Primark delivers improved UK sales
Associated British Foods has said Primark’s sales have been improving with a better performance in the UK and Ireland despite “consumer caution”.
For the second half of its financial year, it expects the retailer’s sales growth to be around 1%, with an uplift of 1% in the third quarter and projected growth of 1% in the fourth.
Subscribe to TRBMeanwhile, Primark’s total like-for-like sales in the second half are expected to be around 2% below last year, with respective declines of 2.4% and 2% in the third and fourth quarters.
ABF said an improvement in trading in the UK and Ireland, where second half sales are expected to have risen by 1%, was driven by a strong product offer, particularly in womenswear, and increased digital engagement.
However, a more subdued consumer environment in Europe led to weaker trading in the region, although the performance in the US was strong.
Looking ahead to the outcome of the full year ending 13 September, ABF expects Primark’s sales growth to be around 1%.
George Weston, chief executive of Associated British Foods, said: “Primark delivered improved trading in the UK and strong sales growth in the US, while trading on the continent was softer in a weaker consumer environment.
“Against a backdrop of continued volatility in 2026, we will start to see the benefit from our recent actions and continued investment.”
