Fast Retailing raises guidance on Uniqlo strength
Fast Retailing raised its full-year earnings forecasts after first-half profit came in ahead of expectations, propelled by strong global sales performance at its Uniqlo casual-clothing chain, the company reported Thursday.
The upgraded guidance was issued despite acknowledged disruption in the Middle East, which the Wall Street Journal noted as a specific headwind flagged by management. The ability to raise forecasts in that context points to the breadth of Uniqlo's international revenue base, which has been expanding across Asia, Europe and North America.
Investors responded decisively: Fast Retailing shares surged more than 9% in Tokyo trading on Friday, reaching a record high. The move adds to a longer re-rating of the stock as Uniqlo has grown into one of the few global apparel brands to sustain margin discipline alongside volume growth.
No revised profit figures were disclosed in the available source reporting.
