Bloomsbury Publishing shares fall 16% as annual profit declines

Bloomsbury Publishing PLC on Thursday reported a decline in its full-year profit despite a rise in revenue, as increased costs weighed on earnings.

In the year that ended February 28, the London-based independent publisher posted a pretax profit of £32.5 million, down 22% from £41.5 million the previous financial year.

However, it reported revenue of £361.0 million, up 5.3% from £342.7 million.

Bloomsbury shares were down 16% to 548.20 pence in London on Thursday morning.

The weaker earnings despite the improved top line can be attributed to an increase in costs.

Cost of sales were up 6.1% at £157.1 million from £148.1 million, and administrative expenses rose 11% to £115.9 million from £104.2 million.

Marketing and distribution costs increased to £54.6 million, up 9.6% from £49.8 million.

Bloomsbury declared a final dividend of 11.54 pence, up 5.0% from 10.99 pence a year earlier. Its total dividend rose 5.0% to 15.43 pence from 14.69 pence.

Bloomsbury Publishing expects financial 2026 trading to come in broadly in line with existing consensus expectations at constant currency. These include revenue of £349.2 million and profit before taxation and highlighted items of £45.1 million.

Profit before taxation and highlighted items for financial 2025 was £42.1 million.

‘Bloomsbury’s diversification strategy has forged a portfolio of portfolios combining consumer and academic publishing, a resilient model delivering long-term success,’ said Founder & Chief Executive Officer Nigel Newton.

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