Next PLCs Q1 2026 trading statement highlights strong performance, with full-price sales up 6.2% year-on-year, exceeding forecasts by £28m. This growth was driven by exceptional performance in the first five weeks (+11.8%), adding £8m to profit and raising full-year profit guidance to £1,218m. UK sales grew 4.4%, while international sales surged 12.8%, despite Middle East conflict disruptions. The company plans to offset cost increases through moderate price hikes in some international markets and operational savings. Full-year sales and profit guidance remains positive, with share buybacks and potential dividends planned.
| Metric | 2025/26 | 2026/27 (Guidance) | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| NEXT Full Price Sales | £5.62bn (implied) | £5.9bn | +5.0% |
| Total Group Sales | £6.98bn (implied) | £7.3bn | +4.6% |
| NEXT Group Profit Before Tax | £1,158m (implied) | £1,218m | +5.2% |
| Post-tax EPS | 745.0p (implied) | 792.9p | +6.5% |
| Total Cost Increases (Middle East Impact) | £15m | £47m | +213.3% |
| Total Cost Savings and Margin Gains | £15m | £47m | +213.3% |