A&F(ANF)
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A&F(ANF) - 2020 Q3 - Earnings Call Transcript
2020-11-24 18:16
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total company revenues declined by 5%, which was better than the forecasted decline of 15% to 20% [7][24] - Digital revenues rose by 43% to a record $382 million for the third quarter, with significant improvements in traffic and conversion rates [8][24] - The total company gross margin rate expanded by 390 basis points, benefiting from reduced promotions and better foreign exchange rates [9][28] - Operating income was $65 million compared to $25 million last year, marking the best Q3 operating income since 2012 [30] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - At Hollister, sales declined by 7%, which exceeded internal expectations, with strong performance in girls' dresses and guys' shorts [10][24] - Gilly Hicks experienced double-digit sales growth, including over 100% digital growth from last year [11] - Abercrombie's combined sales declined by 2%, with women's experiencing double-digit sales growth [14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - By region, net sales declined by 4% in the U.S., 1% in EMEA, and 22% in APAC, which is the smallest region [24] - Reopened store productivity was approximately 75% of prior year levels across regions, with improvements noted in store traffic [25][26] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on optimizing its global store network, with plans to close additional flagship locations to reduce costs and improve profitability [18][19] - There is a commitment to enhancing digital and omni-channel capabilities, with digital sales expected to account for a larger portion of revenues moving forward [21][58] - The company aims to balance its store presence with digital growth, emphasizing the importance of both channels in the omni-channel retail strategy [58] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed cautious optimism regarding the holiday season, acknowledging uncertainties related to COVID-19 and potential store closures [22][34] - The company is focused on controlling inventory and maximizing digital throughput while preparing for potential challenges in the upcoming quarter [22][33] - Management remains confident in the long-term profitability and margin targets, despite the challenges posed by the pandemic [42] Other Important Information - The company ended the quarter with cash and cash equivalents of $813 million and total liquidity of approximately $1.2 billion [31] - Capital expenditures for the year are expected to be around $110 million, with a focus on both store and digital technology investments [31] Q&A Session Summary Question: Insights on remaining flagships and Gilly Hicks growth - Management confirmed plans to close seven more flagship stores, focusing on repositioning to smaller, more local locations [38] - Gilly Hicks is experiencing strong digital growth, and the company is taking a cautious approach to its expansion until store operations normalize [39] Question: Long-term operating margin opportunities - Management remains confident in achieving long-term operating margin targets, emphasizing a shift towards variable costs and reduced fixed costs [41][42] Question: Denim trends and markdown impacts - The company has seen positive trends in denim, particularly in women's categories, and lower markdowns contributed significantly to gross profit improvements [45][46] Question: Working capital performance - The company has successfully managed working capital, benefiting from extended vendor terms, and aims to maintain lean inventory levels [49][50] Question: Flagship strategy and supply chain costs - Management reiterated that large flagships are not part of the future strategy, focusing instead on intimate brand experiences [53] - Increased shipping and handling costs are anticipated due to higher digital sales volumes and carrier rate increases [54] Question: Digital business growth and profitability - The digital channel has significantly contributed to operating margin expansion, and the company plans to continue leveraging this growth [68]
A&F(ANF) - 2021 Q2 - Quarterly Report
2020-09-08 20:36
Table of Contents Title of each class Trading Symbol(s) Name of each exchange on which registered Class A Common Stock, $0.01 Par Value ANF New York Stock Exchange Class A Common Stock Shares outstanding as of September 3, 2020 $0.01 Par Value 62,373,175 UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION Washington, D.C. 20549 Form 10-Q (Mark One) ☒ QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 For the quarterly period ended August 1, 2020 or ☐ TRANSITION REPORT PURSU ...
