Online Reporter
Business Reporter
LISTED diversified group, ART Holdings, recorded a six percent increase in revenue to US$14,3 million for the half-year to March 2026, from US$13,5 million in the comparative period, driven by improved sales volumes and stronger operational performance across key business units.
ART said overall sales volumes grew by five percent year-on-year, while the gross profit margin improved to 35 percent, reflecting the benefits of cost reduction initiatives and improved pricing discipline.
In the energy storage segment, Batteries Zimbabwe delivered a stronger second-quarter performance and returned to profitability, supported by increased local and export volumes.
Local battery volumes rose by three percent, while exports recovered by 10 percent compared to the prior year.
However, production and sales remained below target due to working capital constraints and production disruptions experienced during the period.
The company said the batteries business remained positioned to benefit from growing regional demand for energy storage solutions, with improvements in the product range and progress in addressing production constraints for maintenance-free and industrial batteries expected to support stronger performance in the second half of the year.
The Eversharp division recorded improved trading performance despite facing pressure from imported and counterfeit products, subdued consumer spending and intermittent power supply challenges.
Volumes increased by 13 percent compared to the previous year, supported by improved pricing discipline and continued market acceptance of its product lines, including the EV10 pen range.
Mutare Estates remained the group’s strongest cash-generating business, delivering another solid performance during the period.
Volumes increased by 31 percent year-on-year, driven by firm demand for structural timber and related products, improved milling productivity, operational efficiencies and disciplined pricing management.
“While the disposal was dilutive to reported earnings in the short term, management is satisfied that the transaction strengthens the Group’s financial position,” Acting chairman Mr Mike Oakley said in a statement accompanying the half-year financials.
