Walker’s Shortbread Ltd today, 17 July 2026, announced its full year financial results for 2025, reporting resilient sales of £197m (2% reduction on 2024) in the face of market volatility.
The 128-year-old family-owned business, like many companies, contended with complex environmental factors and trading conditions throughout the year. Domestically, trading was impacted by cautious customer ordering patterns whilst internationally, the U.S. a key market for the business, presented difficult trading conditions mainly due to the effects of tariff implementation.
Operationally, the business absorbed the impact of significant commodity and utility price escalations. Of particular significance was the escalation in butter costs compared to the previous year as well as continuing global affairs causing uncertainty in terms of availability. Ongoing labour cost increases and continued sector-wide labour shortages meant necessary increased utilisation of premium-paid overtime hours. These combined business pressures consequently impacted margins, resulting in an operating profit of £6.9m.
Demand remains high
Despite these headwinds, domestic and international demand for Walker’s remains high with around 50% of produce successfully exported to around 100 different markets.
The Walker’s Shortbread Board is comfortable with the current strategy and will continue to focus on further operational efficiency through competitive tendering, longer-term contracts and continued investment in its people, operations and brand. Confidence in future business performance is underpinned by the strength of the Walker’s brand, including its partnership with global ambassador Sir Andy Murray, a robust balance sheet and a clear strategic focus on quality, new product development and opportunities for increased routes to markets.
To support this long-term growth strategy, the business also reinvigorated its leadership team during the year. Justin Stead was appointed as the new Chairman, bringing extensive global brand experience, alongside the appointment of Bryony Walker as Commercial Director. These appointments ensure the business is strongly positioned to navigate the current economic landscape and capitalise on future market opportunities.
