Some industries grow and profit despite the recession; others don’t

The really dismal year is showing up on the bottom line of many public companies.

But some businesses are growing revenue and earning profits, despite the recession. These industries are more insulated from the downturn or even benefiting from consumers clinging to their wallets, such as discount stores.

Others, for whatever reason, are simply bucking downward trends in their own industries.

Reviewing the stocks of several public companies in the Ventura County region revealed a mix of outcomes that are trickling through the local economy.

Take Goleta-based Deckers, maker of ugg boots, which keeps opening stores, including a location last year at the Camarillo Premium Outlets. While a majority of retailers are struggling, Deckers revenue keeps growing. The company boosted its outlook for full-year revenue growth after a record third quarter.

Its a performance that begs comment, which Chief Executive Angel Martinez provided with the release of the companys earnings.

We continue to see robust full price selling for our uggboots brand throughout our retail account base, which is particularly rewarding given the difficult macroeconomic environment, and further underscores the strength of the brand, Martinez said in a statement.

The companys other brands also are selling well.

While retail is taking a hit, industries hurting the most are in natural resources, housing and financials, according to Joe Magyer, senior analyst for the Motley Fool.