Waitrose posted strong results for the full year ended on 31 January 2026, with sales increasing by 7 per cent to £8.5bn.

The supermarket retailer achieved its tenth consecutive quarter of customer growth, with 5 per cent more shoppers compared to two years ago.

The successful performance was driven by the Home of Food Lovers strategy according to the company, with adjusted operating profit increasing by £29m to £256m. Waitrose’s operating margin improved by 16 bps to 3.2 per cent.

There was also a strong performance in Waitrose’s online channel with volumes increasing by 11 per cent and sales growing by 13 per cent year-on-year.

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Jason Tarry, chairman of the John Lewis Partnership, said: “Our multi-year plan to invest in customers and our brands for the long term is working; we have grown customer numbers and achieved record satisfaction.

“Despite a subdued market, a challenging lead into the crucial peak period and increased taxes, we took the decision to continue investing in the business and have delivered cash and profit growth.”

During the financial year, the grocery giant refurbished 23 stores and opened three new convenience shops as part of the investment in the Waitrose estate.

Additionally, the supermarket ramped up its loyalty programme by launching Waitrose Little Treats, which rewards shoppers with money or free products, and built a 360,000 sq ft distribution centre in Bristol to bolster its supply chain.