In addition to the top-line improvements, Hugo Boss also recorded significant bottom-line improvements in FY22. The strong top-line development more than compensated for ongoing brand, product, and digital investments as part of ‘CLAIM 5’ growth strategy, the company said in a press release.
Overall, EBIT in FY22 increased by a strong 47 per cent to an amount of €335 million, compared to €228 million in FY21. Consequently, the group’s EBIT margin expanded noticeably, up 100 basis points to a level of 9.2 per cent, compared to 8.2 per cent in FY21, largely reflecting operating expense leverage in brick-and-mortar retail. At the same time, the group’s gross margin remained stable at 61.8 per cent, as the overall higher share of full-price sales compensated for negative external effects caused by elevated sourcing costs and unfavourable currency effects.
Against the backdrop of ongoing macroeconomic and geopolitical uncertainty, Hugo Boss expects group sales in FY23 to increase at a mid-single-digit percentage rate, with all regions expected to contribute to growth. At the same time, Hugo Boss forecasts that it will increase its EBIT in FY23 within a range of 5 per cent to 12 per cent to an amount of between €350 million and €375 million. In light of ongoing investment in products, brands, and digital expertise, all part of ‘CLAIM 5,’ the company will continue to drive efficiency gains, in particular when it comes to its brick-and-mortar retail store network.
“2022 was an outstanding year for Hugo Boss. Thanks to the rigorous execution of our ‘CLAIM 5’ strategy, we made 2022 a record year for our company with broad-based momentum across brands, regions, and consumer touchpoints. Most importantly, our bold branding refresh impressively fuelled brand power of Boss and Hugo. In achieving this, we have laid a strong foundation to further leverage the great potential of Hugo Boss going forward,” said Daniel Grieder, chief executive officer of Hugo Boss.
Source: Fibre 2 Fashion
