AB Foods shares plunge as Primark Europe sales weaken and sugar loss outlook widens

  • Associated British Foods shares fell more than 9% after Primark forecast weaker like-for-like sales.
  • Primark projected a 3% fourth-quarter decline, including a 4.3% contraction in continental Europe.
  • AB Foods widened its 2027 Sugar adjusted operating loss forecast to £70 million-£170 million.

Associated British Foods shares fell more than 9% in early London trading after the company projected a 3% decline in Primark’s like-for-like sales for the period ending September 12, led by a 4.3% contraction in continental Europe. The UK and Ireland grew 0.4%, while full-year Primark sales are expected to rise about 2%, supported by store expansion and franchising. Primark’s adjusted operating margin is forecast at about 10%, with U.S. revenue up approximately 11% as its American estate reached 47 stores. AB Foods expects its full-year adjusted earnings per share to exceed previous guidance, but Sugar’s adjusted operating loss outlook for 2027 widened to £70 million to £170 million. The company also confirmed Great Britain home delivery for Primark and said the planned separation of its Retail and Food divisions remains on track for December 2027.

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