Luxottica has reported double-digit growth in group net sales for the first two months of 2012, following a record year in 2011 where net sales rose by 9.9 per cent to €6.2bn.
Announcing that it was raising its cash dividend for the financial year 2011 by 11.4 per cent, Luxottica revealed that it had recorded the highest net sales results in the group's 50-year history and a more than proportional increase in profitability in 2011. On the wholesale side, growth continued across all geographic areas. The performance in Eastern Europe was highlighted, with the rest of Europe described as 'solid' despite the current economic climate. Ray-Ban and Oakley sales were strong, with steady growth in premium and luxury brands.
Chief executive officer Andrea Guerra said the company had further strengthened its brand portfolio, increased its production capacity and improved its technological platforms. 'I believe 2012 looks to be another successful year and, if we continue to be resolute and at the same time simple and fast, we will continue the trends exhibited during 2011. There are a great many opportunities to promote solid growth for Luxottica, both in emerging and more mature markets.'
In Western Europe, the group's net sales were expected to increase between 4 and 6 per cent in 2012. The company pointed to the launch of the Coach brand eyewear collection in the new year, which, it said, had been well received by customers.