Hilton Food backs 2025 outlook as sales rise, partnerships take shape

Tue, 20th May 2025 10:03

(Alliance News) - Hilton Food Group PLC on Tuesday said it is trading in line with expectations so far in 2025, with year-to-date volumes and sales ahead of the prior year across all three of its operating regions.

The Huntingdon, England-based food packaging company reaffirmed its full-year outlook ahead of its annual general meeting, saying it is confident of delivering earnings growth in line with market expectations.

Company compiled consensus for adjusted pretax profit in 2025 is between GBP76.8 million and GBP81.0 million. This would be up from GBP76.1 million in 2024 and GBP66.0 million in 2023.

Hilton said trading in UK & Ireland benefited from strong Easter and barbecue season demand but also input cost pressures. In Europe, its core meat and ready meal businesses performed well. In the Asia-Pacific region, volume growth continued but was more moderate due to strong prior year comparatives.

Looking ahead, Hilton said it remains on track to launch two major international partnerships. It expects to begin its partnership with National Agricultural Development Co, or Nadec, in Saudi Arabia in the second half of 2026 and with Walmart Inc in Canada in early 2027.

Also on Tuesday, Hilton announced board changes. Bindi Foyle, currently group finance director at Senior PLC, and Samy Zekhout, former chief financial officer and deputy chief executive officer of Nomad Foods Ltd, will join as independent non-executive directors in June. They will replace Sarah Perry and Angus Porter.

Hilton said it remains well-positioned for long-term growth, with its strategy supported by its 'sustainable protein plan' and continued investment across core markets.

Shares in Hilton Food were up 0.8% at 904.00 pence in London on Tuesday morning.

By Eva Castanedo, Alliance News reporter

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