Revenue from overseas operations up 90% for top 100 UK retailers

21/12/2006

New research by Grant Thornton's Retail Services has revealed that total revenue derived from the international operations of the top 100
UK retailers has soared by 90% over the past five years, reaching a total of £18.5 billion.

The research found that international revenue now accounts for almost one quarter of the total income of the top 100 UK retailers. By comparison, total UK operations revenue has grown by just 39% in the same period.

The most significant growth over the past five years has occurred in Asia, where it has increased by 281%, with the continent now accounting for almost one third (29%) of the top 100 UK retailers’ international revenues. This compares with 66% growth in Europe during the same period.

In terms of sectors, half are fashion and children’s apparel retailers, however, furnishings also feature strongly.