Finland's Stockmann posts rising profits, department stores struggle on

Finnish retailer Stockmann reported better-than-expected second-quarter results on Thursday, thanks to increased sales at its fashion chain Lindex, but warned that its department stores would remain in the red in the full year.

Known for its prestigious department stores, Stockmann has struggled in recent years due to a consumer shift to online shopping, prompting cost-cuts and divestments.

Its second-quarter adjusted operating profit rose to 24 million euros ($27 million) from 15 million euros a year ago, compared to analysts’ average expectation of 21 million euros in a Reuters poll.

Quarterly department store sales fell 4 percent from a year ago while revenue at Lindex was up 1 percent. Stockmann said the department store unit was not expected to reach a positive operating result for the full year.

Stockmann shares were up 3 percent by 0742 GMT.

“Lindex’ result has recovered... the trend (in Retail) is worrisome, considering strong domestic consumer demand,” research firm Inderes, which has a “reduce” rating on the stock, said in a note to investors.

“We think the company must accelerate cost adjustment.”