Jollibee Foods Corporation posted record fourth-quarter earnings, with CEO Ernesto Tanmantiong pointing to sustained demand and improved operating efficiency as key drivers.

“I’m proud of how our teams performed last year,” said Tanmantiong.

“We finished the year with record fourth-quarter operating income, up 41.9 per cent year-on-year, reflecting both strong sales momentum and better operating leverage.”

JFC’s net income grew 20.1 per cent to US$37.8 million (PHP2.2 billion) in the quarter and 5.4 per cent to $189 million for the full year.

Meanwhile, its operating income rose 41.9 per cent in the fourth quarter to $70.6 million, marking a record for the period. System-wide sales grew 16.6 per cent for the year, supported by sustained demand in both the Philippines and international markets.

Consolidated revenue increased 9.8 per cent in the fourth quarter and 13 per cent for the full year. EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization) rose 18.7 per cent to $169 million in the quarter and 13.8 per cent to $727.4 million for the year.

International operations remained a key growth driver, with system-wide sales rising 27 per cent. The company also reported strong momentum in its coffee and tea segment, where system-wide sales increased 44.9 per cent.

Looking ahead, Tanmantiong said the company will maintain its focus on execution and expansion.

“Our priorities remain clear: profitable growth, operational excellence, and consistent value creation for our shareholders and other stakeholders,” he said.

During the year, JFC opened 1126 stores globally, its highest annual total to date. The group plans to expand its network by between 1200 and 1300 stores this year.