Carter’s(US:CRI)2025-07-25 13:30Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Sales in Q2 2025 were $585 million, representing a 4% increase compared to the previous year [13][22] - Adjusted operating income for Q2 was $12 million, with an adjusted operating margin of 2% [21][22] - Earnings per share were $0.17 in Q2, down from $0.76 in the same quarter last year [22] - Gross margin in Q2 was 48.1%, a decrease of 200 basis points from the previous year [16][22] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - U.S. Retail sales grew by $9 million, while International sales increased by $11 million in Q2 [23] - U.S. Wholesale sales were comparable to the previous year, with a 14% adjusted operating margin [29] - Baby apparel, the largest segment, saw double-digit sales growth in Q2, continuing a trend from previous quarters [25][26] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - International segment showed strong performance with sales growth across all components, particularly in Canada (+8% comp) and Mexico (+19% comp) [30][31] - The company experienced a higher mix of excess inventory sales to the off-price channel, impacting profitability [29] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to return to long-term sustainable and profitable growth by focusing on its iconic brands and improving product development processes [5][35] - A new fleet segmentation strategy is being implemented to enhance consumer connectivity and optimize store assortments [61] - The company is diversifying its sourcing footprint to mitigate tariff impacts and is prepared to raise prices as necessary [39][40] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged the challenges posed by tariffs and inflation but expressed confidence in the company's ability to navigate these issues [7][8] - The company is optimistic about the second half of 2025, with early indicators of positive sales trends and improved inventory positions [27][42] - Key risks include potential additional tariffs and consumer response to price increases [43] Other Important Information - The company has a strong balance sheet with good liquidity and cash on hand, projecting positive operating and free cash flow for the full year [33][34] - Significant investments are being made in demand creation and marketing to drive growth [96] Q&A Session Summary Question: Sales growth opportunity and EBIT margin expectations - Management refrained from providing specific sales growth or EBIT margin targets but expressed confidence in returning to profitable growth [68][69] Question: Impact of tariffs and potential offsets - The most meaningful opportunity to offset tariff impacts is through price increases, alongside sharing costs with wholesale partners [70][72] Question: U.S. Retail strategy and store closures - The company is evaluating store closures as leases expire, with a focus on improving productivity in the existing store fleet [79][84] Question: Pricing strategy and consumer response - Price increases have begun in the wholesale channel, with positive consumer response noted for higher-priced products with added features [86][89]