Trading Statement
January 16 2004 - 2:00AM
UK Regulatory
RNS Number:3059U
ASOS PLC
16 January 2004
ASOS PLC
("ASOS" or "the Company")
CHRISTMAS TRADING STATEMENT
ASOS, the Internet based fashion retailer announces a 75% increase in
like-for-like sales for the Christmas trading period and a move into
profitability.
Commenting on Christmas trading (1st November - 31st December 2003) Nick
Robertson Chief Executive said:
We had a strong Christmas all round, the highlights being:
*53% increase in unique visitors (shoppers through the door)
*75% increase in like-for-like sales
*Gross Margin maintained at 48.5%
*265,000 registered users at 31st December (Up from 205,000 at 30th June)
*13% reduction in the level of returns
We continued to out-perform our high-street competitors on the Internet, moving
to 3rd place in the Clothing and Apparel category for December (Source Hitwise).
This was testament to our product range, the attention to customer care and our
on-line marketing initiatives.
Importantly, the logistical problems of 2002 are now firmly behind us and the
warehouse achieved all delivery and customer care targets throughout the
critical trading period.
I remain optimistic about the Company's growth prospects. The business continues
to be cash generative and had over #1.1m cash in the bank at the end of December
2003. The operational efficiencies are also significant and this should be
reflected in the levels of profit the business can achieve going forward.
An un-audited interim announcement of results for the 12 months to 31st December
2003 will be made on 20th February 2004. Audited results for the 15 months to
31st March 2004 are expected to be released on 30th June 2004. The results for
the 12 months ended 31st March 2004 are expected to be in line with market
expectations.
For further enquiries please contact:
Nick Robertson - Chief Executive
John Morgan - Financial Director
Tel: 020 7240 7070
This information is provided by RNS
The company news service from the London Stock Exchange
END
TSTKELFFZFBFBBX