B&M European Value Retail reports profit growth and remains confident for the upcoming Golden Quarter.
- Sales increased by 3.7% to £2.6 million, attributed to volume growth and UK revenue boost.
- Group EBITDA rose by 2% to £274 million, despite a slight fall in adjusted operating profit due to increased costs.
- Expansion efforts included 39 new store openings, enhancing B&M’s market presence in the UK and France.
- Steps to optimise future growth include a new UK imports centre expected to operational by FY26.
B&M European Value Retail has announced a positive performance in its interim results, showing resilience and preparation as it heads into the key trading period known as the Golden Quarter. The company’s profits have climbed in the six months leading to 28 September, indicating strong operational foundations and strategic foresight.
The retailer experienced a 3.7% rise in sales, reaching £2.6 million, mainly driven by volume growth. This upswing was also supported by UK revenues, which hit £2.1 million, highlighting a solid domestic market performance amidst challenging economic conditions.
Despite facing higher operational costs due to store expansions and supply chain investments, B&M achieved a 2% increase in group EBITDA, amounting to £274 million. However, group adjusted operating profit dipped slightly by 1.8% to £258 million, reflecting the financial impact of these strategic expansions, especially in France.
In alignment with its growth objectives, B&M opened 39 new stores in the half-year, significantly in the UK with 30 openings, and also establishing a stronger presence in international markets with five new stores in France and four at Heron Foods. This expansion is integral to enhancing the company’s reach and customer base.
Looking towards future-proofing its operations, B&M is focused on optimising its distribution network. A new UK imports centre is set to open in FY26, aimed at leveraging existing capacity levels to support sustainable growth, underscoring their commitment to a streamlined and efficient supply chain strategy.
B&M is strategically positioned to capitalise on the upcoming peak trading season, underpinned by robust sales figures and strategic expansions.