Financial Performance - Net sales for the first quarter of 2025 decreased by 8.0% to $686.9 million compared to the same period in 2024[4] - Total comparable sales decreased by 7.8%, with U.S. Retail segment down 7.3% and Canada Retail segment down 9.2%[17] - Gross profit decreased to $295.1 million, resulting in a gross margin of 43.0%, down from 44.2% in the previous year[4] - The reported net loss attributable to Designer Brands Inc. was $17.4 million, equating to a diluted loss per share of $0.36[4] - Operating loss for the quarter was $7.3 million, compared to an operating profit of $9.4 million in the prior year[21] - Net loss attributable to Designer Brands Inc. was $17.4 million, compared to a net income of $0.8 million in the same quarter last year[21] - Diluted earnings per share for the quarter was $(0.36), a decline from $0.01 in the prior year[21] - Adjusted operating profit (loss) for the quarter was $(0.4) million, down from $14.7 million in the same period last year[25] Cost Management - The company expects to achieve cost savings between $20 million to $30 million throughout 2025[3] Cash and Liquidity - Cash and cash equivalents totaled $46.0 million at the end of the first quarter, an increase from $43.4 million year-over-year[9] - Cash and cash equivalents increased to $46.0 million from $43.4 million year-over-year[23] Store Operations - Total number of stores decreased to 669 from 675 in the previous year, with a total square footage of 11,006 thousand[7] Guidance and Outlook - The company has withdrawn its full-year 2025 guidance due to macroeconomic uncertainty[8] Inventory Management - Inventories at the end of the first quarter were $623.6 million, slightly up from $620.5 million in the same period last year[9] Dividend Declaration - The company declared a dividend of $0.05 per share for both Class A and Class B common shares, payable on June 18, 2025[6] Asset and Liability Overview - Total assets as of May 3, 2025, were $2.09 billion, a decrease from $2.16 billion as of May 4, 2024[23] - Total liabilities increased to $1.82 billion from $1.80 billion year-over-year[23] Sales Metrics - Comparable sales performance metric is a key measurement for management, with e-commerce sales included in the calculation[28]

COLUMBUS, Ohio, June 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Designer Brands Inc. (NYSE: DBI) (the "Company," "we," "us," "our," and "Designer Brands"), one of the world's largest designers, producers, and retailers of footwear and accessories, today announced financial results for the first quarter ended May 3, 2025."We experienced a soft start to 2025 amid an unpredictable macro environment and deteriorating consumer sentiment," stated Doug Howe, Chief Executive Officer. "We have shifted our near-term focus to amplifyin ...

Core Insights - DSW has launched a partnership with Imbox Protection, introducing an innovative shoe protection service available in nearly 500 locations across the U.S. [1][8] - The Imbox system offers a fast, eco-conscious solution that protects shoes from various elements in just 60 seconds [1][5] - The service costs $8.99 and provides up to eight weeks of protection, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers [5][6] Company Overview - DSW, a Designer Brands company, aims to enhance customer value and sustainability through this partnership [6][8] - The company operates over 650 stores and is committed to providing on-trend footwear and accessories [10] - DSW has a history of supporting charitable initiatives, having donated over 11 million pairs of shoes since 2018 [10] Industry Impact - The partnership with Imbox marks a significant expansion in the North American retail landscape for both companies [6][8] - The integration of Imbox Protection into the checkout process redefines post-purchase services in footwear retail [6][8] - The service aligns with growing consumer demand for environmentally responsible solutions, reflecting a shift in retail towards sustainability [6][8]

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, 2025 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 1-32545 DESIGNER BRANDS INC. (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter) Ohio 31-0746639 (State or other jurisdiction of incorp ...

Designer Brands Inc. (NYSE: DBI ) has released its Q4 2024 results , positively surprising the market. The company posted positive comparable sales for the first time in over two years, with U.S. Retail comps turning positive Long-only investment, evaluating companies from an operational, buy-and-hold perspective.Quipus Capital does not focus on market-driven dynamics and future price action. Instead, our articles focus on operational aspects, understanding the long-term earnings power of companies, the com ...

