Should I buy Bunzl stock in 2025?
Is it the right time to buy Bunzl?
ScoreBunzl plc, a leader in specialised distribution and non-food consumables, currently trades at approximately 2,344 pence on the London Stock Exchange, with a robust average daily trading volume of around 1.27 million shares. Despite a challenging six months, which saw the share price fall by over 28%, Bunzl’s underlying fundamentals have demonstrated resilience. Recent events—such as the temporary suspension of the buyback programme and cost guidance revisions in April—were well managed, with management reaffirming confidence in core business strength during the June pre-close statement. Acquisitions, including a recent deal in Brazil, remain a significant growth driver, bolstering both revenue streams and geographic diversity. The sector as a whole faces moderate macro deflationary pressures, but Bunzl’s defensive qualities, strong cash generation, and thirty-two years of uninterrupted dividend growth continue to set it apart. Current analyst consensus, involving more than 7 leading national and international banks, suggests a target price of 3,047 pence, reflecting cautious optimism about medium-term recovery. In today's market climate, conditions may be lining up for patient investors to revisit this established FTSE 100 constituent.
- ✅Thirty-two consecutive years of dividend growth, signalling exceptional resilience.
- ✅Broad geographical footprint with operations in 33 countries.
- ✅Continued strategic acquisitions support future revenue and profit expansion.
- ✅Strong cash generation and healthy adjusted operating margin improvement in 2024.
- ✅Defensive business model in essential supply chain sectors.
- ❌Deflationary environment may continue to weigh on short-term sales growth.
- ❌Temporary suspension of share buybacks reflects a need for capital caution.
Score- ✅Thirty-two consecutive years of dividend growth, signalling exceptional resilience.
- ✅Broad geographical footprint with operations in 33 countries.
- ✅Continued strategic acquisitions support future revenue and profit expansion.
- ✅Strong cash generation and healthy adjusted operating margin improvement in 2024.
- ✅Defensive business model in essential supply chain sectors.
Is it the right time to buy Bunzl?
- ✅Thirty-two consecutive years of dividend growth, signalling exceptional resilience.
- ✅Broad geographical footprint with operations in 33 countries.
- ✅Continued strategic acquisitions support future revenue and profit expansion.
- ✅Strong cash generation and healthy adjusted operating margin improvement in 2024.
- ✅Defensive business model in essential supply chain sectors.
- ❌Deflationary environment may continue to weigh on short-term sales growth.
- ❌Temporary suspension of share buybacks reflects a need for capital caution.
Score- ✅Thirty-two consecutive years of dividend growth, signalling exceptional resilience.
- ✅Broad geographical footprint with operations in 33 countries.
- ✅Continued strategic acquisitions support future revenue and profit expansion.
- ✅Strong cash generation and healthy adjusted operating margin improvement in 2024.
- ✅Defensive business model in essential supply chain sectors.
- What is Bunzl?
- The price of Bunzl stock
- Our full analysis of the Bunzl stock
- How to buy Bunzl stock in the UK?
- Our 7 tips for buying Bunzl stock
- The latest news about Bunzl
- FAQ
Why trust HelloSafe ?
At HelloSafe, our specialist has been tracking Bunzl's share price performance for over three years. Every month, hundreds of thousands of users in the UK trust us to analyse market trends and identify the best investment opportunities. Our analyses are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. In accordance with our ethical charter, we have never been, and will never be, compensated by Bunzl.
What is Bunzl?
| Indicator | Value | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| 🏳️ Nationality | United Kingdom | Bunzl is a UK-based global leader in specialist distribution and non-food consumer goods. |
| 💼 Market | London Stock Exchange | Listed on the LSE, Bunzl benefits from high liquidity and strong institutional access. |
| 🏛️ ISIN code | GB00B0744B38 | Confirms its official listing and eligibility for UK tax-advantaged accounts. |
| 👤 CEO | Frank van Zanten | Provides stable leadership and a proven track record in disciplined geographic expansion. |
| 🏢 Market cap | £7.73 billion | Reflects substantial scale and resilience despite recent short-term share price declines. |
| 📈 Revenue | £11.78 billion (2024) | Revenues remain stable, underpinned by long-term contracts and recent international acquisitions. |
| 💹 EBITDA | £976.1 million (2024, adjusted) | EBITDA growth demonstrates operational strength and successful margin-enhancement strategies. |
| 📊 P/E Ratio (Price/Earnings) | 15.73 | Current valuation looks reasonable, offering a balance of value and growth opportunity. |
The price of Bunzl stock
The price of Bunzl stock is steady today, with a current share price of 2,344p, up 12p (+0.51%) over the last 24 hours. Bunzl’s market capitalisation stands at £7.73 billion, with an average 3-month trading volume of 1.27 million shares. The stock currently trades at a P/E ratio of 15.73, offers a 3.19% dividend yield, and has a notably low beta of 0.29, indicating low volatility. This stable profile and international positioning make Bunzl a compelling choice for investors seeking steady, long-term growth potential.
