LONDON (dpa-AFX) - JD Sports Fashion Plc (JD.L) said that its preliminary profit before tax for the 52 weeks ended 1 February 2014 rose to 57.85 million pounds from 55.12 million pounds in 53 weeks to 2 February 2013.
Profit attributable to equity holders of the parent for the year was 40.16 million pounds, up from 38.79 million pounds in the previous year. Earnings per ordinary share were 82.52 pence, compared to 79.71 pence last year.
Adjusted earnings per ordinary share before exceptional items improved to 117.12 pence from 88.51 pence in the prior year.
Operating profit, before exceptional items, increased to 78.2 million pounds from last year's 61.3 million pounds, with an exceptional performance in Sport and a reduction in the losses in Outdoor.
Exceptional items increased significantly in the year to 19.1 million pounds from the prior year's 5.3 million pounds principally due to a non-cash charge of 11.8 million pounds to write off goodwill relating to the Bank business. After allowing for exceptional items, Group operating profit increased to 59.1 million pounds from 56.0 million pounds last year.
Total revenue for the year increased 5.7% to 1.331 billion pounds from last year's 1.259 billion pounds. The prior year revenue included 33.5 million pounds in relation to the Canterbury business which was disposed in the year. Like for like sales for the 52 week period in the UK and Ireland combined core retail fascias increased by 6.7% which was an excellent performance.
The Group continues to be well positioned with its retail proposition, increased financial resources and extensive management experience to take advantage of opportunities both in the UK and internationally.
The Board proposes paying a final dividend of 22.65 pence (2013: 22.00 pence) per share bringing the total dividend payable for the year to 27.10 pence (2013: 26.30 pence) per ordinary share. The proposed final dividend will be paid on 4 August 2014 to all shareholders on the register at 9 May 2014.
Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX