Greggs Sales Jump 7.2% as Iced Matcha and Chicken Rolls Drive 2026

Greggs sales jump 7.2% to £1.1bn in the first half of the year, driven by iced matcha lattes and chicken rolls that became heatwave hits. The UK's largest fast-food chain adapted to hotter summers with a refreshed menu, boosting total revenue and proving that the bakery can thrive even when temperatures soar.

Newcastle-headquartered Greggs opened 34 net new stores, bringing its total to 2,773 by the end of June. Existing store sales rose 2.1% during the period, helped by strategic price increases on key items at the start of 2026. The company's disciplined focus on high-quality locations has paid off, with new shops performing well.

Heatwave Menu Innovation: Iced Matcha and Chicken Rolls

Greggs responded to the UK's increasingly hot summers by expanding its cold drink range and adding more salads and chicken rolls. The iced matcha latte became a standout seller, while chicken rolls offered a lighter alternative to traditional pastries. This shift helped reverse last year's slump when customers avoided steak bakes and vegan sausage rolls during hot weather.

Financial Performance and Cost Management

Pre-tax profit jumped nearly 20% to £76m, driven by cost control and growth in the 'bake at home' frozen range available at Tesco and Iceland. CEO Roisin Currie confirmed no further price increases this year, as cost inflation eased to 2% from 3%. The company hedged 90% of energy costs for this year and half for next, protecting against oil price surges.

Commodity costs for cocoa and coffee have also stepped back, improving margins. The company's ability to adapt its menu and manage costs has reassured investors, with shares rising on the news.

Comparison: Greggs vs. Competitors in Heatwave Strategy

Key Takeaways from Greggs' Half-Year Results

• Total sales reached £1.1bn, up 7.2% year-on-year.
• Iced matcha lattes and chicken rolls drove heatwave demand.
• Pre-tax profit rose 19.7% to £76m.
• Cost inflation eased to 2%, with no further price hikes planned.
• Bake-at-home range expands in Tesco and Iceland.

Adapting to Climate Change: Greggs' Long-Term Strategy

Greggs is investing in menu flexibility to handle unpredictable weather. The company's 'bake at home' range provides a hedge against store footfall drops, while cold food options ensure relevance in summer. CEO Roisin Currie emphasized that the brand has bounced back from last year's 'peak Greggs' concerns, proving resilience.

Analysts note that Greggs' ability to innovate quickly with seasonal items like iced matcha lattes is a competitive advantage. The company plans to continue testing new products, with a focus on health-conscious options and sustainable packaging.

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