Apple pie in the face for EpiCentre investors

EpiCentre total revenue almost unchanged at half time (ended 31st December) versus year ago.

Core sales at EpiCentre is Apple products and iPad2 is probably the cause for its gross profit margin to slide by 2% - due to intense competition from its competitors.


Administrative expenses increased by $3m (+44%) due to :-
- EpiCentre outlets increase from 9 to 13 outlets
- headcount increase from 152 to 211 so staff cost jumped 72% (from $3m to $5m) 
- increase in other key operating expenses in line with number of outlets increases

Selling and Distribution costs increased by $0.6m (+23%) due to advertising and promotional activities for the opening of new outlets.

More EpiCentre and EpiLife outlets to be opened in the next 6 months. 

For 6 months results ended 31.12.2010 - (special) dividend rate was $1.0 cents.

For 6 months results ended 31.12.2011 - dividend rate is NIL.


EpiCentre is expanding too fast and it needs to urgently review its operating costs.


For 6 months results ended 30.06.2011 - dividend rate was $2.0 cents + special $2.0 cents.

For 6 months results ending 30.06.2012 - dividend rate is ____?