Will Greggs’ momentum continue after Andy Burnham’s endorsement and a strong first half?

# Why this matters Greggs is a widely recognised high-street bakery chain that has just delivered better-than-expected first-half results and a share-price rally. That sets the scene for scrutiny: can management hit upgraded full-year guidance and keep momentum with new formats and product innovation?

# The recent signal: Burnham's mention and what it showed Greggs item as the "sausage, bean and cheese thing," sales of that pastry doubled the next day around the Prime Minister's Manchester No10. That quick, local bump illustrates how brand mentions and accessible product lines can translate into immediate volume lifts.

# Financial position and market movement Greggs reported first-half profits that beat analysts' expectations. Over the past six months the share price rose by around a fifth to £18.61. Management now projects full-year sales of £2.3 billion and profits of £193 million, compared with £167 million last year. Investors will expect the upcoming third-quarter results to show whether the company is on track to achieve or exceed those targets.

# What management is trying next To keep growth going, Greggs is testing smaller, convenience-focused formats called 'Greggs Express' at petrol forecourts and travel hubs. The intent is faster service and easier access for customers on the move. The chain is also broadening its menu with items aimed at younger consumers — salads and iced blueberry matcha lattes were cited as examples — alongside its core savoury pastries.

# Geographic and product experiments

# Investor questions ahead of Q3 Investors will focus on several concrete questions:

• Are same-store sales continuing to grow, and do they show resilience after the summer?
• Do new formats such as Greggs Express achieve unit-level economics that justify wider rollout?
• Are menu innovations attracting younger shoppers without diluting core savoury sales?
• Will reported full-year sales and profit projections be met or revised?

# What to watch next Look for details in the third-quarter results about like-for-like sales, margins at trial Greggs Express outlets, performance in travel locations, and customer response to Gen Z-targeted items. Share-price moves will likely respond to any upward or downward revision to the company's £2.3 billion sales and £193 million profit projection.

# Bottom line