Big 5 Sporting Goods Stock Rises 4% Despite Wider Y/Y Loss in Q1

Core Viewpoint - Big 5 Sporting Goods Corporation reported a wider net loss for the first quarter of fiscal 2025, reflecting ongoing macroeconomic challenges and adverse weather conditions impacting sales, despite a recent increase in stock performance compared to the S&P 500 index [1][2][6]. Financial Performance - For Q1 fiscal 2025, Big 5 incurred a net loss of $17.3 million, compared to a net loss of $8.3 million in Q1 fiscal 2024, with a loss per share of 78 cents versus 38 cents in the prior year [2][3]. - Net sales were $175.6 million, down 9.2% from $193.4 million year-over-year, with same-store sales declining by 7.8% [2]. - Gross profit decreased to $54.3 million from $60.4 million, with gross margin slipping to 30.9% from 31.2% [3]. Key Business Metrics - EBITDA for the quarter was negative $12 million, worsening from negative $6.5 million in the previous year [4]. - Merchandise margins fell by 78 basis points year-over-year, while selling and administrative expenses slightly decreased by $0.6 million but rose as a percentage of sales to 40.3% from 36.9% [4]. - Inventory levels increased by 6.5% year-over-year due to earlier receipt timing of seasonal products [4]. Management Commentary - CEO Steven G. Miller indicated that results met expectations, which accounted for ongoing macroeconomic pressures and weather disruptions affecting sales, particularly in southern markets [5]. - There was cautious optimism for the upcoming spring and summer seasons, with proactive inventory planning and product refresh efforts highlighted [5]. Factors Influencing Performance - The underperformance was attributed to macroeconomic headwinds limiting discretionary spending and unfavorable weather conditions suppressing early-quarter sales [6]. - Margin compression was noted due to higher store occupancy costs and lower merchandise margins, alongside the absence of a tax benefit [6]. - Interest expense increased from $0.1 million to $0.8 million year-over-year, further impacting the bottom line [6]. Guidance - For Q2 fiscal 2025, Big 5 anticipates same-store sales to decline in the low to mid-single-digit range year-over-year, with a projected net loss per share between 75 cents and 90 cents [7]. - This guidance reflects expected pressures from calendar shifts, including the Easter holiday moving into Q2 and the Fourth of July pushing into Q3 [7]. Other Developments - During Q1, Big 5 closed eight stores, reducing the total store count to 414, with plans to close approximately seven more locations by year-end [9].