SPAR Group Plans Sale of UK Unit to Sharpen Focus on African, Irish Core Markets
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South Africa’s SPAR Group Ltd is in negotiations to sell its UK wholesale and distribution business, Appleby Westward Group, as the retailer refocuses on core operations in Southern Africa, Ireland and Sri Lanka following strategic reviews of its European footprint.
The group, which holds several country licences for the Dutch SPAR brand, has already exited Switzerland and Poland over the past two financial years. For the 52 weeks ended September 26, 2025, diluted headline earnings per share from continuing operations fell 8.96% to 795.4 cents from 873.7 cents a year earlier, reflecting higher finance costs on legacy Polish debt that increased non-deductible interest and lifted the effective tax rate.
Group revenue rose 1.6% to 132.4 billion rand, with second-half sales up 3.5% driven by stronger grocery and liquor volumes alongside improved retailer engagement in Southern Africa. Gross profit increased 3.3% to 14.2 billion rand, while operating profit excluding extraordinary items climbed 2.3% to 2.8 billion rand.
CEO Angelo Swartz said SPAR is prioritising higher-margin formats and category diversification, including expansion of its premium SPAR Gourmet chain with three to four new stores planned for 2026 and a medium-term target of 70-100 outlets nationwide through conversions and new builds.
The group is also entering non-food categories such as pet care and health while developing convenience services like SPAR2U delivery. SPAR states the portfolio realignment and divestment of non-core European assets aim to enhance financial flexibility and fund growth in targeted high-return segments.
