The optimised operational processes and the cost-efficient procurement structures also helped to drive the margin. Gerhard Weber commented: "Our dual growth in terms of both sales and earnings demonstrates our optimal strategic positioning. We have not only evolved into a lifestyle group but have also taken the right path with our retail concept which has allowed us to positively differentiate ourselves from our competitors.
In addition, the internal restructuring efforts completed in recent years are now unfolding a sustained effect for us.“ In light of the good earnings position the Managing Board will propose to the June 4, 2008 Annual General Meeting a profit distribution of EUR 11.5 million or EUR 0.50 per share. This improves on the previous year's payout by EUR 0.10 or 25 percent.
The highest regular dividend ever paid out in the company's history is meant to give the shareholders an appropriate share in the company's excellent results. The GERRY WEBER Group intends to maintain its fast pace of growth in the financial year 2007/2008. Management has announced a sales target of EUR 575 million, meaning that sales are once again to grow by a double digit margin.
The 14 percent rise in orders received for the third collection of the spring/summer 2008 season demonstrates that the GERRY WEBER Group is excellently positioned to attain this target. To help boost the retail activities, another 60 HOUSES OF GERRY WEBER are to be opened during the current financial year.
Numerous new monobrand stores and another 250 shop-in-shop outlets are planned to be opened during the period as well. The GERRY WEBER Group is also targeting another improvement in its EBIT margin to 11.0 percent. Moving forward through the coming five years, sales are to double to EUR 1 billion, with the EBIT margin rising to 15.0 percent through this period.