Greggs has shared a major update on the future of its UK high street stores, following months of speculation about its expansion and yearly figures.
The bakery chain has laid out new figures showing growth in both sales and store numbers, as well as plans for further nationwide expansion.
In the first 20 weeks of 2025, Greggs reported a 7.4 per cent increase in total sales, reaching £784 million.
Like-for-like sales in company-managed stores rose by 2.9 per cent, up from 1.7 per cent in the first nine weeks of the year.
The company also opened 20 new shops during the same period, bringing its total number of locations across the UK to 2,638.
Management says it is on track to meet its target of opening between 140 and 150 new stores this year.
The price of a Greggs' sausage roll has shot up by a staggering 30 per centGETTY IMAGES / GreggsGreggs ultimately plans to reach over 4,500 sites nationwide – more than double the number operated by some fast-food giants.
Despite ongoing inflationary pressures, the group said its full-year expectations remain unchanged.
Greggs anticipates cost inflation of around six per cent on a like-for-like basis and is continuing with its investment programme. Market forecasts suggest the company could see revenue hit £2.2 billion in 2025.
A spokesperson for Greggs said: "The improved like-for-like sales performance has been delivered in what remains a challenging market context. Our investment programme is on track and there has been no change to the outlook for cost inflation."
The leading high street bakery opened a record 186 shops in 2022PAAs part of its commitment to affordability, Greggs continues to roll out more outlet stores that sell discounted surplus food.
These stores offer items like sausage rolls and bakes for as much as 75 per cent less than in standard branches.
Greggs currently operates 38 outlet stores and is aiming to grow this number to 45 by the end of the year.
Alongside expansion, the bakery chain has also introduced several new menu items in a bid to attract more customers and increase sales throughout the day.
Greggs is also extending opening hours in many stores and increasing delivery capacity through Just Eat and Uber Eats
GETTYRecent additions include chicken burgers, fish finger sandwiches, and seasonal items such as the Korean Crispy Chicken Burger and a new Cheese and Onion Roll.
Greggs is also extending opening hours in many stores and increasing delivery capacity through Just Eat and Uber Eats.
However, not all updates relate to growth. Greggs has also taken steps to address rising shoplifting levels. In some stores with high rates of anti-social behaviour, self-service items such as sandwiches and drinks have been moved behind the counter.
The company confirmed that security trials are taking place in a handful of locations, including Whitechapel in East London.
