Newcastle-based accident management specialist Winn Group has reported a rise in turnover to £217m for the year ending March 2026, up from £196.1m the previous year, though operating profit fell from £38.7m to £29.8m. The group, which includes replacement vehicle firm On-Hire, medico-legal reporting and rehab firm On Medical, and non-fault accident specialists Winn Solicitors, attributed the profit decline to narrowed operational losses from its Scottish office, reduced instructions across intervention services, and increased salary and commission costs amid higher volumes and legal fees.
Subsidiary Performance Drives Revenue Growth
On-Hire Limited was the main contributor to group revenue growth, with revenue increasing 8% to over £185.4m, driven by growing instructions. Winn Solicitors Limited saw a 28% increase in turnover, supported by a 38% rise in non-personal injury fees and a 15% increase in fees from road traffic accident personal injury cases. On Medical, however, only provided services for medical instructions not completed by April 1, focusing on collecting outstanding trade debtors' balances.
Scottish Operations and Future Outlook
The group's Scottish office, which began trading in April 2023, incurred operational losses but is expected to deliver strong profits in the future. Legal fees in Scotland surged by 148% to more than £1.6m during the year. CEO Chris Birkett noted in the accounts: "During the year, we have not seen a major change in repair and hire markets; with the exception of inflationary increases in vehicle rental cost across all models and slightly lower lead times versus last year's levels."
Cash Flow and Financing
Strong cash generation was reported, with £41m of cashflow from operating activities before exceptional costs. Dividends of over £80.7m were paid during the year. Staff headcount rose from 713 to 747. Following a refinancing in late 2025, the group secured a £95m loan with PGIM and Nomura to fuel growth.
Market Position and Challenges
Winn Group describes itself as a one-stop-shop for road traffic accident victims, offering vehicle recovery, repairs, replacement vehicles, and compensation claims. Birkett added: "Although the economic environment remains uncertain, with the wars in Ukraine, Gaza and Iran and interest rates at 3.75%, the directors remain of the opinion that the group is in a strong financial position to face the challenges ahead, including those arising from an industry where many competitors are in turmoil given recent legislative and macro changes, while keeping significant growth rates."
