Companies

Primark reports full-year mixed sales performance

Nov 6, 2026 United Kingdom

Associated British Foods-owned Primark recorded mixed sales performance across its markets, with slight growth in the UK and declines in Europe, while increases its investment in product offerings and digital initiatives

“Our results this year reflect a challenging operating environment and macroeconomic headwinds. We have focused on what we can control, taking targeted actions to drive performance while making good operational and strategic progress and continuing to invest in long-term growth”, commented George Weston, Chief Executive of Associated British Foods.

In the 52 weeks ending on the 12^th of September, the company’s total revenue decreased by 1% on a constant currency basis and increased by 1% on an actual currency basis to reach 19.6 billion British pounds (23.4 billion euros), compared to the previous financial year. Full-year adjusted operating profit decreased by 14% on a constant currency basis, or 13% on an actual currency basis, to 1.7 billion British pounds (2.0 billion euros), primarily reflecting lower profit in Primark.

Primark

“In Primark, we took significant steps to re-energise our customer proposition this year, both enhancing our product offer and strengthening our value credentials, underpinned by increased investment in marketing and digital engagement”, added George Weston.

Primark’s sales contributed 9.8 billion British pounds (11.7 billion euros) to the total full-year revenue, up by 2% year-on-year, with the successful opening of owned and franchise stores contributing 5% to growth. During the year, UK like-for-like sales grew by 0.5% year-on-year. In contrast, like-for-like sales in Europe declined by 4.7% in a challenging trading environment, where growth initiatives are still in the early stages.

The retail segment’s adjusted operating profit declined by 12% over the past 52 weeks to reach 1.0 billion euros (1.2 billion euros), compared to the previous financial year. The adjusted operating profit margin was 10.2%, reflecting increased investment in price, marketing and digital initiatives aimed at driving long-term growth.

“Our key priority areas, the UK and womenswear, delivered growth and outperformed our other markets and categories. We are now building on what has worked well and applying the same focus and investment in our European markets and other product categories”, the CEO emphasised.

The company has also identified new growth opportunities by adopting an asset-light, margin-accretive franchise model, which will enable it to enter new markets. It also plans to introduce home delivery in Great Britain in the future.

Primark is expected to be demerged from Associated British Foods by December 2027. Ahead of the split, its adjusted operating margin is expected to reach around 10% in 2027, reflecting ongoing investment in like-for-like sales growth. This guidance excludes the additional costs expected to be incurred in preparing for the demerger.

1 GBP = 1.20 EUR

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