Simbisa Brands Limited delivered a resilient performance for the year ended 30 June 2026, with revenue growing 19.8% to US$367.2 million, up from US$306.5 million in the prior year.
The Group said growth was driven by an 11% increase in customer volumes and an 8% increase in average spend, reflecting stronger value offerings, improved food quality and better service.
During the year, Simbisa opened a net 29 new stores, closing with 759 outlets across its markets, while 25 stores were refurbished.
Zimbabwe remained the anchor market, contributing 72% of Group revenue. Revenue in Zimbabwe grew 23% on the back of a record 53.6 million customers, an 11% increase year-on-year, with delivery orders surging 75%. Operating profit in Zimbabwe rose 39% despite US$2.1 million paid in Fast-Food Tax, higher employee costs and elevated energy expenses.
Kenya posted 11% revenue growth, with customer volumes up 14% and delivery orders up 59%. Operating profit grew 16% on disciplined cost management. The market closed the year with 257 stores after a net addition of 5 stores.
Eswatini recorded 24% revenue growth, supported by 10% customer growth, while franchised markets in the DRC, Zambia, Malawi, Ghana, Mauritius and Namibia added a net 4 counters to reach 130 stores.
Overall, operating profit before impairment, depreciation and amortisation rose 27.8% to US$58.1 million, profit before tax increased 36.2% to US$31.9 million, and headline earnings grew 45.5% to US$24.0 million, with headline earnings per share at 4.33 US cents. Cash generated from operating activities was up 27.1% to US$65.2 million.
The company declared a final dividend of 0.622 US cents per share, taking the total dividend for the year to 1.556 US cents, up 45%. The final dividend will be payable on or about 6 November 2026 to shareholders on record at the close of business on 16 October 2026. The last day to trade cum-dividend is 14 October 2026, with ex-dividend on 15 October 2026.
Looking ahead, Simbisa said it enters FY2027 with strong customer momentum and a stronger operating base, although consumer spending is expected to remain constrained. The Group will continue to focus on value, food quality and service, while investing in delivery, digital ordering, drive-thru formats and selective expansion and refurbishments.
It warned that elevated taxation, rising employee costs, input inflation and climate-related risks will continue to pressure margins, requiring continued discipline on procurement, production and operating costs, alongside supply chain resilience and selective investment in alternative energy.
The company said its strong brands and customer-focused strategy provide a solid foundation for continued profitable growth and long-term value creation.
