Three key news stories unfolding as the UK stock market opens. Check out our companies reporting diary for upcoming results from FTSE 350 and selected international stocks.
1. Wetherspoon continues to outperform UK’s struggling hospitality market
Full year numbers are out from JD Wetherspoon LON:JDW this morning with like for like sales 5.1% higher, whilst pre-tax profits added just over 10%. The pub chain continues to outperform the wider market in terms of sales and whilst citing inflationary pressures ahead, is committed to keeping costs low. It is proposed that the full year dividend of 12p per share be maintained.
2. Full year numbers from FW Thorpe see profits, dividends up
Lighting services company FW Thorpe LON:TFW issued full year results this morning with revenues fractionally lower but operating profits up by 4.7%. That’s paved the way for a 5.5% increase in dividends and management note a strong start to FY26.
The company believes it has the flexibility to continue adapting to changing market conditions and government interventions, which should help sustain sales levels.
3. ECR Minerals bullish on proposed acquisition amidst funding push
ECR Minerals LON:ECR issued an update this morning following its access to the Raglan project in Australia as part of a proposed acquisition. The board considers initial results on the due diligence conducted here to be “very satisfactory”, noting it has the ability to deliver results quickly.
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Indeed the second hand value of the equipment included in the deal may cover the entire cost. Completion of the deal is however reliant on concluding the funding round which was announced earlier in the week.
