Finance

AB Foods confirms Primark's Christmas quarter sales fell 2.7%

Published by Global Banking & Finance Review

Posted on January 22, 2026

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· Last updated: January 22, 2026

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AB Foods confirms Primark's Christmas quarter sales fell 2.7%
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LONDON, Jan 22 (Reuters) - Associated British Foods, which warned on profit earlier this month, confirmed on Thursday that underlying sales at its Primark clothing business fell 2.7 % in the Christmas

AB Foods confirms Primark's Christmas quarter sales fell 2.7%

AB Foods' Sales Performance Overview

LONDON, Jan 22 (Reuters) - Associated British Foods, which warned on profit earlier this month, confirmed on Thursday that underlying sales at its Primark clothing business fell 2.7 % in the Christmas quarter.

Profit Warning Context

When AB Foods issued its profit warning on January 8, it published sales estimates for the 16 weeks to January 3. Final figures were published on Thursday.

Final Sales Figures

(Reporting by James Davey, Editing by Paul Sandle)

Key Takeaways

  • Primark's sales fell 2.7% in the Christmas quarter.
  • AB Foods had issued a profit warning earlier in January.
  • Sales estimates were initially published on January 8.
  • Final sales figures were confirmed on January 22.
  • The report was covered by Reuters with contributions from James Davey.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is underlying sales?
Underlying sales refer to the revenue generated by a business from its core operations, excluding any extraordinary items or one-time events. This metric helps assess the ongoing performance of the business.
What is a profit warning?
A profit warning is a public announcement made by a company indicating that its profits will fall short of market expectations. This can affect investor confidence and stock prices.
What is the Christmas quarter?
The Christmas quarter typically refers to the period from late November to early January, encompassing the holiday shopping season. It's a crucial time for retailers due to increased consumer spending.
What is retail trade?
Retail trade involves the sale of goods and services directly to consumers. It encompasses various sectors, including clothing, electronics, and food, and is vital for economic activity.
What is consumer perception?
Consumer perception refers to how customers view a brand or product based on their experiences, beliefs, and interactions. It significantly influences purchasing decisions and brand loyalty.

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