The JD Sports Fashion Board proposes paying a final dividend of 0.67p (2022: 0.35p) bringing the total dividend payable for the 52 week period ended 28 January 2023 to 0.80p (52 week period ended 29 January 2022: 0.35p) per ordinary share. Whilst this is a significant increase on the prior period, the Board believes that it is appropriate as it returns the dividend cover, when measured relative to the adjusted earnings per ordinary share, to the levels paid in the period prior to the COVID-19 pandemic (2019: 0.34p - restated). Subject to shareholder approval at their AGM, the proposed final dividend will be paid on 4 August 2023 to all shareholders on the register at 7 July 2023. As indicated in Capital Markets Event, they continue to believe that it is in the longer term interests of all shareholders to prioritise the available funding for ongoing development opportunities including investing in both stores and infrastructure as well as potential acquisitions.
