Record profits for Farsons as food businesses spin off into new company

Simonds Farsons Cisk plc has reported a record profit of €18.6 million and declared a total dividend of €0.20 per share, following a year the company described as one of “strategic importance” during its Annual General Meeting held Thursday.

Shareholders were updated on a historic milestone for the Group — the spin-off of its food businesses into a newly listed company, Quinco Holdings plc. Through a dividend in kind, shareholders will now also receive shares in the new entity, which comprises Quintano Foods Limited and Food Chain Limited.

Chairman Louis A. Farrugia said the move would allow each business “to pursue focused growth under distinct leadership,” echoing the success of the Trident Estates spin-off in 2018. “This strategic reorganisation is designed to unlock value and streamline operations,” Farrugia added.

Group CEO Norman Aquilina said the record profit reflected a 22% increase over the previous year, with the beverage segment growing by 5.5% and showing strong performance across all categories. Export revenues rose by over 22%, boosted by growth in Italy and the Middle East, and new franchise partnerships in Ghana and Australia.

The Group also made strategic investments in logistics and digital infrastructure, enhancing service quality and operational efficiency.

In the food segment, Farsons continued to expand its Burger King and KFC networks while rationalising Pizza Hut outlets. Progress also continued on the construction of a major logistics centre in Handaq, expected to be completed by 2026 — a key pillar supporting Quinco Holdings’ future growth.

The board declared a final dividend of €0.14 per share, bringing the total dividend for the year to €0.20, representing a 39% payout of post-tax profits.

As Farsons approaches its 100th anniversary, the Group reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening core operations and delivering long-term value for shareholders.