Next plc has reported stronger-than-expected first-quarter trading, prompting the retailer to upgrade its full-year profit guidance. For the 13 weeks ended 2 May 2026, total sales increased 6.2%, outperforming the company's previous forecast of 4% and generating an additional £28 million in sales above expectations.
© Next
UK sales rose 4.4%, significantly ahead of the retailer's forecast of 1.3%, while online sales grew 10.1%. Retail store sales, however, declined 3.4% during the period.
The company said exceptionally strong trading during the first five weeks of the quarter, when sales rose 11.8%, contributed to the stronger performance.
As a result, Next plc increased its full-year profit guidance by £8 million to £1.218 billion, while maintaining its forecast for full-price sales at £5.9 billion for the year. Looking ahead, the retailer expects UK sales growth to moderate in the second quarter, forecasting a 1% increase compared to last year.
The business also acknowledged continued cost pressures linked to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and said it plans to offset these through moderate price increases in some international markets alongside operational cost savings.
Source: www.bigfurnituregroup.com
