Online Reporter
Joshua Muswere, Online Reporter
Innscor Africa Limited has reported strong volume growth across its core manufacturing divisions in the third quarter ended March 31, 2026, driven by expanded production capacity and a strategy focused on maintaining affordable pricing amid policy uncertainty and volatile global commodity markets.
In its trading update for the third quarter of the 2026 financial year, the group recorded broad-based gains across its Mill-Bake, Protein, Beverage and Light Manufacturing segments.
“The group continued to register encouraging volume momentum across its core manufacturing operations during the third quarter of the 2026 financial year,” said Innscor.
“The Mill-Bake segment maintained its positive growth trajectory, supported by expanded manufacturing capacity, improved operational efficiencies, and enhanced distribution reach.”
The Bakery division emerged as one of the strongest performers, with loaf volumes increasing by 28 percent over the nine-month period following the commissioning of a fully automated production line at the Harare plant in May 2025.
Innscor said uptake of the additional capacity had exceeded expectations, resulting in improvements in product quality, consistency and operational efficiency.
A sixth bakery production line is currently being commissioned at the same facility and is expected to be operational before the end of the financial year.
In the Protein segment, Colcom Holdings Limited recorded a 29 percent increase in aggregate volumes.
Fresh pork volumes rose 35 percent, while the popular Colcom Pie category grew 38 percent.
The company attributed the growth to improved market penetration and stronger route-to-market initiatives.
At Triple C Pigs, volumes increased by 25 percent following the commissioning of a new production unit in July 2025, while a new sow breeder unit introduced during the third quarter is expected to further boost pig supply.
The Snacks division recorded a 60 percent jump in volumes, supported by growing demand for the Zapnax and King Kurls brands.
Similarly, the Pasta division achieved a 41 percent increase in volumes as production scaled up at its new short-cut pasta manufacturing facility.
At National Foods Holdings Limited, aggregate volumes for the nine-month period were marginally below comparative levels.
While the Flour division grew 15 percent, the Maize division recorded a sharp 56 percent decline.
Despite the contraction, Innscor said efforts to strengthen sustainability within the unit were continuing, with growing traction in the premium Pearlenta refined maize meal category.
Meanwhile, The Buffalo Brewing Company benefited from strong demand for its Nyathi sorghum beer brand, with volumes increasing 30 percent over the comparative period.
Looking ahead, management said it remained cautious amid changing domestic policy conditions.
“Management remains focused on sustaining volume momentum across the group’s diversified portfolio, while maintaining disciplined pricing strategies that preserve product affordability and market relevance,” the company said.
The company added that emphasis would remain on disciplined working capital management, strong free cash generation and prudent capital allocation.
In a significant strategic development, Innscor recently underwrote a US$8 million rights offer by Tanganda Tea Company Limited, increasing its shareholding to approximately 29 percent.
As a result, Tanganda’s financial results will be consolidated into Innscor’s accounts with effect from April 1, 2026.
