Woolworths Group has praised the performance of Big W in its FY21 results.
The department store reported an 11.6% increase in sales to $4,583 million ($4.6 billion) in FY21.
The retailer also reported a big boost to its EBIT, recording a 344.9% increase to $172 million in the period.
"Big W had another fantastic year with improved customer scores and strong sales and EBIT growth," Woolworths Group said in a statement.
"After sales growth of 20.1% in H1, growth moderated in H2 but remained positive at 2.3%, despite the negative impact of lockdown in the half.
"EBIT increased by over 300% in the year to $172 million," the business said.
Big W’s digital sales in Q4 grew 4.6% to $96 million, with online penetration reaching a record 9.9%, up from 8.4% in the prior year.
"In Q4, Big W X remained focused on creating more connected and convenient customer experiences by launching a new Big W website, evolving the online layby solution, as well as rolling out contactless Direct to boot to a further four locations, bringing total locations to 76," Woolworths Group added.
Big W closed FY21 with 176 stores, after closing three stores during the period.
Sales per square metre increased 14% due to strong sales growth and lower average space than the prior year.
The retailer's gross profit (%) improved 180 bps in F21, with stronger margin expansion in H2 from continuing momentum in full price Apparel sales, alongside H2 category mix changes due to cycling elevated sales of lower margin COVID-impacted categories, including Leisure and Toys and Home Essentials.