National Foods posts 10.9% profit growth, declares Rs3 dividend

National Foods Limited NATF reported consolidated profit from continuing operations of Rs888.24 million for the first quarter ended 30 September 2026, an increase from Rs800.72 million in the same period last year. The board also declared an interim cash dividend of Rs3 per share.

Net sales for the quarter rose to Rs11.07 billion from Rs10.16 billion. Cost of sales increased to Rs7.13 billion from Rs6.18 billion, while gross profit was Rs3.94 billion compared with Rs3.98 billion. Selling and distribution costs reached Rs2.03 billion, up from Rs1.77 billion, and administrative expenses were Rs973.71 million against Rs1.03 billion.

Operating profit was Rs938.61 million, down from Rs1.18 billion a year earlier. Other income increased to Rs421.25 million from Rs64.56 million, while finance costs rose to Rs325.74 million from Rs242.77 million. Profit before income tax was Rs936.90 million, compared with Rs868.03 million, and income tax was Rs48.66 million, down from Rs67.30 million.

Basic and diluted earnings per share for 1QFY27 were Rs3.81, compared with Rs5.59 in 1QFY26. The reported profit from discontinued operations, net of tax, was zero for the latest quarter and Rs832.67 million in the corresponding period.