Marks Electrical Group’s sales revenue advanced by 24.8% in the first half of its 2024 financial year, according to a trading update released today, as the company made further market share gains in its core categories. Notably strong advances by category included +71% for televisions, +74% for washer-dryers and +36% for American fridge-freezers. These gains were achieved against relatively flat domestic markets for both Major Domestic Appliances (MDAs) and Consumer Electronics (CEs). An improved service offering, which now includes integrated installation services, made a notable impact: not only in a strong sales growth rate, but also a best-in-class 4.8 Trustpilot score.
Due to first half sales growth strength, we have revised upwards our sales forecast for FY2024 from £114.5m to £116.0m. However, we reduce our EBITDA forecast from £8.9m to £8.0m as well as making downward adjustments to FY2025. Margins are expected to contract as a result of order growth being faster than revenue, higher driver wages and the integrated installation service addition. Importantly, the company is not willing to make reductions in marketing spend to offset these items. Rather, it continues to invest in brand recognition with a view to sustainable growth.
Given MRK’s strong cash position and clearly articulated strategy for sustainable business expansion, we maintain our 150p fair value for the shares.
