Algae bloom problem impacts sales at Australia’s top tackle retailer

The algae bloom problem which has affected fishing in south Australia has had an effect on the performance of the country’s largest supplier of fishing tackle.

Super Retail Group reported this week that life-for-like sales at BCF (Boating, Camping, Fishing), grew 0.3% in the first 16 weeks of its 2026 financial year, with total sales growth of 2.4%.

The Karenia bloom is having a serious impact on marine life and the industries that depend on it including recreational fishing and tourism. In response a $102.5m Algae Bloom Summer Plan has been funded by the South Australian and Australian governments, which includes a comprehensive suite of measures to protect the marine environment.

Super Retail Group Interim CEO, David Burns, told investors this week that alongside the algae bloom situation, BCF sales were impacted by a softer Father’s Day campaign and adverse weather conditions in New South Wales. However, he added that its performance has been steadily improving in October ahead of its key summer trading period.

Total group sales increased 2.6% compared to 4.5% in the previous comparable period.

Burns warned: “Whilst macro-economic conditions appear to be improving, the outlook for consumer trading remains uncertain. We expect consumers to continue to manage their spending carefully and prioritise value for money purchases.

“As always, the group’s first half results will be highly dependent on trading in the peak Christmas period, with the cyber sales event commencing in the coming weeks.”