A&F(ANF) - 2020 Q2 - Earnings Call Transcript
2020-08-27 21:49
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total Q2 revenues decreased by 17% compared to the previous year, amounting to $698 million [6][24] - Gross profit rate improved by 140 basis points to 60.7%, driven by lower promotions and improved average unit retail (AUR) [6][28] - Operating income reached $22 million, a significant improvement from a loss of $39 million in the previous year [31] - Operating cash flow generated was $187 million, with cash and equivalents ending the quarter at $767 million, providing total liquidity of approximately $1.1 billion [6][32] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net sales for Hollister (including Gilly Hicks) declined by 15%, while Abercrombie (including kids) saw a 20% decrease [24] - Digital sales grew by 56% year-over-year, reaching $386 million, with strong performance across all brands [11][24] - Hollister's performance was strong, representing roughly 50% of average store revenues in 2019, with double-digit growth in key categories [13] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the U.S., net sales declined by 16%, while EMEA saw a 15% decline, and APAC experienced a 38% drop, which is the smallest region [24] - Store productivity in the U.S. was at 75% of the previous year, with 85% of the store base open by the end of the quarter [25] - The company noted a decline in store traffic year-over-year, partially offset by improved conversion rates [10][25] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on transformation initiatives, including reducing store square footage, enhancing digital capabilities, and improving supply chain efficiency [7][23] - There is an emphasis on maintaining strong liquidity to support strategic decisions and long-term investments [6][32] - The company plans to address approximately 25% of its leases up for renewal by year-end, evaluating options for store optimization [23][33] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed cautious optimism regarding the back-to-school season, anticipating an extended selling period into September and October [22][34] - The company is preparing for potential challenges in the holiday season, emphasizing a conservative approach to inventory and expense management [75][76] - Management highlighted the importance of staying close to customers and adapting product offerings based on changing consumer behavior [8][38] Other Important Information - The company suspended its dividend and share repurchase programs due to market uncertainty [34] - Environmental, social, and governance initiatives continue to be a focus, with campaigns supporting social causes [20] Q&A Session Summary Question: Strength of denim sales and future merchandising plans - Management was excited about the denim business performance and emphasized the importance of maintaining a balanced assortment to meet customer demand [37][38] Question: Profitability of e-commerce and handling shipping surcharges - E-commerce remains profitable on a 4-wall basis, and the company is working with carriers to manage expected shipping surcharges during the holiday season [41][43] Question: Back-to-school demand and its impact on sales - Management expects back-to-school demand to extend longer than usual, with a focus on managing inventory accordingly [46][48] Question: SG&A savings and their permanence - SG&A savings achieved in Q2 were a result of a zero-based budgeting exercise, with some savings expected to be temporary as the company plans for the long term [78][80] Question: Rent concessions and occupancy expenses - The $26 million occupancy expense decline is considered permanent, with expectations for additional rent concessions as negotiations with landlords continue [71][72]
A&F(ANF) - 2021 Q1 - Quarterly Report
2020-06-10 20:18
Table of Contents Title of each class Trading Symbol(s) Name of each exchange on which registered Class A Common Stock, $0.01 Par Value ANF New York Stock Exchange Class A Common Stock Shares outstanding as of June 5, 2020 $0.01 Par Value 62,375,867 UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION Washington, D.C. 20549 Form 10-Q (Mark One) ☒ QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 For the quarterly period ended May 2, 2020 or ☐ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO S ...
A&F(ANF) - 2020 Q1 - Earnings Call Transcript
2020-05-28 19:20
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net sales for Q1 2020 were $485 million, down 34% year-over-year, primarily due to store closures in the U.S. and EMEA [29] - Digital sales grew by 25% year-over-year, contributing positively to offset the decline in store sales [12][29] - Gross profit rate decreased by 610 basis points to 54.4%, impacted by inventory adjustments and strategic promotions [30] - Adjusted net loss per diluted share was $3.29 compared to a loss of $0.29 in the previous year [32] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Hollister's net sales were down 36%, while Abercrombie's net sales decreased by 30%, reflecting the higher digital penetration of Abercrombie [29] - Digital sales accounted for a significant portion of revenue, with over $1 billion in digital sales in 2019, representing about one-third of total revenue [10] - Performance varied by brand, with strong digital growth in Gilly Hicks and loungewear categories across brands [17][18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - U.S. net sales were down 31%, EMEA down 35%, and APAC down 51% [29] - As of the call, 409 locations were operational globally, representing 48% of the store base, with varying performance across regions [24] - Store traffic was building week-over-week, with some stores experiencing sales trends above last year's levels [25] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on optimizing its global store network and enhancing digital and omni-channel capabilities [9] - A cautious approach is being taken regarding inventory management and expense reduction to maintain liquidity [26] - The company aims to emerge from the crisis stronger, with a focus on customer engagement and adapting to new consumer behaviors [28] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged the unprecedented challenges posed by COVID-19 but expressed confidence in the company's ability to adapt and thrive [27] - The company is closely monitoring consumer behavior and adjusting strategies accordingly, particularly in digital marketing and inventory management [26][66] - There is optimism regarding the gradual reopening of stores and the