Parkson Retail Asia's financial announcement details a complex operating environment characterized by lower sales and higher overall expenses resulting in a lower profit before tax compared to the corresponding period. External factors such as ongoing trade tensions, rising cost of living, and inflationary pressures continue to influence consumer sentiment and weigh on the Group’s performance. Strategic initiatives, particularly the expansion of the private label business, contributed to higher costs across several expense categories. Moving forward, the Group is focused on sustained performance and managing cash reserves for future working capital needs and potential store network expansion.

• The expansion of a specific internal retail business model was cited as the main reason for increased employee costs and other operational expenses

• Management identified broad market challenges, including persistent inflationary pressures and shifting consumer spending patterns, as significant factors affecting results

• The Group is prioritizing the conservation of cash reserves to support working capital requirements and actively explore opportunities to broaden its network