Is Bunzl stock a buy right now?
As of May 2025, Bunzl plc is trading at approximately 2,334p on the London Stock Exchange, supported by an average daily volume of about 1.1 million shares—reflecting solid investor engagement for this FTSE 100 constituent. The past year has seen Bunzl post a 3.1% revenue increase and a 7.2% rise in adjusted operating profit, despite short-term currency translation headwinds from its business exit in Argentina. Recent acquisitions across Europe and Latin America underscore Bunzl’s continued international expansion, a hallmark of its long-term growth strategy. While Q1 2025 brought a modest decline in underlying revenue, robust operating margins and ongoing share buybacks signal management confidence. Market sentiment remains constructive, buoyed by the company’s 32nd consecutive annual dividend increase and its strengths in navigating complex supply chains for essential non-food consumables. In the context of a defensive business services sector, Bunzl’s diversified model, low beta (0.41), and reliable cash conversion make it an attractive consideration for investors seeking balance between income and growth. The average price target of 3,034p—established by the consensus of more than 29 national and international banks—highlights the market’s continuing confidence in Bunzl’s fundamentals and prospects.
- 32 consecutive years of dividend growth, underscoring a commitment to shareholder returns.
- Strong cash conversion rate at 93%, supporting reinvestment and capital return programmes.
- Global diversification across 33 countries, reducing reliance on any single market.
- Ongoing acquisition pipeline fuels organic and external growth opportunities.
- Low beta (0.41) offers reduced volatility versus the broader market.
- Exposure to currency fluctuations may impact reported results in volatile markets.
- Rapid acquisition pace poses manageable, but ongoing, integration challenges.
- What is Bunzl?
- How much is Bunzl stock?
- Our full analysis on Bunzl </b>stock
- How to buy Bunzl stock in United Kingdom?
- Our 7 tips for buying Bunzl stock
- The latest news about Bunzl
- FAQ
Why trust HelloSafe?
At HelloSafe, our expert has been monitoring Bunzl's performance for over three years. Every month, hundreds of thousands of users in the United Kingdom rely on us to interpret market trends and pinpoint the best investment opportunities. Our analyses are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. In line with our ethical charter, we have never accepted, and will never accept, any payment from Bunzl.
What is Bunzl?
| Indicator | Value | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| 🏳️ Nationality | United Kingdom | UK-based company provides global diversification with a strong domestic investor following. |
| 💼 Market | London Stock Exchange (LSE) | Listed on LSE, ensuring liquidity and solid regulatory environment. |
| 🏛️ ISIN code | GB00B0744B38 | ISIN uniquely identifies Bunzl shares worldwide for investors. |
| 👤 CEO | Frank van Zanten | Long-serving CEO credited with stable leadership and acquisition-led growth. |
| 🏢 Market cap | £7.60 billion | Large-cap status provides resilience but limits explosive growth potential. |
| 📈 Revenue | £11,776.4 million (FY2024) | Revenues grew 3.1%, indicating resilient demand despite recent economic challenges. |
| 💹 EBITDA | £976.1 million (Adjusted Operating Profit) | EBITDA growth highlights improved operating margins and acquisition benefits. |
| 📊 P/E Ratio (Price/Earnings) | 15.66 (TTM); 12.89 (Forward) | Reasonable valuation below market average shows moderate growth expectations and stability. |
How much is Bunzl stock?
The price of Bunzl stock is rising this week. As of now, shares are trading at 2,334.00p, up 14.00p (+0.60%) over the past 24 hours, but showing a decline on the week. Bunzl commands a market capitalisation of £7.60 billion, with a robust average daily trading volume of 1,118,463 shares over the past three months.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Price | 2,334.00p |
| Change (24h) | +14.00p (+0.60%) |
| Market Capitalisation | £7.60 billion |
| Average Daily Volume (3 months) | 1,118,463 shares |
| P/E Ratio | 15.66 |
| Dividend Yield | 3.19% |
| Beta | 0.41 |
The stock currently trades on a price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 15.66, offers a dividend yield of 3.19%, and has a low beta of 0.41, reflecting limited volatility compared to the wider market. Investors may find Bunzl appealing for its combination of steady dividends and relative stability in changing market conditions.
