VF(VFC) - 2026 FY - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is targeting a 10% operating margin by fiscal 2028 and is trending on plan towards that goal [15] - There has been a decline in revenue, which implies modest revenue growth is needed to return to baseline levels [18] - The company is confident in its ability to offset tariffs by fiscal 2027, with a plan in place to mitigate approximately $60 million in tariff impacts this fiscal year [40][41] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company has seen 70% of its portfolio back to growth, excluding the Dickies business [11] - The North Face brand is underdeveloped in the U.S. compared to Europe and APAC, indicating significant growth opportunities [28] - Vans is undergoing a turnaround with new product launches and marketing strategies, although financial outcomes have yet to fully reflect these changes [21][24] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The consumer environment is showing mixed signals, with some negative commentary from medium and lower-end consumers, while the U.S. consumer remains "stubbornly positive" overall [12][13] - The company is focusing on the U.S. market for direct-to-consumer sales, which constitutes 70% of its business [25] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to create a multi-brand organization that leverages best-in-class processes across its brands [5] - There is a strong emphasis on improving operational efficiencies and reducing SG&A costs while maintaining a focus on growth [15][41] - The company is committed to elevating its brands, particularly Timberland and The North Face, to capture more market share and expand product offerings [32][30] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expresses excitement about the business's potential and the ongoing turnaround efforts, particularly in Vans and Timberland [44][46] - There is a focus on long-term consistent growth rather than short-term fluctuations, with a desire for a steady upward trajectory over the next three to five years [26] Other Important Information - The company is implementing Integrated Business Planning to improve inventory management and reduce markdowns, aiming to use promotions strategically rather than as a regular practice [41] - The company is exploring opportunities to expand its Timberland store footprint in the U.S., which currently has only eight full-price stores [34][36] Q&A Session All Questions and Answers Question: What is the company's strategy for offsetting tariffs by fiscal 2027? - The company has a pricing plan in place and is working with supplier partners to offset tariffs, expecting to be on a run rate to offset all tariffs by fiscal 2027 [39][40] Question: How does the company plan to drive favorable promotions? - The company aims to minimize markdowns and use promotions strategically during key moments, correcting its previous reliance on promotions [41] Question: What is the outlook for cash flow and deleveraging the balance sheet? - The company is confident in its free cash flow growth and plans to continue improving operating income, which will aid in deleveraging the balance sheet [42][43]