Sphera Franchise Group (SFG) reports significant changes in its shareholder structure and a portfolio recalibration strategy, amid mixed financial results in 2025. While CEO Călin Ionescu sold a portion of his shares, Wellkept Group, controlled by Radu Dimofte, consolidated its position as a major shareholder, as the group prepares to distribute dividends exceeding EUR 8 million.
On April 21, CEO Călin Ionescu sold 53,242 SFG shares at a price of RON 38.7 per unit, a transaction valued at approximately EUR 0.4 million. On the same day, Wellkept Group acquired 452,596 shares at an average price of RON 38.69, an investment of EUR 3.44 million that raised the investment vehicle’s stake to 17.3%. The current shareholder structure includes Shaletia Ventures Limited (29.6%), Computerland Romania (20.6%), and the NN Pension Fund. Although the group’s sales—operating the KFC, Pizza Hut, Taco Bell, and Cioccolatitaliani brands—increased by 1.5%, reaching EUR 314.1 million, net profit fell by 36% to EUR 12.17 million due to high costs. 86% of revenues originate from the Romanian market.
At the operational level, Sphera implemented optimization measures by closing seven Pizza Hut restaurants operated by its subsidiary American Restaurant System, but continues expansion in other segments. The group opened two new units in Italy and the Republic of Moldova and inaugurated a second Cioccolatitaliani restaurant in Genoa on March 27. Currently, SFG’s market capitalization stands at EUR 294.5 million, after the company’s shares lost 9% of their value over the past year. The proposal to distribute dividends worth EUR 8.05 million will be submitted for shareholder vote on April 28.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the largest shareholder of Sphera Franchise Group?
As of the latest reports, Shaletia Ventures Limited remains the largest shareholder with a 29.6% stake, followed by Computerland Romania at 20.6% and Wellkept Group at 17.3%.
Why did Sphera Franchise Group’s net profit decrease in 2025?
Despite a slight increase in sales, net profit dropped by 36% to EUR 12.17 million, primarily driven by significantly higher operational costs.
What changes were made to the Pizza Hut restaurant network?
Sphera implemented optimization measures that included closing seven Pizza Hut locations operated by its subsidiary, American Restaurant System, to improve overall efficiency.