Historic magazine and newspaper wholesaler Smiths News has announced that its full-year results are set to meet market expectations, with the company declaring a final dividend for the 2025 financial year.
Financial Performance and Dividend Declaration
The Swindon-headquartered business, which serves as the UK's largest news wholesaler, made the announcement ahead of its annual general meeting on Thursday, January 29. The company delivers daily to more than 22,000 customers across England and Wales, maintaining a significant presence in the distribution sector.
Smiths News confirmed it will pay a final dividend of 3.8p alongside a special dividend of 3.0p to shareholders on February 5, 2026. This brings the total dividend for the 2025 financial year to 8.55p per ordinary share held, subject to shareholder approval at today's AGM.
Strategic Progress and Market Expansion
Chief Executive Jon Bunting reported that Smiths News has performed strongly since the beginning of the year and remains on track to meet market expectations. The company's strategy focuses on maintaining shareholder returns while developing additional revenue streams.
"We continue to make progress in broadening our market reach, whilst ensuring we maintain our best class service across our newspaper and magazine activities," stated Mr Bunting. "I look forward to providing a further update to shareholders at the half year results in May."
Leadership Changes and Future Plans
The announcement follows several significant developments within the company's leadership structure. In March, former finance chief Paul Baker departed to join a large private firm in another sector. Richard Clay, currently interim CFO and UK and Ireland group finance director at FTSE-250 vehicle hire firm Zigup, is set to join Smiths News next month as the new finance chief.
This leadership transition comes as Smiths News continues to expand its operational footprint across the UK, building on what the company describes as its strong performance in recent months.
Looking Ahead
Smiths News is scheduled to announce its complete full-year results on August 29, 2026. The company's consistent performance and strategic initiatives position it as a stable player in the news distribution industry, despite broader challenges facing print media sectors.
The dividend declaration and positive financial outlook reflect the company's ongoing commitment to shareholder value and operational excellence in serving thousands of retail customers nationwide.