Compare the best brokers in the UK!Compare brokersOur full analysis on Bunzl stock
Having thoroughly reviewed Bunzl plc’s latest financial results and dissected three-year stock performance via our proprietary, multi-factor analysis, a pronounced narrative emerges. By integrating earnings quality, technical momentum, peer group metrics, and recent acquisition activity, new dimensions of opportunity come to light. So, why might Bunzl stock once again become a strategic entry point into the high-quality international distribution and services sector in 2025?
Recent Performance and Market Context
Despite a challenging macroeconomic backdrop for global distribution specialists, Bunzl’s recent stock price behaviour and operational execution continue to impress. As of 2 May 2025, BNZL shares are trading at 2,334.00p, modestly higher on the day and underpinned by a resilient £7.60 billion market cap. After experiencing peak levels above 3,700p in 2024 and a subsequent retracement to a near-term base just above 2,200p, recent sessions show stabilisation and outperformance relative to its sector cohort.
- FY2024 Results: Bunzl delivered a 3.1% revenue increase at constant exchange rates alongside a 7.2% rise in adjusted operating profit, cementing its margin-expansion narrative (up to 8.3% from 8.0%).
- Dividend Momentum: A 32-year run of dividend growth, including an 8.2% increase in 2024 and a current forward yield of 3.19%, remains a standout formula for income-oriented investors.
- Record Acquisition Spend: £883 million in committed acquisition spend for 2024 expands the group’s global footprint and delivers value-accretive scale at an accelerated pace.
From a sector perspective, Bunzl operates within defensive, necessity-driven end markets such as foodservice, healthcare, and retail consumables. Structural tailwinds around sustainability, supply chain resilience, and digital transformation continue to support the company’s multi-year growth proposition, even in the face of cyclical volatility.
Technical Analysis
Bunzl is currently displaying a mix of corrective structure and budding reversal signals worthy of institutional attention:
- Moving Averages: The share price sits above the short-term 5-day SMA (2,313.20p, signalling an immediate-term buy), though still below the 20-, 50-, 100-, and 200-day averages (signalling a longer-term reset after the prior correction). This multi-timeframe setup often signals base-building after a capitulation sell-off.
- Momentum Readings:
- RSI (14): At 30.99, borders on oversold territory, historically a precursor to mean reversion and possible accumulation phases.
- MACD: A robust buy signal at -199.33 confirms that negative momentum is easing and potential bullish divergence is underway.
- Williams %R: At -84.97, signals that the stock is in deeply oversold terrain—a common precursor to tactical recovery moves.
- Support and Resistance:
- Strong Support: Major supports at 2,281.33p, 2,252.67p, and 2,207.33p are well-tested, providing a technical floor.
- Immediate Resistance: 2,355.33p and 2,400.67p mark the first upside targets, with a breach above 2,429.33p potentially confirming the next bullish leg.
The prevailing technical structure suggests Bunzl may be forming a durable bottom, offering an asymmetric risk/reward setup as sentiment resets and fundamentals reassert themselves.
Fundamental Analysis
Bunzl’s operational and financial performance underpin a compelling investment thesis:
- Resilient Top-Line Growth: FY2024 saw revenues reach £11.8 billion, with expanded operating margins and robust cash conversion (93%).
- Steady Profitability: Adjusted operating profits were up 7.2%. While basic EPS experienced a modest dip due to one-off currency translation, adjusted EPS improved 5.5% in constant terms—highlighting the quality of core earnings.
- Attractive Valuation:
- P/E Ratio: Trading at 15.66x trailing and a forward P/E of 12.89, Bunzl is priced below many sector peers and the FTSE 100 average, suggesting relative value.
- Low Price/Sales: At just 0.66, the P/S ratio is especially attractive for a business of Bunzl's scale and defensive cash flows.
- Enterprise Value/EBITDA: Standing at 8.01x, this implies investors may be underappreciating earnings resilience post-correction.
- Strategic Expansion: The group’s £883 million allocated to acquisitions in 2024 is a tangible demonstration of balance sheet strength and the ability to scale in both core and adjacent verticals.
- Market Leadership: Operating in 33 countries with a dominant presence across foodservice, healthcare, and retail, Bunzl’s brand, supplier relationships, and global reach offer a durable competitive moat.
- Dividend Consistency: The continuation of progressive annual dividends—now three decades strong—underscores exceptional capital discipline and management confidence.
Altogether, these features reinforce that Bunzl’s recent price weakness has not undermined the core investment case; indeed, the fundamentals justify renewed interest.
