Grab says delivery business softening, still 'laser-focused' on profitability

© Reuters. FILE PHOTO: A Grab logo is pictured at the Money 20/20 Asia Fintech Trade Show in Singapore March 21, 2019. REUTERS/Anshuman Daga

(Reuters) - Singapore's Grab Holdings Ltd on Thursday slashed its gross merchandise volume (GMV) outlook for the year, blaming a strong dollar and cooling demand for food delivery services as consumers return to dining outdoors.

U.S.-listed shares of Grab fell 16% in early trading.

Grab and its peers recorded surging revenues during the pandemic as consumers stuck at home relied on ordering food. But as restrictions ease in most parts of Southeast Asia, consumers are heading out to grab their meals.

"What we are seeing with some of the growth trends and consumer behavior is dining out has taken place," Chief Executive Officer Anthony Tan told analysts.

"Customers want to save money... they may actually show a preference to order groceries to cook for themselves." Tan added, indicating Grab may stand to benefit from its grocery delivery business.

The company, which operates in 480 cities in eight countries in Southeast Asia, lifted the lower end of its revenue forecast for the year and said it was "laser-focused" on profitability as demand for rideshare across Southeast Asia peaks.

Tan said the company now plans to focus on launching new products that will help Grab focus on "profitable loyal customers" and lower the cost of serving users.

He also expects the rideshare business to rebound as economies reopen.

To cut costs, Grab said it would roll back incentives and promotions to lure drivers and users, exit unprofitable businesses such as its "dark stores" in some countries, and slow hiring.

The company forecast revenue between $1.25 billion and $1.3 billion for the year, compared with its prior range of $1.2 billion and $1.3 billion.

Grab forecast GMV growth between 21% and 25% for the year. On a constant currency basis, GMV is expected to grow between 25% and 29%, compared with its prior range of 30% and 35%.

(Refiles this story to correct typographical error in paragraph 9)