Are these the best FTSE 250 shares to watch in summer 2025?

Despite GDP growing more than expected in Q1 of this year, Q2 has got off to a rocky start with the UK economy shrinking by 0.3% in April largely due to the impact of US tariffs. Further growth is still possible for the remainder of the year but uncertainties surrounding these tariffs could continue to limit growth.

Throughout the next year, the Bank of England (BoE) is likely to continue cutting interest rates. At its next meeting on 19 June, rates are expected to be held at 4.25%, with further cuts expected in the latter half of the year.

Although this may seem like a strange decision as inflation continues to rise and now stands at 3.4%, economic growth remains slow and rate cuts may help stimulate the economy. If however, inflation continues to creep up, future cuts will be more gradual.

Factors including the uncertainty surrounding trading agreements with the US, the rising conflict in the Middle East, and the latest spending review will also impact the UK economy over the next year.

This all makes considering the best FTSE 250 shares to watch next month somewhat of a challenge.

For perspective, the index has remained essentially flat for the past year, reflecting this ambiguity. Last June the FTSE 250 started out at 20,159, rose sharply to 21,700 points in August 2024 and is now at 21,332 points.

When there’s uncertainty, there’s also often opportunity. But this isn’t without risk and of course, past performance is not an indicator of future returns.

Open an account and start trading the best FTSE 250 shares today.

Best FTSE 250 Shares to buy now

Spectris

Spectris is an industrial technology company that develops precision management tools and software for industrial use. It has two main segments: Spectris Dynamics which designs tools to measure the performance of existing products and helps customers improve these products. Its other segment, Spectris Scientific works with companies to understand and test materials so that they can make their products more effectively. Some of its brands include Particle Measuring Systems and Malvern Panalytical.

In Q1 this year, the company reported mixed results with sales down 2% from Q1 of 2024 which is largely due to the uncertainties surrounding potential US tariffs.

Looking ahead, the company believes that it can mitigate the direct impact of tariffs and expects to see the benefits from its recent cost— saving efforts and remains on track to achieve strong growth in operating profit by the end of the year. With uncertainties surrounding the wider economic environment, however, this can’t be guaranteed.

Burberry Group

Burberry Group is a luxury fashion brand based in the UK that sells its high— end goods through high— street stores, online sales and partnerships with department stores to customers worldwide. It also makes money through licensing, making money from companies who sell beauty products and eyewear that use the Burberry name.

The company experienced a challenging FY25 with revenue 15% lower than the year before and sales down 12%. Poor H1 results helped contribute to a change in strategy what was introduced in H2.

Its new strategy involves going back to its roots and focusing on outerwear. Customers seem to have responded well so far with revenue declines easing throughout the latter half of the fiscal year.

Over the past month, Burberry’s share price has increased by 43.67% and if its new strategy continues to be successful it could see further gains. It’s worth noting though that the company still faches challenges and success cannot be guaranteed.

Dr Martens

Dr Martens is a shoe company based in the UK, well known for its long— lasting shoes and boots. The brand also sells a range of accessories like socks, bags and shoelaces. Its products are sold in over 60 countries through its own stores, retail partners and its website.

The company reported stable FY25 results that were in line with its guidance. Challenging macroeconomic conditions contributed to an 8% drop in group revenue, and its gross margin dropped to 65%.

Despite this, the company remains optimistic about the success of its turnaround plan, which involves keeping prices steady despite the impact of US tariffs but limiting discounts in its key regions. It remains on track to meet its 2026 guidance.

Chemring Group

Chemring Group is a technology company based in the UK that specialises in security and defense. It has two main areas: Countermeasures & Energetics, which focus on developing defense systems including aircraft protection and missile components, and Sensors & Information which provides threat detection and security consulting services.

In H1 of 2025 the company performed well bringing in a record intake of £345 million and an orderbook of over a billion. Revenue increased by 8%, which was in line with expectations and largely driven by a strong performance by its Roke.

Over the past month, Chemring’s share price has increased 34.61% and our analysts have given the stock a strong buy position.

Johnson Matthey

Johnson Matthey is a UK based sustainable technology company who operate across four main areas, Clean Air, Hydrogen Technologies, Catalyst Technologies and PGM Services.

For FY25 the company reported stable results with underlying sales increasing by 5% year— over— year and underlying operating profit increasing by 21% to £553 million.

The company is one of the market leaders in the development and production of catalytic converters, so the shift to electric vehicles (EVs) is a concern. It’s currently in the process of adapting its business strategy to overcome potential long— term issues. But in the short— term traditional cars aren’t going anywhere and the sector is currently generating significant cashflows.

How to trade FTSE 250 shares with us

1. Learn more about FTSE 250 shares
2. Choose whether you want to trade or invest
3. Open an account or practice on a demo account
4. Select your opportunity and manage your risk
5. Place your trade or investment and monitor its position

Investing in shares takes a long— term approach where you look to build wealth over an extended period of time.

Trading takes a shorter— term approach where you can benefit from leverage. This is where you place a position far greater than your initial deposit.

For example, with 5:1 leverage, you could open a £5,000 position while only depositing £1,000 as ‘margin’. A 10% market movement could result in a 50% gain or loss on your deposited margin.

This approach is high risk, and you can gain or lose more money than you put in.

Best FTSE 250 Shares Summed Up

Spectris, Burberry Group, Dr Martens, Chemring Group and Johnson Matthey could be the five best FTSE 250 shares to buy now. These shares are the top returning FTSE 250 stocks in June.

Remember past performance is not an indicator of future returns.

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*Based on revenue excluding FX (published financial statements, October 2021).