Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported second quarter net sales of $219 million, down 16% in constant currency, which was in line with expectations [20] - Gross margin expanded by 480 basis points year-over-year, reaching 57.4%, marking the third consecutive quarter of gross margin improvement [21] - Adjusted operating income for Q2 was positive $4 million, compared to a loss of $17 million a year ago, resulting in an adjusted operating margin of 1.7% [25] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The wholesale channel showed continued improvement, with strong comparable sales trends in Fossil retail stores despite reduced promotional activity [5] - Traditional watch sales in the Americas increased by double digits in Q2, while India also showed strong momentum across brands and channels [13] - The company closed six underperforming retail locations in Q2, bringing total closures to 34 year-to-date, with plans to close 45 to 50 locations by year-end [24] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Performance in key markets such as the U.S., India, Germany, and the UK improved, while China remained under pressure due to the macro environment [12] - The company noted a resurgence in interest for traditional fashion watches among younger consumers, particularly in India and the Americas [48] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on three key pillars: refocusing on core brands, rightsizing the cost structure, and strengthening the balance sheet [4][17] - A new Fossil brand platform is being developed to enhance design and storytelling, with a recent website redesign aimed at improving customer engagement [8] - The company is investing in upper funnel marketing initiatives and collaborations to drive brand awareness and cultural relevance [10][11] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to navigate a complex environment and emphasized the importance of operational and financial rigor [18] - The full-year guidance was raised, expecting breakeven to slightly positive adjusted operating margins, reflecting gross margin expansion and significant cost reductions [29] - Management highlighted the importance of maintaining strong relationships with wholesale partners and the positive feedback received from them [41] Other Important Information - The company successfully refinanced its revolving credit facility and entered into a transaction support agreement with bondholders to extend bond maturities into 2029, improving liquidity [26][27] - Year-to-date SG&A savings reached $48 million, with a target of $100 million for the full year [24] Q&A Session Summary Question: Impact of changes in promotional activity and price increases on gross margins - Management noted that the shift to a full-price model has led to improved gross margins, with consumers willing to pay for perceived value [34][35] Question: Trends and initiatives in the wholesale channel - Management highlighted strong relationships with wholesale partners and investments in store presentation and marketing activities [40][41] Question: Strength in the younger consumer category and collaboration initiatives - Management confirmed a resurgence in traditional watches among younger consumers, with successful limited edition collaborations driving brand momentum [46][48]