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Watches of Switzerland Reports Record Results as Management Holds Takeover Talks

The company’s strong U.S. sales and new jewellery push have drawn confidential bidder interest and could prompt a private offer.

Overview

  • The group published record fiscal 2026 results on Tuesday with sales of about £1.83 billion and statutory profit before tax rising roughly 75% to £133 million.
  • Company directors have held confidential talks in recent months with potential bidders but say no formal offer has been made and the firm declined to comment on rumours.
  • Sources report management wants a bid substantially above about £7.50 per share while the stock has rallied roughly 55% this year to multi‑year highs.
  • The U.S. has become the company’s largest market, accounting for 51% of sales and driving much of the growth even as margins were squeezed by higher gold prices and some U.S. tariffs.
  • Watches of Switzerland is broadening into luxury jewellery and has launched a lab‑grown diamond range through its Goldsmiths brand as it reinsures revenue streams and investors watch for any formal takeover approach or execution of FY2027 guidance.