Whistl saw turnover increase by 4.4% to £723.5m in 2025 and profits rose significantly, thanks to a one-off exceptional item following the settlement of a “legal matter”.
Its results showed operating profit in the year was £66.9m, with the majority made up of an exceptional item of £56.8m.
As a result, the parcel and mail delivery firm posted a pre-tax profit of £68.7m during the period.
It said the increase in revenue came despite “a challenging environment including inflation and cost of living pressure, due to new wins in the mail market offset by a slight decline in the competitive tracked parcels and cross border solutions market”.
Whistl added: “Despite a competitive commercial environment, gross profit of £34.5m improved by 1.8% due to a continued focus on network efficiency with investments in transport management technology continuing to reduce the mileage driven by our HGV and van fleets as well as the need for subcontractors.
“The exceptional credit mainly represents the proceeds received during the year on the settlement of [a] legal matter.
“This is a one-off item that will not recur in future periods.”
Whistl declined to comment further on the settlement when approached by Motor Transport.
In February 2025, the competition appeal tribunal (CAT) made an order dismissing damages brought by Whistl UK against International Distribution Services (formerly Royal Mail) and Royal Mail Group after the parties agreed a settlement.
The CAT had previously upheld Ofcom’s decision to fine Royal Mail £50m for breaching competition law.
The penalty followed an investigation into a complaint made by Whistl.
