Prada Profit Falls Less Than Expected as Cost Cuts Balance Asia

PARIS, France — Prada SpA reported first-half profit that beat analysts' estimates as efforts to contain costs helped mitigate declining sales in Asia.

Net income fell 23 percent to 188.6 million euros ($213 million) in the six months through July, Milan-based Prada said Tuesday in a statement. Analysts predicted 175.4 million euros, according to the median of six estimates compiled by Bloomberg.

Too many new stores and not enough new products have hurt Prada as demand for luxury goods slows in greater China following a clampdown on extravagance. In a bid to reignite sales and reverse a slump in its share price, the company introduced the Inside bag in July, with prices starting at about 2,000 euros. Prada has also slowed this year’s expansion, pledging to open about half the number of stores it did last year.

“The global economic environment is still volatile and recent instability in Asia has not helped ease the situation,” Prada said. Still, the company said it’s “confident” in its ability to adapt.

Prada contrasts with Hermes International SCA and LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton SE, which reported higher first-half profit despite some difficulties in Hong Kong, Macau and mainland China. Both companies have benefited from perceptions their products are more exclusive, with Hermes limiting supply and LVMH revamping Louis Vuitton’s handbag offer.

Prada shares rose 1.8 percent to HK$30.90 in Hong Kong Tuesday. The earnings were released after the market closed.

Revenue rose 4.2 percent to 1.82 billion euros, Prada said last month.

By Andrew Roberts; editors: Matthew Boyle, Thomas Mulie, Paul Jarvis.