Core Viewpoint - Designer Brands reported mixed financial results for Q4 2024, with adjusted EPS beating expectations but revenue falling short, indicating challenges in revenue generation despite improved cost control [2][6]. Financial Performance - Adjusted EPS loss was $0.44, better than the expected loss of $0.49, with no change compared to Q4 2023 [3][6]. - Revenue totaled $713.6 million, below the anticipated $719 million, representing a 5.4% decline from $754.3 million in Q4 2023 [2][3]. - Gross margin improved to 39.6%, up from 38.8% in Q4 2023, reflecting effective cost management [3][6]. - Comparable sales increased by 0.5%, a recovery from a 7.3% decline in the previous year [3][6]. Strategic Focus - The company aims to enhance its Owned Brands segment, targeting it to constitute one-third of total sales by 2026, doubling from its 2021 baseline [4]. - Designer Brands is strengthening its loyalty and rewards programs, with the VIP program having 32.1 million members, contributing to 90% of retail sales [5]. - Expansion of the distribution network is underway to support both in-store and online sales, enhancing customer service and operational efficiency [5]. Segment Performance - U.S. Retail segment sales dropped by 6.9%, indicating competitive pressures and shifts in consumer behavior [7]. - Canada Retail and Brand Portfolio segments experienced growth of 7.5% and 12.3%, respectively [7]. Financial Position - Inventory levels increased to $599.8 million from $571.3 million, while cash reserves stood at $44.8 million [8]. - Debt levels rose to $491 million from $427.1 million, indicating potential financial risk [8]. Future Outlook - Designer Brands anticipates low single-digit net sales growth for fiscal 2025, with adjusted EPS guidance between $0.30 to $0.50 [9]. - The focus remains on strategic initiatives, particularly enhancing Owned Brands and expanding the customer loyalty program [9].

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q4 2024, total sales declined by 5% year-over-year, but comparable sales increased by 1% when excluding the 53rd week from the previous year [7][40] - For the full year, total company sales decreased by approximately 2%, with comparable sales down 1.7% [7][40] - Adjusted EPS for the full year was $0.27, at the upper end of the revised guidance range of $0.10 to $0.30 [8][49] - Consolidated gross profit margin for Q4 was 39.6%, an increase of 80 basis points year-over-year, while full-year gross margin was 42.7%, a decrease of 40 basis points [44][45] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - U.S. Retail comps were up 1% in Q4, marking a return to positive comps for the first time since Q3 2022, driven by strength in athletic, women's dress, and luxury accessories [13][41] - Canada Retail segment saw Q4 comps increase by 5%, with strong performance in athletic and kids categories [14][41] - Brand Portfolio segment sales increased by approximately 12% in Q4 and roughly 14% for the full year, achieving operating profitability for the first time [16][42] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - DSW's sales growth outpaced the footwear market in Q4, resulting in a 10 basis point gain in market share [13] - Top eight brands saw a 25% increase in sales on a full-year basis, contributing significantly to overall performance [10][66] - Topo Athletic brand sales grew nearly 80% in 2024, indicating strong market demand [31][43] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on a customer-first approach, leveraging insights and analytics to refine brand identity and enhance marketing effectiveness [20][22] - Plans to enhance the omnichannel customer experience and expand store footprint for the first time since 2019 [23][24] - Emphasis on revitalizing product assortment through data-driven strategies to improve inventory availability and productivity [25][26] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted a cautious consumer environment due to inflation and rising prices, impacting discretionary spending [35][59] - Guidance for 2025 anticipates low single-digit sales growth, with expectations for gradual improvement throughout the year [53][54] - The company aims to return to consistent top and bottom line growth, with a focus on driving profitable growth and evaluating expenses [56][60] Other Important Information - The company returned $79 million to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases in 2024 [50][51] - Total debt outstanding was $491 million at the end of the year, with total liquidity of $172.1 million [52] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you provide more details on the fourth quarter, particularly regarding athleisure growth and Nike's performance? - Management highlighted significant growth in athleisure, particularly among the top eight brands, which saw a 25% increase in sales [66] - They noted a slower start to Q1 compared to expectations, influenced by macroeconomic factors [67][68] Question: What are the expectations for gross margin and SG&A dollar growth? - Management indicated that promotional activity is expected to provide leverage to gross margin, with SG&A expected to increase by about $50 million due to new initiatives and annualizing acquisitions [72][74]