potential for improved sales performance as customers return [25] Other Important Information - The company ended the quarter with $704 million in cash and cash equivalents, maintaining a strong liquidity position [34] - Share repurchases and dividends were suspended as a precautionary measure, but management views this as temporary [35] - The company is actively engaging in ESG initiatives, including partnerships to reduce waste and support sustainability [23] Q&A Session Summary Question: Inquiry about Asia's performance and online business - Management noted that while stores in China reopened, other parts of APAC faced closures, impacting overall performance [39] - Positive trends in fashion items were observed, indicating a return to shopping for post-quarantine opportunities [38] Question: Inventory and promotional environment expectations - Management indicated that inventory was managed effectively, with a focus on reducing orders and SKU counts [43] - The promotional environment was initially very promotional, but management is optimistic about managing inventory effectively going forward [44] Question: Store staffing and cost reduction opportunities - Management acknowledged the need to reassess store staffing levels in light of reduced foot traffic and increased safety protocols [47] - Cost reductions of approximately $200 million were achieved, with a focus on non-customer facing expenses [64] Question: Update on store closures and flagship discussions - Management confirmed ongoing negotiations regarding leases, emphasizing the importance of having the right size and location for stores [61] - No specific updates on flagship stores were provided, but discussions with landlords are ongoing [62] Question: Digital business and customer engagement - Management expressed confidence in the digital business's growth and its role in engaging customers during store closures [54] - The company is prepared to adjust its physical footprint based on the long-term digital penetration trends [74]
A&F(ANF) - 2020 Q4 - Annual Report
2020-03-31 12:28
Table of Contents UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION Washington, D.C. 20549 Form 10-K (Mark One) ☒ ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 For the fiscal year ended February 1, 2020 or ☐ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 For the transition period from to Commission file number 001-12107 Abercrombie & Fitch Co. (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter) (State or other jurisdiction of ...
A&F(ANF) - 2019 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript
2020-03-04 21:02
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total net sales for Q4 2019 were $1.2 billion, a 3% increase from the previous year on both reported and constant currency basis [30] - Comp sales increased by 1% compared to a 3% increase last year [30] - Gross profit rate declined by 90 basis points to 58.2% due to higher average unit costs (AUC) and adverse impacts from foreign exchange (FX) and tariffs [31] - Net income per diluted share was $1.31, down from $1.35 last year, with FX impacting results by approximately $0.07 [33] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Abercrombie brand achieved a comp sales increase of 8%, while Hollister experienced a decline of 2% [30] - The U.S. market posted a 3% comp increase, marking the 10th consecutive quarter of positive comps, while international comps improved sequentially to -3% [12][31] - Digital sales grew in the double-digit range, exceeding $1 billion in annual revenue, although two-thirds of transactions still occurred in-store [20] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - International comp sales improved sequentially, with Europe and Asia showing significant recovery pre-coronavirus [54] - The adverse impact of the coronavirus was estimated to affect approximately $60 million to $80 million in sales for the year [40] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on transformation initiatives, including global store network optimization and enhancing omnichannel capabilities [20][26] - Plans to continue reducing gross square footage and closing underperforming flagship stores while investing in smaller, more productive spaces [21][24] - The company aims to double its adjusted non-GAAP operating margin to 5.8% over time, despite external challenges [27] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in long-term growth drivers in Europe and Asia, despite short-term challenges posed by the coronavirus [10] - The company anticipates a flat to 2% increase in net sales for the year, factoring in the impact of the coronavirus [40] - Management emphasized the importance of controlling internal factors while navigating external uncertainties [29] Other Important Information - The company has made significant progress in its ESG efforts, including participation in the UN Global Compact [9] - The company plans to open approximately 40 new stores in 2020, maintaining a consistent pace of store openings [68] Q&A Session Summary Question: Competitive landscape in the U.S. market and impact of store closings - Management noted that while the competitive landscape remains challenging, store closures in the industry could provide opportunities for real estate expansion [44] Question: Changes in inventory and expense planning due to coronavirus - Management confirmed that inventory and expense planning processes remain unchanged, with a focus on weekly assessments [48] Question: Performance of Abercrombie and Hollister domestically and internationally - Management reported strong performance in both brands, with notable successes in outerwear and denim [52] Question: Outlook for gross margin and AUR/AUC expectations - Management expressed optimism for gross margin expansion, anticipating stable AUR and improvements in AUC [60] Question: Long-term operating margin goals and international business outlook - Management reiterated focus on top-line growth, gross margin expansion, and operating expense leverage as key drivers for long-term margin goals [73]
A&F(ANF) - 2020 Q3 - Quarterly Report
2019-12-11 21:29
Table of Contents UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION Washington, D.C. 20549 FORM 10-Q ☒ QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 For the quarterly period ended November 2, 2019 OR ☐ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 For the transition period from to Commission File Number 1-12107 ABERCROMBIE & FITCH CO. (Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter) Delaware 31-1469076 (State or other ...
