclosed. The Board’s choice of strategy has been validated with the reporting of the second profitable quarter in a row. Further validating this strategy, net income from operations (before share-based expenses) was $3.3MM for the year which is quite significant given the uncertain environment that 2020 was, and during which the Company not only retired virtually all of its debt, but also uplisted to the Toronto Stock Exchange and positioned itself for a NASDAQ listing in Q1 2021,” said Mr. P. Peter Pascali, CEO and Chair of PyroGenesis. “The successes of 2020, when combined with the results from our strategic investment, have contributed to a basic EPS of $0.16 for the quarter, and $0.28 for the year, both of which have exceeded previous guidance. With a strong balance sheet and approx. $27MM of cash-on-hand as at this writing, the Company is well positioned to execute on its strategy of growth and solidify its position as an emerging leader in the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, and as such, we expect these trends established in 2020 to continue.”
2020 results reflect the following highlights:
Revenues of $17,775,029, an increase of 269% over $4,813,978 posted in the prior year,
Net earnings and comprehensive income of $41,768,404 an increase of $50,939,521 over 2019,
Net earnings and comprehensive income from operations (before share-based expenses) of $2.9MM during fiscal year 2020 vs ($7.9MM) posted over the same period in 2019,
Gross margin of 58%, an increase of 21% year over year,
Cash and cash equivalents at December 31, 2020 of $18,104,899 (December 31, 2019: $34,431),
Backlog of signed contracts of $30MM,
Basic Earnings per Share (EPS) of $0.28 for 2020 as compared to ($0.07) in 2019,
Total Assets at December 31, 2020 of $74.5MM (December 31, 2019: $9.6MM),
Shareholders’ Equity at December 31, 2020 of $59.4MM (December 31, 2019: ($6.1MM)).
OUTLOOK
Given the success over the last 18 months, PyroGenesis is well positioned, with a clean balance sheet, and approx. $27 million cash-on-hand (as of this writing), to execute on all its organic growth strategies as well as actively pursuing growth through synergistic merger and acquisitions.
PyroGenesis has recently focused, and repositioned its offerings, to highlight the GHG emissions reduction benefits associated with the majority of its products. Interestingly enough, PyroGenesis’ product lines do not generally need to incorporate GHG/environmental benefits to make sense economically. In other words, they do not require GHG/environmental incentives (tax credits GHG certificates, environmental subsidies) to make sense from a business perspective. We believe these incentives will be a tailwind that will add directly to shareholder value.
We consider this repositioning to be timely as many governments around the world are considering stimulating their respective economies by promoting environmental technologies. As such, Management expects that this repositioning will result in increased revenues.
Organic Growth:
Organic growth will be spurred on by (i) the natural growth of our existing offerings which can now be accelerated given our strong balance sheet and (ii) leveraging off our “Golden Ticket” advantage.
We have described in the past our Golden Ticket advantage as one which occurs when one sells directly, or is engaged directly, with the end user and, as a result, is “inside the fence”. A Golden Ticket affords the opportunity to either, (i) cross sell other products or, ideally, (ii) identify new areas of concern that can be addressed uniquely by PyroGenesis. We call the latter our Coffee and Donuts strategy (if you are selling coffee you could generate additional revenues, with little additional effort, by adding on donuts).
Over the past several years, PyroGenesis has successfully positioned each of its business lines for rapid growth by strategically partnering with multi-billion-dollar entities. These entities have identified PyroGenesis’ offerings to be unique, in demand, and of such a commercial nature as to warrant such unique relationships. We expect that these relationships are now positioned to transition into significant revenue streams.
DROSRITE™
Within the DROSRITE™ offering, the Company is aggressively exploring horizontal growth opportunities. The Company is currently bidding on an RFQ, valued at approx. $40MM (estimated award date: within 4 months; estimated time to completion: approx. 15 months). Management notes that it has been very successful in the selection process to date, but does not yet consider it to be a high-probability outcome at this stage, and provides such as an example of its commitment to this strategy.
