In Findel’s trading statement released on 31 March, prior to its full year results announcement expected in June, the group reported a year of progress with overall sales up by 2.7 per cent (excluding Kleeneze). Notably it had agreed a sale of Kleeneze for £3.4 million to CVSL Inc., which was completed on 24 March. The group has reduced its net bank debt to approximately £87 million (at 27th March), down £10 million from the previous year.
Its Express Gifts operation achieved a 4.8 per cent increase in sales over the previous year and its live customer base had grown by 2.2 per cent at the end of December 2014. However, its Findel Education division recorded a tough year with the second half proving to be particularly challenging. Full year sales for the division were down by 6.5 per cent over the previous year and final quarter sales down by 9.2 per cent. Market conditions had been difficult with further reductions in spending levels per pupil expected in the next parliament. However, its management team is being strengthened and marketing improvements implemented ahead of its new catalogue launch (this month). Over at Kitbag there had been a strong recovery driven by record Christmas trading together with tighter controls over margins and stock levels. Sales were up by 10.5 per cent and will result in a reduction in its ongoing operating loss.
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