The latest Plimsoll Portfolio Analysis – Leather Goods Retailers has revealed that a cataclysmic £20 million of profit is being wasted in the UK Leather Goods Retailers industry every year, due to blatant underperformance and a failure by company leaders to focus on the bottom line. A quick glance in the latest publication from Plimsoll Publishing Ltd reveals:

Over a third of companies are making a loss. 34 companies are losing money for the 2nd year in row. 50% of companies make less than a 3% return on investment. David Pattison, senior analyst at Plimsoll Publishing Ltd, says: ‘These figures show just how competitive the UK Leather Goods Retailers industry has become. The ability to make a profit is becoming the exception, not the norm.’ Pattison continues: ‘Although in the minority, 41 companies delivered a

10% return on investment in 2003, proving that success is achievable within the industry. This is the level of profitability required to provide a good return to shareholders, pay for investment and help to ensure company longevity".

The latest edition of the Plimsoll Portfolio Analysis – Leather Goods Retailers has given each of the Top 306 companies in the industry a

‘Profit Plan’. The plan identifies how each company needs to focus on their bottom line and make more profit. Using budgeted figures, the analysis shows that a staggering £20 million in extra profit could be created. This profit potential is currently being unexploited.

To succeed in 2004, managers need to learn from the winners by improving company profitability. The Plimsoll Portfolio Analysis identifies where improvements must be made. The Plimsoll Portfolio Analysis – Leather Goods Retailers takes a critical look at the individual performance of the Top 306 companies in the UK Leather Goods Retailers industry and also assesses their financial health. The 400 page analysis is available in Paper or Electronic format. It examines the last four years’ profitability of these companies, highlighting the winners and losers in this key area of company performance.

The Plimsoll Portfolio Analysis is available for £305 from [http://www.plimsoll.co.uk] or by calling +44 1642 626400.