Unite Group reiterates guidance for 2026 adjusted earnings fall

(Alliance News) - Unite Group PLC on Friday said it is focused on increasing its alignment to the UK's leading universities.

The Bristol-based student accommodation provider said reservations for the 2026/27 academic year remain in line with expectations, with 79% of beds reserved compared with 80% a year before.

The company said sales progress remains consistent with guidance for occupancy at the lower end of 93% to 96% and rental growth of 2% to 3%. This would be lower than 2025/26 academic year occupancy of 95.2% and rental growth of 4.0%.

Unite, in an annual general meeting trading statement, added it is increasing disposal plans and exploring ways to accelerate its portfolio transition, which would release surplus capital for share buybacks or university partnerships.

The company reiterated guidance for adjusted earnings per share of 41.5 pence to 43.0p for 2026, between 9.5% and 13% lower than 47.5p in 2025.

CEO Joe Lister said: "We are increasing our disposal plans and working with advisors to explore options to further accelerate our transition to a more focused, higher-quality portfolio. This will release surplus capital for reinvestment into share buybacks or university partnerships consistent with our capital allocation framework."

Unite shares were 0.6% lower at 478.96 pence each on Friday morning in London.

By Tom Budszus, Alliance News slot editor

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