Beacon Lighting Group (BLX) H1 2026 earnings summary

Executive summary

• Sales increased 3.4% year-over-year to AUD 176.3 million in H1 FY26, with Trade sales up 12.6% and Retail impacted by softer consumer sentiment due to interest rate expectations.

• Underlying NPAT declined 2.1% to AUD 17.2 million, reflecting higher operating expenses and investments; statutory NPAT was AUD 16.5 million, down 6% year-over-year.

• Trade now represents 41.7% of sales, progressing toward the 50% target by FY28; international sales grew 13.5%.

• Online Trade sales increased 14.5%, with total online sales now 13.1% of store sales.

• Operates 130 stores, including new openings, relocations, and acquisitions, with expansion in QLD and WA.

Financial highlights

• Gross profit increased 3.6% to AUD 121.9 million, with gross margin stable at 69.1%.

• Underlying EBITDA rose 1.2% to AUD 47.9 million; underlying EBIT fell 2.2% to AUD 29.0 million.

• Operating expenses rose 4.3%, representing 42.8% of sales; marketing and admin expenses up modestly.

• Net operating cash flow was AUD 27.8 million; CapEx totaled AUD 6.4 million; cash and term deposits at period end were AUD 54.5 million; inventory increased to AUD 101.2 million.

• Interim dividend of AUD 0.041 per share declared, with payout ratio guidance of 50%-60% of NPAT.

Outlook and guidance

• Retail sales have moderated slightly in H2, while Trade sales growth has strengthened.

• Focus remains on executing the 2030 store network strategy, store refurbishments, and expanding Trade partnerships and product range internationally.

• Continued investment in product innovation, digital platforms, energy-efficient lighting, and international expansion planned.