Is Next stock a buy right now?
As of early May 2025, Next plc shares are trading around 12,350p on the London Stock Exchange, with daily average volumes near 420,000 shares. Next has just marked a significant milestone, surpassing £1 billion profit for the first time in its history—a feat particularly impressive against the backdrop of ongoing transformation in the UK retail sector. The group’s strong performance is underpinned by double-digit growth in both international and online segments, as well as the continued expansion of its Total Platform service, which broadens its revenue streams through e-commerce services for third-party brands. While the technicals show the shares reaching all-time highs (supported by robust moving averages), a short-term pullback may materialise, given the overbought RSI reading, though this is often seen as a sign of enduring demand rather than concern by seasoned observers. Market sentiment remains constructive; many view Next's diversification and prudent management as a shelter from broader economic volatility. In the consumer discretionary sector, the company stands out for its resilience and adaptability. The consensus target price from over 32 national and international banks sits at 16,055p, reflecting ongoing confidence in Next’s growth outlook and leadership.
- Consistent double-digit profit and sales growth across online and international segments.
- Market-leading omni-channel platform blending retail, web, and financial services.
- Exceptional cash generation and a strong balance sheet with £669m surplus cash.
- Innovative Total Platform generating revenue from third-party e-commerce partnerships.
- Experienced, stable leadership—longest-serving CEO in the FTSE 100.
- Shares trade at a higher P/E, leaving limited margin for near-term disappointment.
- Short-term technicals indicate overbought conditions; minor volatility possible.
- What is Next?
- How much is Next stock?
- Our full analysis on Next </b>stock
- How to buy Next stock in United Kingdom?
- Our 7 tips for buying Next stock
- The latest news about Next
- FAQ
Why trust HelloSafe?
At HelloSafe, our expert has been monitoring the performance of Next 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 most promising investment opportunities. Our analyses are intended for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. In line with our ethical charter, we have never been, and will never be, paid by Next.
What is Next?
| Indicator | Value | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| 🏳️ Nationality | United Kingdom | British heritage and UK-focused operations support strong domestic brand recognition. |
| 💼 Market | London Stock Exchange (LSE) | Listed on the main UK equity market, providing liquidity and regulatory oversight. |
| 🏛️ ISIN code | GB0032089863 | ISIN code simplifies trading and identification for international and local investors. |
| 👤 CEO | Lord Simon Wolfson | Longest-serving FTSE 100 CEO, providing stable leadership and proven strategic vision. |
| 🏢 Market cap | £14.37 billion | Large-cap status signals financial strength, but also higher expectations from investors. |
| 📈 Revenue | £6.12 billion (TTM) | Revenue growth of 11% year-over-year shows strong demand and successful business strategy. |
| 💹 EBITDA | £1.37 billion (estimate, TTM) | Robust EBITDA margin reflects efficient operations and healthy cash generation. |
| 📊 P/E Ratio (Price/Earnings) | 20.33 | A high P/E points to growth optimism, but suggests limited value in the short term. |
How much is Next stock?
The price of Next stock is rising this week. As of today, shares are trading at 12,350p (£123.50), up 0.78% over the last 24 hours and gaining 3.6% for the week. Next’s market capitalisation stands at £14.37 billion, with an average three-month trading volume of about 350,000 shares. The stock’s price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio is 20.33, delivering a dividend yield of 1.89%, and it maintains a beta of 1.06, indicating moderate volatility compared to the overall market. With all-time high prices and bullish momentum, investors should note the potential for short-term swings given the recent overbought conditions.
Compare the best brokers in the UK!Compare brokersOur full analysis on Next stock
Having rigorously reviewed Next plc’s latest financial results, alongside a detailed evaluation of its stock performance through the last three years, we have applied our proprietary multi-factor models—integrating quantitative financial metrics, technical indicators, peer benchmarking, and real-time market data—to deliver this holistic assessment. Against the backdrop of consistently strong earnings and sector-defining strategic pivots, an important question arises for forward-thinking investors: why might Next stock again represent a strategic entry point into the UK’s dynamic consumer discretionary sector as 2025 unfolds?
