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UK's Serco sees North American market driving first-half growth on defence contracts

Published by Global Banking & Finance Review

Posted on June 26, 2025

1 min read

· Last updated: January 23, 2026

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(Reuters) -British outsourcing firm Serco said on Thursday that it expects its North American market to drive organic growth in the first half of 2025, fuelled by a high volume of defence contracts

Serco Anticipates North American Defence Contracts to Boost Growth

(Reuters) -British outsourcing firm Serco said on Thursday that it expects its North American market to drive organic growth in the first half of 2025, fuelled by a high volume of defence contracts secured last year.

Serco, which provides defence, security, immigration, health and transport services for governments, has positioned itself to benefit from geopolitical tensions, as countries ramp up defence budgets to strengthen their military and security services.

With its recent acquisition of Northrop Grumman's Mission Training and Satellite Ground Network Communications (MT&S) business in May, defense has become Serco's largest sector, now accounting for around 40% of total revenue.

For the year ending in December, Serco reaffirmed its underlying operating profit forecast of around 260 million pounds ($356.41 million), but raised its organic sales growth outlook to about 1%, supported by improved immigration business and continued organic growth in the UK.

The company also named Keith Williams as board chair-designate, set to succeed John Rishton, who will step down on December 31.

($1 = 0.7295 pounds)

(Reporting by Raechel Thankam Job in Bengaluru; Editing by Sherry Jacob-Phillips)

Key Takeaways

  • Serco forecasts growth in 2025 from North American defence contracts.
  • Defence is now Serco's largest sector, making up 40% of revenue.
  • Recent acquisition of Northrop Grumman's MT&S business boosts position.
  • Serco raises organic sales growth outlook to 1%.
  • Keith Williams named as new board chair-designate.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is driving Serco's expected growth in the first half of 2025?
Serco expects its North American market to drive organic growth in the first half of 2025, fueled by a high volume of defence contracts.
How has Serco positioned itself in response to geopolitical tensions?
Serco has positioned itself to benefit from geopolitical tensions as countries ramp up their defence budgets.
What recent acquisition has impacted Serco's business?
Serco's recent acquisition of Northrop Grumman's Mission Training and Satellite Ground Network Communications business has made defence its largest sector.
What is Serco's forecast for underlying operating profit?
For the year ending in December, Serco reaffirmed its underlying operating profit forecast of around 260 million pounds ($356.41 million).
Who is the new board chair-designate for Serco?
Keith Williams has been named as the board chair-designate, set to succeed John Rishton, who will step down on December 31.

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