Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net sales grew by 7.2% to a record $3.72 billion in the third quarter [7] - Comparable store sales increased by 3.9%, driven by transaction growth of 2.7% and average ticket growth of 1.2% [7][19] - Gross margin increased by 15 basis points to 37.4% [20] - Diluted EPS rose to $0.49 from $0.45 in the prior year [22] - SG&A expenses were $1.05 billion, up 8.4% from last year, with a deleverage of 29 basis points to 28.1% of net sales [21] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Strong seasonal performance in spring and summer products contributed to comparable store sales growth [9] - Livestock, equine, poultry feed, and wildlife supplies saw stronger than average growth [11] - Digital sales grew at a low double-digit rate, with nearly 80% of online orders fulfilled by stores [13] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - All geographic regions delivered positive comparable store sales for the quarter [17] - The consumer remained discerning in spending, with categories offering newness and strong value outperforming [9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on its "Life Out Here" strategic initiatives, emphasizing direct sales and final mile delivery [15][30] - Plans to open 100 new stores in 2026, reflecting confidence in new store economics [24] - Continued investment in existing stores and technology to enhance customer experience and operational efficiency [15][30] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted a strong consumer environment, with healthy customer engagement metrics [43] - Guidance for fourth quarter comparable store sales growth is set between 1%-5%, influenced by winter weather [23] - The company remains optimistic about the holiday season and has planned various in-store events to engage customers [28][30] Other Important Information - The Neighbor's Club membership represents over 80% of sales, with record highs in customer retention and engagement [8] - The company is making progress in its pet pharmacy segment, seeing steady growth in orders [14] Q&A Session Summary Question: Update on direct sales rep build-out and its impact - Management expressed confidence in the direct sales initiative, with 48 specialists currently in place covering over 300 stores, generating significant sales [33][36] Question: Changes in consumer behavior and sales initiatives - Management indicated that consumer behavior remains strong, with expectations for continued sales growth driven by strategic initiatives [42][43] Question: Pricing and tariff impacts on ticket growth - Management noted that pricing adjustments have been made, with a focus on maintaining value perception for customers [51][52] Question: Operating income margin expansion for 2026 - Management expects momentum in gross margin expansion and less pressure on SG&A, allowing for operating margin improvement [56][57] Question: Hunting supplies expansion and revenue opportunity - Management highlighted the growth potential in wildlife and recreation supplies, including the introduction of ammunition products [75][76]

Group 1 - The Japanese government has urgently implemented a comprehensive plan to mitigate the negative impacts of U.S. tariff policies on its businesses and consumers [1][3] - The plan includes measures such as improving corporate consulting systems, enhancing financing support for businesses, maintaining employment, stimulating domestic consumption, transforming industrial structures, and increasing competitiveness [1][3] - Prime Minister Kishida emphasized the potential fundamental changes to the international economic order due to U.S. tariffs, particularly affecting Japan's key industries like automotive and steel [3][8] Group 2 - Specific measures include lowering gasoline prices, providing subsidies for electricity and gas, and easing conditions for employment adjustment subsidies for companies that maintain employment without layoffs [3][4] - Japan is planning to increase imports of U.S. corn as a bargaining chip in tariff negotiations, with an estimated import volume of about 11.5 million tons valued at approximately 459 billion yen in 2024 [4] - The Bank of Japan is facing uncertainty regarding its interest rate decisions due to the impact of U.S. tariffs, with expectations of maintaining the current rate at 0.5% and potentially lowering growth forecasts [6][8]