Our full analysis of the Bunzl stock
Having meticulously reviewed Bunzl’s latest financial results and the company’s share price evolution over the past three years, we have consolidated insights from multiple vectors—financial metrics, technical signals, industry data, and peer benchmarks—using proprietary algorithms. This integrated approach allows us to provide an objective, data-driven perspective. So, why might Bunzl stock once again become a strategic entry point into the global distribution and logistics sector in 2025?
Recent performance and market context
Bunzl, listed on the London Stock Exchange, trades at 2,344p per share with a current market capitalisation of £7.73 billion. In the last twelve months, the stock price has seen a recalibration, declining by around 22.7%—primarily following April’s profit warning and a temporary pause of share buybacks. Notably, the share price demonstrated stability after a record year of over £883 million in acquisition investments and the group’s satisfactory 2024 earnings. Despite global headwinds, Bunzl’s core business model proved resilient, with revenues holding steady at £11.78 billion and operating profit up 7.2% at constant exchange. This indicates that fundamental demand remains robust, while the company’s growth strategy continues to bear fruit amid a shifting economic landscape.
Recent events such as the Brazilian acquisition and continued expansion in Latin America reinforce Bunzl’s long-term commitment to both emerging and mature markets. The company’s pragmatic response to a deflationary pricing environment and its ability to maintain a 32-year record of dividend growth highlight management’s skill in navigating adversity—traits highly regarded by the market in the current macro context. The diversified portfolio across 33 countries shields Bunzl from regional risks and positions the company favourably as consumption trends stabilise across developed economies.
Technical analysis
A considered technical analysis reveals Bunzl as a stock presenting a compelling risk/reward profile for medium- and long-term investors. The 14-day RSI is balanced at 49.25, denoting a neutral momentum after recent turbulence. The MACD remains negative, at -13.03, but signals a possible technical bottom is forming, with shorter-term moving averages converging towards the current price.
The share price has tested—and held—key support near 2,210p (52-week low), suggesting downside is well contained. With a medium-term resistance at 3,732p (last 52-week high), upside potential is clear should a bullish catalyst materialise. Short-term signals are mixed between 20- and 50-day averages, but the relative stability above intrinsic value supports the notion of a floor, offering a potentially attractive entry.
This consolidation phase, especially after prolonged declines, frequently sets the foundation for renewed bullish momentum as investor confidence returns.
Fundamental analysis
Bunzl’s business model remains a distinct asset in the global distribution space. Despite minimal topline shrinkage in 2024 (-0.2% versus 2023), Bunzl delivered operational leverage—adjusted operating profit rose to £976.1 million, with net profit at £500.4 million. Earnings per share grew 5.5% year-on-year (constant FX), reflecting persistent margin improvement (8.3% operational margin in 2024).
A forward P/E of 15.73, combined with a 3.19% dividend yield and a very low beta of 0.29, indicates a balance between growth, value, and risk-mitigation highly attractive in defensive portfolios. Strategically, Bunzl’s continued expansion via disciplined acquisitions—over £883 million committed during 2024—cements its status as a category consolidator and innovation leader. With 28% of turnover now sourced from own-brand products and ongoing margin gains, the long-term strategic direction appears expertly calibrated for future profitability.
- Dominant market share in niche, resilient segments of non-food consumables across 33 countries
- Advanced supply chain technologies and sustainability commitments validated by SBTi targets
- Geographic diversification shielding against market-specific volatility
- Proven operational discipline evidenced by three decades of dividend growth
These fundamentals justify renewed optimism even as short-term guidance remains prudent.
Volume and liquidity
Bunzl’s share liquidity is robust, with an average daily trading volume of 1.27 million shares supporting dynamic price discovery. The market's strong institutional presence (with a substantial free float from its 327.66 million shares outstanding) ensures that investor sentiment and company developments are rapidly reflected in pricing.
This liquidity both enhances trading flexibility for active investors and provides assurance that portfolio reallocations can be actioned with limited market impact, a key advantage during volatile periods.
Catalysts and positive outlook
Looking ahead, several positive catalysts should underpin future upside for Bunzl. Firstly, its ongoing geographic expansion—such as the Hospitalia acquisition in Chile and new positions in Brazil—expands addressable markets and spreads operational risk. Secondly, investments in sustainability and the growing contribution of own-label products signal margin upside, responding directly to evolving regulatory and consumer demands.
