Rebel has reported encouraging trading performance for its new regional stores in Ballina, Nowra, Tamworth and Bunbury.
In a trading update for the second half of FY23, the activewear retailer recorded 9% like-for-like (LFL) sales growth across its business for the financial period. This included sales growth in football and basketball categories.
Parent company Super Retail Group confirmed strong trade during the Easter holiday period, with MacPac delivering a record trading result driven by higher sales in Australia and New Zealand.
The outdoorwear brand reported 18% growth in like-for-like (LFL) sales at the start of the second half of FY23.
Total sales growth for the first three quarters of FY23 (weeks 1-43) for Rebel and Macpac were at 11% and 38% respectively.
“Following strong trading in the key Easter holiday period, I am pleased to report that the Group has continued to deliver positive like-for-like sales growth in FY23 YTD,” CEO Anthony Heraghty said.
Super Retail Group also reported a return to pre-pandemic offshore freight costs. However, inflationary pressures on wages, rent and energy expenses are expected to impact Group CODB in the second half.
The Group is continuing to invest in customer loyalty, digital capability, new store openings, store refurbishments and alternative store formats. The Group has opened 14 stores in FY23 year-to-date, with a further 13 stores scheduled to be opened by the end of FY23.
Given delays in construction and development approvals, there is a risk that some store openings will slip into FY24.
The Group added that the macro environment remains challenging, but noted that the Group’s active club member loyalty base of 9.2 million and market positions in the “resilient” auto and sports categories mean it is well positioned to perform throughout the economic cycle.