Burlington Stores(BURL)2025-05-29 13:32Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total sales grew by 6% compared to 11% growth last year, while comparable store sales were flat, following 2% growth last year [8][29] - EBIT margin increased by 30 basis points, and adjusted EPS was up 18% over last year despite flat comparable sales [10][29] - Gross margin rate for Q1 was 43.8%, an increase of 30 basis points year-over-year, driven by a 20 basis point increase in merchandise margin [27] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company experienced a flat comp sales trend across all demographic trade areas, indicating a broad-based slowdown [18][68] - Reserve inventory was up 31% compared to last year, reflecting strong purchasing ahead of tariffs [30][76] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company noted a deceleration in comp sales from Q4 to Q1, with concerns about macroeconomic indicators and potential recession risks [19][84] - The Southeast region outperformed the chain, while the Midwest region trailed due to unfavorable weather [96] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on its "Burlington Two Point O" strategy, emphasizing merchandising capabilities and store experience improvements [23][107] - Plans to open 100 net new stores in 2025, with a significant portion expected to open in the latter half of the year [34][116] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed caution regarding the impact of tariffs and the state of the consumer, highlighting the need for flexibility in operations [13][20] - The company is prepared to navigate potential challenges and believes it can emerge stronger from the current environment [17][37] Other Important Information - The company has a new $500 million share repurchase authorization approved by the Board of Directors [30] - Total liquidity at the end of the quarter was approximately $1.1 billion, consisting of cash and availability on the ABL [30] Q&A Session Summary Question: Impact of tariffs on off-price retail - Management indicated that disruption from tariffs could create both risks and opportunities for off-price retailers, depending on the situation [40][46] Question: Monthly comp sales trend in Q1 - Comp sales were down about 2% in February, improved in March, and were flat in April, with May showing similar trends [58][60] Question: Comp performance by demographic - Lower income trade areas outperformed the rest of the chain, while Hispanic consumer trends remained stable [68][72] Question: Freight costs and guidance - Guidance is contingent on holding ocean freight costs to contracted rates, with potential risks from spot market exposure [90][93] Question: Store openings and layout - The company expects 25% of new stores to open in the first half of 2025, with the majority in the third quarter, including newly acquired Joann's locations [116]