KUALA LUMPUR: Empire Premium Food Bhd, the owner-operator behind Malaysia’s largest sushi chain Empire Sushi, saw its net profits increase 26.3 per cent quarter-on-quarter to RM13.7 million for the second quarter ended Sept 30, 2026 (Q2 FY27).
The higher earnings, which strip out one-off listing expenses, were supported by an expanding net profit margin of 16.2 per cent, up from 14.8 per cent previously, the group said in a statement.
For the quarter under review, Empire posted a revenue of RM85.2 million, 0.6 per cent higher than the preceding quarter’s RM84.7 million.
On an unadjusted basis, PAT surged 26.2 per cent quarter-on-quarter to RM13.7 million, underpinned by disciplined cost management and operational efficiency.
Gross profit margin improved to 42 per cent, aided by tighter control over direct staff costs and raw material purchases.
For the cumulative six months ended Sept 30, 2026 (1H FY27), the group recorded a 25.1 per cent year-on-year rise in revenue to RM169.9 million. First-half PAT rose 19.5 per cent to RM24.5 million from RM20.5 million, while adjusted PAT stood at RM26.3 million after excluding one-off listing costs.
The board declared a first interim single-tier dividend of 0.67 sen per share—amounting to RM7.4 million—payable on Dec 8.
The group maintains a robust balance sheet, closing the quarter with cash and cash equivalents of RM235.8 million and zero borrowings.
Network expansion on track
Empire expanded its retail footprint by opening five new outlets during the quarter, bringing its total network to 156 outlets across 13 states and two federal territories as of Sept 30. The network comprises 138 grab-and-go kiosks and 18 quick dine-in outlets.
Looking ahead, Empire is targeting approximately 165 outlets by March 31, 2027. The expansion will place particular emphasis on strengthening its presence in Sabah and Sarawak, alongside assessing locations with heavy foot traffic and tourism appeal.
Empire Premium Food Chief Executive Officer Nicole Lim said the second-quarter performance highlighted the strength of Empire Sushi’s operating model, driven by continuous focus on outlet productivity, operational efficiency, and cost discipline.
“As we expand our network, our priority is not merely to increase the number of outlets, but to maximise the earnings potential of each location,” Lim said.
“We remain focused on enhancing our product offerings, encouraging higher customer spending and strengthening customer engagement to support sustainable organic growth.”
She added that the group sees opportunities to solidify its market footprint through selective expansion into underserved markets, drawing upon its scalable business model, established brand, and strong balance sheet.