A&F(ANF) - 2019 Q3 - Earnings Call Transcript
2019-11-26 20:07
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For Q3 2019, net sales were $863 million, approximately flat compared to last year, with a 1% increase on a constant currency basis, reflecting an $8 million adverse impact from foreign exchange (FX) [25] - Gross profit rate was 60.1%, down 120 basis points from last year, with FX adversely impacting results by 40 basis points [26] - Adjusted net income per diluted share was $0.23, compared to $0.33 last year, or $0.27 on a constant-currency basis [28] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Abercrombie brand achieved a 3% comp growth, while Hollister experienced a -2% comp, with Abercrombie showing improvement in conversion and average transaction value [6][10] - Gilly Hicks saw meaningful double-digit comp growth, indicating strong performance in intimates and lounge offerings [16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - US comp growth was 3%, down from 6% last year, while international comp was -8%, compared to -3% last year [6][25] - The UK market was negatively impacted by Brexit uncertainty, while protests in Europe and Asia also affected sales [8] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is making strategic investments to scale its business internationally, including hiring region-specific heads for Europe and Asia [9] - Focus on optimizing the global store network, with plans to reduce square footage by 30% to 50% in Abercrombie stores [18][53] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism for the holiday selling season based on performance in October and early November [5] - Despite challenges such as FX rates, tariffs, and global protests, the company expects to finish 2019 strongly and is focused on key initiatives for growth in 2020 [24][30] Other Important Information - The company repurchased approximately 412,000 shares for roughly $6 million during the quarter, with a total of $103 million returned to shareholders year-to-date [29] - The company is implementing expanded payment options and loyalty programs to enhance customer engagement [23] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you provide color on merchandise margin trends by concept in the US? - Management indicated that Hollister was more promotional than Abercrombie, with overall average unit retail (AUR) flat when excluding FX [34] Question: How should we think about the international business outlook? - Management noted improved trends heading into Q4, despite ongoing challenges from Brexit and protests [37] Question: What are the biggest improvement opportunities for 2020? - Focus areas include top-line growth, gross margin acceleration, and operating expense leverage [40] Question: Can you elaborate on the international comps of -8%? - Management explained that Brexit and protests in Europe impacted sales, particularly for Hollister, which has a larger presence in the UK [42] Question: What changes are being made to inventory management at Hollister? - Adjustments were made to focus more on key items and less on chase inventory, with positive initial selling trends observed in Q4 [46] Question: How are remodeled stores performing compared to older ones? - Hollister's remodeled stores have shown consistent high-single digit sales returns, while Abercrombie is still early in its remodeling journey [52]
A&F(ANF) - 2020 Q2 - Quarterly Report
2019-09-11 20:42
Table of Contents UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION Washington, D.C. 20549 FORM 10-Q ☒ QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 For the quarterly period ended August 3, 2019 OR ☐ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 For the transition period from to Commission File Number 1-12107 ABERCROMBIE & FITCH CO. (Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter) Delaware 31-1469076 (State or other ju ...