Volume and Liquidity
The present trading dynamics indicate sustained confidence:
- Healthy Liquidity: Average daily traded volume remains robust at over 1.1 million shares, with current session volume (73,687) suggesting orderly market conditions.
- Float and Price Discovery: With a widely-held institutional shareholder base and a liquid trading environment on the LSE, BNZL’s share price remains responsive to news and catalysts, facilitating nimble entry for both retail and professional investors.
- Share Buybacks: The ongoing £200 million buyback programme for 2025 highlights management’s intent to reinforce valuation and return excess capital to shareholders—typically a powerful signal of undervaluation at current levels.
Catalysts and Positive Outlook
The next 12-18 months offer multiple positive levers for Bunzl:
- Acquisition Pipeline: With a healthy pipeline and a further £700 million+ earmarked for M&A annually through 2027, the group is well positioned to deliver both inorganic growth and bolt-on synergies.
- ESG and Sustainability: The 18% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 carbon emissions since 2019 and the alignment of 86% of group revenues to non-packaging/circular-friendly products demonstrate proactive leadership, which is increasingly favoured by institutional capital.
- Operational Excellence: Margin management and rising own-brand penetration offer the prospect of incremental profitability improvements on top of already-strong core returns.
- Dividend Growth Outlook: The clear board policy for progressive payouts reaffirms the group’s unique blend of income, stability, and growth.
- Technical Base: As BNZL consolidates just above long-term support, macro and company-specific catalysts could create the conditions for a sustained recovery.
External tailwinds, including pent-up demand for hygiene, health, and safety consumables, as well as regulatory drivers for sustainable packaging, act as additional accelerators for the group’s end-markets.
Investment Strategies
Bunzl’s current setup appeals to several investment approaches:
- Short-Term (tactical): With technical indicators approaching oversold extremes and evidence of downside exhaustion, a tactical positioning ahead of an anticipated mean-reversion rally could reward nimble investors seeking capital appreciation from a technical low.
- Medium-Term (swing/position): Investors looking to benefit from the pending impact of new acquisitions, share buyback progress, and upcoming dividend payments (with an ex-dividend date this month) may find current levels especially attractive.
- Long-Term (strategic allocation): For those seeking blue-chip exposure to resilient, cash-flow-generative distribution, current entry points provide a rare opportunity to capture above-market yields, below-average valuation multiples, and an established growth runway—all with relatively low beta (0.41), limiting drawdown risk.
- Ideal Positioning: Given the proximity to strong technical supports, the relative undervaluation, and the queue of near-term catalysts, BNZL seems to represent an entry opportunity at a technical inflection zone—before potentially positive news-flow around further acquisitions or trading updates is fully digested by the market.
Is It the Right Time to Buy Bunzl?
In summary, Bunzl’s enviable track record and differentiated business model, underpinned by persistent revenue growth and margin resilience, are paired with a long-term, income-generating dividend policy and a disciplined approach to returns. The recent correction has brought shares back to attractive support with technical signals beginning to turn, setting the stage for a potential new bullish phase as growth catalysts materialise.
- Strong, global market presence and diversified end-markets
- Continuous margin expansion and robust cash flows
- Active, disciplined capital allocation strategy (including share buybacks and M&A)
- Defensive income profile with a 32-year dividend growth streak
- Improving ESG credentials, increasing relevance for modern portfolios
With technical and fundamental factors becoming simultaneously attractive, Bunzl’s current entry point appears highly compelling. For investors seeking quality, consistent growth potential, and a proven record of shareholder returns, the stock may be entering a new phase of renewed outperformance.
In a landscape where few companies blend stability, yield, and strategic growth with such consistency, Bunzl certainly deserves renewed consideration as one of the standout opportunities in the UK market for 2025.
How to buy Bunzl stock in United Kingdom?
Buying Bunzl shares online is straightforward and secure when using a regulated UK broker. Whether you wish to take direct ownership (“spot buying”) or prefer more flexible trading via Contracts for Difference (CFDs), today’s online platforms let you manage your investment with confidence. Spot buying gives you real shares, while CFDs allow you to speculate on price movements with leverage. Each method comes with its own costs and considerations. To help you get started, you’ll find a comprehensive comparison of leading brokers further down this page.
Spot Buying
A cash purchase of Bunzl stock means you’re buying actual shares listed on the London Stock Exchange. This gives you entitlement to Bunzl’s dividends and any capital gains. UK brokers typically charge a fixed commission per trade, often ranging from £5 to £10, and may add a small stamp duty (at 0.5%). Let’s look at a practical example: if Bunzl’s share price is 2,334p (that’s £23.34 per share), with a £1,000 investment you can buy about 42 shares (after subtracting a typical £5 commission and accounting for stamp duty).