Additive Manufacturing
With respect to our Additive manufacturing offering, we expect to see significant year over year improvements in our 3D metal powders offering as our production kicks into gear by incorporating all the previously disclosed benefits (increased production rates, lower capex, lower opex) locked into our production line. There are major top tier aerospace companies and OEMs in both Europe and North America eagerly awaiting powders from this new state of the art production line. Whereas in the past we have been primarily targeting the very demanding Aerospace industry, we have recently expanded the target market to also address the unique needs of the electric vehicles marketplace who have recently approached us with their powder needs.
Plasma Torches
With respect to the Company’s plasma torch offerings, we expect this offering to be significantly impacted by continued developments in the iron ore pelletization industry, where serious consideration is being given to replacing the fossil fuel burners, currently being used throughout the industry, with PyroGenesis’ proprietary plasma torches, in an effort to reduce their carbon footprint.
To date, everything is proceeding as expected. Initial discussions have evolved into confirmation stages which typically consist of a computer simulation followed by a small torch order. These confirmation stages are expected, if successful, to result with a roll-out program to replace fossil fuel burners with PyroGenesis’ plasma torches in the iron ore pelletization industry, in which PyroGenesis is patent protected.
PyroGenesis is proactively targeting other industries which are experiencing significant pressure to reduce GHGs, and which utilize fossil fuel burners as well.
Separately, the Company also offers plasma torches to niche markets where there is a high probability of on-going sales from successful implementation. One such example is the previously announced contract with a small company to produce a plasma torch ideal for tunnelling. PyroGenesis is currently re-evaluating its relationship with respect to this opportunity as there may be evidence that the real plasma-based tunnelling opportunity could lie outside of the scope of the current agreement.
As sales of PyroGenesis’ plasma torches increase, the Company will also benefit from providing proprietary spare parts from which the Company expects to generate significant recurring revenue, thus complementing the Company’s long-term strategy to build upon a recuring revenue model.
HPQ/PUREVAP™
With respect to HPQ, the goal is expanding our role as HPQ technology provider for the game changing PUREVAP™ family of silicon processes which we are developing exclusively for HPQ and its wholly owned subsidiary HPQ Nano Silicon Powders Inc, namely:
The PUREVAP™ “Quartz Reduction Reactors” (QRR), an innovative process (patent pending), which should permit the one step transformation of lower purity quartz (SiO2) than any traditional processes can handle into a silicon (Si) of a higher purity level (2N-4N) that can be produced by any traditional smelter, at reduced costs, energy input, and carbon footprint. The unique capabilities of this process could position HPQ as a leading provider of the specialized silicon material needed to propagate its considerable renewable energy potential; and
The PUREVAP™ Nano Silicon Reactor (NSiR), which, if successful, could position itself as a new proprietary low-cost process that can transform the silicon (Si) made by the PUREVAP™ QRR into the nano-silicon materials (spherical silicon powders and silicon nanowires) sought after by energy storage, batteries, electric vehicle manufactures and clean hydrogen sectors participants. The aim of the ongoing work is to position HPQ NANO as the first to market with a commercial scale low-cost nanoparticle production system.
We expect 2021 to be a year in which significant development occurs on both these fronts.
Growth through Synergistic Mergers and Acquisitions:
As previously disclosed, the Company would conservatively consider a synergistic M&A strategy to augment its growth, and the Company has been very actively involved in pursuing several opportunities in support of this strategy. In so doing, the focus has been on private companies exclusively which (i) primarily leverage the Company’s Golden Ticket advantage/Coffee & Donuts strategy or (ii) could uniquely benefit from the Company’s engineering advantage and/or international relationships.
The Company expects to be announcing specific details over the next few weeks as these opportunities become more binding on the parties involved.
