Nichimo achieves record sales, boosts dividend amid earnings surge

** Nichimo Co., Ltd. (TSE: 8091) announced a record high in net sales for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2025, reaching JPY 133.9 billion, a 4.8% increase year-over-year, driven by strong performance in its core Food, Marine, Machinery, and Materials businesses. Operating profit surged by 48.6% to JPY 3.002 billion. This improved profitability allows Nichimo to enhance shareholder returns. The company's board has resolved to increase the year-end dividend to JPY 52 per share, bringing the total annual dividend to JPY 97 per share, a JPY 7 increase from the previous forecast and actual. Looking ahead, Nichimo anticipates further growth and plans an annual dividend of JPY 100 per share for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2026. Guided by its new medium-term management plan, Nichimo is targeting a dividend payout ratio of 35% or higher by FY2028, underscoring its commitment to returning profits to shareholders. Key growth drivers are anticipated to be expanded inbound tourism and the strengthening of consumer activity, particularly benefiting the company’s food segment.