ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
Our business is subject to a variety of risks which might have a material impact on our business. You should carefully consider the risks and uncertainties described below and the other information in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, including our Consolidated Financial Statements and the notes to those statements. The risks and uncertainties described below are not the only ones we face. Additional risks and uncertainties that we do not presently know about or that we currently consider immaterial may also affect our business operations and financial performance. If any of the events described below occur, our business, financial condition, cash flows or results of operations could be adversely affected in a material way. This could cause the trading price of our stock to decline, perhaps significantly, and you may lose part or all of your investment.
Competitive, Demand-Related and Reputational Risks
Consumer spending is affected by poor and/or volatile economic conditions and other factors and may significantly harm our business, affecting our financial condition, liquidity, and results of operations.
The success of our business depends to a significant extent upon the level of consumer spending in general and on our product categories. A number of factors may affect the level of consumer spending on merchandise that we offer, including, among other things:
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general economic and industry conditions, including the risks associated with recessions or other macroeconomic conditions and pressures such as inflationary impacts and supply chain challenges;
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weather conditions;
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energy costs, which affect gasoline and home heating prices;
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the level of consumer debt;
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pricing of products, including the impact of tariffs;
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interest rates;
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inflation;
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infectious diseases;
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tax rates, refunds and policies;
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war, terrorism and other geopolitical hostilities; and
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consumer confidence in future economic conditions.
Adverse economic conditions and any related decrease in consumer demand for discretionary items could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition. We sell generally discretionary items. Reduced consumer confidence and spending may result in reduced demand for discretionary items and may force us to take inventory markdowns, which may decrease sales and make expense leverage difficult to achieve. In addition, inflationary cost pressure on the products we sell might limit our ability to pass on cost increases resulting in gross margin impact or reduced demand. Demand can also be influenced by other factors beyond our control.
Moreover, while we believe that our operating cash flows and borrowing capacity under committed lines of credit will be adequate for our anticipated cash requirements, if the economy were to experience a downturn, if one or more of our revolving credit banks were to fail to honor its commitments under our credit lines or if we were unable to draw on our credit lines for any reason, we could be required to modify our operations for decreased cash flow or to seek alternative sources of liquidity, and such alternative sources might not be available to us on favorable terms, if at all. These same factors could impact our wholesale customers, limiting their ability to buy or pay for merchandise offered by us.
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A failure to increase sales at our existing stores, given our high fixed expense cost structure, and in our e-commerce businesses or an inability to reduce costs may adversely affect our results of operations which may adversely impact our stock price.
A number of factors have historically affected, and will continue to affect, our comparable sales results and gross margin, including:
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consumer trends, such as less disposable income due to the impact of economic conditions, tax policies and other factors;
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the lack of new fashion trends to drive demand in certain of our businesses and the ability of those businesses to adjust to changes in fashion trends on a timely basis;
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closing of department stores that anchor malls or a significant number of non-anchor mall formats;
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competition;
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declining mall traffic due to changing customer preferences in the way they shop;
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timing of holidays, including sales tax holidays and the timing of tax refunds;
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general regional and national economic conditions;
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inclement weather;
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new merchandise introductions and changes in our merchandise mix;
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our ability to distribute merchandise efficiently to our stores;
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timing and type of sales events, promotional activities or other advertising;
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our ability to adapt to changing customer e-commerce preferences;
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access to allocated product from our vendors;
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our ability to realize anticipated cost reductions;
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our ability to execute our business strategy effectively; and
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other external events beyond our control.
Our comparable sales have fluctuated in the past, including the composition of our comparable sales between store and digital, and we believe such fluctuations may continue. The unpredictability of our comparable sales may cause our revenue and results of operations to vary from quarter to quarter, and an unanticipated change in revenues or operating income may cause our stock price to fluctuate significantly.
Failure to protect our reputation could have a material adverse effect on our brand names.
Our success depends in part on the value and strength of the names of our business units. These names are integral to our businesses as well as to the implementation of our strategies for expanding our businesses. Maintaining, promoting, and positioning our brands will depend largely on the success of our marketing and merchandising efforts and our ability to provide high quality merchandise and a consistent, high quality customer experience. Our brands could be adversely affected if we fail to achieve these objectives or if our public image or reputation were to be tarnished by negative publicity or if adverse information concerning us is posted on social media platforms or similar mediums. Failure to comply, or accusation of failure to comply, with ethical, social, health, product, labor, data privacy, and environmental standards could also jeopardize our reputation and potentially lead to various adverse consumer and employee actions. Any of these events could result in decreased revenue or otherwise adversely affect our business.
