Freightways Group Ltd Reports Strong First‑Half Performance Amid Economic Recovery

Freightways Group Ltd (ASX: FRW, NZX: FRW) announced that its first‑half results for the year ended 31 December 2025 show a clear upturn in profitability and revenue, reflecting a broader improvement in New Zealand’s economic conditions.

1. Financial Highlights

  • Revenue rose 8.5 % year‑on‑year to $718 million (NZD), the highest level since the previous half‑year period.
  • Net profit from continuing operations climbed to $52 million, a substantial lift that signals a healthier operating environment for the courier and freight‑forwarding business.
  • The company’s interim dividend was announced at 21 cents per share, representing a 10.5 % increase over the same period last year.

These figures come as the company’s stock traded close to its 52‑week high of $12.52 on 26 January 2026, with a recent close of $12.41.

2. Market Context

Freightways’ services—including same‑day, overnight, and international deliveries, as well as freight forwarding and business mail—have benefited from a rebound in consumer and commercial demand. The broader economy’s turnaround is echoed in the company’s earnings, which now show a healthier balance between cost management and revenue growth.

The company’s Price‑to‑Earnings ratio stands at 33.3, indicating that investors are willing to pay a premium for the expected future growth. With a market capitalization of approximately $2.34 billion AUD, Freightways is a significant player in New Zealand’s logistics sector.

3. Corporate Governance Update

In a move that underscores its commitment to robust oversight, Freightways announced on 13 February 2026 that Deloitte will replace PwC as its external auditor for the 2027 financial year, effective 1 July 2026. The transition is expected to strengthen audit processes and align the firm’s financial reporting with best practices in the industry.

4. Dividend and Distribution Details

On 16 February 2026, Freightways issued a formal announcement (Appendix 3A.1) detailing the upcoming dividend distribution of NZD 0.24705882 per ordinary share. The ex‑date for the dividend is 5 March 2026, with the record date set accordingly. Shareholders who held the stock on that date will receive the distribution in the next dividend payment cycle.

5. Outlook

The company’s management has expressed optimism about the continued improvement in economic conditions and anticipates that this momentum will carry into the second half of the fiscal year. Freightways is positioned to leverage its extensive network and diversified service offerings to sustain growth, manage costs effectively, and deliver value to shareholders.

Investors will likely monitor the company’s subsequent half‑year report, released on 16 February 2026, for further detail on how the turnaround is translating into operational and financial metrics.