Technology retailer Currys has reported a pre-tax profit of £28mn for the full year ending 27 April 2024, and sees advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology as a real opportunity.
The retailer, which is in early phases of exploring Generative AI and has identified over 60 potential use cases, did report a 2% drop in UK like-for-like sales. Scandinavian revenues were also down 3%, but group profits climbed 10%, following a pre-tax loss of £462mn last year.
Alex Baldock, group chief executive, Currys, commented: “We can see our progress in ever-more engaged colleagues, more satisfied customers and better financial performance. Continued growth in sales of solutions and services were particular highlights: they’re good for customers, margins and recurring revenues, and they lean on Currys’ competitive strengths. We’re planning prudently but confidently for the year ahead, on course to grow both profits and cashflow while carefully stepping back up to more normal investment levels.
“Encouraged as we are by our progress, we know we can go further. For one thing, we expect AI-powered technology to be the most exciting new product cycle since the tablet in 2010. With our partnerships, scale and expert colleagues to demystify AI, we’re best-placed to benefit.
“As ever, I’m thankful to our thousands of capable and committed colleagues, whose skill and will is an inspiration to me. With them we can go so much further, and they will benefit alongside customers, shareholders and society.”
Currys stressed it will continue to focus on an omnichannel shopping model. It will also provide services such as credit and installation. Furthermore, it will work to become Europe’s largest technology repair centre.
Discover more about Currys’ repair offering in an exclusive interview in the DeliveryX Returns 2024 report.
Launching on Friday 28 June 2024, the report sees Steve Pendleton, services operation director at Currys, explain how its repair offering fits into the technology retailer’s wider sustainability efforts.
This 24-page report also looks at what customers want from the returns experience; how the top retailers handle returns; and why data is key. Pre-register now, and receive the report in your inbox on release.
Stay informed
Our editor carefully curates two newsletters a week filled with up-to-date news, analysis and research, click here to subscribe to the FREE newsletter sent straight to your inbox and why not follow us on LinkedIn to receive the latest updates on our research and analysis.