Today’s figures are clear evidence of both Boohoo’s successful business model and growth strategy, with PBT/EPS doubling in FY17, c2% better than forecast. The balance sheet remains strong with unchanged net cash of £58m despite the acquisition and increased capex spend. Guidance today signals sales/EBITDA growth in FY18 in line with our current forecasts, with higher Pretty Little Thing growth expected (both sales and EBITDA) offset by more modest Nasty Gal growth. Management has taken a lot on with the opportunistic acquisition of the latter, so we are relieved that guidance is prudent as they manage any execution risk and establish the platform for future growth. A lot of the recent re-rating has been well justified but we wonder if the market was hoping for a sizeable upgrade today.