Our business involves a degree of risk related to fashion and other extrinsic demand drivers that are beyond our control.
The majority of our businesses serve a fashion-conscious customer base and depend upon the ability of our buyers and merchandisers to react to fashion trends, to purchase inventory that reflects such trends, and to manage our inventories appropriately in view of the potential for sudden changes in fashion, consumer taste, or other drivers of demand. Failure to execute any of these activities successfully could result in adverse consequences, including lower sales, product margins, operating income and cash flows.
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Our future success also depends on our ability to respond to changing consumer preferences, identify and interpret consumer trends, and successfully market new products.
The industry in which we operate is subject to rapidly changing consumer preferences. The continued popularity of our footwear and apparel and the development and selection of new lines and styles of footwear and apparel with widespread consumer appeal, requires us to accurately identify and interpret changing consumer trends and preferences and to effectively respond in a timely manner. Continuing demand and market acceptance for both existing and new products are uncertain and depend on substantial investment in product innovation, design and development, an ongoing commitment to product quality and significant and sustained marketing efforts and expenditures.
In assessing our response to anticipated changing consumer preferences and trends, we frequently must make decisions about product designs and marketing expenditures months in advance of the time when actual consumer acceptance can be determined. As a result, we may not be successful in responding to shifting consumer preferences and trends with new products. If we fail to identify and interpret changing consumer preferences and trends, or are not successful in responding to these changes with the timely development or sourcing of products, we could experience excess inventories and higher than normal markdowns, returns, order cancellations or an inability to profitably sell our products.
Our failure to appropriately address emerging sustainability matters could have a material adverse impact on our reputation and, as a result, our business.
There is uncertainty in the markets in which we operate regarding potential policies related to issues surrounding global environmental sustainability. Changes in the legal or regulatory environment affecting responsible sourcing, supply chain transparency, or environmental protection, among others, including regulations to limit carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions, to discourage the use of plastic or to limit or to impose additional costs on commercial water use may result in increased compliance costs for us and our business partners.
Our results may be adversely affected by declines in consumer traffic in malls.
The majority of our stores are located within shopping malls and depend to varying degrees on consumer traffic in the malls to generate sales. Declines in mall traffic, whether caused by a shift in consumer shopping preferences or by other factors, may negatively impact our ability to maintain or grow our sales in existing stores, which could have an adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations.
Our results of operations are subject to seasonal and quarterly fluctuations.
Our business is seasonal, with a significant portion of our net sales and operating income generated during the fourth quarter, which includes the holiday shopping season. Because of this seasonality, we have limited ability to compensate for shortfalls in fourth quarter sales or earnings by changing our operations or strategies in other quarters. Adverse events outside of our control, such as supply chain interruptions, including shipping disruptions near crucial trade routes, increased labor costs and labor availability, decreased consumer traffic or deteriorating economic conditions could result in lower than expected sales during the holiday shopping season or other periods in which we typically experience higher net sales, which could materially adversely impact our financial condition and results of operations. Our quarterly results of operations also may fluctuate significantly based on other factors such as:
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the timing of any new store openings and renewals;
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the amount of net sales contributed by new and existing stores;
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the timing of certain holidays and sales events;
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changes in quarter end dates due to the 53-week year in Fiscal 2024 versus a 52-week year in Fiscal 2025;
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changes in our merchandise mix;
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weather conditions that affect consumer spending; and
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actions of competitors, including promotional activity.
Changes in the retail industry could have a material adverse effect on our business or financial condition.
In recent years, the retail industry has experienced consolidation, store closures, bankruptcies and other ownership changes. In the future, retailers in the U.S. and in foreign markets may further consolidate, undergo restructurings or reorganizations, or realign their affiliations, any of which could decrease the number of stores that carry our products or our licensees’ products or increase the ownership concentration within the retail industry. Changing shopping patterns, including the rapid expansion of online retail shopping, have adversely affected customer traffic in mall and outlet centers. We expect competition in the e-commerce market will continue to intensify. Growth in e-commerce competition could result in financial difficulties, including store closures, bankruptcies or liquidations for our brick-and-mortar stores and those of our wholesale customers who fail to compete effectively in the e-commerce market. We cannot control the success of individual malls, and an increase in store closures by other retailers may lead to reduced foot traffic, mall vacancies and mall bankruptcies. A continuation or worsening of these trends could cause financial difficulties for one or more of our segments, which, in turn, could substantially increase our credit risk and have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial condition and cash flows.
