A differentiated offering in the value retail sector with significant growth potential.
Clear and relevant purpose
Our purpose – to inspire reading, learning, creativity and play – has significant relevance, particularly in a digital age when customers are looking for off-screen ways to connect.
c.6,500
new product lines introduced in FY24
Unique market position
Uniquely positioned in the market providing better value than specialist retailers and better choice and customer service than discounters.
Accessible and convenient multi-channel proposition
Store estate of over 500 stores in a wide range of locations across the UK and
Ireland. Supported by an online presence that increases customer convenience and accessibility of our proposition.
511
stores
Broad demographic appeal, in significant addressable markets
Diverse customer base across four addressable markets creates significant growth opportunity. Current market share is c.2%, providing significant headroom to grow.
Multiple levers for sales growth
Significant opportunity to drive sales growth through both stores and online sales channels, with initiatives including: growing brand awareness through bringing our evolved brand to life; increasing sales densities in stores by better tailoring space allocation in stores to meet local needs; better supporting families with their key everyday shopping missions to ensure they are connecting and having Time Well Spent; and better executing our plans in our sales channels through a more optimised operating model.
+0.9%
FY24 revenue growth
Improving operating margins
Opportunity to drive cost efficiencies and product margin improvement which, combined with sales growth, will help deliver our medium-term ambition to return to pre-IFRS 16 EBITDA margins of 5%.
