Protein supplier business Hilton Food Group has posted a trading update for the 52 weeks to 28 December 2025, expecting full year adjusted profit to be in-line with the previous guidance of between £72m to £75m.

The business expects net bank debt to increase to £135m compared to £131.4m in the year prior due to recent divestments and an unwind of inventory built in the UK in the first half of 2025.

Hilton Food Group experienced good Christmas trading across red meat and salmon categories and had successful international contract renewals in core retail meat partnerships in the Netherlands and Denmark.

Moving forward, the major food supplier has issued a cautious outlook which is due to the restrictions on smoked salmon exports from Greece to the US and inflationary pressures.

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Mark Allen OBE, executive chair of Hilton Food Group said: “We’re pleased that Christmas trading was in line with our expectations, which reflects the continued strength of our partnerships with customers.

“However, the Group continues to be impacted by the situation at Foppen and sustained elevated inflation levels. Hence, we are taking a cautious approach to guidance for 2026.

“Supported by the board, our strategic review is expected to reaffirm the focus on our core meat capabilities and highlight opportunities to drive sustainable long-term value.”

The business also recently made leadership changes, expanding the executive roles of Samy Zekhout and Melanie Chambers as chief operating officers. The appointments aim to support the delivery of the strategic business plan.