Our future success will be determined, in part, on our ability to manage the impact of the rapidly changing retail environment and identify and capitalize on retail trends, including technology, enhanced digital capabilities, e-commerce and other process efficiencies that will better service our customers.
Our business is intensely competitive and increased or new competition could have a material adverse effect on us.
The retail footwear and accessory markets are intensely competitive. We currently compete against a diverse group of retailers, including other regional and national specialty stores, department and discount stores, small independents and e-commerce retailers, as well as our own vendors who are increasingly selling direct-to-consumers, which sell products similar to and often identical to those we sell. Our branded businesses, selling footwear at wholesale, also face intense competition, both from other branded wholesale vendors and from private label initiatives of their retailer customers. A number of different competitive factors could have a material adverse effect on our business, including:
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increased operational efficiencies of competitors;
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competitive pricing strategies;
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expansion by existing competitors;
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expansion of direct-to-consumer selling by our vendors;
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entry by new competitors into markets in which we currently operate; and
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adoption by existing retail competitors of innovative store formats or sales methods.
If our online e-commerce sites, or those of our customers, do not function effectively or meet the expectations or preferences of our customers, our business and financial results could be materially adversely affected.
An increasing amount of our products are sold on our e-commerce sites and third-party e-commerce sites. Consumers are also increasingly using mobile-based applications to engage with us and our competitors through digital experiences that are offered on mobile platforms, and we are increasingly using social media to interact with our consumers as a means to enhance their shopping experience. Any failure on our part or on the part of third parties to provide effective, reliable, user-friendly e-commerce platforms that offer a wide assortment of our products and that continually meet the evolving expectations of online shoppers or any failure to provide attractive digital experiences could place us at a competitive disadvantage, result in the loss of sales, and could have a material adverse impact on our business and financial results. Our e-commerce business may be particularly
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vulnerable to cyber threats including unauthorized access and denial of service attacks. Sales in our e-commerce channel may also divert sales from our retail and wholesale channels.
Investments and Infrastructure Risks
We face a number of risks in opening new stores and renewing leases on existing stores.
We may open new stores, both in regional malls, where most of the operational experience of our U.S. businesses lies, and in other venues including outlet centers, airports and other off-mall locations. We cannot offer assurances that we will be able to open as many stores as we have planned, that any new store will achieve similar operating results to those of our existing stores or that new stores opened in markets in which we operate will not have a material adverse effect on the revenues and profitability of our existing stores. In addition to the risks already discussed for existing stores, the success of any planned expansion or remodels is dependent upon numerous factors, many of which are beyond our control, including the following:
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our ability to identify suitable markets and individual store sites within those markets;
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the competition for suitable store sites;
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our ability to negotiate favorable lease terms for new stores and renewals (including rent and other costs) with landlords;
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our ability to obtain governmental and other third-party consents, permits and licenses necessary to the operation of our stores or otherwise;
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the ability to build and remodel stores on schedule and at acceptable cost;
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the availability of employees to staff new stores and our ability to hire, train, motivate and retain store personnel;
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the effect of changes to laws and regulations, including wage, over-time, and employee benefits laws on store expense;
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the availability of adequate management and financial resources to manage an increased number of stores;
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our ability to adapt our distribution and other operational and management systems to an expanded network of stores; and
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unforeseen events could prevent or delay store openings and impact our liquidity needed for store openings.
Additionally, the results we expect to achieve during each fiscal quarter are dependent upon opening new stores and renewing leases on existing stores on schedule and at expected costs. If we fall behind in our new store openings, we will lose expected sales and earnings between the planned opening date and the actual opening and may further complicate the logistics of opening stores, possibly resulting in additional delays, seasonally inappropriate product assortments, and other undesirable conditions.
Any acquisitions we make or new businesses we launch, as well as any dispositions of assets or businesses, involve a degree of risk.
