Sports Direct declares record results

Gross profit increased by 15.6% to Ј239.5m (Ђ303m).The results were achieved mainly by its British stores, the Baltic region, the Austrian purchases and record online sales, which increased by 26.8%. Their online sales now make up 17.1% of its total sales. The group recently faced conflict with Adidas, one of their main suppliers over supply of shirts. The conflict has been resolved.Another problem the group faced this past year was related to the approval of a personnel bonus package. The company wishes to allow management to have a portion of the profits if specific targets are met.

The new plan continues through to 2019, at a cost of Ј200m (Ђ253m). Mike Ashley, the chairman who owns about 60% of the group, has waived his portion of the bonus package.The profits will be used for potential purchases, hence shareholders will not receive dividends. The group is active in 191 countries, including France and Belgium, however it still places great reliance on the UK, where more than 400 of its 600 stores are located.