Gen Z-Driven Rebuild: Bhat-Bhateni Restores 23 Stores, Bounces Back Stronger

Sep 8, 2026
138

Exactly one year after experiencing severe physical damage across its retail network during the country’s September 2025 Gen Z youth-led protests, Bhat-Bhateni Supermarket and Departmental Store has restored 23 of its 27 store locations nationwide. The major retail chain has simultaneously initiated a strategic shift toward round-the-clock operations at key branches as part of an effort to modernize its services.

Reconstruction Progress & Opening Schedule

During the unrest in September 2025, 21 outlets sustained damage, with 12 branches—including Naxal, Maharajgunj, Koteshwor, Pokhara, and Hetauda—suffering total destruction due to arson.

The company's rebuild status includes:

Current Operational Outlets: 23 branches have completed reconstruction, including major locations such as Chuchepati and Koteshwor.
Immediate Reopenings: The Dharan store is set to resume operations on September 9, followed by the flagship Tangal/Naxal location on September 21.
Upcoming Launches: Outlets in Damak and Hetauda are slated to open following the upcoming Dashain festival, bringing the full chain back into operation.

Financial & Revenue Performance

According to recent ratings data from ICRA Nepal:

Annual Revenue: Operating revenue for Fiscal Year 2025/26 dropped nearly 19.5% to Rs 27.48 billion, down from Rs 34.16 billion in FY 2024/25, primarily due to temporary store closures and disrupted inventory flow.
Estimated Loss & Insurance Coverage: Total property and inventory damages were estimated at Rs 9 billion. ICRA Nepal reaffirmed the company's credit ratings ([ICRANP] LBB+ / A4+) and removed it from negative watch due to steady operational recovery and ongoing insurance claim settlements.
Operating Profit: Despite lower overall revenue, operating profit margins actually improved to 12.9% (up from 11.5% in the previous fiscal year) through effective cost management.

Zero Employee Layoffs & Workforce Stability

Despite the severe disruption and financial hit, management retained its entire workforce without salary cuts or layoffs. Executive management confirmed that full bonuses were disbursed to staff members during the previous year's festival season.

Transition to 24-Hour International Model

To adapt to changing urban consumer demands, Bhat-Bhateni has introduced non-stop 24-hour retail operations.

Pilot Outlet: 24-hour service was first launched at the Radhe Radhe branch in Bhaktapur.
Expansion: Plans are currently underway to roll out overnight operations to the Krishna Galli (Patan), Naxal (Kathmandu), and Pokhara locations once their structural upgrades are complete.