Fast Retailing Reports 7.4% Q1 Profit Growth Despite China Slowdown

The Uniqlo operator saw strong sales in Japan, North America, and Europe, offsetting challenges in its key China market.

Fast Retailing's Q1 operating profit rose 7.4% year-on-year to ¥157.6 billion ($996.2 million), driven by strong global sales outside of China.
Revenue reached a record ¥895.2 billion ($5.66 billion), with significant growth in Japan, North America, and Europe compensating for a decline in China.
Uniqlo Japan's revenue increased 9%, supported by successful product mixes for both warm and cool weather and a strong year-end sale.
China's performance declined due to warm weather and inventory mismanagement, prompting store closures and a shift toward better-located outlets.
Fast Retailing maintained its full-year profit forecast of ¥530 billion, citing expansion in new markets and improved product strategies as key growth drivers.