Losses at Victoria Beckham’s luxury fashion label increased by £2 million (€2.2 million) as it continued to invest in the business, but maintained that it expects to break even in the medium term.
The 10-year-old high-end fashion retailer posted a loss of £10.2 million (€11.3 million) for 2017 compared with £8.2 million (€9.1 million) the year earlier. However, revenue grew 17 per cent to £42.5 million (€47.2 million) as sales increased across all its segments including the core ready-to-wear “Victoria Beckham” line, its sister ready-to-wear “Victoria, Victoria Beckham” line as well as accessories and eyewear, both online and in-store.
Victoria Beckham Ltd said last year the company “continued to invest in the business and build its talent base”, maintaining that its shareholders are committed to reducing its loss and expect to break even in the medium term.
Last December, NEO Investment Partners invested £30 million (€33.3 million) in the business to grow the company’s digital operations and bricks-and-mortar stores.
Licensing deal
The company has redesigned its website, invested in its distribution capabilities – now shipping to more than 120 countries, and recently announced a long-term global licensing deal for its eyewear products with Marchon. NEO is a shareholder in the company along with Beckham Brand Holdings, which is owned by Victoria and David Beckham and XIX Entertainment.
The company said that despite a “difficult trading environment” it has been investing for its future growth and building its leadership team. In March, the company appointed industry veteran Ralph Toledano, who is currently president of the French tarde body Federation de la Haute Couture et de la Mode, as chairman joining Paolo Riva who was appointed chief executive in September.
Mr Riva said: “We will continue to invest in growth markets such as the US and Asia whilst also ensuring we have the right strategy to ensure profitability over the medium term. “I look forward to working with Victoria and team to steer the brand to the next phase.”
The company trades from its website, flagship store in Mayfair, London and in Hong Kong as well as from 400 stockists in more than 50 countries.
– PA
