In a statement, the company said the earnings growth was driven by higher sales, improved margins, and sustained demand across its major retail categories.
Consolidated net sales reached P9.38 billion during the quarter, reflecting a 5.4-percent increase year-on-year.
Food retail remained the company’s main growth driver, posting a 6.3-percent increase in sales, while general merchandise sales rose 2.5 percent. Same-store sales also recorded steady growth of 2.9 percent.
Margin growth
MRSGI’s gross margin improved to 21.7 percent from 21.3 percent in the same period last year, supported by a favorable product mix and stronger performance in the food retail segment.
Operating expenses increased 6.6 percent to P2.15 billion, mainly due to costs related to store expansion, network scaling, and the ramp-up of newly opened and renovated stores.
Despite higher operating costs, earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (Ebitda) rose 14.9 percent to P474.7 million.
“MRSGI delivered a steady start to 2026, supported by continued sales growth and improved margins across our core categories,” said Joselito G. Orense, president and chief operating officer of MRSGI.
Store expansion
During the quarter, MRSGI also expanded its in-store services through strategic partnerships.
The company launched the pilot rollout of Generika Drugstore outlets inside select Metro Retail branches as part of efforts to integrate essential services into its retail ecosystem.
The first two pilot stores opened in Ayala Feliz and Tagaytay, with plans to establish around a dozen more branches before year-end.
Orense said the company continues to strengthen its network in key growth areas while improving operational efficiency nationwide. —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
