Apparel retailer Giordano International says it will continue to pursue international expansion, as it revealed a half-yearly increase in sales of 8.3 per cent to US$432.2 million.

Online turnover grew by 25.5 per cent and now contributes 12.1 per cent of group sales.

Net profit for the full year was $24.3 million, and for the second half $16.62 million, suggesting an improvement in fortunes as the impact of Covid restrictions eased in most of its markets.

Giordano has 2056 points of sale worldwide, including franchised stores and a joint venture in South Korea. It trades throughout Asia as well as the Gulf States and Australia and recently announced a foray into Africa.

The business expects that this year will remain ‘volatile’ given a severe Omicron outbreak has taken over Hong Kong. This will impact both sales and the global supply chain. The group plans to temporarily downsize Hong Kong operations until there are clear signs of economic recovery. 

In an outlook, Giordano said it would expand its franchise model in developing countries, predominantly in Africa.