THG Plc Navigates Retail Transition Post FTSE 250 Exit

Highlights

• THG Plc has exited the FTSE 250 index amid restructuring within its retail segments

• Stronger second half supported by performance in Beauty and Nutrition divisions

• Expansion in global retail presence through Myprotein product placement continues

THG Plc (LON:THG), operating in the online retail space, was formerly a constituent of the FTSE 250 index. Recent market developments have shifted its standing, with the company no longer part of the FTSE 250 following a routine index review. The company’s operations span multiple segments, with particular focus on Beauty and Nutrition products, marketed globally through both digital and retail channels.

Retail Growth Driven by Nutrition Segment

The Nutrition business at THG has shown momentum through the first half of the calendar year. With Myprotein branded products, the division continues to expand offline presence across major retail chains. Retail listings have extended across markets such as the UK, US, Japan, and mainland Europe, reaching various well-known outlets.

The Nutrition division's strategy includes penetrating health and wellness chains, supermarkets, and convenience stores across diverse regions. This shift in distribution footprint includes entries into stores like CVS, GNC, and Decathlon, highlighting a growing presence outside the digital-only environment.

Beauty Business Recovers in Key Territories

THG’s Beauty division, a core part of its retail structure, has been through a period of transformation. While challenges have persisted, recent quarters indicated a comparative improvement. The UK has emerged as a stabilising region for Beauty retail, contributing to the firm's broader retail revenue base.

The exit from certain international markets, especially those with lower margins, has helped recalibrate the performance of this segment. These changes have streamlined the brand’s operational focus towards territories demonstrating stronger retail performance, including the domestic UK market.

International Expansion and Distribution Reach

Beyond domestic growth, THG has extended its reach in Asian and European markets. In Asia, Myprotein products are now stocked in large retail chains including 7-Eleven and Costco. These partnerships support the product’s visibility and consumer accessibility across Taiwan, Singapore, and Vietnam.

In Europe, partnerships have led to listings in stores like Kruidvat, further anchoring THG’s presence in wellness retail spaces. This expansion is also reflected in licensed retail models, allowing broader product distribution across global retail partners.

Product Placement and Licensing Strategy

A significant aspect of THG’s expansion strategy involves product licensing and non-digital retail placement. Myprotein units distributed through offline and licensed channels are expected to reach wider audiences. The multi-channel model serves both growth in volume and brand recognition in mature and emerging markets.

The licensing framework allows retail placement in stores beyond THG’s owned infrastructure, amplifying exposure. This channel continues to be a major contributor to the brand’s retail value footprint.

Operational Challenges and Supply Chain Monitoring

THG remains observant of changes in trade frameworks, especially those tied to the US market. While current direct exposure to trade tariffs appears to be limited, the company is assessing the broader implications on supply chains. Changes in material pricing, notably in dairy-based inputs like milk and whey, are also under review due to their impact on product costs.

Increased costs associated with core nutrition ingredients have presented pressures on margin. However, these variables continue to be tracked to maintain pricing discipline and ensure consistency in product delivery across retail partners.

Index Positioning and Broader Implications

The exclusion of THG Plc from the FTSE 250 represents a shift in valuation standing within the broader FTSE framework. While this adjustment reflects current market conditions, it also aligns with THG’s evolution towards a hybrid retail model—one that blends e-commerce with retail licensing and physical distribution.

The focus on core brand performance, especially in Nutrition and Beauty, marks a deliberate strategy to reinforce market positioning amid evolving retail dynamics.