woolworths group plc preliminary results announcement 24th march 2004 for the year ended 31 january financial highlights profit before taxation exceptional items and amortisation of goodwill up 32 2 to 69 8m 2003 52 75 5 66 7m 38 0m adjusted basic earnings per share 34 6 3 pence 83 proposed final dividend 14 1 full an increase 13 net funds 9m at end 17 from last operating underlying retail chain gross margin 40 basis points market increases in toys entertainment clothing 25m investment mainchain 50 stores be reformatted following successful performance 10 trial existing big w downsized generate cash improve returns maintain out town presence create property opportunities gerald corbett chairman commented recovery is gaining momentum with profits this