DROSRITE™
We expect to be able to announce within the next several weeks, the conclusion of a joint venture relationship with an existing and proven technology provider. The technology is geared to uniquely handle the residues resulting from the processing of dross in the aluminum industry. We had previously announced our intention to secure this technology and, if concluded, would not only make our traditional DROSRITE™ offering more appealing but could also be offered as a stand-alone product. We believe that valorizing the residues and producing high end products will further define us as the go-to company for all dross related processing. This is a prime example of our Coffee & Donuts strategy in play. For further clarity, the joint venture will only relate to the new technology and, as such, PyroGenesis will not have to vet in any assets, or IP (specifically not the DROSRITE™ technology).
Plasma Torches
PyroGenesis often considers opportunities to leverage its plasma expertise and has been reviewing a torch technology which could complement PyroGenesis’ existing offerings, and leverage off of our unique relationships. The Company gives this a very low probability of success given the initial valuation, provided by the sole owner, in the context of publicly available data. However, PyroGenesis has identified similar opportunities and will evaluate them in due course.
Complimentary
The Company expects to announce in the next several weeks details regarding its intent to enter the Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) market via acquisition. PyroGenesis believes that it is in a unique position to take advantage of the lack of sufficient players (given anticipated demand) in the RNG marketplace by leveraging its engineering capabilities & existing relationships.
In conclusion, PyroGenesis is well positioned in 2021 to take advantage of its unique position in its four main business offerings to accelerate growth in each, with a particular emphasis on offerings geared to aggressively reducing GHG emissions. Furthermore, we do not expect at this point in time, given our strong balance sheet, a need to raise capital to execute on our growth strategy over the foreseeable future.
Financial Summary
Revenues
PyroGenesis recorded revenues of $17,775,029 for the year ended December 31, 2020, representing an increase of 269% compared to $4,813,978 recorded in 2019.
Revenues recorded in fiscal 2020 were generated primarily from:
(i)
PUREVAP™ related sales of $4,163,059 (2019 – $525,556)
(ii)
DROSRITE™ related sales of $9,976,696 (2019 – $560,916)
(iii)
support services related to systems supplied to the US Military $1,425,883 (2019 – $637,841)
(iv)
torch related sales of $1,452,455 (2019 – $2,323,351)
(v)
other sales and services $756,936 (2019 – $766,314)
PUREVAP™ related sales includes revenue from the sale of technologies in the amount of $3,610,000.
Cost of Sales and Services and Gross Margins
Cost of sales and services before amortization of intangible assets was $7,445,171 in 2020, representing an increase of 113% compared to $3,495,753 in 2019, primarily due to an increase in subcontracting, direct materials, an increase in foreign exchange charge on materials offset by a decrease in employee compensation, and investment tax credits.
In 2020, employee compensation, manufacturing overhead & other decreased to $1,886,854 (2019 – $2,230,361). Of note, the Company in 2020 applied for an amount of $775,967 in wage subsidy from Revenue Canada under the CEWS “Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy” program. From this amount, $118,416 was applied to employee compensation under cost of sales and services. Subcontracting and direct materials increased to $5,429,175 (2019 – $1,471,226), primarily due to the increased amount of contract values.
The gross margin for 2020 was $10,302,668 or 58% of revenue compared to a gross margin of $1,298,092 or 27% of revenue for 2019. As a result of the type of contracts being executed, the nature of the project activity had a significant impact on the gross margin and the overall level of cost of sales and services reported in a period, as well as the composition of the cost of sales and services, as the mix between labour, materials and subcontracts may be significantly different. The cost of sales and services for 2020 and 2019 are in line with Management’s expectations. The gross margin includes the full effect of the sale of intellectual property and royalties of $3,610,000 in 2020. Excluding the effect of this revenue, the gross margin for 2020 would have been 47.2%.
Investment tax credits recorded against cost of sales are related to projects that qualify for tax credits from the provincial government of Quebec. Qualifying tax credits decreased to $18,420 in 2020, compared to $179,670 in 2019. The decrease is primarily related to fewer contracts being eligible for qualifying tax credits.
The amortization of intangible assets of $27,190 in 2020 and $20,133 for 2019 relates to patents and deferred development costs. Of note, these expenses are non-cash items and will be amortized over the duration of the patent lives.
