Bath & Body Works(BBWI) - 2026 Q1 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported net sales of $1.4 billion, an increase of 2.9% compared to the prior year, marking the strongest underlying sales performance since 2021 [25][14] - Earnings per diluted share were$ 0.49, exceeding the high end of the guidance range [14] - Gross profit rate was 45.4%, an increase of 160 basis points year-over-year, driven by a 100 basis point improvement in merchandise margin [27][28] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Body care grew low single digits, driven by the success of the Disney Princess line and the expansion of the everyday luxuries line [18][20] - Home fragrance also grew low single digits, with strong performance from single wick candles and wallflowers [18] - Soaps and sanitizers grew mid single digits, supported by on-the-go products [19] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - U.S. and Canadian store net sales totaled $1.1 billion, an increase of 4.3% versus the prior year [26] - Direct net sales were$ 250 million, a decrease of 4.3% compared to last year, but adjusted for Buy Online Pickup in Store (BOPIS), direct sales outperformed store sales [26] - International sales, representing about 5% of total net sales, grew approximately 10.1% to $64 million [27] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to transform Bath and Body Works by focusing on consumer-centric strategies, enhancing digital capabilities, and exploring new distribution channels [7][10] - International expansion is a key pillar of the long-term strategy, with plans for at least 30 new store openings in 2025 [29][11] - The company is committed to fewer, bolder priorities to accelerate growth through consistent and repeatable drivers [49] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the ability to absorb current tariff levels and maintain guidance for net sales growth of 1% to 3% for the full year [30][31] - The leadership team is optimistic about the innovation pipeline for the second half of the year, including new product launches and collaborations [46][71] - The company is focused on enhancing customer engagement through its loyalty program, which has approximately 39 million active members [21][22] Other Important Information - The company plans to invest$ 250 million to $270 million in capital expenditures during the year, focusing on real estate and technology [33] - The loyalty program has been enhanced to increase reward redemption options, aiming to drive higher engagement and sales [22] Q&A Session Summary Question: What attracted you to Bath and Body Works? - The CEO highlighted the emotional connection consumers have with the brand and the strong foundation of the business, including a dedicated workforce and a vertically integrated supply chain [40][41] Question: Can you elaborate on the go-forward top line commentary? - Management noted that Disney was a key driver of sales growth and expressed confidence in upcoming product launches, including Father's Day promotions [44][46] Question: What are the long-term growth rates for body care and home fragrance? - Management expects body care to grow above low single digits over time, while home fragrance is currently facing market pressures but is still growing [66][67] Question: How do you view pricing strategy in light of tariffs? - The company plans to remain agile with pricing, ensuring that it meets customer expectations while maintaining value [100] Question: What are the plans for international expansion? - The CEO emphasized the importance of selecting priority markets and matching them with appropriate business models for growth [101][102]