Momentum builds at Michael Hill in hopes of ‘fantastic’ Christmas

CEO Jonathan Waecker is expecting a strong Christmas period

NZX-listed jewellery retailer Michael Hill is starting to build momentum after taking action to simplify its brand portfolio.

Michael Hill told investors that it has started fiscal 2027 with same-store sales up 6.6 per cent in the first 16 weeks, compared to last year. The news follows fiscal 2026 revenue of $801.6 million.

With 279 stores in its network, Michael Hill International operates across New Zealand, Australia and Canada.

“We’re encouraged by the momentum building across the group,” said company CEO Jonathan Waecker. “Our product offer is stronger, our go-to-market campaigns are resonating, our teams are energised, and we’re executing with greater consistency.”

Sales growth in Canada is leading the way for Michael Hill, up 11.3 per cent in the reporting period. New Zealand is second out of its three markets with a 7.1 per cent growth.

“Christmas is our most important trading period, and despite the uncertain economic environment, we’re optimistic about the opportunity ahead,” Waecker added. “Our focus from here is simple: Execute our plan well and deliver a fantastic Christmas for our customers.” 

Investors were also told to expect continued, “profitable” growth for the remainder of the financial year.

In September, Waecker told Inside Retail that he wanted Michael Hill to “become one of the world’s most distinctive modern jewellery brands”. He also wanted the Bevilles brand to “become an incredibly strong and differentiated Australian jewellery retailer in its own right”.

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