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(Sharecast News) - Smiths News said in an update on Thursday that trading for the current financial year remained in line with market expectations, as the group reiterated its focus on shareholder returns and the development of additional revenue streams ahead of its annual general meeting.
The London-listed company said performance for the year ending 29 August remained consistent with expectations, with progress continuing against its strategy of maintaining returns to shareholders while expanding revenues that leveraged its existing distribution network and operational capabilities.
Subject to shareholder approval at the annual general meeting, Smiths News confirmed it would pay a final dividend for the 2025 financial year of 3.8p per share alongside a special dividend of 3p per share, both payable on 5 February.
That would bring total dividends for the 2025 financial year to 8.55p per ordinary share.
"Smiths News has performed strongly since the start of the year, and I am pleased to report that we are on track to meet market expectations," said chief executive Jon Bunting.
"We continue to make progress in broadening our market reach, whilst ensuring we maintain our best class service across our newspaper and magazine activities."
Bunting said he expected to provide a further update on trading when the company reports its half-year results in May.
At 0942 GMT, shares in Smiths News were up 2.22% at 68.49p.
Reporting by Josh White for Sharecast.com.
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