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
Included within Selling, General and Administrative expenses (“SG&A”) are costs associated with corporate administration, business development, project proposals, operations administration, investor relations and employee training.
SG&A expenses for 2020 excluding the costs associated with share-based compensation (a non-cash item in which options vest principally over a four-year period), were $8,089,945, representing an increase of 34% compared to $6,017,091 reported for 2019.
The increase in SG&A expenses in 2020 over the same period in 2019 is mainly attributable to the net effect of:
(i)
an increase of 79% in employee compensation primarily due to additional head count, an increase in commissions, bonuses, offset by an amount of $504,339 received from Revenue Canada under the CEWS program.
(ii)
an increase of 14% for professional fees, primarily due to an increase in legal fees, public listing fees and patent expenses,
(iii)
an increase of 12% in office and general expenses, is primarily due to computer, internet, and security expenses,
(iv)
travel costs decreased by 71%, due to a decrease in travel abroad,
(v)
depreciation on property and equipment decreased by 63% due to lower amounts of property and equipment being depreciated,
(vi)
depreciation on right of use assets increased by 13% due to higher amounts of right of use assets being depreciated,
(vii)
investment tax credits were almost the same year to year, and include the recognition of investment tax credits in the amount of $30,000,
(viii)
government grants decreased by 4%, due to lower levels of activities supported by such grants,
(ix)
other expenses decreased by 8%, primarily due to an increase in advertising, interest and bank expenses,
(x)
the tax assessment in 2019, represents the amount due from a taxation audit for the period of 2008 to 2011. The Company paid royalties for the use of intangible property prior to the purchase of the asset. The royalties were subject to a 25% withholding tax that was not deducted or withheld by the Company at that time.
Separately, share based payments increased by $4,072,801 in 2020 over the same period in 2019 as a result of the stock options granted on July 16, 2020. This was directly impacted by the vesting structure of the stock option plan with options vesting between 25% and 50% on the grant date requiring an immediate recognition of that cost.
Research and Development (“R&D”) Costs
The Company incurred $775,824 of R&D costs less $1,033,412 of investment tax credits which reduce income taxes payable in current year less $24,605 of investment tax credit refund from previous year, less $83,451 of 2020 eligible investment tax credits, less government grants of $365,433 totaling a net R&D cost of ($731,077), on internal projects in 2020, a decrease of 186% compared to $851,512 in 2019. The decrease in 2020 is primarily related to an increase of labor resources allocated to non research and development contracts.
In addition to internally funded R&D projects, the Company also incurred R&D expenditures during the execution of client funded projects. These expenses are eligible for Scientific Research and experimental Development (“SR&ED”) tax credits. SR&ED tax credits on client funded projects are applied against cost of sales and services (see “Cost of Sales” above).
Net Finance Costs
Finance costs for 2020 totaled $524,074 as compared with $1,237,504 for 2019, representing a decrease of 58% year-over-year. The decrease in finance costs, is primarily attributable to the extinguishment of all term loans, other loans, and convertible debentures in 2020.
Strategic Investments
The adjustment to the fair market value of strategic investments in 2020 resulted in a gain of $44,626,698 compared to a gain in the amount of $176,237 in 2019, representing an increase of $44,450,461. The increase is primarily attributable to the increased market share value of common shares and warrants owned by the Company of HPQ Silicon Resources Inc.
