Recent uncertainty over the Omicron variant and ‘Plan B’ restriction were found to have limited impact on Smiths News.

The newspaper and magazine wholesaler is today publishing a business update, confirming trading and strategic progress is in line with expectations and reaffirming priorities for the remainder of the year.

The company put forward its priorities for the 2022 financial year, stating: “We remain alert to the inflationary pressures in our markets and the wider economy and are planning to act accordingly.

“Our stated goals for sustainability and the gradual recovery of our ancillary businesses, which were impacted by the pandemic, are on track.”

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In the latest business update, the company stated its confidence in profit and cash generation as the wider economic environment improves.

Jonathan Bunting, chief executive officer of Smiths News, said: “We start the new calendar year with confidence in our plans, underpinned by the demonstrable headway we have made over the last two years.

“The delivery of our commitments to stakeholders, founded on the sustainable value creation of our core business, remains our chief strategic and trading priority,” he said. “In this regard, our people continue to show exceptional dedication and on behalf of the Board I would like to express my thanks for their essential contributions to our progress.”

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