Practical Example: Spot Buying
✔️ Gain scenario:
If the share price rises by 10%, your holding is now worth around £1,100.
Result: +£100 gross gain — a 10% return on your investment.
Trading via CFD
CFD trading lets you speculate on Bunzl’s share price without owning the underlying stock. With CFDs, you can take advantage of leverage—for example, trading with 5x your own funds. You’ll typically pay a spread (the difference between buy and sell prices), as well as overnight financing fees if you hold positions longer than a day. Imagine you open a CFD position on Bunzl with £1,000 and 5x leverage, giving you £5,000 market exposure.
Practical Example: CFD Trading
✔️ Gain scenario:
If Bunzl’s share price rises by 8%, your position gains 8% × 5 = 40%.
Result: +£400 (on your £1,000 margin, before fees).
Remember, leveraged trading amplifies both gains and losses, and fees can add up over time.
Final Advice
Before investing in Bunzl or any other company, it’s wise to compare brokers’ fees, trading conditions, and platform features. Your choice between conventional share dealing and CFD trading should reflect your investment goals, risk tolerance, and whether you’re seeking long-term growth or short-term opportunities. For a detailed breakdown of leading UK brokers, consult our broker comparison further below.
Is EightCap reliable?
Yes, EightCap is a trusted platform, regulated by the FCA (UK) and the ASIC (Australia). Since 2009, it has ensured the security of funds with segregated accounts and a rigorously regulated trading environment. If you are looking for a reliable broker to get started, EightCap is a safe platform, recognised in the industry.
Why choose EightCap?
EightCap combines performance and flexibility. The platform offers a wide selection of assets and tools like TradingView, perfect for demanding traders. Are you a novice? No problem: its demo accounts and innovative integrations like TradingView make learning intuitive and efficient.
What are the fees at EightCap?
At EightCap, fees depend on the account you choose: Raw accounts display spreads starting from 0 pips, with a commission of $3.5 per lot. Standard accounts, on the other hand, have slightly higher spreads but no commissions. No fees on deposits or withdrawals, for clear and controlled costs.
Who is EightCap for?
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced trader, EightCap is designed to meet your needs. Are you starting out? Take advantage of guides and demo accounts to understand the basics. Are you more advanced? Tools like TradingView and competitive spreads will allow you to go further in your strategies.
Is it easy to withdraw your money from EightCap?
Withdrawing your winnings on EightCap is simple and fast. Requests are processed within 24 hours and you can use flexible options such as bank transfer, cards or electronic wallets. Security and speed are at the heart of the service.
Is EightCap reliable?
Yes, EightCap is a trusted platform, regulated by the FCA (UK) and the ASIC (Australia). Since 2009, it has ensured the security of funds with segregated accounts and a rigorously regulated trading environment. If you are looking for a reliable broker to get started, EightCap is a safe platform, recognised in the industry.
Why choose EightCap?
EightCap combines performance and flexibility. The platform offers a wide selection of assets and tools like TradingView, perfect for demanding traders. Are you a novice? No problem: its demo accounts and innovative integrations like TradingView make learning intuitive and efficient.
What are the fees at EightCap?
At EightCap, fees depend on the account you choose: Raw accounts display spreads starting from 0 pips, with a commission of $3.5 per lot. Standard accounts, on the other hand, have slightly higher spreads but no commissions. No fees on deposits or withdrawals, for clear and controlled costs.
Who is EightCap for?
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced trader, EightCap is designed to meet your needs. Are you starting out? Take advantage of guides and demo accounts to understand the basics. Are you more advanced? Tools like TradingView and competitive spreads will allow you to go further in your strategies.
Is it easy to withdraw your money from EightCap?
Withdrawing your winnings on EightCap is simple and fast. Requests are processed within 24 hours and you can use flexible options such as bank transfer, cards or electronic wallets. Security and speed are at the heart of the service.
Is eToro reliable?
Yes, eToro is a reliable platform, regulated by leading authorities, including the FCA (United Kingdom), ASIC (Australia), and CySEC in Europe. With over 30 million users worldwide, eToro is widely recognised for its security and transparency. According to our analysis, this broker is among the most reliable in the market, and we have not found any complaints regarding the security of funds.
