Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported consolidated net sales for fiscal 2024 decreased by 3% to $1.52 billion, with a notable impact from a 53rd week in 2023 contributing approximately $16 million to sales [16][17] - Adjusted EPS for the fourth quarter was $6.68, at the top end of guidance [20] - Adjusted gross margin contracted by 80 basis points to 63.2%, primarily due to a higher proportion of sales during promotional events [17][23] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Sales in full-price brick-and-mortar locations decreased by 2%, while e-commerce sales fell by 4% [16][17] - Food and beverage and outlet locations saw a 13% sales increase, driven by new locations [17] - The wholesale channel experienced a 10% decline, with a $31 million decrease attributed to struggles in the specialty store business [17] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Comparable store sales (comps) increased by 2% in December but fell by 3% in January and further declined by 9% in February [6][16] - The company anticipates a cautious consumer environment, with expectations of hesitance in spending between major shopping events [7][22] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company focuses on maximizing long-term shareholder value, owning a portfolio of lifestyle brands, evoking happiness in consumers, and generating cash for reinvestment [8][10] - Plans for fiscal 2025 include enhancing the omni-channel platform, opening approximately 20 new stores, and completing a new distribution center [14][15][29] - The company aims to protect brand integrity and avoid short-term fixes that could harm long-term prospects [9] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the long-term opportunities despite current headwinds, emphasizing the importance of controlling controllables [7][10] - The outlook for fiscal 2025 includes projected net sales between $1.49 billion and $1.53 billion, with expectations of a decline in comps [22][23] - Management noted that the first half of fiscal 2025 may see strong sales due to upcoming holidays, but overall consumer spending is expected to remain cautious [6][7] Other Important Information - The company has initiated a $100 million share repurchase program and increased its quarterly dividend by 3% [15][29] - Inventory at the end of fiscal 2024 was up 5%, primarily due to early shipments from Asia ahead of new tariffs [20][21] Q&A Session Summary Question: Insights on first quarter guidance and headwinds - Management noted Lilly is performing well, while other brands are experiencing some challenges, particularly with the Easter shift affecting March comps [32][33] Question: Observations on wholesale partners' order books - Management acknowledged concerns about major retailers pulling back orders but highlighted strong performance on retail floors [36][37] Question: Details on Johnny Was brand performance and plans - Management indicated a focus on improving retail performance and rebuilding the wholesale business, with an emphasis on classic collection products [38][39] Question: Customer response to new product assortments - Management confirmed that newness in product assortments is driving business, particularly in major brands like Tommy Bahama and Lilly Pulitzer [43][46] Question: Tariff impacts and mitigation strategies - Management discussed the anticipated tariff impact of $9 million to $10 million and ongoing efforts to mitigate these costs through various strategies [68][70]