Emperor Watch & Jewellery expects a turnaround for its half-year to June 30 from a net loss for the same period last year.

In a positive profit alert following a preliminary review on its unaudited consolidated management accounts, the group says its expected net profit is the result of an increase in revenue from improved consumer spending and traffic flow by both local shoppers and Mainland Chinese visitors.

This was coupled with reduced lease payments through the group’s continuous efforts on cost control, says the alert, issued by chairperson Cindy Yeung.

Emperor Watch & Jewellery says its interim results for the period are scheduled to be published next month.