Financial Performance - Fourth quarter net sales decreased by 5.4% to $713.6 million, with total comparable sales increasing by 0.5%[3] - Full year net sales decreased by 2.1% to $3.0 billion, with total comparable sales decreasing by 1.7%[7] - The reported net loss for the full year was $38.2 million, equating to a loss per diluted share of $0.80[7] - Consolidated net sales for the three months ended August 3, 2024, were $771,900,000, a decrease from $792,217,000 for the same period last year, representing a decline of 2.9%[23] - Consolidated net sales for the six months ended August 3, 2024, were $1,518,496,000, slightly down from $1,534,299,000 in the same period last year, a decrease of 1.0%[23] - Consolidated net sales for the three months ended November 2, 2024, were $777,194 thousand, a decrease of 1.4% compared to $786,329 thousand for the same period in 2023[24] - For the nine months ended November 2, 2024, consolidated net sales totaled $2,295,690 thousand, a slight decrease from $2,320,628 thousand in the same period last year[24] - Net sales for the three months ended February 1, 2025, were $713,572, a decrease of 5.4% compared to $754,348 for the same period in 2024[25] Gross Profit and Margins - Gross profit for the fourth quarter decreased to $282.6 million, resulting in a gross margin of 39.6%[3] - Consolidated gross profit for the three months ended February 1, 2025, was $282,583, a decrease of 3.4% compared to $292,591 for the same period in 2024[17] - Gross profit for the consolidated segment was $252,914,000, accounting for 32.8% of net sales, compared to $273,387,000 or 34.5% of net sales in the previous year[23] - Gross profit for the consolidated segment for six months was $497,983,000, which is 32.8% of net sales, compared to $511,126,000 or 33.3% in the previous year[23] - Gross profit margin for the consolidated segment improved to 43.0% for the three months ended November 2, 2024, compared to 44.0% in the same period last year[24] - Gross profit for the twelve months ended February 1, 2025, was $1,285,958, representing a gross margin of 42.7%, compared to $1,323,995 and a gross margin of 43.1% for the previous year[27] Operating Expenses and Losses - Operating expenses for the consolidated segment were $226,896,000, which is 29.4% of net sales, compared to $214,530,000 or 27.1% of net sales last year, indicating an increase in operating expenses as a percentage of sales[23] - Operating expenses for the six months were $465,447,000, representing 30.7% of net sales, compared to $434,649,000 or 28.3% last year, indicating a rise in operating expenses[23] - Operating expenses for the three months ended February 1, 2025, were $311,983, which is 43.7% of net sales, compared to $326,841 or 43.3% of net sales for the same period in 2024[25] - The company reported operating expenses of $1,245,834,000 for the twelve months ended February 1, 2025, slightly down from $1,256,150,000 in the previous year, showing a decrease of about 0.8%[31] Segment Performance - The U.S. Retail segment reported net sales of $587.5 million, a decrease of 6.9% compared to the previous year[16] - The Brand Portfolio segment saw a 12.3% increase in net sales, totaling $87.3 million for the fourth quarter[16] - U.S. Retail segment gross profit decreased by 3.8% to $238,490, while its percentage of net sales increased to 40.6% from 39.3%[17] - Canada Retail segment gross profit increased by 6.0% to $27,388, with a slight decrease in its percentage of net sales to 39.6%[17] - U.S. Retail segment net sales were $641,694,000, down from $658,542,000 year-over-year, reflecting a decrease of 2.7%[23] - Canada Retail segment net sales increased to $74,797,000 from $70,266,000, marking a growth of 6.3% year-over-year[23] - U.S. Retail segment net sales were $615,495 thousand, a decrease of 2.5% from $631,610 thousand in the same period last year[24] - Canada Retail segment net sales increased to $83,504 thousand, up 10.4% from $75,610 thousand in the same period last year[24] Future Outlook - For fiscal year 2025, the company anticipates low-single digit net sales growth and diluted EPS guidance of $0.30 to $0.50[9] - The company plans to include e-commerce sales from the Brand Portfolio segment in its comparable sales metric starting in 2025, enhancing the measurement of retail performance[34] - The company anticipates that stores added from the Rubino acquisition will contribute to comparable sales starting in the second quarter of 2025, indicating a strategy for market expansion[34] Debt and Assets - Cash and cash equivalents totaled $44.8 million at the end of 2024, down from $49.2 million at the end of 2023[7] - Long-term debt increased to $484,285 as of February 1, 2025, compared to $420,344 as of February 3, 2024[29] - Total current assets decreased to $734,824 as of February 1, 2025, from $777,432 as of February 3, 2024[29] - Total liabilities decreased slightly to $1,727,449 as of February 1, 2025, from $1,713,724 as of February 3, 2024[29] Adjusted Metrics - The adjusted diluted earnings per share for the twelve months ended February 1, 2025, was $0.27, down from $0.68 in the prior year, indicating a decrease of approximately 60.3%[31] - Total non-GAAP adjustments for the twelve months ended February 1, 2025, amounted to $25,014,000 after tax, compared to $13,969,000 in the previous year, representing an increase of approximately 79.5%[31] - The company incurred restructuring and integration costs of $11,843,000 for the twelve months ended February 1, 2025, compared to $6,378,000 in the previous year, indicating an increase of approximately 85.5%[31] - The company incurred impairment charges of $580 for the three months ended February 1, 2025, compared to $4,185 for the same period in 2024[27] Management and Corporate Actions - The company repurchased 10.3 million Class A common shares at a cost of $68.6 million during 2024[7] - CEO transition costs for the twelve months ended February 1, 2025, were $4,352,000, down from $4,352,000 in the previous year, reflecting a reduction in transition-related expenses[31] - The company recognized intersegment gross profit of $9,717 for the three months ended February 1, 2025, compared to $6,728 in the same period last year[19] - The elimination of net sales recognized by the Brand Portfolio segment for the twelve months ended February 1, 2025, was $138,743, up from $72,078 in the previous year[20] - Corporate/Eliminations segment reported an operating loss of $217,734 for the twelve months ended February 1, 2025, compared to a loss of $187,183 in the previous year, indicating a worsening performance[20]