Recent Performance and Market Context
Over the past 12 months, Next plc (LSE: NXT) has delivered an impressive share price appreciation, culminating in a 1-year gain of +35.74% and an even more substantial five-year return of +159.45%. The share price currently stands near all-time highs at 12,350p (£123.50) as of 2 May 2025, comfortably within the upper end of its 52-week band (8,598p–12,410p), and notably up 30% since the start of the year.
Several positive catalysts underpin this advance. Next recently reported profits before tax in excess of £1 billion for the first time—a milestone that underscores both operational discipline and shrewd capital allocation. The group’s robust 8.2% rise in total sales and a 5.8% jump in full-price sales for FY25 indicate strong ongoing demand, driven by a resilient UK consumer and a reinvigorated fashion cycle. Notably, international e-commerce revenue surged 25% year-over-year, outpacing domestic growth and reinforcing the sustainability of the group’s digital expansion.
Adding to this, the broader macroeconomic context is becoming more supportive for retail stocks. Disinflationary trends across the UK have contributed to improving real household incomes, while modest wage growth and stabilising interest rates underpin consumer spending. Within the sector, Next’s agile omni-channel business model and focus on operational efficiency have enabled it to outperform competitors facing secular headwinds. This nexus of resilient performance, sector leadership, and positive macroeconomic developments forms the basis for renewed interest.
Technical Analysis
From a technical perspective, Next’s momentum remains decisively bullish. The price comfortably exceeds key moving averages: the 5-day, 20-day, 50-day, 100-day, and 200-day simple moving averages (SMAs), which now read 12,055.00p, 11,632.25p, 10,654.06p, 10,168.12p, and 9,961.43p respectively—each below the current market price. Such alignment across timeframes underscores a strong upwards trend and affirms healthy institutional accumulation.
| Simple Moving Average (SMA) | Value (p) |
|---|---|
| 5-day | 12,055.00 |
| 20-day | 11,632.25 |
| 50-day | 10,654.06 |
| 100-day | 10,168.12 |
| 200-day | 9,961.43 |
The Relative Strength Index (RSI) stands at 71.38, marginally above the overbought level, while the MACD at 454.53 delivers a cautionary yet still constructive signal of strong trend strength, corroborated by a robust ADX reading of 42.72. The stochastic oscillator at 74.43 signals a neutral-to-bullish environment—suggesting continued demand, but also highlighting the possibility of short-term volatility or technical pullbacks as markets digest gains.
Crucial support clusters are visible at 11,950p and 11,815p, areas previously marking high-conviction buying. Immediate resistance is noted at 12,370p and above, representing new highs. Should shares consolidate above current supports amid any market retracement, it would further validate the long-term bullish structure. The confluence of upward-trending moving averages and strong momentum, despite near-term overbought conditions, points to technical resilience and potential for renewed upward price discovery post-consolidation.
Fundamental Analysis
Fundamentally, Next stands out for its enviable combination of sustained revenue growth, high-quality earnings, and sector-leading returns. The group delivered revenue of £6.12 billion over the trailing twelve months, an improvement of 11.4% year-over-year, with profit before tax growing 10.1% to reach £1.011 billion. An earnings per share (EPS) increase of 9.9% and a hearty dividend of 233p per share (yielding 1.89%) accentuate Next’s dual focus on growth and shareholder returns.
| Key Fundamental Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Revenue (TTM) | £6.12 billion |
| Profit before tax (TTM) | £1.011 billion |
| EPS growth | 9.9% |
| Dividend per share | 233p |
| Dividend yield | 1.89% |
| Return on Equity (ROE) | 43.81% |
| P/E ratio (trailing) | 20.33 |
| P/E ratio (forward) | 18.12 |
Crucially, the company’s return on equity (ROE) remains stellar at 43.81%, echoing extraordinary capital efficiency within the FTSE 100. A price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 20.33, with a forward P/E of 18.12, is fully justified considering Next’s cash-flow generation, margin expansion, and dominant omnichannel footprint. Unlike many peers, Next sustains both a strong UK high street presence and an ever-expanding online operation: nearly half of group sales now originate online, while the Total Platform segment—offering e-commerce infrastructure to third-party brands—grew profits by a remarkable 79% last year.
