Super Retail Group Ltd: New Leadership, Strong Early‑Year Momentum
Super Retail Group Ltd (ASX:SUL), a leading Australian specialty retailer, has recently announced a series of developments that reinforce its market position and set a positive trajectory for the 2026 fiscal year. The company, which operates well‑known brands such as Supercheap Auto and Macpac, reported a 2.6 % year‑to‑date like‑for‑like sales increase and a 4.5 % rise in total sales during the first 16 weeks of FY26. Simultaneously, the board confirmed the appointment of Paul Bradshaw as Chief Executive Officer, effective 1 November 2025. These events coincided with the company’s annual general meeting (AGM), where shareholders received a comprehensive trading update and the leadership transition was formally approved.
CEO Transition – Paul Bradshaw Takes the Helm
On 21 October 2025, Super Retail Group announced that Paul Bradshaw, the long‑serving Managing Director of its BCF (Boating, Camping, Fishing) chain, would become Group Managing Director and CEO from 1 November 2025. Bradshaw brings over three decades of retail experience across Australia and New Zealand, having overseen the growth of BCF into a robust channel within the Group’s portfolio. The board highlighted that the decision followed an extensive global and local search, underscoring the company’s commitment to continuity and strategic focus.
Bradshaw’s arrival aligns with the Group’s intent to deepen its expertise in outdoor and automotive retail segments, where Supercheap Auto and Macpac continue to lead growth. His leadership is expected to leverage the operational efficiencies and customer‑centric culture that have driven recent sales improvements.
Early FY26 Trading Performance – A Positive Upswing
The trading update, released in conjunction with the AGM, revealed that Super Retail Group’s first 16 weeks of FY26 delivered solid momentum across its brands. Key highlights include:
- Like‑for‑like sales growth of 2.6 % year‑to‑date, reflecting increased foot traffic and stronger product mix.
- Total sales growth of 4.5 % over the same period, indicating a healthy expansion in both revenue streams and average transaction values.
- Supercheap Auto remained the flagship contributor, sustaining its role as the primary revenue driver for the Group.
- Macpac also contributed significantly to the uplift, reinforcing the Group’s position in the outdoor apparel and equipment market.
These figures suggest that the Group’s strategic initiatives—ranging from inventory optimisation to enhanced e‑commerce capabilities—are yielding tangible results.
Annual General Meeting – Governance and Transparency
The AGM, held on 23 October 2025, provided shareholders with an opportunity to review the Group’s performance and governance decisions. The meeting’s agenda included:
- Presentation by Judith Swales, Chair, and David Burns, Interim Chief Executive (prior to Bradshaw’s appointment), outlining the Group’s strategic direction and operational highlights.
- Results of the 2025 AGM as per listing rule compliance, detailing voting outcomes on key resolutions, including the CEO appointment.
- Trading update summarising the year‑to‑date performance, as noted above, ensuring shareholders were kept informed of the Group’s progress.
The AGM also reaffirmed the Group’s commitment to maintaining robust corporate governance standards, with full disclosure of financial results, executive remuneration, and risk management frameworks.
Market Context and Company Position
As of 20 October 2025, Super Retail Group’s share price stood at AUD 17, with a market capitalization of approximately AUD 3.76 billion. The company’s 52‑week high reached AUD 20.2 on 20 August, while the low of AUD 12.06 on 6 April reflects a resilient valuation in a competitive consumer discretionary sector. With a price‑earnings ratio of 17.02, the Group sits within a reasonable range for specialty retailers operating in Australia and New Zealand.
The early FY26 sales lift positions the Group well ahead of sector peers, particularly in the automotive and outdoor retail niches. The appointment of an experienced CEO who already understands the Group’s core operations adds credibility to the forthcoming strategic roadmap.
Outlook
Super Retail Group Ltd is poised for continued growth under Paul Bradshaw’s leadership. The company’s recent trading performance demonstrates the effectiveness of its current strategies, while the new CEO’s deep retail background is expected to drive further efficiencies and market penetration. Shareholders can anticipate a focus on expanding the Group’s footprint in both physical and digital retail channels, with an emphasis on customer experience and product innovation.
By combining solid financial results, strategic leadership transitions, and transparent governance, Super Retail Group Ltd reinforces its standing as a key player in the Australian specialty retail landscape.
