A cluster of trading updates set the tone this morning, with Marston's, IQE and Wickes Group all reaffirming or lifting full-year guidance ahead of the open. Elsewhere, the Prologis approach to SEGRO remains unresolved as a deadline nears, Smiths Group has moved to de-risk its pension scheme, and MoneySupermarket (LSE:MONY)'s owner reported record half-year revenue on the back of an insurance rebound.
Marston's says Grandstand pubs and World Cup drove trading
Marston's (MARS) repeated its full-year guidance, crediting its "Grandstand" pub format and World Cup-related sales for momentum ahead of expectations. Chief executive Justin Platt said the Grandstand estate "continues to perform ahead of expectations", adding that the group's accelerated investment programme is driving further trading gains across the pub portfolio.
IQE raises revenue guidance as AI chip demand accelerates
Iqe (IQE) lifted its full-year revenue guidance, pointing to stronger-than-expected demand for AI-related chip components in the first half. Chief executive Jutta Meier said first-half trading "exceeded our expectations", signalling that the compound semiconductor maker is benefiting from accelerating investment in AI infrastructure.
Wickes holds 2026 outlook on TradePro momentum
Wickes Group (WIX) confirmed its 2026 profit outlook after posting 2.3% revenue growth, with the retailer's trade-focused TradePro proposition drawing in more local tradespeople. Chief executive David Wood said the Retail business "performed well given the current external environment", highlighting TradePro's value-led offer as a key driver of the growth.
Prologis stops short of fresh SEGRO offer as deadline nears
Prologis issued a new statement on its interest in Segro (SGRO) without tabling a revised formal offer, as a deadline in the approach looms. Prologis said it "were disappointed that the discussion did not provide meaningful clarity", leaving the status of its pursuit of the warehouse landlord unresolved heading into the deadline.
Smiths Group locks in £760m pension buy-in with M&G
Smiths Group (SMIN) completed a £760m pension buy-in with M&G, removing longevity and investment risk from its retirement scheme. Chief financial officer Julian Fagge said the transaction "provides greater financial security for our scheme members, removes pension risk and future cash funding requirements and reduces balance sheet volatility".
MoneySuperMarket owner posts record revenue as insurance rebounds
Moneysupermarket Com Group reported record half-year revenue as its insurance comparison business returned to growth. Chief executive Peter Duffy said the group helped households save an estimated £1.5bn over the period, and that the business is "leveraging AI for growth" across product development and operational efficiency.
