BJ’s Wholesale Club (BJ) - 2026 Q2 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net sales for Q2 were approximately $5.3 billion, growing 3.2% year over year [21] - Comparable club sales, including gas, decreased 0.3% year over year, while merchandise comp sales, excluding gas, increased by 2.3% year over year [22] - Adjusted EBITDA grew approximately 8% year over year to $303.9 million, reflecting strong top-line growth and increased merchandise margins [27] - Adjusted earnings per share for Q2 were $1.14, an increase of 4.6% year over year [28] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The perishables grocery and sundries division saw a comp growth of 3%, driven by strong performance in dairy, meat, and fresh produce [6][8] - The general merchandise and services division experienced a decline of 2.2% in comp sales, impacted by weather and macroeconomic factors [9][22] - Digital sales grew 34% year over year, with over 90% of digital sales fulfilled by clubs [23] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The membership base reached 8 million, representing a 55% growth since the IPO seven years ago [6][12] - Higher tier membership penetration improved by 50 basis points to an all-time high of 41% [12][49] - Comp gallons in the gas business were flat year over year, significantly outperforming the industry [26] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on enhancing member loyalty, improving the shopping experience, and expanding its footprint [11][34] - Investments in the Fresh 2.0 initiative are driving significant improvements in perishables and are being applied to meat and seafood categories [13][90] - The company plans to open 25 to 30 new clubs over the next two years, with a strong pipeline for future openings [17][31] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that the macroeconomic environment remains uncertain, but the company is well-positioned to navigate challenges [19][31] - Consumer behavior has shifted, with increased caution among members across all income levels, but total spending has increased [10][60] - The company remains confident in its ability to deliver sustained growth despite external pressures [31][32] Other Important Information - Membership fee income grew 9% to approximately $123.3 million, benefiting from strong acquisition and retention [24] - Inventory levels decreased by about 2% year over year, with improved in-stock levels [28][29] - The company is maintaining a disciplined approach to capital allocation, focusing on investments that drive long-term value [30] Q&A Session Summary Question: How did the second quarter play out, and what are the expectations for the back half? - Management noted that the quarter strengthened as weather improved, with May being weak but June and July showing better performance [39][40] Question: What is the profile of new members and expectations for membership fee income? - The company is pleased with membership growth, reaching 8 million members, and high renewal rates contribute to membership fee income growth [48][49] Question: What insights can be shared about changes in consumer behavior? - Management observed a resilient consumer but noted increased caution and a focus on value across all income cohorts [58][60] Question: How is the general merchandise outlook for the back half of the year? - The general merchandise team is preparing for the back half, managing inventory cautiously while remaining aggressive in pricing [94][96] Question: Is the company being more cautious in inventory ordering for the back half? - Management confirmed a cautious approach in discretionary categories due to potential inflation impacts, while still aiming to provide value [100][104]