Significant Profit Growth
Operating profit increased by 38%, and adjusted earnings per share rose by 39%. Cash generation increased to GBP 1.4 billion, an increase of GBP 1.1 billion from the previous year.
Strong Retail Performance
Retail sales grew by 6% at constant currency, with significant growth in key markets such as the US, France, Spain, Italy, and Central and Eastern Europe. The operating margin recovered to 11.7%, with adjusted operating profit rising from GBP 735 million to just over GBP 1.1 billion.
Grocery and Ingredients Success
Grocery achieved profit growth and margin improvement, with sales up 4% on a constant currency basis. Ingredients saw a 12% increase in adjusted operating profit, driven by strong performance in yeast and bakery ingredients.
Strong Cash Flow and Shareholder Returns
Free cash inflow amounted to GBP 1,355 million. The proposed total dividend for 2024 represents a 50% increase, with share buybacks amounting to approximately GBP 1.2 billion over the last two years.
Positive Outlook for Primark
Primark's US expansion reached profitability with 27 stores and plans for further growth. The brand saw strong market share growth in key European markets and proposed a 4-5% sales growth per annum.