American Eagle Outfitters Inc. turned in revenue positive aspects for the fourth quarter, however — like different retailers — tiptoed into the brand new fiscal yr amid slower shopper demand.
Web revenue for the fourth quarter jumped to $104.3 million, or 54 cents a diluted share, from $6.3 million, or 3 cents, a yr earlier, when $131 million impairment and restructuring expenses dragged down outcomes.
Earnings per share for the quarter got here in 3 cents forward of the 51 cents analysts forecast, in line with Yahoo Finance.
And revenues for the three months ended Feb. 1 slipped 4.4 p.c to $1.6 billion from $1.7 billion a yr earlier, with an additional week within the year-ago interval skewing outcomes.
On a comparable foundation, which elements out that week, gross sales rose 3 p.c, constructing on 8 p.c comp progress a yr earlier. That bump-up for the quarter included a 6 p.c comp improve from the Aerie division and a 1 p.c comp achieve on the American Eagle enterprise.
Jay Schottenstein, the corporate’s govt chairman and chief govt officer, mentioned the corporate has been making headway on its Powering Worthwhile Progress strategic plan.
“The group delivered sturdy working revenue progress with constructive momentum throughout our manufacturers and channels in addition to disciplined expense administration and working efficiencies,” Schottenstein mentioned in an announcement.
For the complete yr, AEO’s revenues elevated 1.3 p.c to $5.33 billion from $5.26 billion.
However this yr, the corporate is in search of a low-single digit decline on the highest line.
“Coming into 2025, the primary quarter is off to a slower begin than anticipated, reflecting much less strong demand and colder climate,” Schottenstein mentioned. “Whereas we anticipate enchancment because the spring season will get underway, we’re additionally taking proactive steps to strengthen the highest line, handle stock and cut back bills. As we navigate by way of an unsure shopper and working panorama, we may even stay centered on our long-term strategic priorities.”
On Wall Road — the place merchants are nonetheless making an attempt to gauge the patron temper, the financial outlook and the impression of President Donald Trump’s commerce wars — traders have been cautious.
Shares of AEO fell 4.9 p.c to $10.89 in after-hours buying and selling on Wednesday.
