• Delivered material growth in sales up 12.3% and improved margin rate, resulting in strong earnings growth
• Significant talent renewal across the business bringing fresh perspectives
• Implemented strategic initiatives focused on product rejuvenation, tactical promotions, and online trade

Dusk Group Ltd delivered a strong 1H FY25 performance, with total sales of $87.4m, up 12.3% on the prior corresponding period (pcp). Like-for-like sales were up 10.6%, with stores up 7.4% and online up 68.0%. The company's gross profit increased 13.4% to $56.9m, with the gross profit margin increasing 62 basis points to 65.1%. Pro forma EBIT grew 20.0% to $13.8m. The company has made significant progress on its strategic priorities, including redefining its brand identity, driving new customer acquisition, and increasing customer frequency through more frequent product newness and collaborations. The company is focused on rejuvenating its core product range, improving productivity, and enhancing its omni-channel experience. Dusk ended the period with a strong balance sheet, including $38.5m in net cash, and declared a fully franked interim dividend of 5 cents per share and a special dividend of 5 cents per share.

For the first 8 weeks of 2H FY25, Dusk's trading margin remains in line with the prior year. The company is optimistic about the upcoming Easter and Mother's Day trading periods, with new and exciting product ranges to support these key events.

Dusk is well prepared for the upcoming Easter and Mother's Day events, with new and exciting product ranges to support these key events. The company expects to open one store and close two stores by the end of FY25. Dusk's hedging policy continues to mitigate FX risk in 2H FY25.