Core Thesis - The bullish thesis on RH highlights the company's strong brand positioning and strategic international expansion, despite facing near-term tariff challenges [1][7]. Financial Performance - RH reported a 2Q25 revenue growth of 8% year-over-year, a decrease from 12% in the previous quarter, attributed to tariff impacts [2]. - The company anticipates full-year revenue growth of 9–11%, with adjusted operating margins projected at 13–14% [6]. Market Position and Strategy - Demand for RH products remains strong, indicating potential revenue re-acceleration in the latter half of the year [2]. - The successful introduction of RH England is expected to generate $37–39 million in demand for 2025, meeting or slightly exceeding expectations [3]. - The opening of the Paris Gallery on the Champs Elysees is part of RH's strategy to enhance consumer experiences and brand perception, with plans for further European expansions in London and Milan by Spring 2026 [3]. Tariff Impact - Tariffs are currently a headwind, but exposure to China is expected to decrease from 16% to 2% by 4Q, with vendors absorbing much of the cost [4]. - New tariffs from India will impact about 7% of products, causing delays in brand extensions and pushing $40 million in revenue into Q4 and 1Q26 [4]. Margin and Debt Management - Gross margins have expanded to 45.5%, and operating margins have improved to 14.3%, supported by operational discipline [5]. - Interest expenses are significant at $57 million, with total debt at $3.75 billion, slightly lower than the previous quarter [5]. - An inventory reduction of $50 million has aided working capital management, despite inventory levels remaining elevated [5].

Core Insights - Ralph Lauren Corporation (RL) has experienced a significant stock price increase of 69.4% over the past year, outperforming the industry which declined by 16.3% and the broader Consumer Discretionary sector and S&P 500 which gained 22.7% and 17.8% respectively [1][8]. Company Strategy and Performance - The company's strategic plan, "Next Great Chapter: Accelerate Plan," emphasizes brand elevation, consumer centricity, and operational agility, contributing to its competitive edge in the luxury lifestyle market [3]. - Ralph Lauren is expanding in high-potential markets, particularly in Asia, while reinforcing its core regions to ensure diversified revenue streams [3][10]. - Digital transformation is a key growth strategy, with digital sales increasing by 19% in North America, 11% in Europe, and 35% in Asia during Q1 FY26 [4][8]. Revenue and Margin Outlook - Ralph Lauren anticipates revenue growth in the low-to-mid single digits for FY26, supported by a weaker U.S. dollar and sustained momentum in Asia and Europe [11]. - The company projects operating margin expansion due to expense leverage, strategic pricing initiatives, and improved gross margins, despite ongoing tariff and inflationary pressures [12][14]. - In Q2 FY26, revenue growth is expected to be in the high single digits on a constant-currency basis, with additional support from foreign exchange movements [13]. Valuation and Investment Rationale - Ralph Lauren is currently trading at a forward P/E multiple of 20.41X, which is higher than the industry average of 11.43X, indicating strong investor expectations for growth [15]. - The company's solid fundamentals and strategic execution support its premium valuation, making it an attractive investment opportunity [17].

Core Insights - Ralph Lauren Corporation (RL) is leveraging its unique brand portfolio, product innovations, and strategic execution of its Next Great Chapter plan to drive growth [1] Growth Strategy - The company is focused on three core growth drivers: elevating its lifestyle brand, driving core product growth, and expanding in key cities [2][10] - Ralph Lauren aims to enhance its global lifestyle brand positioning to offer premium quality, attract new consumers, and improve customer retention [2] Market Expansion - The company is advancing its iconic core products while targeting high-potential, under-penetrated markets that align with evolving consumer lifestyles [3] - Ralph Lauren plans to scale its digitally led ecosystem strategy in the top 30 cities globally and expand into 20 additional high-potential markets [3] Operational Capabilities - Key enablers of growth include engaged teams, agile operations, modern technology and analytics, resilient partners, and a strong balance sheet [4] Financial Outlook - Ralph Lauren has reiterated its fiscal 2026 outlook and introduced a three-year financial forecast, considering geopolitical and macroeconomic factors [5] - From fiscal 2025 to fiscal 2028, the company anticipates a mid-single-digit compound annual growth rate in revenues and an operating margin expansion of 100-150 basis points [6] Shareholder Returns - The company plans to return at least $2 billion to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases by fiscal 2028, subject to board approval and market conditions [7] - Ralph Lauren has increased its quarterly cash dividend by approximately 10% to 91.25 cents per share, reflecting an annual dividend of $3.65 per share [7] Long-term Vision - Management is confident that the Next Great Chapter plan will drive sustainable growth, expand market share, and strengthen Ralph Lauren's leadership in the luxury lifestyle sector [8]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a total revenue growth of 11% in the first quarter, exceeding the high single-digit outlook, driven by strong performance in direct-to-consumer channels [21][22] - Adjusted gross margin expanded by 160 basis points to 72.1%, influenced by average unit retail (AUR) growth and a favorable mix shift towards full-price and international businesses [24][25] - Adjusted operating margin increased by 230 basis points to 16.6%, with operating profit rising by 29%, both ahead of guidance [26] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Core product sales, which