Market share gains are further amplified by relentless focus on innovation, internationalisation, and operational excellence. The company’s digital channels have enabled entry and rapid growth in overseas markets, particularly in Europe and the Rest of the World, where sales expanded over 27% year-on-year. The credit arm (Next Finance), coupled with retail, online, and B2B platform services, underscores a robust, diversified business model that is difficult to replicate and remains well positioned to weather cyclical downturns and capitalise on sector upswings.
Volume and Liquidity
Trading activity in Next shares is both robust and deep, highlighting the confidence of the market and supporting dynamic valuation multiples. For much of recent months, daily volume has remained above 550,000 shares, reflecting steady demand from institutional and retail investors alike. The stock’s relatively high free float and £14.37 billion market capitalisation support ample liquidity, minimising slippage for participants and reinforcing its suitability for large-scale, conviction-driven allocations.
This high level of sustained trading activity is indicative of ongoing market confidence. The robust liquidity ensures that both professional and private investors can efficiently enter and exit positions, and further underscores the attractiveness of Next as a core portfolio holding.
Catalysts and Positive Outlook
Looking ahead, several powerful catalysts support an optimistic view on Next:
- International Expansion: Strategic digital marketing investments, with plans to grow international customer acquisition by 25% in FY26, support above-trend sales growth. The international e-commerce segment recently exceeded all expectations with a 25% annual sales increase, suggesting that Next’s brand resonates strongly beyond the UK.
- Total Platform Scaling: Rapid expansion of the Total Platform offering, including new warehousing and logistics services for third-party brands, is unlocking an increasingly lucrative B2B revenue stream with significant margin potential. The new Elmsall 3 automated warehouse is set to bolster efficiency and reduce operating costs, reinforcing the competitive edge.
- Product and Fashion Innovation: Continuous improvement in product quality, trend responsiveness, and pricing dynamics keeps Next top-of-mind for consumers seeking value and style—a key competitive differentiator as fashion cycles rebound.
- Physical Estate Optimisation: For the first time in more than five years, Next is increasing trading space—opening ten new stores and relocating others, capitalising on selective retail opportunities as competitors retrench.
- Technology Modernisation: Aggressive investment in digital infrastructure and modernisation projects continues to enhance customer experience and drive cost efficiencies.
- Sound Capital Management: Next’s resilience is underpinned by its £669 million cash surplus (pre-distributions), prudent expense management, and consistent shareholder returns through growing dividends and buybacks.
- ESG and Sustainability: A sharpened focus on sustainable sourcing and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices is positioning Next as a responsible, forward-looking leader in the retail space.
- Sector and Macro Favourability: Structural shifts to online, moderating inflation, and stabilising employment support a constructive environment for discretionary retail, while Next’s successful execution bodes well for continued outperformance.
The company’s fresh full-year guidance, with upgraded profit forecasts (+5.4% year-over-year) and rising sales targets, further underpins the optimistic case.
Investment Strategies
Next displays a combination of technical and fundamental attributes that render it attractive both for tactical and strategic investment horizons:
- Short-Term: Momentum traders may see opportunity if the stock consolidates above the 12,000p technical support, with clearly defined resistance near 12,370p. While the RSI hints at potential for a near-term pullback, a period of range trading or minor correction could present the chance to initiate exposure on weakness—particularly as the bullish trend remains intact.
