Americana Restaurants delivered a strong performance in the first half of 2026
Americana Restaurants delivers strong H1 2026 performance with 12.1% Revenue growth and 59.2% Net Income growth
• Revenue grew +12.1% to $1,364.5m in H1 2026 supported by +6.3% like-for-like sales growth and continued network expansion
• EBITDA increased +26.7% to $348.2m with EBITDA margin expanding +290bps to 25.5% reflecting operating leverage and effective cost management
• Net Income attributable to shareholders increased +59.2% to $147.2m with Net Income margin expanding +320bps to 10.8%
• Free Cash Flow increased +44.5% to $160.0m
• The company added 108 net new restaurants in the last 12 months, taking its total footprint to 2,746 restaurants as on 30 June 2026
Americana Restaurants International PLC (“Americana Restaurants” or the “Company”) (ADX symbol: AMR/ ISIN: AEE01135A222) (Saudi Stock Exchange symbol: 6015), the largest restaurant operator in the Middle East, North Africa and Kazakhstan, today announced strong financial results for the six months ended 30 June 2026, delivering double-digit growth across revenue, EBITDA and net profit.
Strong revenue growth across key markets
Americana Restaurants delivered a strong performance in the first half of 2026, with double-digit revenue growth across its key markets.
Revenue increased by 12.1% year-on-year to $1,364.5m, underpinned by 6.3% like-for-like sales growth and continued restaurant network expansion.
Like-for-like sales growth was supported by the introduction of locally relevant offerings that resonated with regional consumer tastes, together with a balanced approach between premium menu innovation and an enhanced value offering.
Authentic and engaging campaigns, combined with creator partnerships and localized content, strengthened customer engagement and brand relevance across the Company's markets.
Americana’s resilient operations and supply chain network ensured seamless service and product availability to its customers.
Significant margin expansion and earnings growth
Gross profit margin expanded by approximately 270 basis points year-on-year, as higher input costs arising from the current geopolitical situation were more than offset by strategic procurement initiatives, successful premium menu offerings and leverage of high sales growth.
EBITDA margin expanded by 290 basis points to 25.5% and Net profit margin expanded 320 basis to 10.8% driven by operating leverage from higher sales, disciplined restaurant level and corporate overhead costs and improved unit economics of Home Delivery channel.
Strong cash flow conversion
Free cash flow increased by 44.5% year-on-year to $160.0 million. Cash conversion stood at 70%, reflecting strong underlying profitability and working-capital optimization.
Interim Dividend and shareholder commitment
In line with the Company’s capital allocation framework and commitment to delivering value to its shareholders, the Board of Directors has approved an interim cash dividend of $100.8 million (equivalent to $0.012 per share) for the period ending 30th June 2026.
Strategic portfolio development
Following the completion of the KSA acquisition on 9 July 2026, integration and expansion of Malak Al Tawouk in UAE, Saudi Arabia, and other markets progressing well. This acquisition strengthens Americana Restaurants’ presence in the Arabic category and provides a platform for further growth.
The Company has entered a strategic partnership with ADNOC Distribution, offering preferential access to 200 high traffic restaurant locations over the next five years.
Successful launch of carpo in Qatar marked Americana Restaurants’ entry into premium retail category.
Management outlook
Americana Restaurants enters the second half of 2026 with positive business momentum and a strong financial position. Management remains focused on delivering sustainable, profitable growth across its markets, underpinned by the following priorities:
• Like-for-like sales growth: based on current trading conditions, management expects to deliver mid-single-digit like-for-like sales growth for the full year
• Strong Margins: continued operating leverage, procurement efficiencies and cost discipline are expected to support strong margins with full year net profit margin projected to improve by 100 to 150 basis points over previous year
• Continued Store expansion: The Company expects to add 120-130 net new stores to its portfolio by the end of this year