Warhammer Maker Thrives Amidst Crisis

  • Games Workshop’s pre-tax profits increased to £89.4m in the year ended May 2020
  • Sales increased by 5.1% to £269.7m during the period
  • 29% of sales came from branded stores, 52% from independent retailers and 19% through its website
  • The company opened 23 new stores in the year, including seven relocated ones generating £1.6m in profitable sales
  • Retail sales decreased by 11% (12% at constant currency) due to Covid-19 pandemic
  • Sales in visitor centre fell by 17% due to store closures in April and May
  • CEO Kevin Rountree: ‘An amazing set of results, best year in Games Workshop’s history’
  • Games Workshop pauses store opening plans for 2020/21 to focus on existing stores’ performance

Games Workshop, the company behind the popular Warhammer miniatures game, has reported a significant increase in profits despite facing challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic. The retailer’s pre-tax profits soared to £89.4m during the year ended May 31, 2020, up from £81.3m in 2019. Sales also increased by 5.1% to £269.7m. While 29% of sales came from branded stores and 52% through independent retailers, the company’s website accounted for 19%. Despite closing stores for six weeks due to the pandemic, Games Workshop opened 23 new stores during the year, generating £1.6m in profitable sales. However, retail sales dropped by 11% (12% at constant currency) and visitor centre sales fell by 17%. CEO Kevin Rountree praised the company’s performance, calling it ‘the best year in Games Workshop’s history’. For now, store opening plans are on hold as the company focuses on improving existing stores.

Factuality Level: 10
Factuality Justification: The article provides accurate information about Games Workshop’s financial performance, including profits, sales figures, and store openings, as well as the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on their business. The CEO’s quote adds context and optimism for the future.
Noise Level: 3
Noise Justification: The article provides relevant information about Games Workshop’s financial performance during the pandemic, including profit increase, sales growth, and store openings. However, it lacks in-depth analysis or exploration of the company’s strategies or long-term trends.
Financial Relevance: Yes
Financial Markets Impacted: The financial performance of Games Workshop impacts the company’s stock value and may affect the retail sector.
Financial Rating Justification: This article discusses the financial results and performance of a publicly traded company, Games Workshop, which is relevant to finance as it pertains to their profits, sales, and business strategy.
Presence Of Extreme Event: No
Nature Of Extreme Event: Other
Impact Rating Of The Extreme Event: No
Extreme Rating Justification: No extreme event mentioned in the text.

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