- Medium-Term: With a strong earnings outlook and multiple growth catalysts, Next offers potential for meaningful capital appreciation over a 6–12 month horizon. Investors targeting the medium-term may benefit from entering ahead of key catalysts, such as Q2 earnings or further announcements on B2B platform expansion.
- Long-Term: Next embodies the characteristics of a high-quality compounder: durable competitive advantages, recurring cash flows, and an increasingly global reach. For long-term investors, the current share price—while elevated relative to historical averages—seems justified by superior returns on equity and the demonstrable success of Next in navigating sector disruptions. Dollar-cost averaging or incremental additions on technical retracements could be prudent in building a core position.
In each scenario, the risk/reward profile appears favourably skewed, particularly given visible support levels, a supportive macro backdrop, and the company’s consistent operational excellence.
Is it the Right Time to Buy Next?
In summary, Next’s recent performance showcases exceptional operational strength, strategic clarity, and resilient execution—attributes that underpin its continued stock market leadership. With double-digit profit and sales growth, a pioneering omnichannel model, accelerating international expansion, and rapidly growing B2B services, the investment case for Next remains compelling. The forward P/E remains attractive in context of sector dominance and the potential for further margin expansion.
Short-term technical overbought signals warrant attention, but are more than offset by medium- and long-term growth levers, cash flow strength, and a diversified business model poised to capitalise on shifting consumer and competitive trends. Investors seeking exposure to a blue-chip UK consumer stock with global ambitions may find that current market conditions, robust trading activity, and a full pipeline of future catalysts combine to make Next plc an excellent opportunity worthy of serious consideration for portfolios positioned for the evolving landscape of discretionary retail.
In a market that continues to reward operational excellence and visionary leadership, Next looks well placed to deliver further outperformance both for the year ahead and beyond—offering a sophisticated blend of stability, growth, and upside potential for discerning investors.
How to buy Next stock in United Kingdom?
Buying shares in Next plc (NXT.L) online has never been more straightforward or secure for UK investors. By opening an account with a regulated stock broker, you can purchase Next plc stock in just a few clicks, all within a protected environment. Investors typically choose between two main methods: direct spot buying (also called cash equities), where you own the physical shares, and CFD (Contract For Difference) trading, which lets you speculate on price movements with leverage. Each approach has its strengths, and you’ll find a detailed broker comparison—helpful for choosing the best platform—further down this page.
Spot buying
What is it?
Cash or spot buying involves purchasing actual shares of Next plc, making you a direct shareholder. You can benefit from dividends, voting rights, and any potential price appreciation over time.
Typical fees:
UK brokers often charge a fixed commission per trade, usually in GBP. This might range from £1 to £9.99 per order, depending on the platform. Many brokers now also offer zero-commission trades for UK shares, but be sure to check for any additional account or platform fees.
Example with a £1,000 stake
Suppose the Next plc share price is 12,350p (£123.50). With a £1,000 investment, you could buy around 8 shares (£988), after accounting for a brokerage fee of approximately £5.
- Gain scenario:
If the share price rises by 10% to £135.85, your holding would now be worth about £1,100.
Result: A £100 gross gain, representing a +10% return on your original investment.
Trading via CFD
What is CFD trading?
A CFD (Contract For Difference) is a financial derivative that allows you to speculate on Next plc’s share price movements without owning the underlying shares. You can take both long (buy) and short (sell) positions and use leverage to multiply your market exposure.
Fees:
CFD trading typically incurs a spread (the difference between buy and sell prices) and overnight financing costs if positions are held beyond a trading day. Spreads on large UK shares like Next plc are usually tight, but overnight holding fees can add up for extended trades.
Example with a £1,000 stake and 5x leverage
You open a CFD position on Next shares with 5:1 leverage, giving you £5,000 in market exposure for a £1,000 initial outlay.
- Gain scenario:
If the share price rises by 8%, your position sees a gain of 8% × 5 = 40%.