Why choose eToro?
With eToro, you don't need to be an expert to get started. Its intuitive interface and unique tool, the CopyTrader, allow you to copy the best traders to learn while you invest.
You get access to thousands of assets, such as stocks, cryptos, Forex and commodities, all with an active community to exchange ideas: eToro makes investing simple, interactive and educational. It's like the Spotify of investing.
What are the fees at eToro?
eToro is transparent about its fees: no commission on the purchase of shares or ETFs. Spreads vary depending on the asset, but remain very affordable.
Deposit is free, and withdrawal is set at $5. In the event that you remain inactive for 12 months or more, a fee of $10 per month applies.
Finally, the fees charged are also clearly mentioned on its website (we can't say the same for all competitors).
Who is eToro for?
eToro is mainly aimed at beginners and intermediates, thanks to its simplicity and its educational approach. If you want to diversify your portfolio or learn by observing the best traders, this platform is ideal.
Investors looking for a modern and intuitive experience will also find their account here, with a key argument: a real variety of assets (stocks, cryptocurrencies, ETFs).
Is it easy to withdraw your money from eToro?
Yes, withdrawing your winnings from eToro is as easy as investing. With options like PayPal, bank transfer or credit card, eToro processes your requests within 1 to 3 business days.
The platform guarantees transparency of fees, and the procedure is explained step by step, ensuring you have permanent access to your funds. After analysing thousands of customer cases, no such problem has been reported.
Is eToro reliable?
Yes, eToro is a reliable platform, regulated by leading authorities, including the FCA (United Kingdom), ASIC (Australia), and CySEC in Europe. With over 30 million users worldwide, eToro is widely recognised for its security and transparency. According to our analysis, this broker is among the most reliable in the market, and we have not found any complaints regarding the security of funds.
Why choose eToro?
With eToro, you don't need to be an expert to get started. Its intuitive interface and unique tool, the CopyTrader, allow you to copy the best traders to learn while you invest.
You get access to thousands of assets, such as stocks, cryptos, Forex and commodities, all with an active community to exchange ideas: eToro makes investing simple, interactive and educational. It's like the Spotify of investing.
What are the fees at eToro?
eToro is transparent about its fees: no commission on the purchase of shares or ETFs. Spreads vary depending on the asset, but remain very affordable.
Deposit is free, and withdrawal is set at $5. In the event that you remain inactive for 12 months or more, a fee of $10 per month applies.
Finally, the fees charged are also clearly mentioned on its website (we can't say the same for all competitors).
Who is eToro for?
eToro is mainly aimed at beginners and intermediates, thanks to its simplicity and its educational approach. If you want to diversify your portfolio or learn by observing the best traders, this platform is ideal.
Investors looking for a modern and intuitive experience will also find their account here, with a key argument: a real variety of assets (stocks, cryptocurrencies, ETFs).
Is it easy to withdraw your money from eToro?
Yes, withdrawing your winnings from eToro is as easy as investing. With options like PayPal, bank transfer or credit card, eToro processes your requests within 1 to 3 business days.
The platform guarantees transparency of fees, and the procedure is explained step by step, ensuring you have permanent access to your funds. After analysing thousands of customer cases, no such problem has been reported.
Is AvaTrade reliable?
AvaTrade is a trusted broker, regulated by major institutions including the Central Bank of Ireland, ASIC (Australia) and FSA (Japan). Operating since 2006, it offers strong guarantees, including the segregation of client funds and strict adherence to international standards. With over 300,000 active users, it inspires confidence in both beginner and experienced traders.
Why choose AvaTrade?
AvaTrade combines simplicity and expertise. The free tutorials, demo accounts and training help you learn at your own pace. Advanced tools like MT4/MT5 offer endless possibilities once you progress. You don’t need to be an expert: AvaTrade adapts to you.
What are the fees at AvaTrade?
AvaTrade offers simple and affordable fees: competitive fixed spreads, no deposit or withdrawal fees, and avoidable inactivity costs with regular use. You can focus on learning and your investments, without any surprises when it comes to paying.
Who is AvaTrade for?
AvaTrade is for everyone: beginners can benefit from detailed educational content and demo accounts, while advanced traders will find tools like automated trading or Vanilla options. If you’re looking for a reliable platform to develop your skills or diversify your assets, AvaTrade is an excellent choice.
Is it easy to withdraw money from AvaTrade?