represent over 70% of the business, grew in the mid-teens, driven by seasonal items and new product offerings [12][13] - High-potential categories, including women's apparel, outerwear, and handbags, saw strong double-digit growth, outpacing total company growth [13] - Direct-to-consumer (DTC) retail comps increased by 13%, with double-digit growth in both digital and brick-and-mortar stores [14][27] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Asia led performance with a 19% increase in revenue, followed by Europe at 10% and North America at 8% [22][23] - China experienced over 30% growth, significantly outpacing competitors, driven by brand-building initiatives and strong consumer response [16][30] - North America maintained healthy trends with high single-digit growth, supported by strong DTC channels and stabilization in wholesale [16][27] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company focuses on three long-term strategic pillars: elevating the lifestyle brand, driving core products, and winning in key cities through a consumer ecosystem [7][19] - Continued investment in technology, AI, and analytics is emphasized to enhance consumer service and operational efficiency [6][18] - The company plans to expand its presence in key city ecosystems, leveraging brand desirability and diverse growth drivers [48][49] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management remains cautious about the second half of the year due to potential tariff-related pressures on consumer behavior, despite a strong start to the fiscal year [6][19] - The company expects low to mid-single-digit revenue growth for the full year, with a focus on maintaining operational discipline amid macroeconomic uncertainties [34][36] - Management highlighted the importance of brand desirability and value proposition in sustaining growth, particularly in a challenging economic environment [46][48] Other Important Information - The company ended the quarter with $2.3 billion in cash and short-term investments, and $1.6 billion in total debt, indicating a strong balance sheet [31] - Inventory increased by 18% year-over-year, primarily due to strategic pull-forwards to mitigate tariff impacts, with expectations for inventory levels to align with sales as the year progresses [31][91] - The company was recognized as one of America's Best Employers for Women by Forbes, reflecting its commitment to diversity and inclusion [18] Q&A Session Summary Question: What have been the largest drivers of upside and how sustainable are they? - Management noted the shift towards a more elevated full-price consumer base and the resilience of core consumers across regions as key drivers of upside, emphasizing the durability of these drivers [46][48] Question: Can you walk us through your updated guidance assumptions? - The updated guidance reflects over-delivery in Q1 and a positive outlook for Q2, with tariff impacts remaining broadly in line with previous expectations [56][57] Question: What is the outlook for the handbag business? - The handbag category is seen as a high-potential area, with strong initial responses to new product launches and a focus on building long-term capabilities [60][62] Question: How do you view the growth rates in Europe moving forward? - Management expects continued momentum in Europe but anticipates some deceleration in the second half due to timing shifts and macroeconomic pressures [71][72] Question: Can you comment on inventory levels and expectations for alignment with sales? - Inventory levels increased due to strategic pull-forwards related to tariffs, but management expects inventory growth to moderate and align with sales as the year progresses [89][91]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported an 8% top line growth for the full year, with adjusted operating profits growing 24% [9] - Fourth quarter revenue growth was 10%, exceeding the 6% to 7% outlook, driven by strong performance in both direct-to-consumer and wholesale channels [26] - Total company adjusted gross margin expanded by 260 basis points to 69.2%, driven by average unit retail (AUR) growth and favorable mix shifts [27] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Core product sales grew low double digits in the fourth quarter, with notable growth in cable knit sweaters and outerwear [16] - High potential categories, including women's apparel, outerwear, and handbags, increased by high teens [17] - Direct-to-consumer (DTC) sales, which comprise two-thirds of the business, saw a 13% increase in comparable sales [18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - By region, Europe led performance with a 16% sales increase, followed by Asia at 13% and North America at 6% [26] - In China, sales grew more than 20%, supported by strong consumer engagement and marketing activations [34][110] - North America maintained healthy trends with mid-single-digit growth, despite exiting 60 department store doors [30] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on elevating its lifestyle brand, driving core product growth, and expanding in key cities through a consumer ecosystem [10][18] - Investments will continue in brand desirability, market share, and technology to enhance consumer engagement [10] - The company plans to remain agile and prudent in resource allocation while pursuing long-term growth opportunities [22] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged the challenging global operating environment, including uncertainties around tariffs and consumer behavior [9][22] - Despite macro pressures, the company is well-positioned due to a transformed business model and strong balance sheet [9][10] - The outlook for fiscal 2026 anticipates low single-digit revenue growth, with a cautious view on the second half of the year due to macroeconomic indicators [37][38] Other Important Information - The company generated $1 billion in free cash flow, returning $625 million to shareholders through