Crocs Q3 sales dip as Heydude struggles, wholesale demand softens

Core Insights - Crocs reported consolidated revenues of $996 million in Q3, an increase from $836 million in the same period last year, with direct-to-consumer (DTC) sales up 1.6% but wholesale down 14.7% [1] - Operating income decreased by 23% to $208 million from $270 million, and adjusted diluted earnings per share fell 18.9% to $2.92 [1] - The company experienced a net income loss of $145 million compared to a loss of $199 million in the previous year, with gross profit declining to $583 million from $633 million [1] Financial Performance - Despite lower revenues, Crocs generated strong cash flow, allowing for the repurchase of 2.4 million shares worth $203 million and a debt reduction of $63 million [2] - The Crocs brand saw a revenue decrease of 2.5% to $836 million, while international sales grew by 5.8% to $389 million, offsetting an 8.8% decline in North America [4][5] - DTC sales rose 2% to $472 million, while wholesale sales fell 7.9% to $364 million [5] Brand Performance - Heydude's revenue dropped 21.6% to $160 million, with wholesale sales down 38.6% to $69 million, although DTC remained stable, down just 0.5% to $91 million [3] - The brand is showing signs of stabilization in North America, with improved sell-through rates and a return to the top 10 preferred footwear brands among males [3] Strategic Focus - The company is focusing on product innovation, particularly in clogs and sandals, and expanding its international presence, with significant revenue growth in China, Japan, and Western Europe [6] - CEO Andrew Rees emphasized the importance of disciplined execution against brand strategies and innovation to regain market momentum [2] Q4 Outlook - For Q4, Crocs expects revenues to decline around 8% year-on-year, with Crocs brand sales down 3% and Heydude down mid-20% [7] - Adjusted operating margin is projected at 15.5%, with adjusted diluted earnings per share expected to be between $1.82 and $1.92 [7] - The company has identified $150 million in gross cost savings for 2025 and is committed to driving operating leverage in 2026 [7]