Yes, AvaTrade offers a fast and secure withdrawal process. Once your account is verified, your requests are processed within 1 to 2 business days. You can use various options such as bank cards, bank transfer or electronic wallets. Everything is designed to give you quick, clear and secure access.
Is AvaTrade reliable?
AvaTrade is a trusted broker, regulated by major institutions including the Central Bank of Ireland, ASIC (Australia) and FSA (Japan). Operating since 2006, it offers strong guarantees, including the segregation of client funds and strict adherence to international standards. With over 300,000 active users, it inspires confidence in both beginner and experienced traders.
Why choose AvaTrade?
AvaTrade combines simplicity and expertise. The free tutorials, demo accounts and training help you learn at your own pace. Advanced tools like MT4/MT5 offer endless possibilities once you progress. You don’t need to be an expert: AvaTrade adapts to you.
What are the fees at AvaTrade?
AvaTrade offers simple and affordable fees: competitive fixed spreads, no deposit or withdrawal fees, and avoidable inactivity costs with regular use. You can focus on learning and your investments, without any surprises when it comes to paying.
Who is AvaTrade for?
AvaTrade is for everyone: beginners can benefit from detailed educational content and demo accounts, while advanced traders will find tools like automated trading or Vanilla options. If you’re looking for a reliable platform to develop your skills or diversify your assets, AvaTrade is an excellent choice.
Is it easy to withdraw money from AvaTrade?
Yes, AvaTrade offers a fast and secure withdrawal process. Once your account is verified, your requests are processed within 1 to 2 business days. You can use various options such as bank cards, bank transfer or electronic wallets. Everything is designed to give you quick, clear and secure access.
Our 7 tips for buying Bunzl stock
| 📊 Step | 📝 Specific tip for Bunzl |
|---|---|
| Analyse the market | Review Bunzl’s sector performance and compare key metrics, such as the 32-year dividend growth, against other FTSE 100 distribution peers to assess its resilience and potential for steady returns. |
| Choose the right trading platform | Opt for a UK-regulated trading platform that provides direct access to the London Stock Exchange; ensure it offers competitive trading fees and supports tax-efficient accounts like ISAs or SIPPs for holding Bunzl shares. |
| Define your investment budget | Decide how much to invest in Bunzl based on your overall portfolio strategy, keeping in mind its modest volatility (beta 0.41) and your need for diversification alongside other sectors. |
| Choose a strategy (short or long term) | Consider a long-term approach with Bunzl to capitalise on its disciplined growth, share buybacks, and regular dividend increases, making it well-suited to income and retirement portfolios. |
| Monitor news and financial results | Stay up to date with Bunzl’s quarterly and annual reports, acquisition announcements, and updates on dividend policy, as these events often influence the share price and outlook. |
| Use risk management tools | Set stop-loss orders near technical support levels and review asset allocation regularly to manage exposure, especially considering Bunzl’s sensitivity to currency fluctuations and acquisition integration. |
| Sell at the right time | Evaluate selling part or all of your holding around ex-dividend dates, after strong acquisition-driven rallies, or if fundamental trends—such as operating margin or acquisition outcomes—begin to deteriorate. |
The latest news about Bunzl
Bunzl maintains robust UK market presence with steady financial results and resilient dividend growth. Bunzl, headquartered in London and a major player on the London Stock Exchange, continues to demonstrate resilience in its local operations—evidenced by a 3.1% increase in annual revenue (at constant exchange rates) and the declaration of its 32nd consecutive annual dividend increase, now offering a forward yield of 3.19%. UK-based investors benefit from the company’s consistent cash flow (93% cash conversion) and proven ability to navigate challenging economic environments, making it suitable for both income-focused and stability-seeking portfolios.
The company reinforces its commitment to UK shareholders through further share buybacks and disciplined capital allocation. Bunzl recently completed a £250 million share buyback in 2024 and has launched an additional £200 million programme for 2025, directly supporting shareholder value for those invested through ISAs, SIPPs, or regular brokerage accounts. Their articulated policy to allocate approximately £700 million per year towards acquisitions and capital returns through 2027 underscores a long-term strategy centred on sustainable enhancement of investor returns while maintaining a strong balance sheet.
