Uniqlo owner ups forecast for third consecutive year

Fast Retailing Co, owner of Uniqlo, has revealed that it has upped its profit forecast for the third consecutive year as a result of strong sales both in its domestic market and key international regions.

However, the Japanese retailer warned that it was still facing challenges in China which is the company’s largest overseas market.

The company revealed that it posted consolidated revenue of JPY 1.79trn (£12.28bn), a 12% increase, for the six months ended February 2025. It also saw its profits rise 18.3% to JPY 304.22bn (£2.02bn).

Looking ahead, the company anticipates a 5.8% rise in operating profit for the full year, projecting total operating profit to reach JPY 530bn (£3.56bn). Moreover, the company expects to see a 9.5% year-on-year sales increase, with total sales of JPY 3.4trn (£22.8bn).

Uniqlo’s international operations saw particularly strong results in Europe, North America, and Southeast Asia, India and Australia.

Furthermore, the brand’s Japan division reported notable growth, with an increase in revenue and profit by 11.6% and 26.4%, respectively.

However, its sales in the Greater China segment struggled. The company identified the failure to adapt its product mix for the warmer winter climate in China as a contributing factor.

Fast Retailing stated that it is continuing to focus on expanding its footprint, particularly in regions outside of China. It is optimistic of the potential for growth in North America and Europe, with plans to open additional stores and further enhance its digital strategy.

Last month, the business revealed plans to expand its UK Uniqlo store portfolio with the launch of new stores in Glasgow, Birmingham, and Liverpool in 2025. Its Liverpool store will open on 24 April, with the Glasgow and Birmingham stores expected to open in the autumn.