News wholesaler Smiths News has reported a strong operational and financial performance for the 43-week period to June 26 2021, with trading expected to be ahead of market expectations for the 52 week period ending 28 August 2021.
The company said core sales of newspapers and magazines have continued to stabilise, with positive year-on-year comparators for the months following the anniversary of the first lockdown in March 2020. The return of major sporting events, particularly the European Football Championship, has further boosted sales of one-shots, stickers and albums.
Jonathan Bunting, Chief Executive Officer, commented:
Our performance since the half-year has been pleasing, with robust operational control securing the benefits of the improving sales and stability in our core markets. We remain focused on delivering for all stakeholders and are confident that the business is well placed to build upon recent progress as the remaining restrictions on social movement are lifted.”