ASOS says it will target international expansion as it announces record sales and profit.

ASOS, formerly As Seen On Screen, has announced record sales and profits for the 52 weeks to 31 March 2009, and has seen a particular boost to its international sales. 

The UK’s leading online fashion retailer, has reported a 104% rise in sales compared to the previous year, and a 100% increase in operating profit, from £6,692 million in 2007/8 to £13,935m in 2008/9.

Internationally, sales have increased by 303% to £32.3m, and now account for 19% of overall sales, compared to just 10% in the previous year. The company said that the weakness of sterling against the dollar and euro, together with strong marketing activity in the US and Northern Europe, and increased shipping circulation, has helped boost sales. It will now target international expansion in order to grow further.

Nick Robertson, ASOS Chief Executive, commented: “I am pleased to report another exceptional year for ASOS.

“We continued our programme of investment throughout the year, delivering a number of product initiatives whilst building our team and infrastructure to support these superior levels of growth. The continued popularity of internet shopping provided a strong backdrop and, with the weakness of sterling, our international sales took a significant step-up.”

However, he remained cautious about being too optimistic given the continued current economic situation: “With three-quarters of the financial year to go, including the key Christmas period, it is too early to assess whether our current performance will continue for the full year.”

The current trading year has started positively for ASOS, with sales for the 13 weeks to 26 June reportedly 52% ahead of the same period last year.