0747 GMT - J.D. Wetherspoon delivered a decent set of full-year results, but there is limited reason for cheer when it comes to its outlook, says Interactive Investor's Richard Hunter. The pub chain faces increasing costs which in turn could continue boosting inflation, although Wetherspoon would rather not raise prices for consumers, the analyst says. The Covid-19 pandemic has left a mark on the company, which has 85 fewer pubs, he notes. Wetherspoon's profit has recovered, but its share price remains 60% below prepandemic levels, Hunter adds. "The overarching headwinds which the group still faces simply cannot be ignored, and the further slump of the shares at the open reflects this caution, with the market consensus of the shares as a hold also vulnerable to a downgrade," he says. Shares are down 3% at 6.45 pounds. (cristina.gallardo@wsj.com)
(END) Dow Jones Newswires
October 03, 2025 03:47 ET (07:47 GMT)
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