Marks & Spencer will set out plans this year to increase shareholder returns in the coming years, according to CFO Alison Dolan. Speaking at the annual shareholders' meeting, Dolan said the retailer's robust balance sheet, net funds position, and strong investment-grade credit rating would enable investment alongside higher shareholder returns. M&S finished its 2025/2026 financial year with net funds of £338.2 million, excluding lease liabilities, and plans capital expenditure of £650 million to £750 million for 2026/2027, with around two-thirds allocated to long-term growth in its food business. The company expects a return to profit growth this year after a 23.8% decline caused by a cyberattack, and it increased its full-year dividend by 16.7%. Chairman Archie Norman said the business entered the new financial year in 'fighting fit form', aiming for consistently high single-digit revenue growth and double-digit profit growth.
Marks and Spencer Group PLCCFO outlines plans to increase shareholder returns, strong balance sheet, and dividend increase.