Revenue fell by 6.3 per cent for lifestyle retailer CP Lotus Corporation for its first half, dipping by RMB337.1 million (US$50.5 million) to RMB4.9 billion.

It says the decrease was mainly the result of a 9.1 per cent decline in same-store sales, cushioned by the revenue generated from two new stores opened in the second half of last year plus two new stores and one Lotus Center opened during the review period.

All merchandise categories had lower sales for the six months to June 30. Sales from apparel, electronics, hardline and personal care fell by about RMB189.7 million or 9.8 per cent, while fresh-food sales eased by 2.2 per cent.
Gross profit margin was 17.5 per cent of sales (2016: 16.8 per cent), a reduction of RMB23.2 million or 2.6 per cent.

The two stores opened during the six months were in Nanhai, Guangdong province, and Xian, Shaanxi province, where the Lotus Center mall was launched. The group owns and runs 63 retail stores, including 62 hypermarkets and one supermarket. It also runs two shopping malls.

During the first half the group continued its efforts to enhance the merchandise mix and offerings. It continued to expand direct sourcing and more direct purchase of vegetables and fruit. CP Lotus says direct sourcing not only lowers prices but also allows for better control of product quality.

“As consumers’ disposable income and their demand for high-quality imported food continued to rise, the group continued to bring in a wider range of imported products such as wine, beverages, snacks, health supplements, kitchenware and other groceries.”

Also, the group’s house brand team continued to work with the merchandise and marketing team to develop competitively priced house-brand products.