Singaporean supermarket chain Sheng Siong has reported a 16.4-per-cent year-on-year increase in net profit to SG$20.6 million (US$15.1 million) for the third quarter.

The increase is largely attributed to an increase in gross profit arising from the growth in revenue, slightly improved gross margin, and higher other income – but was partially offset by higher operating expenses and net finance expense.

“We are pleased that we have opened two new stores at Block 182 Woodland Street 13 and Block 602A Tampines Ave 9 with retail areas of 8500sqft and 9000sqft respectively while another store at Block 202 Marsiling Drive which we have secured will be operational by the first quarter of next year,” said the group’s CEO Lim Hock Chee. “Going ahead, we will continue with our efforts in expanding our retail network in Singapore, especially in areas where our potential customers reside. 

“Besides placing focus on nurturing the growth of our new stores in Singapore and China, we remain committed to enhancing the gross margin and lowering input cost by improving the sales mix with a higher proportion of fresh produce and deriving more efficiency gains in the supply chain.”