NEXT sells Essex plot for £54m after distribution centre plans change
NEXT has generated a £54.1 million cash boost after offloading a plot of non-operational land in Waltham Abbey, following a strategic rethink of its distribution network.
The retailer had originally purchased the site in 2021 with the intention of consolidating two regional distribution centres, but those plans have since shifted. The company sold the plot on 21 November 2025.
The disposal delivers an exceptional profit of £16.3 million, which NEXT has clarified will be treated outside of its normal trading performance. More importantly for investors, the deal significantly strengthens the retailer’s cash position for the year, feeding directly into returns to shareholders.
The company had already signposted a special dividend of around £3.10 per share in its October trading statement. The additional cash unlocked increases that by a further 45p.
The news lands at a moment of broader momentum for the retailer. Just weeks ago, NEXT lifted its full-year sales and profit guidance after a stronger-than-expected third quarter. Full-price sales rose 10.5% in the 13 weeks to 25 October - £76 million ahead of expectations - driven by improved stock availability, robust international demand and higher returns on digital marketing efforts. Overseas sales surged nearly 39%, while UK growth, though slower than the exceptional first half, remained comfortably above forecast.
The upbeat trading prompted NEXT to raise its full-year profit before tax guidance by £30 million to £1.135 billion, reinforcing its status as one of the sector’s most resilient players.
As Julie Palmer of Begbies Traynor noted at the time, "NEXT has once again proven why it’s the gold standard in UK retail. With guidance lifted and healthy sales growth both at home and abroad, the retail giant’s winning formula of tight cost control, effective stock management and a well-balanced online and store offer is clearly paying off."
