Woolworths South Africa delivered solid turnover and concession sales growth of 5.4% in the 52 weeks to June 30, 2026. Trading momentum moderated to 4.1% in the second half, with particular weakness in the fourth quarter.
Woolworths Holdings’ share price surged over 4% on the JSE Thursday even after the retailer reported a more challenging operating environment during the second half of a 52-week period to June 30.
The more difficult trading environment was caused by the war in the Middle East driving fuel prices and inflation higher, and dampening consumer confidence and demand, while also increasing operating costs, the group said in a trading statement.
Adjusted headline earnings per share was only expected to increase between 1% to 6% for the period, to between 306.4 to 321.6 cents. The share price was trading 4.62% higher at R49.19 on Thursday afternoon on the JSE, a price much in line with the R50 that it traded at a year ago.
“This, coupled with the resumption of interest rate increases across South Africa and Australia, saw consumers increasingly prioritise promotional offerings and essential purchases,” Woolworths’ directors said.
