Companies and Brands

Ralph Lauren Wins Big on Earnings

Ralph Lauren Corp. (NYSE: RL) reported its most recent quarterly earnings before the markets opened on Tuesday. The company posted $1.11 in earnings per share (EPS) and $1.35 billion in revenue, compared with consensus estimates that called for $0.94 in EPS and revenue of $1.34 billion. In the fiscal first-quarter of last year, it posted EPS of $1.06 and $1.55 billion in revenue.

As for the company’s business segments, Ralph Lauren reported as follows:

  • North America revenue in the first quarter decreased 17% to $710 million. The decline was due to lower sales in both the retail and wholesale channels.
  • Europe revenue in the first quarter decreased 14% to $323 million on a reported basis and 10% in constant currency. The decline was primarily driven by shifts in timing of shipments in wholesale
  • Asia revenue in the first quarter decreased 1% on a reported basis to $209 million and increased 1% in constant currency. Comparable store sales increased 2% in constant currency driven by higher traffic.

In terms of the outlook for the fiscal second quarter, the company expects to see net revenue down 9% to 10% and operating margin is expected to be up 40 to 60 basis points, excluding foreign currency impacts.

Consensus estimates call for $1.54 in EPS and $1.6 billion in revenue for the current quarter.

Ralph Lauren cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments totaled $1.57 billion at the end of the quarter, up from with $1.08 billion in the same period last year.

Patrice Louvet, president and CEO, commented:

While we are addressing challenges in our business, we have significant opportunity ahead and we’re moving forward with urgency. Ralph and I are focused on actively evolving the brand expression and consumer experience so we can ultimately renew growth and get back to leading. We are continuing to build a strong foundation for future growth, as evidenced by our progress this quarter on the key elements of the Way Forward plan.

Shares of Ralph Lauren trade up 8.2% to $84.59 early Tuesday. The consensus analyst price target is $75.00 and the 52-week range is $66.06 to $114.00.

Sponsored: Want to Retire Early? Here’s a Great First Step

Want retirement to come a few years earlier than you’d planned? Or are you ready to retire now, but want an extra set of eyes on your finances?

Now you can speak with up to 3 financial experts in your area for FREE. By simply clicking here you can begin to match with financial professionals who can help you build your plan to retire early. And the best part? The first conversation with them is free.

Click here to match with up to 3 financial pros who would be excited to help you make financial decisions.

Thank you for reading! Have some feedback for us?
Contact the 24/7 Wall St. editorial team.