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. Full year numbers from Bellway show progress despite economic woes
Home builder Bellway LON:BWY issued full year results this morning, with completions 14.3% higher, revenues up 16.9%, underlying pre-tax profits 27.9% ahead and a 90bps improvement in operating margins. That’s ahead of expectations and has paved the way for a refreshed capital allocation framework including a new £150m share buyback.
These numbers come in the face of a weak consumer outlook and indeed since the start of FY26 there are some near term pressures emerging, but the order book is improved, there’s a strong land bank and the proposed total dividend has been upped by almost 30%, too.
2. Revenues at Hollywood Bowl gain as estate expands
Leisure operator Hollywood Bowl LON:BOWL issued a full year trading statement this morning, noting record revenues, up 8.9% year-on-year. EBITDA remains forecast to land in line with market expectations, with growth being driven by the successful opening of new properties in both the UK and Canada.
That expansion theme is set to continue over the next decade with plans to almost double the size of the portfolio and management note confidence over the outlook despite that theme of economic uncertainty.
3. Bytes Technology sees revenue growth – but faces tough comparatives
Bytes Technology Group LON:BYIT published interim results this morning, noting that gross invoiced income was 9% up, but operating profits had fallen by 7% against the comparative. Management have upped the dividend marginally and client retention levels are seen as very good, but the workforce is growing and that’s going to come at a price. The sales pipeline remains strong but the note also highlights that the company is working against some strong comparatives.