The beloved bakery chain, Greggs, has recently faced a challenging period, with profits taking a hit and sales growth slowing down. This news has sparked debates about whether the UK has reached 'peak Greggs'.
Despite its iconic status for sausage rolls and steak bakes, Greggs reported a significant drop in pre-tax profits, falling by nearly 18% compared to the previous year. The company attributes this slump to a combination of factors, including cautious consumers dealing with rising costs of living, higher taxes, and increased focus on health and wellness.
But here's where it gets controversial: Greggs' CEO, Roisin Currie, remains optimistic. She believes that the company has the resilience to bounce back, just as it has done in the past. Currie highlights the potential for improved consumer spending as inflationary pressures ease, and the continued demand for convenient, on-the-go food options.
And this is the part most people miss: Greggs' strategy for growth. Despite the challenges, the bakery chain is actively expanding. It opened over 120 new stores in 2025, bringing its total to 2,739 locations. The company aims to grow even further, targeting over 3,000 UK shops in the long term. This expansion is supported by the growth of its delivery business and an increase in evening trade, with nearly three-quarters of its stores now open past 5 pm.
However, analysts are divided on Greggs' long-term prospects. Some argue that the slowing sales growth is a cause for concern, while others believe that Greggs is well-positioned for future success with its adaptive menu and accessibility strategies.
So, has the UK reached 'peak Greggs'? Only time will tell, but one thing's for sure: Greggs isn't going down without a fight. What do you think? Will Greggs continue to thrive, or is this the beginning of a new era for the bakery chain? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
