The U.K.-based parent of Finish Line, DTLR Villa and Shoe Palace saw U.S. revenues expand 63% to £1,357.3 million ($1,898.3 mm) in the fiscal first half ended July 31, up from £834.3 million last year. The U.S. business benefitted from essentially no Covid-related restrictions on operations, with an added boost from government stimulus programs. JD said the payments, which targeted “lower earning members of the population,” were a significant demand driver, filling the pockets of key demographics. Combined EBIT across the U.S. businesses was £245.0 million, helped by a 520 basis point increase in gross margin to 49.7%.

JD/Finish Line’s EBIT ... Log in to view full article.