COVID-19 update

Associated British Foods plc today issues an update in the light of yesterday’s announcements by the UK and Republic of Ireland governments regarding increased restrictions on the movement of people and trading activity to limit the spread of COVID-19.

As of 1 January, 253 Primark stores will be temporarily closed, representing 64% of our total retail selling space. The announced periods of closure vary by market. Our estimated loss of sales for these stores for the announced periods of closure in our financial year is now some £650m, up from £430m announced on 4 December.

We will provide an update on trading for both Primark and our other businesses on 14 January as scheduled.


For further enquiries please contact:    
Associated British Foods    
John Bason, Finance Director    Tel: 020 7399 6545
Catherine Hicks, Corporate Affairs Director    Tel: 020 7399 6545

Citigate Dewe Rogerson    
Chris Barrie    Tel: 07968 727 289
Jos Bieneman    Tel: 07834 336 650

Covid update 31 December