Bunzl (LSE:BNZL) has reported a 3.1% increase in third-quarter group revenue at constant exchange rates and reaffirmed its full-year financial guidance, supported by price increases and higher sales volumes.
The international distribution group said underlying revenue rose 3.7% during the quarter, reflecting inflation-related pricing adjustments and volume growth, particularly within its North America Distribution business.
Bunzl reported that its operating margin was in line with internal expectations, although the company did not provide a specific margin figure for the period.
For the full year, the group continues to expect modest underlying revenue growth and an operating margin broadly unchanged from 2025 levels.
Its outlook for financing and tax costs also remains unchanged.
Alongside the trading update, Bunzl confirmed the completion of its acquisition of Blueleaf Care, a UK-based distributor supplying products to care and nursing homes.
Blueleaf Care generated revenue of approximately £58 million in 2025. The acquisition expands Bunzl’s distribution activities in the UK health and social care sector.
The company did not disclose the purchase price or the expected earnings contribution from the acquired business in the supplied announcement.
Bunzl also provided an update on its £500 million share buyback programme, confirming that approximately £225 million of repurchases had been completed.
This leaves around £275 million of the announced programme outstanding.
The group said it continues to maintain financial flexibility to pursue further acquisitions, with smaller complementary businesses remaining part of its medium-term growth strategy.
Bunzl supplies non-food consumables, including packaging, cleaning and hygiene products, and healthcare supplies, to customers across retail, foodservice, healthcare and industrial markets.
For investors, the trading update provides confirmation that Bunzl’s full-year expectations remain unchanged following its third-quarter performance.
The combination of underlying revenue growth, acquisition activity and ongoing share repurchases also provides an indication of how the group is allocating capital while maintaining its operating margin outlook.
Key developments to monitor include fourth-quarter revenue trends, the contribution from Blueleaf Care, progress on the remaining share buyback and any additional acquisitions.
The company’s ability to maintain operating margins while managing inflation-related pricing and changes in customer demand will also remain relevant to its full-year financial performance.
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