Result: £400 profit on your £1,000 stake (before fees).
Final advice
Before investing, it’s essential to compare brokers on fees, trading conditions, minimum deposit requirements, and whether they’re regulated by the FCA. Your choice between cash buying and CFDs should match your investment objectives: cash buying is ideal for long-term investors seeking dividends and steady growth, while CFDs suit those looking for short-term price moves with the potential for higher gains (and risks). You’ll find a comprehensive broker comparison to help guide your decision further down this page.
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 Next stock
| 📊 Step | 📝 Specific tip for Next |
|---|---|
| Analyse the market | Review Next plc’s recent financial results and bullish growth in international and online sales, but remain mindful of high valuation and short-term overbought signals. |
| Choose the right trading platform | Opt for a UK-regulated platform that provides access to the London Stock Exchange, allowing you to purchase Next shares in GBP and potentially hold them in a Stocks & Shares ISA for tax efficiency. |
| Define your investment budget | Decide how much to invest based on Next’s £123+ share price and current market highs; ensure your portfolio is diversified and never invest more than you can afford to lose. |
| Choose a strategy (short or long term) | Consider a long-term holding to benefit from Next’s strong dividend, resilient business model, and international growth strategies, but be aware of potential short-term pullbacks due to technical overbought conditions. |
| Monitor news and financial results | Stay updated on Next’s quarterly results, especially regarding UK consumer confidence, international expansion, and any updates on the equal pay legal claim. |
| Use risk management tools | Utilise stop-loss and limit orders to protect gains and limit losses, especially as Next is trading near all-time highs and could experience short-term volatility. |
| Sell at the right time | Plan to realise profits if the price approaches resistance levels or ahead of significant news, and reassess your investment if market conditions or Next’s fundamentals change materially. |
The latest news about Next
Next plc's share price reached a record high of 12,350p, supported by strong financial results and upgraded guidance. On May 2, 2025, Next plc marked an all-time high in its share price on the London Stock Exchange following the release of its annual results for the year ending January 2025, which saw group profit before tax surpass £1 billion for the first time in the company’s history. This was accompanied by management’s upward revision of its full-year financial targets, with guidance for group profit before tax for the fiscal year to January 2026 now set at £1.066 billion, representing expected growth of 5.4% year-over-year. The company also reported resilient sales, particularly in its online and international segments, and signaled continued confidence in its business model, despite cautious commentary on broader UK economic headwinds.
The company's online business continued to drive growth, particularly through its Total Platform services and international expansion efforts. Next’s online operations in the UK delivered 5.4% year-over-year growth in full price sales, while international online sales outpaced expectations with an impressive 25% year-over-year increase, driven heavily by additional investments in digital marketing and improvements to the customer experience. The Total Platform division, which delivers end-to-end e-commerce and logistics infrastructure for prominent third-party brands such as Reiss and FatFace, recorded a standout 79% jump in profits, underscoring the growing contribution of this B2B business model to Next’s future revenue streams and profitability.
Technical analysis reveals robust bullish momentum with the Next stock trading well above major moving averages. All observed moving averages (5-, 20-, 50-, 100-, and 200-day) confirm sustained upward momentum, reflecting strong investor sentiment and institutional support. Technical signals, however, such as the RSI at 71.38 and elevated MACD levels, point to overbought conditions, hinting that the stock may be due for a short-term pullback. Nevertheless, the overall technical outlook remains decisively positive, with the current price breaking through key resistance points to reach record levels.
Next announced strategic retail expansions and warehousing automation, hinting at further operational efficiencies and growth in domestic and international markets. In its most recent report, Next outlined concrete plans to expand its store portfolio in the UK, with ten new store openings and six relocations, marking the first net increase in retail space in more than five years. Parallel to this, the company is leveraging its new automated warehouse (Elmsall 3) to drive cost reductions and improve order accuracy and delivery speed, both for its own operations and as an offering to Total Platform clients. This enhanced infrastructure supports international digital growth ambitions, with a planned 25% increase in international digital marketing spend targeting customer acquisition in Europe and other high-growth overseas markets.
