Release Date: November 07, 2024
For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript.
Positive Points
- Canada Goose Holdings Inc (GOOS, Financial) has made significant progress in simplifying operations and advancing retail execution, positioning well for the peak selling season.
- The company has launched a new collection that reflects both its heritage and future direction, aiming to drive brand momentum.
- The Spring Summer 24 collection was positively received, indicating a significant market opportunity for a full-year assortment.
- The company has expanded its product categories, including plans to launch an eyewear collection in partnership with Marshawn Eyewear in Spring 2025.
- Canada Goose Holdings Inc (GOOS) has successfully reduced inventory levels, marking the fourth consecutive quarter of decreasing year-over-year inventory balance.
Negative Points
- DTC comparable sales revenue declined by 13% year-over-year, with performance in Asia Pacific and North America weighing on overall results.
- Store traffic and conversion rates declined year-over-year, and e-commerce saw increased sessions but lower conversion rates.
- The company experienced a 5% year-over-year decline in Q2 revenue, attributed to a decrease in DTC and planned lower wholesale revenue.
- Gross profit decreased by 9% year-over-year, with gross margin declining by 260 basis points due to a higher proportion of non-heavyweight down revenue.
- The company has introduced a lower range to its full-year fiscal 2025 guidance, reflecting weakening consumer sentiment and first-half performance.
Q & A Highlights
Q: Can you discuss the strategy for expanding into non-seasonal apparel and how you envision the product mix evolving over the next 3 to 5 years?
A: Dani Reiss, CEO, emphasized the brand's strong position and the ongoing evolution of their product line. He highlighted the new design studio in Paris and the upcoming addition of a merchandiser to drive product expansion. Beth Clymer, President of Finance, Strategy & Administration, added that while specific long-term guidance is not provided, the themes of geographic and retail expansion, as well as growth in non-heavyweight down categories, remain central to their strategy.
Q: How should we think about the shift in marketing dollars and its impact on SG&A expenses? Are there any stores under consideration for closure?
A: Neil Bowden, CFO, stated that marketing spend will be slightly up year-over-year, with a focus on the second half to support key launches. He confirmed that no stores are currently under consideration for closure, as the focus is on maximizing productivity and profitability across all locations.
Q: What are the plans to improve comparable sales for the remainder of the year, particularly in North America?
A: Carrie Baker, President, outlined efforts to ensure stores are well-stocked and staffed, with a focus on training and optimizing labor. She noted that while North America is taking longer to show improvement, the same strategies applied in other regions are being implemented. Neil Bowden added that there is confidence in consumer resilience, particularly in China, which is showing positive momentum.
Q: Can you provide more insight into the Chinese market and consumer behavior?
A: Neil Bowden mentioned that while the macro environment in China is challenging, the brand continues to resonate well with Chinese consumers globally. Recent events like Golden Week and Singles Day have shown positive momentum, and there is confidence in the long-term demand for Canada Goose products in China. Carrie Baker added that growth in wholesale and travel retail also supports their confidence in the region.
Q: What are the priorities for the new head of merchandising, and how will you balance new product innovation with evergreen items?
A: Carrie Baker explained that the new head of merchandising will work closely with the creative team to broaden the assortment while focusing on best sellers and icons. The goal is to maintain a clear and distinctive product offering that aligns with consumer demand and the brand's DNA of protection, performance, and style.
For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript.
