Noni B has lifted its first half net profit by more than 50 per cent to $2.4 million and flagged an improvement in second half earnings.
The women's fashion retailer's first-half net profit rose 58 per cent in the six months to January 1, 2012 from the $1.5 million it reported in the previous corresponding period.
The result was at the top end of guidance the retailer gave investors in January amid gloomy trading conditions for retailers.
Joint managing director David Kindl said consumer confidence remains challenging and he expected the trend to continue into 2012.
"However, the initiatives we have taken to increase margins and control costs are expected to result in an improvement in second-half earnings compared with the second half FY2011," he said in a statement.
"We are confident that Noni B is well placed to improve its performance as demand recovers.
"Meanwhile, we will maintain a conservative approach to managing the company's inventory, expenses and balance sheet."
