Success across the company’s ten regions saw Flight Centre (FLT) business climb 18 percent in profits before tax (PBT) for the final six months of 2011 over the same half-year period in 2010. PBT shot up from $101.1 million in the six months to 31 December 2010 to $119.7 million for the same period ending 31 December 2011. Gross profit also grew by 8.3 percent from $792 million to $858 million, while total transaction value also made head-way, increasing nine percent to $6.2 billion from $5.7 billion over the same period. FLT managing director Graham Turner explained that the increase in business was contributed by all ten of the company’s regions, with Australia, the UK and Dubai amongst the highest performers. “Internationally, our overseas businesses generated solid returns, with combined EBIT increasing 52 percent,” Mr Turner said. “The UK result was particularly pleasing, given the challenging local trading conditions.” Total transaction value for the company’s US business climbed by up to 24 percent for the period and according to the GM was driven by corporate bookings. Looking ahead, Mr Turner announced an increase in full year 2011/12 profit predictions, with PBT expected to reach $290 million from $270 million. He explained that if targets are achieved, the company will see a growth ranging between ten to 18 percent compared to the prior financial year. Meanwhile the FLT GM said the recent voluntary administration of Air Australia could cost the company one million dollars. |
FLT profits take off
Source = e-Travel Blackboard: N.J