Net Earnings and Comprehensive Income (Loss)
(i)
an increase in product and service-related revenue of $12,961,051 arising in 2020,
(ii)
an increase in cost of sales and services totaling $3,956,475, primarily due to higher subcontract costs, and direct materials as a result of an increase in contracts in 2020,
(iii)
an increase in SG&A expenses not including share-based expenses of $2,072,854 arising in 2020 primarily due an increase in employee commissions and bonuses,
(iv)
a decrease in R&D expenses of $1,582,589 primarily related the recognition of investment tax credits in 2020 and prior years in the amount of $1,141,468 which include amounts that reduce Canadian income taxes payable in 2020 and an amount of $365,433 in government grants,
(v)
a decrease of $1,981,410 in 2020 due to impairment of a Plasma Atomization 2019. The Company commenced construction on a new and improved Plasma Powder Production equipment,
(vi)
a decrease of $386,121 in 2020 due to the write off, of powders and raw materials inventory in 2019,
(vii)
an increase in share-based expense of $4,072,801,
(viii)
an increase in changes in fair market value of strategic investments and net finance costs of $45,163,891,
(ix)
an increase in income taxes of $1,033,412
EBITDA
The EBITDA in 2020 was $43,824,533 compared to an EBITDA loss of $7,384,862 for 2019, representing an increase of 693% year-over-year. The increase in the EBITDA in 2020 compared to 2019 is due to the increase in net earnings and comprehensive income of $50,939,520, offset by a decrease in depreciation on property and equipment of $105,717, an increase in depreciation on right-of-use assets of $48,552, an increase in amortization of intangible assets of $7,057, a decrease in finance charges of $713,431 and an increase in income taxes of $1,033,412.
Adjusted EBITDA in 2020 was $48,069,141 compared to an Adjusted EBITDA loss of $4,845,524 for 2019. The increase of $52,914,665 in the Adjusted EBITDA in 2020 is attributable to an increase in EBITDA of $51,209,395, an increase of $4,072,801 in share-based payments, a decrease in inventory write-off of $386,121, and a decrease in equipment write-off of $1,981,410.
The Modified EBITDA in 2020 was $3,442,443 compared to a Modified EBITDA loss of $5,021,761 for 2019, representing an increase of 169%. The increase in the Modified EBITDA in 2020 is attributable to the increase as mentioned above in the Adjusted EBITDA of $52,914,665 and an increase in chance of fair value of investments of $44,450,461.
Liquidity
As at December 31, 2020, the Company has cash and cash equivalents of $18,104,899. In addition, the accounts payable and accrued liabilities of $4,708,051 are payable within 12 months. The Company expects that its cash position will be able to finance its operations for the foreseeable future.
On November 3, 2020, the Company closed a bought-deal short form prospectus offering of 3,354,550 units at a price of $3.60 per unit for aggregate gross proceeds to the Company of $12,076,380, including the full exercise of the over-allotment option. In connection with the offering, the Company paid $1,934,154 in cash and issued 191,414 compensation options. Each compensation option entitles the holder thereof to purchase one unit at a price of $3.60 until November 10, 2022. Each unit is comprised of one common share of the Company and one-half of one common share purchase warrant of the company. Each warrant entitles the holder to purchase one additional common share at an exercise price of $4.50 for a period of 24 months.
At December 31, 2020, there have not been any material uses of the proceeds received from the offering.
About PyroGenesis Canada Inc.
PyroGenesis Canada Inc., a high-tech company, is a leader in the design, development, manufacture and commercialization of advanced plasma processes and products. The Company provides its engineering and manufacturing expertise and its turnkey process equipment packages to customers in the defense, metallurgical, mining, advanced materials (including 3D printing), and environmental industries. With a team of experienced engineers, scientists and technicians working out of its Montreal office and its 3,800 m 2 and 2,940 m 2 manufacturing facilities, PyroGenesis maintains its competitive advantage by remaining at the forefront of technology development and commercialization. The Company’s core competencies allow PyroGenesis to provide innovative plasma torches, plasma waste processes, high-temperature metallurgical processes, and engineering services to the global marketplace. PyroGenesis’ operations are ISO 9001:2015 and AS9100D certified. For more information, please visit www.pyrogenesis.com .
