Ramsdens Holdings, the Teesside-based pawnbroker and financial services retailer, expects full-year profit before tax of between £32 million and £35 million for the year to 30 September, significantly ahead of the prior year, driven by a surge in gold prices and strong trading across its diversified business.
Gross profit in the precious metals segment doubled to around £36 million, against £18 million in FY25, as the average gold price rose approximately 45% year-on-year and purchase volumes climbed 40%.
The pawnbroking loan book grew to £15.9 million at the year end from £11.5 million in FY25, with repayment rates in line with historical norms and loan-to-value ratios staying below 65%.
Jewellery retail gross profit was around 20% ahead of the prior year, with margins maintained despite higher gold input costs.
The group opened 10 new stores during the year, taking its estate to 179 UK locations.
The update comes as Ramsdens continues to navigate a recommended takeover bid from America's FirstCash, via its subsidiary Chess Bidco, which remains subject to Competition and Markets Authority approval.
