Super Retail Group Reports 2.6% Like-for-Like Sales Growth in FY26 Start

Steady Start to FY26 for Super Retail Group

Super Retail Group has delivered a measured but positive start to the 2026 financial year, reporting a 2.6% increase in like-for-like sales and a 4.5% rise in total sales across its portfolio in the first 16 weeks. This update, shared at the company’s annual general meeting, highlights a mix of steady growth and operational challenges across its key retail brands.

Brand-by-Brand Performance

Supercheap Auto continues to build on momentum from the previous half, driven by strong sales in automotive categories such as filtration, braking, and wipers. This steady performance is a positive sign for the group’s largest brand, reflecting ongoing consumer demand for vehicle maintenance products.

Meanwhile, rebel’s sales tell a more nuanced story. The sports retailer has faced variable demand, with softness in football and basketball offset by robust growth in footwear. Encouragingly, momentum appears to be improving as October progresses, suggesting a potential rebound heading into the peak summer season.

BCF’s performance was dampened by a softer Father’s Day campaign, adverse weather in New South Wales, and environmental issues such as the algal bloom in South Australia. However, the brand is showing signs of recovery with steady improvements noted in October, which will be critical as it approaches its key summer trading period.

Macpac stands out with double-digit like-for-like growth since the last update in August, bolstered by strong sales momentum and contributions from recently opened stores. This performance underscores Macpac’s growing appeal in the outdoor and adventure retail segment.

Margins and Strategic Initiatives

The group’s gross margin remains broadly stable compared to the prior year, a reassuring sign amid ongoing economic uncertainty. Super Retail Group has also launched a new loyalty program, Spend & Get, at Supercheap Auto. This initiative aims to deepen customer engagement and increase share of wallet, while maintaining promotional flexibility and a neutral impact on margins.

Looking Ahead

Despite signs of improving macroeconomic conditions, the group remains cautious about consumer spending patterns. Interim CEO David Burns emphasised that the first half results will heavily depend on the upcoming Christmas trading period and the cyber sales event, which will be critical in shaping the group’s trajectory for the remainder of the year.