This press release contains certain forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements containing the words “may”, “plan”, “will”, “estimate”, “continue”, “anticipate”, “intend”, “expect”, “in the process” and other similar expressions which constitute “forward- looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements reflect the Corporation’s current expectation and assumptions and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties including, but not limited to, our expectations regarding the acceptance of our products by the market, our strategy to develop new products and enhance the capabilities of existing products, our strategy with respect to research and development, the impact of competitive products and pricing, new product development, and uncertainties related to the regulatory approval process. Such statements reflect the current views of the Corporation with respect to future events and are subject to certain risks and uncertainties and other risks detailed from time-to-time in the Corporation’s ongoing filings with the securities regulatory authorities, which filings can be found at www.sedar.com, or atwww.sec.gov.Actual results, events, and performance may differ materially. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. The Corporation undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward- looking statements either as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as requiredby applicable securities laws. Neither the Toronto Stock Exchange, its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Toronto Stock Exchange) nor the NASDAQ Stock Market, LLC accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.
Posted by AGORACOM-JC
at 6:05 PM on Monday, March 15th, 2021
Announced that it has elected to exercise its right under the common share purchase warrant indenture dated November 10, 2020, between the Company and AST Trust Company (Canada) (the “Warrant Agent”), to accelerate the expiry date of the common share purchase warrants of the Company (the “Warrants”) issued under the Warrant Indenture.
The Warrants were issued on November 10, 2020, in connection with the bought-deal short form prospectus offering of units of the Company, of which each unit was comprised of one common share of the Company and one-half of one Warrant.
MONTREAL, March 15, 2021 — PyroGenesis Canada Inc. ( http://pyrogenesis.com ) (TSX: PYR) (NASDAQ: PYR) (FRA: 8PY), (the “Company” or “PyroGenesis”), a Company that designs, develops, manufactures and commercializes plasma atomized metal powder, environmentally friendly plasma waste-to-energy systems and clean plasma torch products, today announced that it has elected to exercise its right under the common share purchase warrant indenture (the “Warrant Indenture”) dated November 10, 2020, between the Company and AST Trust Company (Canada) (the “Warrant Agent”), to accelerate the expiry date of the common share purchase warrants of the Company (the “Warrants”) issued under the Warrant Indenture. The Warrants were issued on November 10, 2020, in connection with the bought-deal short form prospectus offering of units of the Company, of which each unit was comprised of one common share of the Company and one-half of one Warrant.
Under the Warrant Indenture, the Company has the right to accelerate the expiry date of the Warrants to the date that is 30 days after delivery of a notice (the “Acceleration Notice”) to the holders of Warrants and the Warrant Agent confirming that the volume weighted average trading price of the Company’s common shares on the Toronto Stock Exchange is greater than $6.75 for 20 consecutive trading days (the “VWAP Requirement”). The VWAP Requirement was met as of close of business March 10, 2021. The Warrants will now expire at 5:00 p.m. (Toronto time) on April 14, 2021 (the “New Expiry Date”). Warrants that have not been exercised prior to the New Expiry Date will expire unexercised and will automatically be void and of no effect whatsoever. The Company has delivered the Acceleration Notice as required by the Warrant Indenture.
Each Warrant entitles the holder thereof to purchase one additional common share of the Company at an exercise price of $4.50 prior to the New Expiry Date. If all the Warrants were exercised as of the date hereof, the gross proceeds to the Company would be approximately $5.2 million. As of the date hereof, assuming all the Warrants were exercised, the Company’s cash on hand would be approximately $33.5 million.
For further clarification, 1,677,275 Warrants were issued on December 10, 2020. Since that time, 520,472 Warrants were exercised, leaving a balance of 1,156,803 Warrants outstanding as of today.
Questions concerning acceleration of the Warrant expiry date and the exercise of the Warrants can be directed to AST Trust Company (Canada), 1 Toronto Street, Suite 1200, Toronto, Ontario, M5C 2V6, Canada.
Posted by AGORACOM-JC
at 4:44 PM on Wednesday, March 10th, 2021
Company’s application to list its common shares on the NASDAQ Capital Market has been approved.
Trading will commence tomorrow, Thursday, March 11 th , 2021, at the opening, under the ticker symbol “PYR”.