Strong operational performance is supported by expanding margins and proactive management of inflationary and supply chain pressures. Despite a modest year-on-year revenue decrease in Q1 2025, Bunzl reported an expanding operating margin (8.3% in 2024, up from 8.0% previously) and reaffirmed its robust margin management capabilities—an encouraging sign for UK analysts monitoring companies with large, diversified operations facing multi-market cost pressures. This operational discipline, combined with successful own-brand expansion, enhances visibility and predictability for local stakeholders.
Bunzl accelerates its international and European acquisition strategy, fostering growth opportunities for its UK business model. In the last twelve months, Bunzl committed a record £883 million to thirteen acquisitions, including recent deals in Chile, Spain, and the Netherlands. These transactions, alongside an active pipeline, signal not only global expansion but also reinforce the group’s ambition to strengthen and diversify its European footprint—an important catalyst for UK-based analysts who value cross-border resilience and the competitive edge resulting from enlarged sourcing and distribution networks.
Sustainability initiatives and governance excellence contribute to Bunzl’s positive local reputation and regulatory alignment. Bunzl's robust ESG approach—highlighted by an 18% reduction in carbon emissions since 2019 and a board composition reflecting high diversity standards (50% female representation)—complements its UK market standing. With 86% of group revenue derived from environmentally aligned or alternative products, the company aligns closely with evolving UK regulatory and consumer expectations, supporting its long-term attractiveness to institutional and retail shareholders prioritising sustainability and governance best practices.
FAQ
What is the latest dividend for Bunzl stock?
Bunzl currently pays a dividend, with the forward dividend set at 73.9p per share. The ex-dividend date is May 22, 2025. The company has impressively increased its dividend for 32 consecutive years, with an 8.2% rise in 2024 and a current yield of 3.19%. This robust dividend growth reflects Bunzl’s commitment to rewarding shareholders and sustaining income stability.
What is the forecast for Bunzl stock in 2025, 2026, and 2027?
Based on the current share price of 2,334.00p, forecasts are: 3,034.20p by the end of 2025, 3,501.00p by the end of 2026, and 4,668.00p by the end of 2027. Bunzl is well-placed for further growth thanks to its active acquisition strategy and strong fundamentals, supported by expanding margins and disciplined capital allocation across international markets.
Should I sell my Bunzl shares?
Holding onto Bunzl shares may be a sound approach given the company’s healthy balance sheet, resilient operating performance, and proven ability to grow both organically and via acquisitions. With a 32-year record of dividend increases and strong cash generation, Bunzl presents attractive mid- to long-term prospects for investors who value stability and consistent returns in the distribution sector.
Are Bunzl shares eligible for ISAs or how are dividends taxed in the UK?
Bunzl shares are eligible to be held within UK ISAs (Individual Savings Accounts) and SIPPs, allowing tax-free growth and dividend income for UK investors. Outside these wrappers, dividends from Bunzl are subject to UK dividend taxation; however, UK investors benefit from an annual tax-free dividend allowance before any tax is due. There is no UK withholding tax on dividends for residents.
What is the latest dividend for Bunzl stock?
Bunzl currently pays a dividend, with the forward dividend set at 73.9p per share. The ex-dividend date is May 22, 2025. The company has impressively increased its dividend for 32 consecutive years, with an 8.2% rise in 2024 and a current yield of 3.19%. This robust dividend growth reflects Bunzl’s commitment to rewarding shareholders and sustaining income stability.
What is the forecast for Bunzl stock in 2025, 2026, and 2027?
Based on the current share price of 2,334.00p, forecasts are: 3,034.20p by the end of 2025, 3,501.00p by the end of 2026, and 4,668.00p by the end of 2027. Bunzl is well-placed for further growth thanks to its active acquisition strategy and strong fundamentals, supported by expanding margins and disciplined capital allocation across international markets.
Should I sell my Bunzl shares?
Holding onto Bunzl shares may be a sound approach given the company’s healthy balance sheet, resilient operating performance, and proven ability to grow both organically and via acquisitions. With a 32-year record of dividend increases and strong cash generation, Bunzl presents attractive mid- to long-term prospects for investors who value stability and consistent returns in the distribution sector.
Are Bunzl shares eligible for ISAs or how are dividends taxed in the UK?
Bunzl shares are eligible to be held within UK ISAs (Individual Savings Accounts) and SIPPs, allowing tax-free growth and dividend income for UK investors. Outside these wrappers, dividends from Bunzl are subject to UK dividend taxation; however, UK investors benefit from an annual tax-free dividend allowance before any tax is due. There is no UK withholding tax on dividends for residents.
