Operating loss hits Superdrug
The retailer Superdrug has posted a £1.4m operating loss in the year to 29 December
Beauty retailer Superdrug (AS Watson) has posted a £1.4m operating loss in the year to 29 December, Retail Week reports. The result is in contrast to the company’s £10.8m operating profit the previous year.
The retailer, which claimed that it was hit by exceptional depreciation charges of £15.1m relating to its store estate, also saw 2012 sales fall 2.6% to £1.02bn due to weakened consumer confidence in the UK.
During the year, Superdrug unveiled new look stores and launched mass skin care and make-up brand B. in February this year. The 160-sku brand was said to offer UK women the experience and guidance associated with premium brands at an affordable price point.
Speaking to Retail Week, Superdrug said it expects the economic environment to “remain challenging for the foreseeable future and the squeeze on personal incomes to continue”.
To combat this, the retailer is looking to continue diversifying its product range and developing its online offer.