The last day of trading on the OTCQB will be today, Wednesday, March 10 th , 2021, and the Shares will cease trading on the OTCQB at the close today.
NASDAQ is the second largest exchange by market capitalization worldwide, and is home to many of the world’s best technology companies.
MONTREAL, March 10, 2021 — PyroGenesis Canada Inc. (http://pyrogenesis.com) (TSX: PYR) (NASDAQ: PYR) (FRA: 8PY), (the “Company”, the “Corporation” or “PyroGenesis”) a Company that designs, develops, manufactures and commercializes plasma atomized metal powder, plasma waste-to-energy systems and plasma torch products, is pleased to announce today that, further to its Press Releases dated February 18 th , 2021, and that of earlier today, the Company’s application to list its common shares (“Shares”) on the NASDAQ Capital Market (“NASDAQ”) has been approved. Trading will commence tomorrow, Thursday, March 11 th , 2021, at the opening, under the ticker symbol “PYR”. The last day of trading on the OTCQB will be today, Wednesday, March 10 th , 2021, and the Shares will cease trading on the OTCQB at the close today. NASDAQ is the second largest exchange by market capitalization worldwide, and is home to many of the world’s best technology companies.
“This is an exciting milestone for the Company, and one that we have been considering and working towards for quite some time,” said Mr. P. Peter Pascali, CEO and Chair of PyroGenesis. “We are proud to have qualified as a NASDAQ member and we look forward to trading on this prestigious platform. The Company’s Shares will now be listed on two major exchanges, and we expect that this will not only further increase PyroGenesis’ visibility within the financial community but will also increase awareness of our product offerings amongst potential clients.”
In connection with this listing, the Company announces that, in order to maintain the overall independence of the Board of Directors (the “Board”), Mr. Michael Blank tendered his resignation as a Director and member of the Audit Committee effective today in favor of continuing as acting-CFO of the Company. His resignation was accepted by the Chair, on behalf of the Board.
Furthermore, the Company is also pleased to announce that the Board has formed two new committees: (i) a Compensation Committee, that is responsible for overseeing executive compensation, and (ii) a Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee that is responsible for overseeing the director & officer nomination process, as well as developing and monitoring PyroGenesis’ corporate governance.
Both committees are comprised of independent directors. The Compensation Committee is chaired by Mr. Robert Radin, and the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee is chaired by Dr. Virendra Jha.
In addition, Mr. Ben Naccarato has been appointed by the Board to serve as a member on both the Audit Committee, and the Compensation Committee, effective immediately.
As previously disclosed, no concurrent financings nor a reverse stock split are taking place with this listing.
PyroGenesis maintains the listing of its Shares on the TSX and will now trade on both exchanges under the ticker symbol “PYR.”
Posted by AGORACOM-JC
at 10:52 AM on Monday, February 22nd, 2021
Announced today that Mr. P. Peter Pascali, CEO and Chair of PyroGenesis, has been invited to present at the prestigious 7 th Annual Gabelli & Company Waste Services Symposium being held virtually on Thursday, March 18th. Mr. Pascali will be presenting at 1:45pm ET.
MONTREAL, Feb. 22, 2021 — PyroGenesis Canada Inc. (http://pyrogenesis.com) (TSX: PYR) (OTCQB: PYRNF) (FRA: 8PY), (the “Company”, the “Corporation” or “PyroGenesis”) a Company that designs, develops, manufactures and commercializes plasma atomized metal powder, plasma waste-to-energy systems and plasma torch products, is pleased to announce today that Mr. P. Peter Pascali, CEO and Chair of PyroGenesis, has been invited to present at the prestigious 7 th Annual Gabelli & Company Waste Services Symposium being held virtually on Thursday, March 18th. Mr. Pascali will be presenting at 1:45pm ET.
“It is indeed an honor to be asked again to present at this distinguished conference,” said Mr. P. Peter Pascali, CEO & Chair of PyroGenesis. “I look forward to the event, and presenting to both existing and prospective investors, as well as to members of the environmental services industry.”