Greggs reports record-breaking year

Greggs plc has announced its preliminary results for the 52 weeks ended December 28 2024, marking a significant year of growth with total sales exceeding £2 billion for the first time in the company’s history.

 

The bakery giant delivered an 11.3% increase in total sales, reaching £2.014 billion, with like-for-like sales in company-managed shops up 5.5% year-on-year. Underlying pre-tax profit rose 13.2% to £189.8 million, while total pre-tax profit, including exceptional gains, stood at £203.9 million.

 

With its ambitious expansion strategy, Greggs opened a record 226 new shops in 2024, leading to a net increase of 145 stores. This brings the total estate to 2,618 locations across the UK. The company is targeting 140 to 150 net openings in 2025, with long-term plans for significantly more than 3,000 shops nationwide.

 

Greggs continues to strengthen its multi-channel offering, with delivery services now available in 1,556 shops — a 30.9% increase from 2023. Digital engagement also grew, with transactions via the Greggs App rising to 20.1% of total sales, up from 12.5% the previous year.

 

Roisin Currie, chief executive of Greggs, commented: "2024 was another record-breaking year for Greggs; we exceeded £2 billion in sales for the first time and opened our 2,600th shop. Our people have worked tirelessly to deliver on our strategic ambition to further establish Greggs as a multi-channel food-to-go retailer.

 

"In 2021, we set our sights on doubling sales by 2026, and three years into this five-year plan, we are on track. The brand is in better shape than ever, with significant opportunities for further expansion, particularly in evening trade and delivery. With strong financial performance and ongoing investment in our supply chain, we are confident in our ability to navigate challenges and sustain growth."

 

Greggs also reaffirmed its commitment to the Greggs Pledge, supporting local communities and sustainability initiatives. The company now operates 38 outlet shops selling discounted unsold products, and its Breakfast Clubs programme feeds 75,000 school children daily. Progress has also been made toward its 2040 net zero carbon targets, with reductions in Scope 1 and 2 emissions aligned with science-based targets.

 

The company’s leadership remains steadfast in its long-term vision, with a strong pipeline of new shop openings and supply chain investments set to drive future expansion. With Greggs firmly established as the UK’s leading food-to-go brand, it looks ahead to another year of progress in 2025.