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Farsons reports growth, announces €49m shareholder return, and names next CEO 9/24/2025

Farsons reports growth, announces €49m shareholder return, and names next CEO

Farsons today announced a strong set of half-year results alongside two major strategic developments: the appointment of a Chief Executive Designate and the declaration of dividends totalling €49.1 million. This includes a €46.8 million dividend-in-kind through the establishment and distribution of shares in Quinco Holdings p.l.c., as well as a €2.34 million interim cash dividend equivalent to 6c5 per share.

“This year marks an important milestone for the Farsons Group with the successful spin-off of our Food business into Quinco Holdings p.l.c.,” said Chairman Louis A. Farrugia. “Our strong half-year results, driven by growth across all sectors, reinforce the strength of our strategy. We remain confident in our ability to capture further opportunities, both locally and internationally, while continuing to create long-term value for our shareholders.

Group turnover in the Beverage sector rose 6.5% to €54.8 million, with profit before tax up 11% to €9 million. The Food sector, reported as discontinued operations, also delivered solid growth, with turnover up 6.2% and profitability rising 2.5%, reflecting strong demand and operational efficiency.

The Group’s diversified portfolio underpinned resilience across all operations, particularly in beverage manufacturing. International expansion remains a priority, with the Group growing its presence in Ghana and Australia, while export revenues for flagship brands Kinnie and Cisk continue to show strong potential.

Norman Aquilina, CEO, said: “These results highlight our ability to adapt, innovate, and create value in a competitive market. With a strong brand portfolio and growing international presence, we are well positioned for future growth and long-term shareholder value. We are encouraged by the solid growth in both our beverage and food segments and look forward to further accelerated growth in the food business in the years ahead.”

Over the years, the Group has evolved from its core beverage operations into a diversified organisation with interests in property and food. Following the successful spin-off of Trident Estates p.l.c. in 2018, the Food Business has consistently delivered strong revenue and profit growth. A strategic review by the Board concluded that a separate listing would best support its continued expansion. Shareholders endorsed this plan at the Annual General Meeting on 26 June 2025, approving the spin-off and listing of Quinco Holdings p.l.c. on the Malta Stock Exchange. With regulatory approval now secured, the Board has approved the distribution of the Group’s shares in Quinco Holdings p.l.c. to individual shareholders through a dividend in kind of €46.8 million, equivalent to €1.30 per share to the registered shareholders of Simonds Farsons Cisk p.l.c. on the 30 September 2025.

Commenting on the milestone, Chairman Louis A. Farrugia said: “The Board has made an important strategic decision in approving the spin-off of our Food Business. As a separately listed company with a dedicated Board of Directors, we believe the business is well positioned to grow into a significant operation, delivering value to all stakeholders. This project, including the development of a state-of-the-art €20 million purpose-built logistics centre, has been carefully planned over the past three years, with considerable effort invested to ensure its success.”

The Board of Directors of Farsons today announced key leadership appointments as part of its ongoing succession planning and strategic growth initiatives. Michael Farrugia has been appointed Chief Executive Designate, effective 1 October 2025. Having joined the Company in 2006, Michael currently serves as Deputy Chief Executive of the Beverage Business and will assume the role of Chief Executive Officer of Farsons on 1 July 2026.

The Board also confirmed that Norman Aquilina, who has served as CEO of Farsons since 2010 and whose term concludes on 30 June 2026, will continue to lead the newly listed entity, Quinco Holdings p.l.c., as its Executive Chairman. With his years of experience in the business and proven track record of success in driving the Farsons Group, Norman’s leadership will provide stability and strategic focus for the newly listed Food Business.

Commenting on the appointments, the Board said: “These decisions reflect our commitment to strategic continuity and long-term growth. Michael Farrugia’s experience and deep knowledge of the business position him well to lead Farsons into its next chapter, while Norman Aquilina’s continued leadership of Quinco Holdings p.l.c. ensures strong governance and maximizes value for all stakeholders.”

Commenting on his appointment, Michael Farrugia said: “It is an honour to be entrusted with this new role. Building on our proud heritage, I look forward to the chapter ahead as we continue to strengthen our brands at home, invest in operational and customer excellence while accelerating international expansion.”