Inchcape Sees H2 Growth, Cussons Retains St Tropez, Marlowe Updates Strategy

Highlights

• Inchcape LON:INCH maintains growth outlook with performance expected to be weighted in the second half

• PZ Cussons LON:PZC opts to keep St Tropez brand and enters new US distribution arrangement

• Marlowe LON:MRL issues business update following continued strategy execution

The latest market open brings key developments from several companies listed on the ftse 250, with Inchcape (LON:INCH), PZ Cussons (LON:PZC), and Marlowe (LON:MRL) releasing important updates. These announcements reflect ongoing operational strategies within the consumer goods and business services sectors.

Inchcape Outlines Half-Year Update and Maintains Outlook

Inchcape LON:INCH, a global automotive distribution company listed on the ftse 250, issued a pre-close trading update for the first half of the year. The business reported steady performance in the face of varying market conditions across its geographic portfolio. Tariff implications continue to be managed, with growth expectations reaffirmed for the full year. However, delivery of much of this performance is expected to take shape in the latter part of the year, owing to typical vehicle product cycles and other timing-related operational dynamics.

The company’s commentary highlighted a resilient approach in adapting to global trade environments while remaining focused on core distributor functions and market diversification.

PZ Cussons Retains St Tropez Brand, Commits to US Market Shift

PZ Cussons LON:PZC, part of the ftse 250, announced a shift in its previously communicated plans surrounding the St Tropez skincare brand. After evaluating third-party acquisition interest, the group will retain the brand in-house and implement a revised strategy that includes a new US distribution agreement.

The brand had been under strategic review due to underperformance in certain markets. With this update, management aims to support its recovery in regions where traction had slowed. St Tropez remains a part of the broader consumer product portfolio that includes multiple personal care lines. The decision underscores a commitment to revitalising key assets rather than divesting them.

The company’s updated plan seeks to enhance geographic reach and streamline channel effectiveness, aligning with other internal growth initiatives.

Marlowe Releases Business Update Reflecting Strategic Progress

Marlowe LON:MRL, trading on the FTSE AIM UK 50 INDEX, shared a company update reflecting continued progress across its risk and compliance services platform. The update follows a consistent approach toward organisational consolidation and growth within regulated sectors.

The business, known for its presence across compliance-driven service segments such as health, safety, and data privacy, has focused on enhancing cross-selling and integration efficiencies in recent quarters. The latest communication supports the group’s wider goals of operational synergy and market presence across regulated verticals in the UK and abroad.

There was also a reaffirmation of operational alignment across its divisions, with performance being driven by both recurring service demand and targeted digital solutions.