Inter Parfums, Inc. Reports Record 2024 First Quarter Net Sales - Seite 2

“Despite strong demand for our key brand lines and favorable initial shipments of Lacoste fragrances, our European based operations net sales were flat compared to the exceptional sales performance achieved by our established brands during the first quarter of 2023. Performance in Eastern Europe was adversely impacted by a very unfavorable comparison base, reflecting the particularly strong business recovery during the first quarter of 2023 (+66%), as well as sourcing constraints in certain countries which resulted in sales shifting from the first quarter into the second quarter of 2024.

“Of our three largest brands, Coach fragrance sales rose 5% in the quarter, building upon the 24% increase in the prior year period. As expected, Jimmy Choo and Montblanc saw declines in fragrance sales, following their impressive 63% and 28% growth rates during the same period last year, respectively.

“While Montblanc continues to capitalize on its ongoing momentum through the Explorer line and the launch of Montblanc Legend Blue in this quarter, the high base in 2023 led to a 5% decline. Similarly, Jimmy Choo declined 23% largely due to the I Want Choo Forever launch at the end of 2022 and the Rose Passion launch in the first quarter of 2023. A new extension of I Want Choo is planned for the second quarter of 2024.”

Mr. Madar continued, “For U.S. based operations, our 18% sales growth in the first quarter was primarily driven by Donna Karan/DKNY and GUESS, with comparable quarter sales growing 44% and 21%, respectively. The successful launch of Roberto Cavalli, in combination with the start of distribution of European based brands by our Italian subsidiary, contributed 9% growth.

“Donna Karan’s new four-scent Cashmere Collection performed exceedingly well and was strategically timed to coincide with the brand’s new luxury fashion campaign. Furthermore, GUESS fragrances had continued strong sales performance due to a combination of legacy scents and the debut of GUESS Iconic.

“After a successful Phase 1 distribution roll-out of the Abercrombie & Fitch Fierce fragrance, we launched Phase 2 in Europe, Mexico, and Australia during the quarter.

“While the global fragrance market is not growing as fast as in 2023, it remains healthy. The concentration of launches during the prior year period created a more challenging comparison for the first quarter of 2024, but we anticipate significant growth for the balance of the year with our strong pipeline of innovation across all key brands in our portfolio.”