Core Insights - Designer Brands Inc. reported financial results for the year ended February 1, 2025, with a focus on strategic initiatives that led to positive comparable sales for the first time in nine quarters [2][5] - The company anticipates profitable growth in fiscal 2025, projecting an increase in earnings per share (EPS) compared to 2024 adjusted results [2][4] Financial Performance - For the fourth quarter of 2024, net sales decreased by 5.4% to $713.6 million, while total comparable sales increased by 0.5% [5][11] - Gross profit for the fourth quarter was $282.6 million, with a gross margin of 39.6%, compared to $292.6 million and 38.8% in the previous year [5][11] - The reported net loss attributable to Designer Brands Inc. was $38.2 million, or a loss per diluted share of $0.80, while the adjusted net loss was $21.3 million, or $0.44 loss per diluted share [5][11] Store Count and Operations - As of February 1, 2025, the total number of stores was 669, with 494 in the U.S. and 175 in Canada, reflecting a slight reduction in store count [3][11] - The company closed two stores in the U.S. and four in Canada during the fourth quarter of 2024 [3] 2025 Financial Outlook - The company has provided guidance for 2025, expecting low-single-digit net sales growth and diluted EPS in the range of $0.30 to $0.50 [4] - The ongoing business transformation is expected to drive stability and growth, despite short-term consumer pressures from inflation and rising prices [2][4] Segment Performance - In the fourth quarter, U.S. Retail segment net sales were $587.5 million, down 6.9% from the previous year, while Canada Retail segment net sales increased by 7.5% to $69.2 million [11][12] - The Brand Portfolio segment saw a 12.3% increase in net sales, reaching $87.3 million [11][12] Liquidity and Return to Shareholders - Cash and cash equivalents totaled $44.8 million at the end of 2024, down from $49.2 million at the end of 2023, with total debt increasing to $491.0 million [5][11] - The company repurchased 10.3 million Class A common shares for $68.6 million during 2024, with $19.7 million remaining for future repurchases [5][11]

Core Viewpoint - Designer Brands Inc. will announce its fourth quarter and full year 2024 earnings on March 20, 2025, with a conference call scheduled for 8:30 am E.T. to discuss the results [1] Company Overview - Designer Brands is one of the largest designers, producers, and retailers of footwear and accessories globally, with a mission centered around being "shoe obsessed" [3] - The company has a diversified portfolio of brands, including Topo Athletic, Keds, Vince Camuto, and others, and operates a robust direct-to-consumer omni-channel infrastructure [3] - Designer Brands has a billion-dollar digital commerce business and over 650 retail locations in North America, holding leading market share positions in key product categories across women's, men's, and kids' footwear [3] - The company is committed to social responsibility, having donated over eleven million pairs of shoes to the non-profit Soles4Souls since 2018 [3]