Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a total revenue growth of 10% for the third quarter, exceeding the mid-single-digit outlook, with Asia leading at 22% growth, North America at 8%, and Europe at 4% [20][24][26] - Adjusted gross margin expanded by 140 basis points to 69.8%, driven by average unit retail (AUR) growth and a favorable mix shift towards full-price businesses [21][31] - Free cash flow reached approximately $650 million, with $500 million returned to shareholders year-to-date [19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Core product sales grew in low double digits, with significant contributions from cotton cable knits, wool cashmere, and children's programs [11][19] - High-potential categories, including women's apparel and handbags, increased in high teens, outpacing total company growth [11][12] - Direct-to-consumer (DTC) business in North America increased by 7%, with retail comps up 7% and digital comps also growing by 7% [23] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Asia's revenue increased by 22%, with China growing over 30%, driven by strong full-price demand and successful marketing campaigns [14][26] - Europe saw a 4% revenue increase, with strong performance in Germany, the UK, Italy, and Spain, despite a highly promotional competitive environment [24][25] - North America wholesale revenue increased by 11%, driven by stronger-than-expected reorders and digital wholesale performance [23] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on its "Next Great Chapter: Drive" strategic plan, which aims to elevate the brand, drive core products, and expand in key cities [6][17] - The strategy includes leveraging advanced technology, AI, and analytics to enhance consumer engagement and operational efficiency [5][15] - The company plans to continue expanding its presence in top cities globally, with 32 new stores opened this quarter [15][28] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the brand's resilience and ability to navigate an uncertain global environment, emphasizing a focus on long-term sustainable growth [17][34] - The outlook for fiscal 2026 has been raised, expecting constant currency revenues to increase high single to low double digits, up from a previous estimate of 5%-7% [29][31] - Management remains cautious about the North American operating environment due to ongoing consolidation in the wholesale channel [30] Other Important Information - The company launched the AI-powered digital shopping assistant "Ask Ralph," which is expected to enhance customer engagement and provide valuable first-party data [15][74] - The company was recognized as one of America's Best Companies by Forbes, and Ralph Lauren received the CFDA's 2025 American Womenswear Designer of the Year award [16] Q&A Session Summary Question: How to sustain long-term brand momentum with increased marketing budget? - Management emphasized the importance of cultural moments and experiences in attracting consumers, alongside consistent execution across all business aspects [39][41] Question: Drivers of raised outlook for Q4 and trends in North America and Europe? - Management noted continued global momentum and solid growth in North America, despite some moderation expected in Q4 due to timing of wholesale receipts and strategic reductions in off-price sales [43][44] Question: Drivers of AUR increase and any signs of price resistance? - Management highlighted that AUR growth was driven by reduced promotional activity and strong full-price demand, with no signs of price resistance from core customers [49][51] Question: Performance of full-price stores versus outlets in Europe? - Management confirmed that full-price stores led growth, while strategic pullbacks in outlet promotions were made to enhance long-term brand health [57][61] Question: Margin outlook for Q4 and impact of tariffs? - Management indicated that operating margin contraction in Q4 is primarily due to tariffs and timing of marketing campaigns, with expectations for continued AUR growth [81][33]