Revenue Growth and Underlying Momentum
Group revenue increased 3.0% at constant exchange rates in 2025, with underlying revenue growth of 0.4% for the year and improvement during the year to 0.9% in H2 (vs 0.2% in H1). New business wins in Q4 contributed to the H2 acceleration.
Strong Cash Generation and Capital Returns
Generated GBP 579 million of free cash flow (cash conversion 95%). Completed a GBP 200 million share buyback in October and returned almost GBP 450 million to shareholders (dividends + buybacks). Adjusted net debt-to-EBITDA around 2.0x, within target leverage range.
Moderation of Margin Decline and Operational Recovery in H2
Adjusted operating margin declined to 7.6% (from 8.3% in 2024), but margin decline moderated in H2 (H1 down 0.9pp year-on-year; H2 down 0.4pp). Actions taken (leadership changes, cost management, restoring local decision-making) drove improved execution and service levels.
Commercial Wins and Own Brand Progress
Established more than USD 100 million of new business in Q4 (national grocery and foodservice customers). Own brand penetration increased to 30% group-wide (up ~2pp year-on-year, +1pp in Continental Europe) and digital order penetration reached 76%.
Acquisitions, Synergies and Strategic Expansion
Completed 8 acquisitions (GBP 132 million spend) including first healthcare entry in Chile and physical presence established in Slovakia. Nisbets integration delivered better-than-expected synergies and strong H2 profit performance; bolt-on M&A pipeline remains active.
Operational Efficiency Programs
Completed 36 warehouse consolidations/relocations (vs 19 prior year) and implemented procurement and demand-planning initiatives; Europe saw 10 warehouse consolidations in 2025 (major program in France reducing warehouses from 15 to 6) expected to deliver net benefits in 2026.
Employee Engagement and Strategic Confidence
Maintained a 71% Trust Index score (Great Place to Work). Management reiterated 2026 guidance (moderate revenue growth and more stable adjusted operating profit) and emphasized medium-term confidence in the Bunzl model and consolidation opportunities.