Smiths News lifts FY profit outlook after strong second half

(Sharecast News) - Smiths News lifted its full-year profit outlook on Tuesday following strong trading in the second half. The news wholesaler now expects profit for FY25 to be "slightly ahead" of current market expectations of £37.2m. This performance has been driven by the news and magazines business, which has been boosted by strong demand for collectables, and continued focus on operational efficiencies, delivering cost-savings in line with expectations, it said.

Smiths also said it had received a final £2m dividend from the administrators of McColl's Retail Group.

The company said it continues to consider investment in its core capabilities, potential adjacent market opportunities and further shareholder returns.

Chief executive Jonathan Bunting said: "The group's performance in FY2025 reflects the continued dedication and strategic discipline of our team, maintaining a clear focus on the news and magazines business, whilst extending our market reach in a targeted and sustainable manner.

"As we move into FY2026, the business continues to perform well, and I look forward to sharing a more detailed update on our progress at the company's full year results in November."

At 0858 BST, the shares were up 2.7% at 60.63p.