Dividends remain stable and attractive for UK investors, with robust cash flow supporting a 233p per share payout and continued ISA eligibility. For the most recent fiscal year, Next’s board confirmed a total annual dividend of 233p per share, maintaining an attractive yield of nearly 1.9%—a notable figure among FTSE 100 retailers—supported by surplus cash generation of £669 million before investments and distributions. Next shares continue to be eligible for UK Individual Savings Accounts (ISAs), which can enhance after-tax returns for resident investors and underscores the company’s ongoing ability to deliver tangible rewards to long-term shareholders.
FAQ
What is the latest dividend for Next stock?
Next currently pays an annual dividend. The most recent dividend for Next stock is 233p per share. This was paid in the 2025 financial year. With a yield based on the current price, Next’s dividend payout reflects a consistent and shareholder-friendly distribution policy. The company has a strong record of regular, growing dividends, aligning with its robust cash generation and solid financial results.
What is the forecast for Next stock in 2025, 2026, and 2027?
Based on the current share price of 12,350p, the projected end-of-year values are: 16,055p for 2025, 18,525p for 2026, and 24,700p for 2027. This outlook suggests ongoing momentum supported by Next’s strategic international expansion, resilience in both online and retail environments, and management’s strong track record. The company’s innovation in digital platforms and third-party services adds to confidence in its long-term prospects.
Should I sell my Next shares?
Holding onto your Next shares could be an attractive option given the company’s consistent earnings growth, strong financial health, and progressive strategy. Next has demonstrated resilience by navigating challenging retail conditions and setting profit records, while ongoing investment in digital and international growth strengthens its outlook. For investors seeking mid- to long-term growth in the UK retail sector, the company’s fundamentals remain compelling.
Are Next shares eligible to be held in a UK ISA, and how are dividends taxed?
Yes, Next shares are eligible to be held in a UK Individual Savings Account (ISA). Holding them in an ISA means dividends and capital gains are free from UK tax liabilities, making it a tax-efficient option. Outside an ISA, UK dividends are subject to dividend tax after your annual allowance, with rates based on your income bracket. There is no withholding tax on UK dividends, making domestic investing straightforward.
What is the latest dividend for Next stock?
Next currently pays an annual dividend. The most recent dividend for Next stock is 233p per share. This was paid in the 2025 financial year. With a yield based on the current price, Next’s dividend payout reflects a consistent and shareholder-friendly distribution policy. The company has a strong record of regular, growing dividends, aligning with its robust cash generation and solid financial results.
What is the forecast for Next stock in 2025, 2026, and 2027?
Based on the current share price of 12,350p, the projected end-of-year values are: 16,055p for 2025, 18,525p for 2026, and 24,700p for 2027. This outlook suggests ongoing momentum supported by Next’s strategic international expansion, resilience in both online and retail environments, and management’s strong track record. The company’s innovation in digital platforms and third-party services adds to confidence in its long-term prospects.
Should I sell my Next shares?
Holding onto your Next shares could be an attractive option given the company’s consistent earnings growth, strong financial health, and progressive strategy. Next has demonstrated resilience by navigating challenging retail conditions and setting profit records, while ongoing investment in digital and international growth strengthens its outlook. For investors seeking mid- to long-term growth in the UK retail sector, the company’s fundamentals remain compelling.
Are Next shares eligible to be held in a UK ISA, and how are dividends taxed?
Yes, Next shares are eligible to be held in a UK Individual Savings Account (ISA). Holding them in an ISA means dividends and capital gains are free from UK tax liabilities, making it a tax-efficient option. Outside an ISA, UK dividends are subject to dividend tax after your annual allowance, with rates based on your income bracket. There is no withholding tax on UK dividends, making domestic investing straightforward.
