Ariston revenue plunges 58%

Published: 19 April 2026

Agro-industrial giant Ariston Holdings Limited has reported a 58% decline in revenue for the first quarter ended December 31, 2025, underscoring the volatility of climate-dependent commerce in Zimbabwe.

The group, which recently posted a US$4.28 million loss for the previous year, attributed the downturn to restructuring initiatives and adverse weather conditions. "Revenue generated in the current year was 58% lower than that of the prior comparative period," Ariston said, noting that the decline reflected both internal reforms and production disruptions caused by heavy rainfall.

Tea production bore the brunt of the impact, collapsing 77% to 111 tonnes compared to 496 tonnes in the prior period, leading to a 67% drop in sales. The company cited intensive rainfall in Chipinge and working capital constraints that delayed farming activities. Ariston has since secured plucking machines to boost harvesting capacity from the second quarter.

Macadamia operations presented a more nuanced picture, with volumes down 19% but prospects improving due to reduced early nut drop. With global demand and export prices for macadamias rising, Ariston expects a stronger harvest beginning in March.

Beyond its core crops, the group is diversifying with over 250 hectares of row crops and expanding solar energy infrastructure across its estates to reduce costs and improve reliability.

Despite the immediate financial strain, management remains optimistic. The restructuring strategy includes securing forward contracts with international buyers to enhance revenue visibility and foreign currency inflows. Ariston anticipates that efficiency initiatives will begin to yield results by the third quarter.

The board acknowledged ongoing economic pressures and liquidity constraints but maintained that disciplined financial management, cost optimisation, and US dollar-based trading would eventually deliver value to shareholders.
- the standard

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