Latest Consumer Discretionary News

Burger Fuel Group posted a 92% surge in net profit to NZ$1.97 million for FY26, driven by steady system sales growth, a one-off store sale gain, and reduced legal expenses, while geopolitical instability in the Middle East weighs on international sales.

Schoolblazer Group has consolidated its fragmented debt into a $110 million multi-currency facility with Westpac, providing significant headroom for growth and lowering its cost of debt.

Whitefield Industrials delivered a $21.1 million net profit for FY2026, upheld its long-standing dividend track record, and outperformed its benchmark despite geopolitical tensions and market volatility.

Marlin Global’s portfolio lagged the broader market in May 2026, weighed down by semiconductor underexposure and near-term revenue challenges in key holdings, while AI-focused stocks powered a narrow rally.

Collins Foods has expanded its German presence by acquiring eight KFC restaurants in Bavaria, increasing its portfolio by 50% and strengthening its growth strategy in Europe.

Cooks Coffee Company reported a 22.8% jump in group store sales and a 27% rise in normalised EBITDA for FY26, driven by strong UK and Ireland growth and new international franchise agreements.

Guzman y Gomez has abruptly exited the US market, citing financial underperformance despite brand progress, while reaffirming strong Australian growth and international franchise confidence.

Whitefield Industrials reported a 5.6% drop in net profit to $21.1 million for FY2026 but maintained its fully franked dividend at 10.5 cents per share, while its portfolio outperformed the ASX200 Industrials benchmark over one and three years.

Marlin Global delivered a 4.0% gross portfolio return in April 2026, driven by strong gains in AI-focused tech stocks like Amazon and Alphabet. However, its cautious stance on semiconductors limited upside amid a sector rally.

Merino & Co. reported Q3 FY26 revenue of A$441,558 with new domestic and China purchase orders supporting its growth strategy, while cash reserves fell to A$654,282 due to investments in production and marketing.

KMD Brands has wrapped up a fully underwritten entitlement offer and placement, raising NZ$65.3 million to reduce net debt and shore up its balance sheet ahead of executing its growth plans.

ECP Emerging Growth Limited’s portfolio plunged 19.4% in the March quarter, dragging its net tangible asset value down by nearly 30%, as growth stocks stumbled amid geopolitical tensions and rising rates. The fund added furniture retailer Koala Company and sees value in its resilient holdings despite the rough patch.