Greggs, the UK's largest fast-food chain, has reported a 20% rise in pre-tax profit for the first half of 2026, reaching £76.0m. This increase is attributed to the company's strategy of adapting its menu to changing consumer tastes, including the introduction of high-protein salads and iced matcha lattes.
Total sales for the 26 weeks ending in June exceeded £1.1 billion, marking a 7.2% increase compared to the same period in the previous year. Chief executive Roisin Currie stated that the company is "broadening and innovating our menu in line with changing tastes and trends."
The bakery chain opened 34 new stores during the first six months of the year, resulting in a net total of 2,773 outlets after 31 closures. Many of these new locations are situated away from high streets, including petrol forecourts and university campuses. Greggs has also confirmed no further price rises are planned for the remainder of the year, following increases in May.
Despite the positive first-half results, the company has indicated that investment in expanding its supply chain is expected to impact profits for the rest of 2026, unless customer confidence improves. Greggs' expectations for the full year outcome remain unchanged, with underlying pre-tax profit anticipated to be similar to 2025's £172m.