Card Factory (LSE:CARD) said trading for the eleven months to 31 December 2025 was in line with its revised expectations, with group revenue rising 7.3% year on year to £541.6 million. Growth was driven largely by contributions from acquired businesses and the ongoing integration of Funky Pigeon, which helped offset flat like-for-like sales across the UK store estate amid subdued high-street footfall.
Performance over the key Christmas period met management expectations despite a challenging consumer environment. Total revenue across November and December increased 4.3%, although store like-for-like sales declined 1.2%. Cost inflation was partially mitigated through the company’s ‘Simplify and Scale’ efficiency programme, supporting confidence in delivering adjusted profit before tax of between £55 million and £60 million for FY26. The group also reiterated its commitment to a progressive dividend policy and confirmed the completion of a £5 million share buyback to support employee share schemes.
From an investment perspective, Card Factory benefits from solid underlying financial performance and an attractive valuation profile, with a low earnings multiple and a high dividend yield. These positives are counterbalanced by very weak technical indicators, with the share price trading well below major moving averages and momentum signals remaining firmly bearish, suggesting near-term caution.
More about Card Factory
Card Factory plc is the UK’s leading specialist retailer of greeting cards, gifts and celebration products, operating an extensive high-street store network alongside growing digital and international operations. The group has expanded through partnerships and acquisitions, including the online brand Funky Pigeon and businesses in North America and the Republic of Ireland, while maintaining a value-focused proposition aimed at budget-conscious consumers.
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