International sales help Next Q3 beat expectations

5th Nov 2026 07:14

(Sharecast News) - Third quarter sales at Next beat expectations, driven by the clothing retailer's international operations, although UK growth was volatile after the hot summer weather that deterred shoppers from venturing out.

In the thirteen weeks to 31 October, total full price sales were up 8.1% versus last year, £33m ahead of guidance of 5.8% for the second half.

International sales were up 32.2%, against forecasts of 20.5% on the back of profitable marketing. The additional £5m profit from these sales was offset by increased EU tariff costs. UK sales rose 2%.

Full-year guidance for an 8.5% rise in annual profits to £1.25bn was held after four upgrades this year. Next also kept its forecast for fourth quarter full price sales to be up 5.8% year-on-year.

"In the online international business, Next is creating something of a virtuous circle. Its marketing is clearly hitting the spot, leading to higher sales, which enables additional spend to reinforce awareness of the brand," said Interactive Investor head of markets Richard Hunter.

"This strong growth also reinforces Next's previously stated strategy, which underlines the group's unparalleled understanding of the markets in which it operates and its ability to capitalise on new opportunities."

"The group believes that international tastes in clothing are beginning to converge, not least of which is due to the increasing visual power, appeal and presence not just of the internet, but also the rise of streaming services which are now increasingly used by younger audiences."

Reporting by Frank Prenesti for Sharecast.com