Kohl’s(KSS) - 2025 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net sales declined by 9.4% in Q4 and 7.2% for the year, with comparable sales decreasing by 6.7% in Q4 and 6.5% for the year [24][30] - Gross margin in Q4 was 32.9%, an increase of 49 basis points, while for the full fiscal year 2024, gross margin increased by 50 basis points to 37.2% [30][31] - Adjusted net income for Q4 was $106 million, with adjusted earnings per diluted share at $0.95, while for the year, adjusted net income was $167 million and adjusted earnings per diluted share was $1.50 [33] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Sephora continued to be a strong sales driver with comparable beauty sales increasing by 13%, an acceleration from Q3 [27] - The accessories business, excluding Sephora, had flat comparable sales for the quarter, driven by strong performance in fashion and bridge jewelry [28] - The apparel business saw notable comparable sales improvement as proprietary brand inventory was rebuilt throughout the quarter [29] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Digital sales experienced a decline of 13.4% in Q4 and 8.7% for the year, primarily due to softness in the home category and online inventory suppression issues [26] - Store comparable sales declined by 3.1% in Q4 and were down 5.6% for the year, although store sales benefited from strong average transaction value [24][25] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to offer a curated, balanced assortment that fulfills needs across all customers, reestablish itself as a leader in value and quality, and enhance the omnichannel platform for a frictionless shopping experience [11][12][18] - The focus will be on proprietary brands that resonate with core loyal customers, while also introducing new products to drive productivity [15][16] - The company plans to simplify promotions and clarify value messaging to improve the shopping experience [17][18] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledges that the turnaround will take time, with actions in 2025 marking the initial phase of improvement [11][22] - The macro environment presents challenges, particularly for customers with lower income levels, who are seeking value [60][61] - Management is optimistic about the company's potential, citing a strong foundation and a dedicated associate base focused on customer service [21][44] Other Important Information - The company announced the closure of 27 underperforming stores and one e-commerce fulfillment center, resulting in a one-time charge of $76 million [33] - Capital expenditures for 2025 are expected to be in the range of $400 million to $425 million, focusing on Sephora rollout and omnichannel enhancements [39] Q&A Session Summary Question: Assessment of merchandising strategy and confidence in returning to growth - Management sees significant opportunity in product offerings, value, and quality, with a loyal customer base that can be better served [42][43] Question: Implications for margins with quality elevation of private brands - The focus will be on balancing proprietary and national brands, with an emphasis on improving inventory allocation and promotional strategies [48][49] Question: Store base evaluation and merchandise assortment mix - The majority of stores are profitable, and management is focused on reallocating space effectively to enhance customer experience [54][55] Question: Consumer health level in guidance - The guidance reflects uncertainty in the macro environment and the time needed for necessary changes [100] Question: Initiatives prioritization and free cash flow modeling - Short-term tactical moves are prioritized, with longer-term strategies still in development [68][71]