Persimmon has not seen any “material impact on trading” from the Iran war so far, but remains wary of the potential impact as the situation continues.
In a trading update ahead of its AGM, covering the period from 1 January to 26 April 2026, the Group reported net private sales per outlet per week of 0.76, up 3% from 0.74 the previous year. It also saw an increase in its current total forward sales, which stood at £2.46billion, a 5% increase year-on-year, with private forward sales up 7% to £1.80billion.
Persimmon’s private average selling price stood at £306,900 for the period, a 5% increase year-on-year. The Group also stated that it currently has a strong land bank as a result of the investment it has made in recent years, and says that, with the current macroeconomic backdrop, it will now be more disciplined in its acquisition of new land. During the first quarter, Persimmon was awarded detailed or reserved matters planning approval for 3,080 plots, which it said was supporting its ambition of operating from a minimum of 300 outlets.
Dean Finch, group chief executive of Persimmon, commented: “Persimmon has started the year well, building on our strong performance in 2025, with an improved private sales rate and an increase in average selling prices. As a result, our private forward sales are up 7% on the prior year.”
“The ongoing conflict in Iran, and resultant geopolitical and economic uncertainty, has not had any material impact on trading to date. However, we are mindful of its potential impact, including on consumer confidence, and there are early signs of increased inflationary pressure. We are carefully monitoring the situation, driving sales across all brands and tenures, maintaining flexibility and a rigorous focus on cost control and cash generation, whilst being supported by a robust balance sheet.”
“Our three strong brands, unique vertically integrated model and high-quality landbank continue to differentiate Persimmon and position us well for growth into the medium term.”
Looking forward, Persimmon says that it continues to be mindful of the potential effects of the Iran war on consumer confidence and affordability, noting some increases in mortgage rates since early March.
The Group said that it had seen early signs of increased inflation in the supply chain, driven by higher energy costs, which are likely to impact the second half of 2026 and into 2027. Persimmon says it will look to mitigate these where possible through its relationships with suppliers and subcontractors, and is currently reviewing costs within the business to ensure it remains as efficient as possible.
Persimmon says that it anticipates that its full-year profit will be in line with forecast and it will deliver completions of between 12,000 and 12,500 homes in 2026, as long as market conditions do not “materially deteriorate”
