VF(US:VFC)2025-10-28 13:02Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total revenue increased by 2% in reported dollars but decreased by 1% in constant dollars, showing an improving trend compared to the previous quarter [6][19] - Operating income reached $330 million, exceeding guidance of $260 million - $290 million [6][19] - Net debt, excluding lease liabilities, decreased by $1.5 billion year-over-year, representing a 27% reduction [6][23] - Adjusted earnings per share was $0.52, down from $0.60 in the same quarter last year [22] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The North Face revenue grew by 4%, with growth in both wholesale and direct-to-consumer channels [8][19] - Timberland also saw a 4% revenue increase, driven by strong demand in the Americas [10][19] - Altra experienced significant growth, with revenue up over 35% year-over-year [12] - Vans revenue declined by 11%, impacted by channel rationalization actions [14][19] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Americas region revenue was down 1%, EMEA was flat, and APAC decreased by 2% [19] - Direct-to-consumer sales were down 2%, while wholesale remained flat [20] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on returning to growth and has made progress in its turnaround strategy, with 65% of its business by revenue growing [6][7] - Plans to divest the Dickies brand for $600 million to pay down debt and focus on core brands [8][17] - Emphasis on product innovation and marketing strategies to drive brand engagement and growth across all brands [9][10][12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged the uncertain global environment but expressed confidence in the company's strategy and ability to execute [5][26] - The company expects Q3 revenue to decline by 1% to 3% in constant dollars, but remains optimistic about the holiday season [23][26] - Management highlighted the importance of maintaining a lower promotional environment while preparing for price increases in Q4 [46][48] Other Important Information - Free cash flow through Q2 was -$453 million, consistent with expectations due to seasonal working capital needs [22] - The company is on track to achieve medium-term targets of $500 million - $600 million in operating income expansion by fiscal 2028 [25] Q&A Session Summary Question: Path back to growth for Vans - Management indicated that increasing new product offerings and enhancing marketing strategies are key to returning Vans to growth, with expectations of improved performance as new products are introduced [30][32] Question: Gross margins and cost discipline - Management noted that gross margins were impacted by FX and lower promotions, but overall cost discipline initiatives are on track [38][41] Question: Promotional recapture and pricing plans - Management confirmed that they are well on track with promotional recapture and expect to operate in a lower promotional environment moving forward [46][48] Question: Performance in Asia - Management acknowledged a stabilizing period in APAC, particularly in China, but remains optimistic about growth opportunities in other regions [57][60] Question: Debt deleveraging strategy - Management expressed confidence in achieving a leverage ratio of 2.5 times or below by 2028, focusing on fundamental improvements and growing EBITDA [121]