Bunzl’s recent resilience against a deflationary pricing environment may also be tested less severely as supply chains normalise, potentially boosting top-line growth. As interest rate cycles stabilise and the global economic backdrop strengthens, companies with established scale and resilient business models such as Bunzl are positioned to benefit first.
- Merger and acquisition pipeline bolstering medium-term earnings trajectories
- Operational efficiencies and automation lifting profitability
- Strong balance sheet discipline (net debt/EBITDA at 1.8x, within management’s target)
- Stable, progressive dividend policy appealing to income-focused investors
Consensus targets envisage a price near 2,748p (+16% upside), underlining market confidence in Bunzl’s earnings power.
Investment strategies
For short-term traders, Bunzl’s current consolidation around multi-year supports presents a logical technical entry, especially as volatility abates and positive earnings signals emerge. Medium-term investors may see additional value if the company continues to outperform via operational improvement and prudent financial management.
Long-term investors can take comfort in Bunzl’s defensive characteristics: a resilient business model, global coverage, recurring revenue streams, and an illustrious record of dividend payments. Initiating or building positions as the stock trades near support and ahead of major catalysts—such as acquisition completions or quarterly releases—seems to represent an excellent opportunity to benefit from future upside.
Timing purchases at this stage—either incrementally or on confirmed upward breaks—can offer a blend of capital appreciation and reliable dividend income.
Is it the right time to buy Bunzl?
Bunzl’s solid financial position, defensive business model, and the management’s proven ability to deliver value through the cycle make the stock an attractive option in the current market. Strategic expansion, a progressive dividend, and significant acquisition potential create numerous levers for renewed growth. Today’s valuation, buffered by a strong support zone and medium-term catalysts, seems to justify fresh interest and encourages investors to consider adding Bunzl to diversified UK portfolios.
As Bunzl continues to execute its disciplined strategy and capitalise on new growth vectors, the risk/reward dynamic looks increasingly attractive for both cautious and growth-oriented investors. In summary, Bunzl seems poised to enter a new bullish phase—offering a compelling mix of stable returns and future upside supported by sector-leading fundamentals.
How to buy Bunzl stock in the UK?
Buying Bunzl stock online is straightforward and secure when using a regulated UK broker. Investors can opt for two main approaches: classic “spot” share purchases for straightforward ownership, or contracts for difference (CFDs) that allow for leveraged trading and flexible strategies. Each method suits different risk profiles and objectives; a comprehensive broker comparison is available further down the page for making the best choice.
Spot buying
A cash purchase of Bunzl stock means you buy shares directly, becoming a shareholder with voting and dividend rights. Typical UK brokers charge a fixed commission per order, usually between £5 and £10.
Gain scenario
If the Bunzl share price is £23.44, you can buy around 42 shares with a £1,000 stake, including a brokerage fee of about £5.
If the share price rises by 10%, your shares are now worth £1,100.
Result: +£100 gross gain, i.e. +10% on your investment.
Trading via CFD
CFD trading on Bunzl means you speculate on price movements without owning the underlying shares. Fees typically include a spread (the difference between buy and sell prices) and overnight financing if you hold positions for more than a day. This method allows the use of leverage.
Example of a Gain with a CFD Position
You open a CFD position on Bunzl shares, with 5x leverage. This gives you a market exposure of £5,000 from a £1,000 initial margin.
If the stock rises by 8%, your position gains 8% × 5 = 40%. Result: +£400 gain, on a bet of £1,000 (excluding fees).
Final advice
Before investing in Bunzl, always compare brokers’ fees, commissions, and trading conditions—see our dedicated comparator below. Whether you choose conventional share buying or CFDs will depend on your risk tolerance and investment objectives.
Compare the best brokers in the UK!Compare brokersOur 7 tips for buying Bunzl stock
| 📊 Step | 📝 Specific tip for Bunzl |
|---|---|
| Analyze the market | Review Bunzl’s latest performance, noting its 32-year track record of dividend growth and international expansion. |
| Choose the right trading platform | Select a UK-regulated broker offering access to the London Stock Exchange and competitive dealing fees for Bunzl. |
| Define your investment budget | Invest only what fits your long-term financial plan, considering Bunzl’s stability and moderate recent volatility. |
| Choose a strategy (short or long term) | Adopt a long-term approach to benefit from Bunzl’s resilient business model and steady acquisition activity. |
| Monitor news and financial results | Stay updated on Bunzl’s quarterly earnings, new acquisitions, and dividend announcements to inform your decisions. |
| Use risk management tools | Set stop-loss orders and regularly review your Bunzl position to manage risk in changing markets. |
| Sell at the right time | Consider selling after strong rallies or if fundamental changes affect Bunzl’s growth outlook. |
The latest news about Bunzl
Bunzl announces a successful pre-close trading statement confirming performance in line with expectations. On 27 June 2025, Bunzl plc published its latest pre-close update for the UK market, highlighting resilient trading conditions and confirming that both revenue and margins are broadly matching internal forecasts. This stability reassures stakeholders that the company is weathering sector-wide headwinds efficiently, maintaining its reputation as a defensive stock for UK investors.
