Johannesburg- Famous Brands had a 16.8 percent increase in sales for the quarter ended May 31, the company said on Wednesday.
System-wide franchise sales increased 16.8 percent, comprising a 16 percent improvement in South Africa and a 27.2 percent improvement in sales in the rest of Africa.
The group's brands include Steers, Debonairs Pizzas, Wimpy, Mugg & Bean, Fishaways, House of Coffees, Giramundo, Net Cafe, Milky Lane, and Tashas.
“These results derive from our extensive portfolio of brands turning in a strong first quarter performance, underpinned by our growing logistics and manufacturing capability,” chief executive Kevin Hedderwick said.
It was not just mainstream brands in South Africa that performed well, but also the premium niche-end of the spectrum which recorded a 22 percent increase in sales.
During the quarter, 34 new restaurants were opened, 30 of which were in South Africa.
“This penetration into new emerging markets is part of a deliberate strategy to make our brands available, accessible, and affordable,” Hedderwick said.
A moratorium on new liquor licences had hampered the roll-out of a revamped Keg restaurant and pubs brand. However, the group successfully launched its flagship Keg & Thistle in Durban.
New restaurant openings would increase in the second quarter of 2013, with 46 restaurants planned.
The group recently announced it would open its first Steers restaurant in Clapham, London, and a Debonairs Pizza restaurant in Mumbai, India. - Sapa