Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported its best quarter in 12 quarters, exceeding guidance for sales, margin, revenue, EBITDA, and EPS [9] - Quarterly EBITDA growth was significant, with a notable increase in digital and physical business [9] - SG&A expenses were reduced by approximately $30 million compared to the previous year [20] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The reimagined 125 Macy's stores achieved a 1.4% comp performance in the second quarter, outperforming the overall fleet which was up 0.1% [19][20] - Bloomingdale's experienced over 5.7% growth for the fourth consecutive quarter, with strong performance attributed to a great assortment and marketing campaigns [9][25] - Bluemercury marked its 18th consecutive quarter of growth, indicating strong brand performance [9] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company closed 64 underproductive stores last year, generating cash proceeds of nearly $300 million from asset sales [22] - The recapture rate of customers from closed stores was better than expected, contributing positively to overall top-line growth [23] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The "Bold New Chapter" strategy aims to improve the quality of the entire enterprise, focusing on reimagining the Macy's nameplate and enhancing customer experience [10][11] - The strategy includes closing underperforming stores, increasing staffing in key areas, and leveraging AI for operational efficiency [13][19] - The company is committed to being a multi-category, multi-brand, and multi-price point retailer to adapt to changing consumer preferences [16] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed caution regarding macroeconomic uncertainties but remains optimistic about the execution of their strategy [14] - The company anticipates a more choiceful consumer environment, embedding prudency into their guidance for the fall season [37] - Management believes that the current retail environment will lead to more market share consolidation, with Macy's positioned as a healthier retailer [41] Other Important Information - The company is focusing on private brand strategy, refreshing its portfolio and identifying white space opportunities in the market [57][58] - The impact of tariffs is expected to affect gross margins, with a projected increase in tariff-related costs [43][44] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you discuss the key highlights in the quarter and the drivers of momentum? - The company reported significant growth across all nameplates, with strong performance in both digital and physical channels [9] Question: How is the Bold New Chapter strategy performing? - The strategy has shown positive results, with improvements in customer experience and store performance [10][14] Question: What are the expectations for the operating environment moving forward? - Management expects a more choiceful consumer and has adjusted guidance accordingly, indicating a cautious outlook for the fall season [37] Question: How is the company addressing the impact of tariffs? - The company has embedded a 40 to 60 basis point impact on gross margin due to tariffs and is actively negotiating with vendors to mitigate costs [43][44] Question: What is the outlook for Bloomingdale's performance? - Bloomingdale's is performing well due to a strong assortment and effective marketing strategies, with plans for further expansion [25][29]