Ahead of its Annual General Meeting to be held today in Geneva, Richemont announces that its sales for the five months ended 31 August 2013 increased by 9 % at constant exchange rates. At actual exchange rates, sales rose by 4 %, negatively impacted by the weakening of the US dollar and the yen against the euro.

The following comments refer to changes at constant exchange rates.

Sales growth was satisfactory across all regions in view of demanding comparatives in Europe, the Middle-East and Asia-Pacific. European and Middle-Eastern sales continued to benefit from visitors in major tourist destinations. Asia-Pacific was led by good growth in Hong Kong and Macau, offset by lower sales in mainland China, largely reflecting a prudent consumer sentiment after several years of exceptional expansion. Sales growth in the Americas was strong, primarily achieved through the sustained momentum of jewellery sales. The acquisition of Peter Millar in October 2012 also assisted the performance in the Americas. Sales growth in Japan was robust, benefiting from strong domestic consumption.

Retail sales growth continues to outperform wholesale sales, reflecting a good performance in the Maisons’ existing boutiques as well as the opening of new ones, primarily in Europe, Middle-East and Asia-Pacific.

The Jewellery Maisons and Specialist Watchmakers performed well in an uncertain economic environment. Montblanc’s sales were flat, the Maison being less exposed to tourist purchases than many of the Group’s other businesses. Within ‘Other’ sales, Net-a-Porter reported double-digit growth.

Richemont’s interim results for the six-month period to 30 September 2013 will be released on 8 November 2013.

Source: Richemont