Irish operations boost SPAR Group performance

SPAR Group said difficult market conditions in South Africa, coupled with higher operating costs and challenges within parts of its supply chain, impacted profitability during the first half of the year

BWG Foods continued to deliver growth as South African parent SPAR Group reported weaker earnings

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Read More: BWG Foods South Africa spar

BWG Foods, the Irish wholesale and retail business behind SPAR, EUROSPAR, Mace, Londis and XL, has once again proven a bright spot for its South African parent as SPAR Group recently reported a significant decline in earnings in its latest financial results.

The South African retailer warned that headline earnings per share for the six months to the end of March are expected to fall by between 50% and 60%, reflecting a challenging trading environment, ongoing operational issues and increased costs across its core market.

Against this backdrop, the group’s Irish business delivered a much stronger performance.

Record revenue growth

BWG Foods recorded revenue growth of 3.4% during the period, underlining the resilience of the Irish convenience and grocery market and the strength of its retailer network.

Ireland has become an increasingly important part of SPAR’s international portfolio in recent years.

BWG Foods operates more than 1,000 stores nationwide across its retail brands, while also supplying a wide range of independent retailers and foodservice customers.

The performance of the Irish operation helped offset some of the pressures faced by the wider group, where consumer spending remains under strain and competition within the grocery sector continues to intensify.

SPAR Group said difficult market conditions in South Africa, coupled with higher operating costs and challenges within parts of its supply chain, impacted profitability during the first half of the year.

The company is now focused on improving operational efficiency, strengthening retailer relationships and restoring earnings growth.

Despite the weaker earnings outlook, the group reaffirmed its commitment to investing in its businesses, including its Irish operations, which continue to be viewed as a key growth driver.

For Irish retailers, the latest results highlight the ongoing importance of BWG Foods within the wider SPAR Group.

The business has consistently delivered solid growth through investment in store development, own-brand ranges, digital initiatives and support for independent retailers.

As trading conditions remain challenging in many international markets, the strong performance of the Irish operation is expected to play an increasingly important role in supporting the overall group and reinforcing Ireland’s position as one of SPAR’s most successful markets worldwide.

Read more: SPAR Graiguecullen marks successful relaunch following major investment

© 2026, ShelfLife by Ryan Brennan

Read More: BWG Foods South Africa spar

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