Collectables help Swindon news distributor's successful trading

By Barrie Hudson - 30 September 2026

Business

News wholesaler Smiths News expects to deliver results ahead of market expectations for the year to 29 August 2026.

In the second half of the financial year, the firm has reported, demand for collectables was stronger than expected, with a record contribution from the Men’s FIFA World Cup of over £3m, bolstering the overall performance of the news and magazines business. 

International football competitions typically enhance performance in alternate years due to timing of the FIFA World Cups and UEFA European Championships.

Moving into the 2027 financial year, the organisation says trading has started positively, and the company has begun its transformational programme to establish a national distribution footprint to service new contracts.

CEO Jonathan Bunting said: "I am pleased to report positive momentum across the business in FY2026, with results now expected to exceed market expectations, driven by a particularly strong performance in the second half of the year.

"The national contract awards with News UK, Associated Newspapers, Frontline and Seymour are significant milestones for Smiths News and reflect our ongoing commitment and focus on delivering a best-in-class service to our customers, alongside strengthening our long-term relationships with publishers and retailers.

"With the distribution footprint expanding to deliver national coverage in 2027, alongside our strategy to grow other areas like recycling that complement our offering, the Group is well positioned for growth in the coming years.”

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