Computacenter forecasts strong year as AI and data centre demand boost orders

Summary

• Computacenter expects full-year profit to exceed market forecasts
• AI and data centre demand drives increase in hardware orders
• Shares rise over 6% following upbeat outlook

LONDON, April 24, 2026 — Computacenter said it expects full-year profit to exceed market forecasts, as demand for artificial intelligence and data centre infrastructure drives higher hardware orders.

The company reported an increase in orders as clients brought forward purchases, partly due to supply constraints linked to the ongoing expansion of AI and data centre capacity. This trend has supported strong performance across its core business segments.

Shares in Computacenter rose as much as 6.3% to 3,552 pence in early trading, making it one of the top performers on the FTSE 250.

The company highlighted particularly strong growth in its group technology sourcing division, its largest business unit, which benefited from increased demand tied to AI-driven infrastructure projects in North America and the UK.

The broader technology sector has seen a similar uplift, with European chipmakers and electrical equipment firms gaining as investors position for continued expansion in AI infrastructure. Rising demand for semiconductors, servers and networking equipment has supported this trend.

Analysts at Jefferies said they view Computacenter as gaining market share, noting its exposure to large cloud providers as a positive factor for future growth. Analysts also noted that demand could normalize if enterprise spending slows after the current investment cycle.

The company now expects to deliver full-year results comfortably above market expectations for adjusted pre-tax profit, which currently stands at £291.3 million ($392.2 million), based on a consensus compiled by the company.

Industry-wide, companies are ramping up investments in AI and data centres, driving demand across hardware and software supply chains. However, analysts caution that geopolitical risks, including tensions in West Asia, could disrupt supply chains and increase costs.

Recent guidance from Intel, which pointed to stronger-than-expected demand for AI server processors, also reflects broader strength in the sector.

Why this matters

• Reflects accelerating global investment in AI and data centre infrastructure
• Signals strong demand for IT hardware and enterprise technology services
• Highlights supply chain pressures amid rapid industry expansion
• Indicates positive momentum for companies linked to the AI ecosystem

FAQs

Q1: Why is Computacenter expecting higher profits?

Strong demand for AI and data centre infrastructure has driven increased hardware orders.

Q2: Which business segment is leading growth?

The group technology sourcing division has seen the strongest performance.

Q3: How did the market react?

Shares rose more than 6% following the company’s positive outlook.

Q4: What broader trend is supporting growth?

Global investment in AI and data centres is boosting demand for IT infrastructure.

Q5: Are there any risks to this outlook?

Geopolitical tensions and supply chain disruptions could impact costs and delivery timelines.