Burberry reports modest sales growth despite China rebound

British luxury fashion group Burberry has reported US$3.72 billion in revenue for the year to April 1, with Q4 comparable store sales surging 16 per cent, according to its preliminary results. 

“We have delivered a strong financial performance, supported by good progress in our core leather goods and outerwear categories, with revenue accelerating in the fourth quarter as growth rebounded in Mainland China,” said Jonathan Akeroyd, CEO of Burberry. 

The company said the accelerating sales growth in Q4 was attributed to the recovery in turnover in Mainland China and South Asia Pacific tourist destinations. Global spending by Chinese customers accounted for 30 per cent of the business revenue. 

While the comparable store sales growth in China and South Korea jumped 13 and 7 per cent respectively during the fourth quarter, Japan’s comparable store sales growth was up 27 per cent for the year and 30 per cent for the quarter. 

The southern Asia Pacific region saw sales rise more than 35 per cent with a strong fourth quarter performance that increased more than 50 per cent, boosted by returning Chinese tourists. 

“While the external environment remains uncertain, I am confident we can achieve our FY24 and medium-term targets as we focus on executing our plan to realise Burberry’s potential as the modern British luxury brand.”

Burberry named Daniel Lee as the new chief creative officer in December after Riccardo Tisci departed the house. In February, the fashion label introduced a new logo, including a new serif typeface and a 122-year-old design from its archive, which features a charging knight and the Latin word ‘prorsum’, meaning forwards. 

You have 7 articles remaining. Unlock 15 free articles a month, it’s free.