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Watches of Switzerland Group PLC on Wednesday raised full-year revenue guidance after strong holiday sales, although this was balanced by a trimmed margin outlook, keeping shares on the back foot. The Leicester, England-based watch and jewellery retailer now expects full-year sales growth at constant currency of 9% to 11%, raised from 6% to 10% previously. In the 52 weeks to April 27, 2025, revenue totalled £1.65 billion, representing growth of 8% on-year at constant currency. But the firm tightened earnings before interest and tax margin guidance to a range of down 70 to 90 basis from between flat and down 100bps before. The Ebit margin is expected to improve in the second half of the financial year compared with the first half. Capital expenditure is still expected to be between £65 million to £70 million. Shares in the company were down 2.5% to 501.79 pence each in London on Wednesday. Watches of Switzerland said trading in the 13 weeks to January 25, its financial third quarter, was strong across the group, consistent with trends in the first half of the financial year and with sales growth ahead of expectations. Demand for key luxury brands remains strong and continues to outstrip supply in both the UK and US markets, the FTSE 250 listing said. Watches of Switzerland said the US delivered ‘sustained broad-based growth across categories, brands and price points,’ with the Roberto Coin marketing campaign, driving ‘excellent’ sales performance in the North American market. The firm said the initial integration of Deutsch & Deutsch, acquired in January, is progressing well. In the UK, the firm said trading conditions across luxury watches and jewellery were consistent with recent periods. Chief Executive Officer Brian Duffy said it is ‘particularly pleasing to be achieving these results despite an unusually volatile operating environment, including macroeconomic uncertainty and tariffs.’ Copyright 2026 Alliance News Ltd. All Rights Reserved.
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