Humber-based food producer Cranswick plc has reported a 9.5% increase in revenue to headline its audited preliminary financial results for the 52 weeks ended 28 March 2026. Like-for-like revenue for the period finished 6.8% ahead.

The FTSE 250 group, which is headquartered in Hull and operates extensive processing facilities across Yorkshire and the Humber, was bolstered by an 8.3% growth in volumes and record trading over the Christmas period.

Growth was distributed across the firm's core categories, with domestic food revenue increasing by 9.4%. The poultry segment grew by 13.9% and now accounts for 20.3% of total group revenue, supported by the extension of a long-term supply agreement for fresh and added-value poultry with a major UK supermarket partner.

The gourmet products division saw a 15.3% revenue increase, aided by the performance of the recently acquired sausage manufacturer Blakemans. Meanwhile, pet products revenue rose by 29.8%, driven by an expansion of the company's commercial relationship with retailer Pets at Home.

Cranswick’s adjusted operating margin rose by 35 basis points to 7.9%. Management attributed the margin expansion to the efficiencies of its integrated poultry supply chain, capital investment in factory automation, high capacity utilisation, and strict cost control.

Financially, the group reported a free cash conversion rate of 120.6%, translating to a record £322.3 million generated from operations. Return on capital employed (ROCE) stood at 18.5%. The results follow a record capital expenditure program, with £163 million invested across the business during the financial year, bringing Cranswick's total infrastructure spending to more than £560 million over the past five years.

Adam Couch, Cranswick’s Chief Executive Officer, said: “Cranswick has delivered another year of strong strategic and financial progress, reflecting our proven business model and the disciplined execution of our long-term priorities. We have continued to invest with conviction across our industry-leading asset base, farming operations and in complementary acquisitions, strengthening capability, expanding capacity and creating further headroom for sustainable growth.

“Our performance reflects the enduring strength of our customer relationships, the quality and scale of our asset base and the increasing competitive advantage of our vertically integrated supply chain. Across our core categories, demand for our products remains strong, supported by close alignment with our strategic retail partners and a consistent focus on quality, service and innovation.

“Above all, our performance reflects the commitment and expertise of our colleagues across the Group. Their focus on quality, service and operational excellence continues to distinguish Cranswick in the markets we serve, and I would like to thank them for their outstanding contribution during the year.

“As we enter the new financial year, I am encouraged by the continued development of the business and the robust demand for our product ranges. The range of growth opportunities available to the Group continues to expand and we remain well positioned to deliver on our strategy.

“Trading in the early part of the current financial year has been in line with the Board’s expectations. At the same time, the conflict in the Middle East remains an evolving situation and we continue to monitor potential implications for our supply chains. We remain mindful of the potential for disruption arising from prevailing economic and geopolitical conditions.

“Looking ahead, the strengths of the business, which include its diverse and longstanding customer base, breadth and quality of products and channels, robust financial position and industry leading infrastructure will support the further development of Cranswick in the current financial year and over the longer-term.”