Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Tesco Beats Forecasts, Widens Profit Outlook as Middle East Conflict Clouds Costs

The wider guidance highlights the risk that the Iran conflict drives UK food costs higher via fuel, fertiliser and shipping shocks.

Overview

  • Tesco, which reported results on Thursday, posted adjusted operating profit of about £3.15bn for the year to February 28 and revenue growth of 5.4%.
  • The retailer set 2026/27 operating profit guidance at £3.0bn to £3.3bn, widening the range because the war in Iran has increased cost uncertainty.
  • Chief executive Ken Murphy said Tesco has seen no supply problems or broad price rises so far, apart from higher fuel, and pledged to keep the weekly shop affordable.
  • Tesco announced a £65m performance award for frontline staff and targeted a further £500m in savings next year to help hold down shelf prices.
  • Government planning and industry warnings flagged risks from a prolonged Strait of Hormuz disruption, including possible CO2 shortages that affect meat processing, while Tesco said it does not recognise double‑digit inflation forecasts.