Same-store sales rose 4.9% over the period.

Oliver’s Real Foodposted a statutory net profit after tax of $995k for the first half of FY2026, up $1.8m from the same period last year.

Revenue fell 4.7% to $12.3m, mainly due to the closure of underperforming stores, but the company reported stronger underlying earnings.

Same-store sales rose 4.9% over the period, driven by improved in-store execution, targeted promotions, and a greater focus on the customer experience.

Cost control and operational efficiency were the key focus. Total expenses were significantly lower than last year, reflecting a smaller store network, lower labour and occupancy costs, and ongoing overhead reductions.

As a result, EBIT turned positive at $711k, compared with a loss of $158k the previous year, and EBITDA rose 64% to $1.73m.

The board noted cautious optimism for the rest of FY2026.

Same-store sales from 1 January to 23 February grew 4.75%, and the company said the streamlined cost structure provides a basis for continued earnings growth.