London, United Kingdom – Bunzl plc, a leading distribution and outsourcing company, recently hosted its 2024 Half Year Results Presentation, showcasing strong financial performance and strategic progress. CEO Frank van Zanten and CFO Richard Howes highlighted key takeaways, including exceeding acquisition targets and a commitment to return to target leverage range by 2027.

Amidst record acquisition spend and strong cash generation, Bunzl remains focused on value-accretive acquisitions and enhancing shareholder returns. The company announced its first-ever share buyback program, signaling confidence in future growth prospects. Operating margins have shown a significant increase, with a projection for continued expansion going forward.

In terms of revenue trends, Bunzl experienced improvement in organic revenue growth, particularly in safety, cleaning & hygiene, and healthcare sectors. Despite challenges in deflation and volume reductions, the Group sees a positive outlook for the remainder of the year.

Own brand penetration is a key focus for Bunzl, with opportunities for growth across various product lines and regions. The US market presents significant potential for further development of own brands, aligning with the company’s strategic objectives.

In response to questions regarding margin expansion and revenue outlook, Bunzl attributed EBITDA margin improvements to gross margin enhancements and cost efficiencies. The revenue outlook suggests positive organic growth in Q4, driven by a combination of price inflation and volume/mix growth.

Overall, Bunzl’s commitment to strategic growth, operational efficiency, and capital allocation underscores its resilience and potential for sustained success in the long term. The company’s proactive approach to acquisitions and margin optimization positions it for continued growth and value creation.