dividends and repurchases [25] - Marketing investments increased to 7.3% of sales, with plans to maintain this level in the upcoming fiscal year [28][76] - The company acquired its global Polo flagship location in SoHo, Manhattan, as part of its real estate strategy [36][80] Q&A Session Summary Question: How is the company thinking about the health of consumers across regions in today's uncertain backdrop? - Management noted strong brand momentum and resilience in their business model, with no change in the underlying trajectory across regions [49][52] Question: How should the company approach pricing strategy for fiscal 2026? - The company plans to assess pricing actions to offset tariff impacts while maintaining AUR growth [58][62] Question: Can you provide more detail on revenue expectations by geography for the first quarter? - The company expects high single-digit growth in Asia, mid-single-digit growth in Europe, and a cautious outlook for North America [71] Question: What are the plans for marketing spend and high-potential categories? - Marketing spend is expected to remain at 7.3% of revenue, with continued focus on women's apparel, outerwear, and handbags [76][78] Question: What is the outlook for the U.S. wholesale channel? - The company is encouraged by stabilization in the wholesale channel and plans to continue refining its distribution strategy [86][89] Question: How is the company performing in Europe and what is the outlook for operating margins? - Europe delivered strong growth with a focus on key city strategies, and management is optimistic about continued momentum [96][99]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a 10% revenue growth in Q4, exceeding the 6% to 7% outlook, driven by strong performance in both direct-to-consumer and wholesale channels [24][22] - For the full year, total revenue growth was 8%, with adjusted operating profits increasing by 24% [8][22] - Adjusted gross margin expanded by 260 basis points to 69.2%, supported by average unit retail (AUR) growth and favorable product mix [26][22] - Free cash flow for the year was $1 billion, with $625 million returned to shareholders through dividends and repurchases [23][22] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Core product sales grew low double digits in Q4, with notable growth in cable knit sweaters and outerwear [15][16] - High potential categories, including women's apparel, outerwear, and handbags, increased by high teens [16][15] - Digital ecosystem sales grew in the high teens, led by Europe [25][24] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - North America revenue increased by 6%, with retail comps up 9% [28][30] - Europe saw a 16% revenue increase, with retail comps up 18% [30][31] - Asia's revenue grew by 13%, with China leading at over 20% growth [32][33] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on elevating its lifestyle brand, driving core product sales, and expanding in key cities [10][11] - Investments in technology, data, AI, and analytics are prioritized to enhance consumer engagement and operational efficiency [10][21] - The company aims to maintain a strong balance sheet while navigating macroeconomic challenges [21][34] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged the challenging global operating environment but expressed confidence in the brand's resilience and growth potential [8][21] - The outlook for fiscal 2026 anticipates low single-digit revenue growth, with a cautious view on the second half of the year due to macroeconomic pressures [35][36] - The company plans to assess additional pricing actions to mitigate tariff impacts [37][38] Other Important Information - The company opened 83 new stores globally, focusing on key cities, particularly in Asia [18][30] - Marketing investments increased to 7.3% of sales, with plans to maintain this level in the upcoming fiscal year [27][72] - The acquisition of the global Polo flagship location in SoHo is part of a strategy to enhance key city ecosystems [34][76] Q&A Session Summary Question: How is the company thinking about the health of consumers across regions in today's uncertain backdrop? - Management noted strong brand momentum and resilience among elevated consumers, despite general consumer pressure from the geopolitical and economic environment [48][49] Question: How should the company approach pricing strategy for fiscal 2026? - The company plans to assess pricing actions and leverage its diversified supply chain to manage cost headwinds effectively [56][58] Question: What is the outlook for the U.S. wholesale channel? - The company is encouraged by stabilization in the wholesale channel and plans to continue refining its distribution strategy [82][84] Question: Can you discuss the strong performance in China? - China delivered a strong quarter with over 20% growth, supported by effective marketing activations and expanding store footprint [100][104] Question: What are the expectations for gross margin in fiscal 2026? - The company expects gross margins to be flat for the year, with a stronger first half due to durable tailwinds from AUR growth and discount reductions [106][106]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Q1 2025 recorded adjusted EBITDA of $5.6 million, marking the strongest performance in the company's history, indicating successful operational discipline [19][20] - Total revenue for Q1 was approximately $66 million, down 18% year over year, with subscription revenue at $21 million, down 26% [20][21] - Travel revenue decreased to $42 million, down 16%, attributed to a lower member count and timing impacts related to curated experiences [22] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company had over 11,000 members at the end of Q1, with approximately 10,200 active club members and 1,300 active Pass members, reflecting a strategic shift towards club growth [20][21] - Cost of revenue declined by $8 million year over year due to ongoing portfolio