GO Outdoors set to build more ‘mega’ stores across UK

The owner of GO Outdoors – one of the UK’s largest suppliers of fishing tackle – has revealed plans to focus on larger format stores and more prominent high street locations.

The JD Sports Fashion group retailer opened Europe’s largest outdoor retail store under the GO Outdoors banner in the UK in September 2024 and following its success has rolled out other similar outlets across the UK. They are anchored by its Fishing Republic franchise which stocks tackle from all the world’s major suppliers.

In its report to investors following the conclusion of its full year of trading, JD said that GO Outdoors – part of the JD Sports Outdoor division – would continue to expand its coverage of the super store format. It also revealed that a number of its underperforming Blacks retail outlets have been identified for exit over the medium term.

Revenue from the Outdoor sector was £502m, down 7.6% compared to the previous year with like-for-like revenue suffering a 5.8% drop, reflecting what was described as a challenging trading environment across high street locations and online.

“Online delivery costs, higher store repair expenses and rising utility prices contributed to an operating loss before adjusting items and after interest on lease liabilities of £3m,” JD told investors.

On a group-wide basis JD Sports Fashion recorded a 10.5% increase in sales to £12,662m (£11,458m) and an operating profit of £886m – down from £937m in the previous year. Its expectations for 2027 are a profit before tax of between £750m and £850m.