Primark saw improved UK trading in the second half of the year, despite consumer caution, inflation and a weak clothing market.
In its interim results for the half-year to September 13, 2025, Primark said it expected an overall sales growth of around 1%.
Total like-for-like sales are expected to be around 2% below last year, but full-year expectations are that sales should grow by 1%.
Primark owner Associated British Foods (ABF) said UK and Ireland trading was a “good sequential improvement” compared with the first half of the year, with sales expected to grow by 1%.
This was driven by a strong product offer in womenswear, increased digital engagement, and momentum in click and collect.
Like-for-like sales in the UK and Ireland are expected to be broadly flat.
Trading is set to be weaker in Europe, with the exceptions of Spain, Portugal, and Central and Eastern Europe.
US sales are set to grow 23% as stores have been trading well and the value proposition “resonated with customers”.
Primark opened 15 new stores in the second half of the year. Its outlook for the full year is “broadly in line with last year” and it predicts the consumer environment will remain uncertain.
ABF chief executive George Weston said: “I’m pleased with how the group has performed in the second half of our financial year in what continues to be a challenging environment, characterised by consumer caution, geopolitical uncertainty and inflation.
“Primark delivered improved trading in the UK and strong sales growth in the US, while trading on the continent was softer in a weaker consumer environment.”
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