optimization efforts [20] - Operating expenses were reduced by approximately $8 million, benefiting from streamlined operations [20] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company maintained a strong occupancy level of 74% in controlled residence accommodations, with an average daily rate (ADR) increase of 8% to over $2,100 [22] - The strategic partnerships with renowned hotels like Hondas and Fairmont were renewed, providing exclusive access to accommodations for members [15] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on four key pillars: operational efficiency, brand elevation, member experience, and a robust technology and digital marketing platform [8][10] - A significant emphasis is placed on building a digital marketing platform to connect with luxury travelers and expand the total addressable market [17][44] - The company aims to achieve sustained profitability and operational efficiency as core competencies [42][43] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged expected near-term revenue headwinds but expressed confidence in the strategic decisions made over the past year translating to stronger financial results [25] - The outlook for 2025 includes adjusted EBITDA guidance between breakeven and $5 million, with total revenue expected between $235 million and $255 million [24] Other Important Information - Q1 free cash flow was negative $8 million, including one-time cash outflows related to underperforming lease terminations [22] - The company is committed to enhancing service quality and member experience through new initiatives and partnerships [14][15] Q&A Session Summary Question: Update on marketing efforts to drive and retain members - The company is growing its sales force to reach a curated target audience, relying on direct connections rather than traditional marketing [29][30] Question: When and where do club memberships see stabilization? - Management expects continued headwinds on member count through the first half of the year, with stabilization anticipated in the second half of 2025 and into 2026 [32][33] Question: Status of expense cutting efforts - The company is now focused on fine-tuning expenses and improving service quality, with significant opportunities for operational efficiency still ahead [37][39] Question: Major milestones targeted for 2025 - Key goals include achieving sustained profitability, establishing operational efficiency as a core competency, and launching a digital marketing platform [42][44]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Q1 2025 recorded adjusted EBITDA of $5.6 million, marking the strongest performance in the company's history, indicating successful operational discipline [19][20] - Total revenue for Q1 was approximately $66 million, down 18% year over year, with subscription revenue at $21 million, down 26% [20][21] - Travel revenue decreased to $42 million, down 16%, attributed to a lower member count and timing impacts related to curated experiences [22] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company had over 11,000 members at the end of Q1, with approximately 10,200 active club members and 1,300 active Pass members, reflecting a strategic shift towards club growth [20][21] - Cost of revenue declined by $8 million year over year due to ongoing portfolio optimization efforts [20] - Operating expenses decreased by approximately $8 million, benefiting from reduced overhead and streamlined operations [20] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company maintained a strong occupancy level of 74% in controlled residence accommodations, with an 8% increase in average daily rate (ADR) to over $2,100 [22] - The strategic partnerships with renowned hotels like Hondas and Fairmont were renewed, providing members with exclusive access to select accommodations [15] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on four key pillars: operational efficiency, brand elevation, member experience, and a robust technology and digital marketing platform [8][10] - The goal is to build a scalable, durable, and efficient growth model while enhancing service quality and member experiences [8][10] - A digital marketing platform is being developed to connect with high-value travelers and expand the total addressable market [17][24] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged expected near-term revenue headwinds but expressed confidence in the strategic decisions made over the past year translating to stronger financial results [25] - The company reiterated its full-year 2025 guidance, expecting adjusted EBITDA between breakeven and $5 million, and revenue between $235 million and $255 million [24][25] - The focus remains on balancing investment for future profitable growth with operational efficiencies [25] Other Important Information - Q1 free cash flow was negative $8 million, including approximately $2.6 million of one-time cash outflows related to underperforming lease terminations [22] - Adjusted free cash flow, excluding one-time lease-related items, totaled more than $8 million over the same period [23] Q&A Session Summary Question: Update on marketing efforts to drive and retain members - The company is growing its sales force to reach a curated target audience, relying on direct connections rather than direct marketing [29][30] Question: When and where do club memberships see stabilization? - Management expects continued headwinds on member count through the first half of the year, with stabilization anticipated in the second half of 2025 and into 2026 [32][33] Question: Status of expense cutting efforts - The company is now focused on fine-tuning expenses and improving service quality, with significant opportunities for operational efficiency still ahead [37][39] Question: Major milestones targeted for 2025 - Key goals include achieving sustained profitability, establishing operational efficiency as a core competency, and launching a digital marketing platform [42][44]