Skechers(US:SKX)2025-04-25 01:34Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company achieved record first-quarter sales of $2.41 billion, a 7.1% increase year-over-year, and $2.46 billion on a constant currency basis, up 9% [8][27] - Earnings per share were $1.34, essentially flat compared to the prior year [34] - Gross margin was 52%, down 50 basis points from the previous year, primarily due to lower average selling prices from higher promotions in certain markets [31] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Direct-to-consumer sales grew 6% year-over-year to $879.4 million, with domestic growth of 11% driven by strong e-commerce performance [27][17] - Wholesale sales increased 7.8% year-over-year to $1.53 billion, with international sales up 9.5% [28][16] - The company ended the quarter with 5,318 Skechers stores worldwide, including 1,821 company-owned locations [18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Domestic and international sales both increased by 7%, with EMEA growing 14% and The Americas growing 8.3% [9][14] - In the Asia Pacific region, sales decreased by 2.6%, primarily due to soft consumer spending in China, but grew 12% when excluding China [10][30] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company views international markets as its primary growth engine, investing in retail store networks and enhancing distribution efficiencies [10][21] - Skechers aims to expand its distribution centers in the U.S., China, and Europe to manage expected growth and improve delivery efficiency [20][21] - The company is focused on evolving and innovating its footwear to meet consumer needs and drive demand globally [21][42] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged increasing macroeconomic uncertainty and waning consumer sentiment but expressed confidence in navigating these challenges [9][26] - The company remains committed to its strategic plan and believes it is well-positioned to thrive despite current market dynamics [26][42] - Management did not provide specific revenue or earnings guidance due to the dynamic environment but remains optimistic about growth opportunities [39][38] Other Important Information - Inventory increased by 30% year-over-year to $1.77 billion, primarily due to elongated transit times, but decreased by 7.6% compared to the prior quarter [35][36] - Capital expenditures for the quarter were $147.1 million, focusing on distribution infrastructure and new store openings [36] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you discuss the company's production in China and tariff strategies? - Management emphasized that they are looking at sourcing optimization, vendor cost sharing, and pricing adjustments to manage tariffs, with two-thirds of the business being outside the U.S. [49][51] Question: What markets are experiencing notable volatility? - The U.S. and China are noted as presenting the most uncertainty, with robust consumer demand for Skechers products remaining strong in most other markets [60][62] Question: How do you view the potential for price increases in response to tariffs? - Management indicated that pricing is being considered but will depend on consumer receptiveness and the overall impact on the business [78][80] Question: What is the company's approach to inventory management amidst tariff changes? - The company is managing inventory closely, with a focus on minimizing at-risk inventory and ensuring high fidelity to delivery [97][99] Question: Are there specific products that are currently made in China and not in Vietnam? - Management noted that most kids' footwear is produced in China due to quality and cost considerations, but they have the ability to back up production in multiple locations [145]