Bunzl signs a strategic acquisition deal in Brazil, strengthening its global footprint from a UK base. The company disclosed a new agreement to acquire a leading distributor in Brazil, continuing its disciplined international M&A strategy. This expansion aligns with Bunzl’s successful approach of leveraging the strength of its UK headquarters to unlock value in fast-growing overseas markets, supporting future revenue growth and long-term diversification.
Market capitalisation stays robust at £7.73 billion, reflecting sustained investor confidence in the UK. Despite challenges in non-food consumer goods distribution globally, Bunzl’s share price and capitalisation signal market approval of recent strategic moves. The positive market reaction, specifically on the London Stock Exchange, underscores the company's enduring appeal for British institutional and retail shareholders.
Dividend yield remains attractive at 3.19% with over 32 consecutive years of dividend growth. Bunzl reconfirmed its progressive dividend policy to the London market, offering a yield above sector averages. This track record enhances Bunzl’s position as a preferred choice among UK investors seeking stable income, especially at a time of macroeconomic uncertainty.
UK technical indicators show a neutral to positive trend, highlighting potential entry points for local investors. The 20-day moving average supports an incipient buy signal, while the 14-day RSI remains balanced at 49.25. Such technical strength suggests that Bunzl’s shares offer a constructive opportunity for UK traders considering medium-term accumulation strategies.
FAQ
What is the latest dividend for Bunzl stock?
Bunzl currently pays a dividend, with the latest annual payment amounting to 3.19% yield. The most recent payment was 4.50p per share, distributed in June 2025. Bunzl has a track record of over 32 consecutive years of dividend growth and maintains a progressive dividend policy, which is particularly attractive to investors focused on steady income.
What is the forecast for Bunzl stock in 2025, 2026, and 2027?
Based on the current price, the projected values are: end of 2025: 3,047p, end of 2026: 3,516p, and end of 2027: 4,688p. Bunzl benefits from robust fundamentals, a leading market position, and ongoing international expansion, which continue to support an optimistic medium- and long-term outlook according to analysts.
Should I sell my Bunzl shares?
Holding onto Bunzl shares may be appropriate, given the company’s resilient business model and historic consistency in performance. The stock’s current valuation, combined with disciplined acquisitions and a progressive dividend policy, supports mid- to long-term potential for capital appreciation and income. Many investors appreciate Bunzl’s defensive profile, which has shown strength even in challenging markets, making patience and a long-term approach compelling.
Are Bunzl shares eligible for an ISA or subject to UK dividend/capital gains taxation?
Bunzl shares are fully eligible for inclusion in a UK Individual Savings Account (ISA), providing tax-free capital gains and dividends for UK residents. Dividends received outside of an ISA are subject to UK dividend tax allowances and thresholds. For basic-rate taxpayers, the current annual dividend allowance is £500, with any excess taxed at the appropriate dividend rate.
What is the latest dividend for Bunzl stock?
Bunzl currently pays a dividend, with the latest annual payment amounting to 3.19% yield. The most recent payment was 4.50p per share, distributed in June 2025. Bunzl has a track record of over 32 consecutive years of dividend growth and maintains a progressive dividend policy, which is particularly attractive to investors focused on steady income.
What is the forecast for Bunzl stock in 2025, 2026, and 2027?
Based on the current price, the projected values are: end of 2025: 3,047p, end of 2026: 3,516p, and end of 2027: 4,688p. Bunzl benefits from robust fundamentals, a leading market position, and ongoing international expansion, which continue to support an optimistic medium- and long-term outlook according to analysts.
Should I sell my Bunzl shares?
Holding onto Bunzl shares may be appropriate, given the company’s resilient business model and historic consistency in performance. The stock’s current valuation, combined with disciplined acquisitions and a progressive dividend policy, supports mid- to long-term potential for capital appreciation and income. Many investors appreciate Bunzl’s defensive profile, which has shown strength even in challenging markets, making patience and a long-term approach compelling.
Are Bunzl shares eligible for an ISA or subject to UK dividend/capital gains taxation?
Bunzl shares are fully eligible for inclusion in a UK Individual Savings Account (ISA), providing tax-free capital gains and dividends for UK residents. Dividends received outside of an ISA are subject to UK dividend tax allowances and thresholds. For basic-rate taxpayers, the current annual dividend allowance is £500, with any excess taxed at the appropriate dividend rate.
