Card Factory (CARD) Trading update summary

Trading performance

• Profits are expected to be in line with revised guidance announced in December 2025.

• Christmas trading met expectations despite challenging UK consumer conditions and lower high street footfall.

• Total Group revenue for November and December 2025 grew by 4.3% year-on-year.

• Store sales for the Christmas period declined by 0.8%, with like-for-like store revenue down 1.2%.

Year-to-date results and strategic progress

• Group revenue for the eleven months to 31 December 2025 rose 7.3% to £541.6 million, aided by acquisitions.

• Total store sales increased by 1.1% year-on-year, while like-for-like store sales were flat.

• Acquired businesses, especially in North America and Ireland, performed as expected and contributed to revenue growth.

• The 'Simplify and Scale' programme helped offset cost inflation.

Outlook and capital allocation

• Adjusted profit before tax for FY26 is expected between £55 million and £60 million.

• A progressive full-year dividend is anticipated, consistent with capital allocation policy.

• Share purchase programme for employee schemes concluded at a cost of £5 million.

• Board remains confident in long-term prospects and growth strategy.