Americana Restaurants International PLC reported strong financial results for the first half of 2026, with double-digit growth in revenue, earnings, and cash flow, supported by higher like-for-like sales, continued restaurant expansion, and improved operating efficiency.
The restaurant operator, listed on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) and the Saudi Exchange (Tadawul), posted revenue of $1.364bn for the six months ended 30 June 2026, up 12.1% year-on-year. The growth was driven by 6.3% like-for-like sales growth and the continued expansion of its restaurant network.
The company said like-for-like sales were supported by locally tailored menu offerings, a balanced mix of premium products and value options, as well as marketing campaigns, creator partnerships, and localized digital content that strengthened customer engagement across its markets.
EBITDA rose 26.7% year-on-year to $348.2m, while the EBITDA margin expanded by 290 basis points to 25.5%, reflecting operating leverage and disciplined cost management.
Net income attributable to shareholders climbed 59.2% to $147.2m, with the net profit margin improving by 320 basis points to 10.8%.
Americana Restaurants said gross profit margin expanded by around 270 basis points, as procurement efficiencies, premium menu offerings, and strong sales growth more than offset higher input costs linked to ongoing geopolitical developments.
The company also generated strong cash flows during the period, with free cash flow increasing 44.5% year-on-year to $160m. Cash conversion reached 70%, supported by strong profitability and working capital optimisation.
As of 30 June 2026, Americana Restaurants operated 2,746 restaurants, having added 108 net new outlets over the past 12 months.
In line with its capital allocation strategy, the company’s Board of Directors approved an interim cash dividend of $100.8m, equivalent to $0.012 per share, for the period ending 30 June 2026.
On the strategic front, Americana Restaurants said integration of Malak Al Tawouk is progressing following the completion of its Saudi Arabia acquisition on 9 July 2026. The acquisition is expected to strengthen the company’s position in the Arabic dining segment while supporting future regional expansion.
The company also signed a strategic partnership with ADNOC Distribution, securing preferential access to 200 high-traffic restaurant locations over the next five years. In addition, Americana expanded into the premium retail segment with the launch of carpo in Qatar.
Looking ahead, management said it expects to maintain positive momentum during the second half of 2026. The company forecasts mid-single-digit like-for-like sales growth for the full year and expects net profit margin to improve by 100 to 150 basis points compared with the previous year.
Americana Restaurants also plans to add 120 to 130 net new restaurants by the end of 2026 as it continues expanding across its core markets.
