WH Smith Earnings Call Transcripts
Fiscal Year 2026
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Revenue grew 5% to £748m, but profit before tax fell to £3m due to inflation and store disruption. Dividend was suspended to focus on debt reduction, with cautious guidance amid Middle East uncertainty and ongoing cost pressures.
Fiscal Year 2025
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Revenue grew 5% to £1.6bn, but headline trading profit fell 6% to £159m amid North America margin resets and strategic exits. FY26 guidance targets mid-single-digit revenue growth, margin recovery, and disciplined capital allocation, with major investments in flagship stores and a focus on Travel Essentials.
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Strong first-half results driven by travel segment growth, with profits up 12% and revenue up 3% year-over-year. Strategic exit from the UK High Street business positions the group as a focused global travel retailer, with robust cash flow, a healthy balance sheet, and a strong new store pipeline.
Fiscal Year 2024
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Group profit rose 16% to £166m and revenue increased 7% to £1.9bn, driven by strong Travel division growth, new store openings, and margin expansion. The outlook remains positive with continued investment, a higher dividend, and a £50m share buyback.