E-Channels Take Greater Role in Playboy’s Fortunes

Playboy Enterprises Inc. reported fourth-quarter net income of $14.5 million, compared to a $6.7 million loss the previous year.

The company generated $89.6 million in the quarter, down slightly from $91.1 million.

For all of fiscal year 2004, Playboy’s net income was $10 million, compared to a $7.6 million net loss in 2003. Its revenue rose from $315.8 million to $329.4 million. The quarter and the year ended Dec. 31.

The Chicago-based company attributed the growth primarily to television, Web site subscription and wireless segment’s fortunes.

These activities, grouped under the Entertainment heading, generated $53.2 million during the quarter and $189.2 million during the year, compared with $48.6 million and $175.7 million in 2003. In comparison, the company’s publishing revenue was off, and its licensing revenue for the year was up only slightly.