The buy / sell figures are not ideal. Don't think there is any news unannounced per se. It is all to do with the current Omicron wave of virus reducing foot traffic and causing staff shortages, and trading updates from peers too. This is across all retail stocks, so Dusk isn't alone.
I think the company is, and will be more so once Eroma is integrated, stronger than at the start of pandemic. There are now more Dusk stores (that have low payback periods and are chosen to be in highly strategic locations for profitability) and a strategic domestic / international growth plan with competent management. Eroma itself has strong growth potential, both in Australia and internationally (as flagged) - please note that they sell into fragrance, candles etc market which is broadly than Dusk.
Firstly, insiders haven't been dumping their holdings among the market chaos. Peter last sold shares in September last year to rebalance his portfolio which was highly concentrated in Dusk. Still holds about 3.5% of the company.
Secondly, Dusk sales have happened despite lockdowns, it's slightly down on last year owing to losing 24% trading days, yet significantly up on FY2020. The half coming up will also be tough, it goes without saying, but if things improve by Mother's Day period, then it won't be too bad.
It is difficult in a bear market, but holders shouldn't do too badly in the long run, with potentially healthy dividends helping in the interim.
