Fast Retailing boasts strong Q1 2026 with Uniqlo growing globally

Core Insights - Fast Retailing reported a consolidated revenue increase of 14.8% for Q1 2026, reaching JPY1.0277 trillion ($6.55 billion), compared to JPY895.192 billion in the same period last year [1] - The company's operating income rose by 33.9% to JPY210.914 billion from JPY157.556 billion year-on-year [1] Financial Performance - Profit for the period increased by 13% to JPY158.513 billion, up from JPY140.300 billion in Q1 2025, while profit before income taxes rose by 15.3% to JPY226.667 billion [2] - Consolidated gross profit margin expanded by 0.7 points year-on-year to 55.2%, and the selling, general and administrative expense ratio improved by 1.7 points to 35.2% [2] Brand Performance - Uniqlo brand experienced growth across all global markets, with Uniqlo International's revenue rising 20.3% year-on-year to JPY603.8 billion and business profit expanding by 38% to JPY117.3 billion [3] - The business profit margin for Uniqlo International improved by 2.4 points year-on-year due to better gross profit margins and expense ratios across regions [4] - Uniqlo Japan also reported strong results, with revenue up 12.2% year-on-year to JPY299.0 billion and business profit increasing by 20.2% to JPY62.4 billion [4] Strategic Focus - Fast Retailing Group aims to become the world's number one brand by strengthening management talent training, pursuing sustainable business models, and meeting customer needs [5] - The company plans to diversify global earnings, expand GU and Global Brands, and reform cost structures to adapt to inflation [5] - Fast Retailing is committed to creating LifeWear, focusing on high-quality, sustainable clothing that minimizes environmental impact and promotes safe working conditions [5]