Ahlers revenues rise 7.6 percent in H1

REPORT_ Following strong growth of 9.3 percent in the first three months of 2013/14 Ahlers has reported a 5.1

percent increase for the second quarter. Total sales revenues for the six-month period rose by 7.6 percent to 123.9 million euros (168.7 million dollars).

“We were able to grow strongly in the German market against the general industry trend. We are also pushing ahead our international expansion, with store openings in Poland and the Baltics, for instance. Gin Tonic is also back on the growth path,” opined Stella A. Ahlers, CEO of Ahlers AG.

The premium segment was in line with the general growth trend of the company and reported a 7.6 percent increase in sales revenues, which represents an unchanged 64 percent of total revenues. All brands including Baldessarini, Pierre Cardin and Otto Kern, grew strongly, with Baldessarini posting a double-digit growth rate. Sales in the Jeans & Workwear segment picked up 14 percent in the reporting period. In this segment, too, all brands including Pioneer Authentic Jeans, Pionier Jeans & Casuals and Pionier Workwear were able to report rise in revenues. The segment's share in total revenues climbed from 26 percent to 28 percent.

Ahlers' EBIT before special effects also picked up by 2 million euros (2.7 million dollars) or 182 percent. Earnings before taxes soared 156 percent and consolidated net income rose by 70 percent.

Ahlers projects 5 - 6 percent revenue growth and double-digit increase in EBIT before special effects for the full year of 2013/14. The Management Board expects sales revenues for the full year to grow by 5 to 6 percent and projects a strong increase in EBIT before special effects. The Management Board expects consolidated net income to come in at about the prior year level (2012/13: 5.6 million euros or 7.6 million dollars) due to relocation of Gin Tonic.