Latest Franchising News

Marlin Global's portfolio delivered a 2.0% gross return in Q2 2026, driven by rebounds in ICON and semiconductor holdings, but lagged a strong US market rally led by AI and chip stocks.

Dimerix has acquired DMX-652, a Phase 2-ready oral drug candidate targeting acute kidney injury, expanding its renal disease portfolio. The acquisition includes patent rights, an FDA-approved trial protocol, and funding to initiate clinical development.

Peter Warren Automotive’s planned acquisition of Wakeling Automotive hits a regulatory and timing impasse as vendors refuse to extend the deal’s Sunset Date despite ACCC application adjustments.

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.

Cooks Coffee lifted UK and Ireland store sales 22.8% to NZ$95.8 million in FY26, with EBITDA up 14% to NZ$1.39 million. Despite operational growth and debt reduction, net liabilities and liquidity pressures raise material going concern doubts.

Cooks Coffee posted a 22.8% jump in UK and Ireland store sales for FY26, driving a 27% lift in normalised EBITDA. The company confirmed new store openings in Dubai and India, signalling a push into fast-growing international markets.

Vinyl Group has completed its acquisition of Time Out Australia, securing exclusive rights to the brand and expanding its media reach across digital and events platforms.

Kip McGrath Education Centres has revised down its FY26 guidance following weaker-than-expected second-half revenue and earnings, driven by falling lesson numbers and a strong Australian dollar.

Streamplay’s Noodlecake Studios has inked a milestone-based publishing deal with Sequence Break for Project DS, a premium co-op game targeting PC and consoles in 2027. This marks a strategic expansion beyond mobile adaptations into full-cycle premium publishing.

Vinyl Group has acquired Time Out Australia from Time Out England for nominal consideration, boosting its digital audience reach to 55% of Australians and completing a $2.4 million placement to fund integration. The acquisition is expected to be earnings accretive in FY27, reinforcing Vinyl's position as a leading cultural media platform.

Retail Food Group (ASX:RFG) reports accelerated cost rationalisation lifting FY26 savings estimates, yet trims EBITDA guidance amid softening sales and tough retail conditions. The first Firehouse Subs restaurant launch remains on track for June 2026.

Kelsian’s Transit Systems West has locked in a two-year extension for Sydney’s Region 6 bus services, adding $500 million in revenue and advancing its electric bus fleet rollout.