Carter’s(US:CRI)2025-04-25 13:30Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported net sales of $630 million in Q1 2025, down 5% from the previous year [17] - Adjusted operating income was $35 million, representing an adjusted operating margin of 5.6%, with adjusted EPS at $0.66 compared to $1.40 in Q1 2024 [18][21] - Gross margin declined to 46.2%, a decrease of 140 basis points year-over-year, primarily due to pricing investments in U.S. Retail and negative foreign exchange impacts [18][19] Business Segment Data and Key Metrics Changes - U.S. Retail net sales declined 4%, with comparable sales down about 5%, although March showed significant improvement [23][27] - U.S. Wholesale sales also decreased by 5%, with operating margin at 22.1%, down from 24% a year ago [28] - International segment sales fell 5%, impacted by unfavorable foreign currency exchange rates, but showed strong comparable sales growth in Canada and Mexico [30] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company faced a tumultuous market backdrop due to proposed record tariffs, leading to concerns about inflation and consumer confidence [12][13] - The pricing investments in U.S. Retail were approximately $12 million for Q1, with plans to maintain a total of $20 million for the first half of the year [24] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The new CEO emphasized a focus on sustainable, long-term growth rather than short-term sales boosts through discounts [5][6] - The company is suspending forward-looking guidance due to leadership transition and economic uncertainty related to tariffs [8][41] - A clear strategy is being developed to return the brand to accretive growth, with a focus on financial efficiency and product quality [9][11] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged the challenges posed by the current tariff situation and its impact on financial forecasting [9][41] - The leadership team is optimistic about the company's long-term prospects despite current market challenges [41] Other Important Information - The company has a solid balance sheet with total liquidity exceeding $1 billion and cash on hand of over $300 million [31] - Capital expenditures were $10 million, primarily for new stores and distribution network improvements [32] Q&A Session Summary Question: Initial thoughts on the business and opportunities for financial performance improvement - The new CEO expressed optimism about the brand's strength and market distribution, looking forward to sharing a revised strategy [44] Question: Clarification on estimated annual effective tariff rates - Management clarified that the tariff rates presented were hypothetical and based on proposed reciprocal tariffs, which would significantly increase product costs if implemented [46] Question: Potential for reducing reliance on China for production - Management indicated that while reliance on China has decreased significantly, some production, particularly for accessories, remains [52] Question: Timing of tariff-impacted goods hitting shelves and mitigation efforts - The first imports subject to tariffs are expected around May, but existing inventory provides some buffer [56] Question: Visibility on other costs such as cotton, freight, and labor - Cotton prices are favorable, while labor costs are expected to see some inflation, and transportation costs are manageable due to successful renegotiations [80][83]