In terms of individual performance, in the first nine months of 2021 all the brands on all three markets of activity improved their performance compared to the same period of 2020 – CFF (Taco Bell) sales grew 75%, USFN Moldova (KFC Moldova) by 54%, USFN Romania (KFC Romania) by 48%, USFN Italy (KFC Italy) by 36% and ARS (Pizza Hut) by 25%.
In 3Q/2021, the group’s consolidated sales reached RON284.2 million, up 44% from the same period of last year. Sales generated in Romania contributed to 88% of this result, amounting to RON 642.6 million, followed by Italy bringing in the contribution of 11% amid sales of RON 77.3 million while Moldova generated 1% of total sales, in the amount of RON 8.8 million.
“The third quarter was excellent for Sphera Franchise Group,” says Calin Ionescu, general manager of Shera.
In terms of split per brand, in Q3 2021, KFC brought revenues in the total amount of RON 243.4 million, Pizza Hut – RON 26.7 million and Taco Bell RON 14 million.
As the G&A expenses increased 21% reaching RON 13.1 million, operating profit in Q3 2021 amounted to RON 21.9 million, a 26% increase compared to Q3 2020. Finance costs doubled due to FX negative impact, reaching RON 2 million, while financial income registered a decrease of 12%, reaching RON 0.8 million lei. Consequently, the Group ended Q3 2021 with an EBITDA of RON 32.1 million, +21% (normalized EBITDA of RON 29.8 million, +11% y-o-y), gross profit of RON 20 million, +22%, and a bottom line of RON 22.9, +30%.
“We are confident, but more cautious with regard to 4Q outlook. Nevertheless, even with slightly adjusted forecasts for this year, we expect to hit a historical threshold of RON1 billion, a new benchmark for Sphera Franchise Group,” says Valentin Budes, Sphera financial manager.
(English version by Catalina Apostoiu)