Here's why the Booktopia (ASX:BKG) share price is in focus today

All eyes will be on the Booktopia (ASX: BKG) share price today following the release of the company's half-year results. Here's a look at how Booktopia performed.

| More on:

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More

The Booktopia Group Ltd (ASX: BKG) share price will be on watch today, after the online book retailer released its half-year results for FY21 (1HY21) this morning.

Here's a look at what the company has reported today.

Young male with glasses holding book in front of his face with a surprised expression, indicating a share price movement.

Image source: Getty Images

Booktopia reports record first-half result

Booktopia reported a revenue increase of 51.1% to $112.6 million for the period.

The company shipped a record 4.2 million orders, compared to 3.2 million orders during the prior corresponding period. The average order value for 1H FY21 was $69.87.

The average annual spend for customers increased from $103.32 to $123.57.

Booktopia's underlying earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) (adjusted for IPO and conversion of preference share costs) fired up 502.3% to $8 million.

The company advised that strong ongoing demand and increased distribution capacity supported its 1H FY21 results.

Commenting on Booktopia's performance, Chief Executive Officer Tony Nash said:

The demand we experienced from the beginning of the 2020 calendar year extended right through to Christmas, helping us to deliver the largest half-year revenue in the company's history. Our investment in expanding capacity and automation ensured we were able to continue to meet our customer promise despite the unparalleled growth in volumes.

Outlook

Noting the uncertainty that the coronavirus continues to cause the business environment, Booktopia provided a revised FY21 forecast. 

The company is now expecting an FY21 revenue of $217.6 million, 7.9 million units shipped, and an underlying EBITDA of $12.9 million.

January and February 2021 have already delivered revenues in excess of those previously forecast. Booktopia also advised that its present database contains 5 million customers, with 2.3 million repeat customers.

Looking ahead, Mr Nash added that:

We will continue our growth strategy, investing in key areas of the business to cement our online market leadership and drive increased market share. This includes the continued expansion of our Publishing Services and Booktopia Publishing businesses.

The Booktopia share price has jumped 7.31% year-to-date and last closed at $2.79. The business has a current market capitalisation of $383.2 million and 137.4 million shares outstanding.

Motley Fool contributor Gretchen Kennedy has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Bruce Jackson.

More on ASX Share Market News

A boy holds on tight as his gaming console nearly blows him away.
ASX Share Market News

This ASX game developer could double in value: Broker

With new game releases in the wings there could be a surprise in store.

Read more »

Surprised child reading all about ASX 200 shares in a newspaper.
ASX Share Market News

Why PLS, Bendigo Bank and Ampol shares are turning heads on Monday

Ampol, Bendigo Bank and PLS shares are creating a buzz on Monday. But why?

Read more »

Hand flipping wooden cube block to change between up and down with percentage sign symbol next to it.
Broker Notes

Buy, hold, sell: Pro Medicus, Fortescue, CBA shares

Experts reveal new ratings on 3 ASX 200 sector heavyweights as earnings season continues.

Read more »

A mechanic wipes his forehead under a car with a tool in his hand and looking at car parts.
Broker Notes

Bell Potter says this ASX small cap could almost double in value

This auto repairer is looking cheap.

Read more »

Old man working on his laptop at a cafe.
Broker Notes

Buy, hold, sell: CSL, BHP, Westpac shares

Let's start the new week with some fresh ratings from the experts. 

Read more »

Concept image of a businessman riding a bull on an upwards arrow.
Share Gainers

Why are Nuix shares rocketing 26% on Monday?

Investors are piling into Nuix shares on Monday. But why?

Read more »

A man holds his head in his hands, despairing at the bad result he's reading on his computer.
ASX Share Market News

These are the 10 most shorted ASX shares

Short sellers have their eyes on these shares.

Read more »

I young woman takes a bite out of a burrito n the street outside a Mexican fast-food establishment.
Broker Notes

Are Inghams and GYG shares a buy, hold or sell following earnings results

Is there any upside for these ASX shares?

Read more »