Kier Group upgrades FY26 expectations on stronger trading and record order book

Cranes on construction site at night

Kier Group (LSE:KIE) expects to deliver full-year revenue and profit at the top end of market forecasts for the year ended 30 June 2026, supported by a strong second-half performance across its infrastructure, construction and property businesses. Increased activity in water, highways and rail projects, together with progress on major developments such as HMP Glasgow and stronger property operations, helped drive growth despite a challenging economic backdrop.

The company’s order book expanded 8% to approximately £11.9 billion, providing visibility over more than 90% of anticipated revenue for 2027. The increase reflects a series of significant contract awards that align with the UK Government’s long-term infrastructure investment plans. Kier also expects to report a substantially stronger balance sheet, moving from an average net debt position in the previous financial year to an average month-end cash position during FY26, with period-end net cash expected to reach around £232 million.

During the year, Kier secured major contracts across sectors including nuclear, water and environmental infrastructure, with projects such as Sizewell C and the STEP fusion programme joining education, justice and healthcare developments, including HMP Wandsworth and NHS hospital schemes. The company also strengthened its long-term pipeline through appointments to major frameworks, including the £37 billion Hospital 2.0 Alliance and the £15 billion Education Construction Framework 2025, reinforcing its position as a key delivery partner for UK infrastructure projects.

Kier’s outlook continues to benefit from strong operational performance, robust cash generation and excellent visibility provided by its growing order book. While leverage, remediation costs and seasonal cash flow fluctuations remain considerations, management believes the group’s improving financial position provides a solid platform for future growth and shareholder returns.

About Kier Group plc

Kier Group plc is a leading UK infrastructure services, construction and property company delivering projects for both public and private sector clients. The group offers integrated design, construction and project management services across sectors including water, highways, rail, education, healthcare, justice and defence.

Its expertise includes civil engineering, building construction, mechanical and electrical services, and property development. Through long-term framework agreements and strategic infrastructure contracts, Kier plays a significant role in delivering major UK public infrastructure while supporting sustainable growth across its core markets.

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