Greggs Reports 20% Profit Increase Driven by Healthier Options and New Trends

Greggs has reported a 20% increase in profit for the first half of the year, a rise attributed to its strategic pivot towards healthier product offerings and trending beverages. The UK's largest fast-food chain saw total sales climb to £1.1 billion for the 26 weeks ending in June, marking a 7.2% increase over the same period last year. Pre-tax profit reached £76.0 million, up from £63.5 million in the first six months of 2025.

Chief executive Roisin Currie stated that the company is actively broadening and innovating its menu to align with evolving consumer tastes. This strategy includes the relaunch of its salad range in May, now featuring increased protein options and greater customer choice. Greggs is also introducing new iced matcha lattes to attract younger and health-conscious demographics, alongside clearer nutritional labeling.

Currie noted that the rise of weight-loss drugs has influenced customer behavior, leading to a demand for smaller portions, which the company is addressing through its menu adaptations. The company has also focused on expanding its physical footprint, opening 34 new stores in the first half of 2026, bringing its total to 2,773 locations after accounting for 31 closures. A significant portion of these new outlets are situated in areas previously underserved by Greggs, including retail parks, supermarkets, hospitals, and university campuses, in addition to forecourts.

Greggs is carefully monitoring customer traffic patterns to ensure new store openings enhance overall visits without negatively impacting sales at existing locations. Despite earlier price adjustments in May for breakfast, lunch, and "big" deals, Currie indicated that no further price increases are planned for the remainder of the year. "Our prices are in a good place and we will now be working hard to protect the consumer and making sure that we can offer that value throughout the rest of the year," she said.