The Benetton Board of Directors, meeting today, considered the first indications for the financial year 2002 just ended. The figures confirm that there was a severe reduction in turnover in the sports division and a satisfying sales performance in the clothing division, which benefited from revenues created by the new stores. It is anticipated that group turnover may be down overall by about five per cent and net income before extraordinary and not-recurring components, should be around 6.5 per cent of turnover.
The Benetton Board therefore examined the potential extraordinary impact on income arising from the strategic decision of selling sports equipment business. Although no definitive evaluation has been made yet, it could be assumed that such extraordinary elements could result in a limited loss for the financial year, without however significantly affecting cash flow.
The Board then analysed forecast performance for 2003. In an economic environment characterised by a general reduction in consumption, the fall in sales in the fabric/clothing market and the weakness of the dollar, turnover and margins of the clothing division are forecast to be in line with the 2002 financial year.
Furthermore, the Board of Directors reviewed the status of the negotiations for the sale of the Rollerblade business, that had been started on an exclusive basis with the Hockey Company, and resolved not to further pursue them. However, Benetton group confirms its strategic action plan aimed at the dismissal of such trademark.
