Ardmore mine owner Centrex says it is focused on generating larger and more frequent phosphate shipments as its Stage 1.5 expansion steams ahead.

The company reported a successful shipment of about 10,000t of beneficiated phosphate concentrate to an Asian customer out of Townsville departing May 7.

Its next planned shipment is scheduled for May 17, to be followed by a record shipment of about 25,000t of beneficiated phosphate concentrate scheduled for late June.

Centrex projects achieving sales of more than 55,000t of beneficiated phosphate concentrate for Q2 CY2024.

The planned sharp increase in quarter-on-quarter sales growth is underpinned by the company’s ongoing Stage 1.5 expansion activities at Ardmore in North-West Queensland, which are expected to translate into significant improvements in the its operating margins.

“Increasing both the size and frequency of our beneficiated phosphate concentrate sales is essential to transforming Ardmore into a highly cashflow-positive asset for the company,” chief executive officer and managing director Robert Mencel said.

“The company hit a new record for its production numbers in April which is a direct result of the team’s focus on production ramp up.

“Projected sales for the remainder of CY2024 continue to be underpinned by the Stage 1.5 expansion works that are currently underway, which remains on budget and on schedule.

“I look forward to keeping all stakeholders updated during this pivotal phase for Ardmore, as the Company transitions towards becoming a significant supplier of beneficiated phosphate concentrate in the Asia Pacific region.”