Costco(US:COST)2025-09-25 22:02Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net sales for Q4 fiscal year 2025 reached $84.43 billion, an increase of 8% from $78.18 billion in the same quarter last year [12] - Net income for Q4 was $2.61 billion, or $5.87 per diluted share, up 11% from $2.35 billion, or $5.29 per diluted share in the previous year [12] - Membership fee income increased to $1.72 billion, a growth of 14% year over year [14] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - E-commerce sales exceeded $19.6 billion, increasing over 15% [7] - Comparable sales were up 5.7%, or 6.4% adjusted for gas deflation and foreign exchange [12] - Gross margin for Q4 was reported at 11.13%, up 13 basis points year over year [17] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Traffic or shopping frequency increased by 3.7% worldwide [13] - The average transaction or ticket was up 1.9% worldwide, adjusted for gas deflation and FX [14] - The U.S. and Canada renewal rate was 92.3%, while the worldwide rate was 89.8% [15] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company plans to open 35 new warehouses in fiscal year 2026, indicating continued expansion both domestically and internationally [5] - There is a focus on increasing Kirkland Signature product sourcing in the regions where items are sold to lower costs and reduce emissions [8] - The company aims to enhance member experience through improved checkout technology and digital enhancements [9] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in growing market share despite macroeconomic uncertainties [11] - The company is optimistic about the membership base growth, particularly among younger members [40] - Management noted that the membership renewal rate is expected to decline slightly due to a higher number of online sign-ups [41] Other Important Information - Capital expenditure for Q4 was approximately $1.97 billion, with a total of under $5.5 billion for the full year [20] - The company celebrated milestones such as the 40th anniversary of its $1.50 hot dog and soda combo [7] - Inflation remained in the low to mid-single digit range, with specific commodities experiencing varying inflation rates [25] Q&A Session Summary Question: Awareness of extended member hours and potential comp lift - Management indicated that communication about extended hours has been effective, with a 1% comp lift observed [32][33] Question: Membership renewal rate expectations - Management acknowledged that the renewal rate may continue to decline due to a higher number of online sign-ups but remains optimistic about overall membership growth [38][40] Question: Core margins and price increases - Management reported a 29 basis point increase in core margins, with improvements across all main categories [45][47] Question: Sustainability of membership fee income growth - Management expressed confidence in continued growth opportunities for membership income, driven by new warehouse openings and younger member engagement [56][57] Question: E-commerce and grocery demand - Management noted strong growth in Instacart-driven traffic and emphasized the importance of fresh foods in meeting online grocery demand [66][68]