Operating profit experienced a significant boost, reaching SEK 2.077 billion, up from SEK 725 million in the same period last year, translating to an operating margin of 3.9 per cent, up from 1.3 per cent. When adjusted for results from investments in associated companies and joint ventures, the operating profit stood at SEK 2.09 billion, marking a substantial improvement from a loss of SEK 274 million previously, the company said in a press release.
The results after tax also saw considerable growth, increasing to SEK 1.2 billion from SEK 540 million, with earnings per share rising to SEK 0.75 from SEK 0.33 in the same period of previous fiscal.
In addition to financial achievements, H&M Group made significant strides in its sustainability efforts. The company's annual and sustainability report for 2023 highlights a 22 per cent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. Moreover, when adjusted for sales in SEK, this reduction reached 23 per cent.
“Development continued in the right direction in the first quarter with an improved gross margin and operating profit, lower inventory and strong cash flow. Our top priority is to continue improving the customer offering, the store experience and the supply chain in order to increase sales,” said Daniel Erver, CEO.
Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DP)