Sphera Franchise Group, the operator of the KFC, Pizza Hut, Taco Bell, and Cioccolatitaliani chains, recorded restaurant sales of EUR 143.51 million in the first half of 2026, up approximately 1.2% compared to the same period of 2025. Over the same interval, the company’s normalized net profit fell by 22.6% to EUR 2.6 million, amid consumer sentiment dampened by political and fiscal uncertainties, as well as inflation exceeding 10% in H1, which surpassed the budgeted level.
Revenue growth was supported exclusively by the first quarter, while in the second quarter sales slipped by 1.6% to EUR 71.63 million, and like-for-like restaurant sales decreased by 4.7%. By market, Romania generated EUR 123.29 million (+1.5%), Italy EUR 17.18 million (-3%), and the Republic of Moldova EUR 3.04 million (+18%). Broken down by brand, KFC generated EUR 123.14 million (+0.9%), Taco Bell rose to EUR 10.59 million (+11.3%), while Pizza Hut declined to EUR 9.51 million (-6.3%) following the closure of seven restaurants in February. Restaurant-level expenses totaled EUR 132.78 million (+0.9%), the advertising budget increased to EUR 8.26 million (+23.5%), net financial costs rose to EUR 1.05 million, and administrative expenses decreased to EUR 6.18 million, generating a normalized EBITDA of EUR 9.99 million (-0.6%). As of June 30, the group operated 176 units, employed 4,864 people, had total assets of EUR 140.32 million and liabilities of EUR 122.79 million, and plans to launch the wagamama franchise in late 2026 or early 2027. The company’s market capitalization stands at EUR 342.37 million.
Frequently Asked Questions
What were Sphera Franchise Group’s total sales in H1?
The group recorded restaurant sales of EUR 143.51 million in the first half, representing a 1.2% increase year-on-year.
Why did Sphera’s net profit decrease in H1?
Normalized net profit fell by 22.6% to EUR 2.6 million due to cautious consumer spending driven by political and fiscal uncertainties, alongside inflation exceeding 10%.
What new franchise does Sphera plan to launch?
Sphera Franchise Group plans to launch the wagamama franchise in late 2026 or early 2027.