Acquisitions have been a component of our growth strategy and we expect that in the future we may engage in acquisitions or launch new businesses to grow our revenues and meet our other strategic objectives. If acquisitions are not successfully integrated with our business, our ongoing operations could be adversely affected. Additionally, acquisitions or new businesses may not achieve desired profitability objectives or result in any anticipated successful expansion of the businesses or concepts, causing lower than expected earnings and cash flow and potentially requiring impairment of goodwill and other intangibles. Although we review and analyze assets or companies we acquire, such reviews are subject to uncertainties and may not reveal all potential risks. Additionally, although we attempt to obtain protective contractual provisions, such as representations, warranties and indemnities, in connection with acquisitions, we cannot offer assurance that we can obtain such provisions in our acquisitions or that they will fully protect us from unforeseen costs of, or liabilities associated with, the acquisitions. We may also incur significant costs and diversion of management time and attention in connection with pursuing possible acquisitions even if the acquisition is not ultimately consummated.
Additionally, we have in the past and may in the future divest assets or businesses. Following any such divestitures, we may retain or incur liabilities or costs relating to our previous ownership of the assets or business that we sell. Any required payments
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on retained liabilities or indemnification obligations with respect to past or future asset or business divestitures could have a material adverse effect on our business or results of operations. Dispositions may also involve our continued financial involvement in the divested business, such as through transition services agreements and guarantees. Under these arrangements, performance by the divested businesses or conditions outside our control could adversely affect our business and results of operations.
Further, acquisitions and dispositions are often structured such that the purchase price paid or received by us, as applicable, is subject to post-closing adjustments, whether as a result of net working capital adjustments, contingent payments (i.e., earn-outs) or otherwise. Any such adjustments could result in a material change in the consideration paid to or received by us, as applicable, in such transactions.
Goodwill recorded with acquisitions is subject to impairment which could reduce the Company'sprofitability.
In connection with acquisitions, we record goodwill on our Consolidated Balance Sheets. This asset is not amortized but is subject to an impairment test at least annually, where we have the option first to assess qualitative factors to determine whether events and circumstances indicate that it is more likely than not that goodwill is impaired. If after such assessment we conclude that the asset is impaired, we are required to determine the fair value of the asset using a quantitative impairment test that is based on projected future cash flows from the acquired business discounted at a rate commensurate with the risk we consider to be inherent in our current business model. We perform the impairment test annually at the beginning of our fourth quarter, or more frequently if events or circumstances indicate that the value of the asset might be impaired.
Deterioration in our equity market value, whether related to our operating performance or to disruptions in the equity markets or deterioration in the operating performance of the business unit with which goodwill is associated could cause us to recognize the impairment of some or all of the $8.9 million of goodwill on our Consolidated Balance Sheets at February 1, 2025, resulting in the reduction of net assets and a corresponding non-cash charge to earnings in the amount of the impairment.
Technology, Data Security and Privacy Risks
The operation of our business is heavily dependent on our information systems.
We depend on a variety of information technology systems for the efficient functioning of our business (including multiple e-commerce websites) and security of information. Much information essential to our business is maintained electronically, including competitively sensitive information and potentially sensitive personal information about customers and employees.
Despite our preventative efforts, our IT systems and websites may from time to time be vulnerable to damage or interruption from events such as difficulties in replacing or integrating the systems of acquired businesses, computer viruses, security breaches and power outages.
Our insurance policies may not provide coverage for security breaches and similar incidents or may have coverage limits which may not be adequate to reimburse us for losses caused by security breaches. We also rely on certain hardware and software vendors, including cloud-service providers, to maintain and periodically upgrade many of these systems so that they can continue to support our business. The software programs supporting many of our systems are licensed to us by independent software companies. The inability of our employees and developers or our inability to continue to maintain and upgrade these information systems and software programs could disrupt or reduce the efficiency of our operations. In addition, costs and potential problems and interruptions associated with the implementation of new or upgraded systems and technology or with maintenance or adequate support of existing systems could also disrupt or reduce the efficiency of our operations or leave us vulnerable to security breaches.
We also rely heavily on our information technology staff. If we cannot meet our staffing needs in this area, we may not be able to fulfill our technology initiatives or to provide maintenance on existing systems.
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We are subject to payment-related risks that could increase our operating costs, expose us to fraud or theft, subject us to potential liability and potentially disrupt our business.
As a retailer who accepts payments using a variety of methods, including buy now pay later methods, PayPal, and gift cards, we are subject to rules, regulations, contractual obligations and compliance requirements, including payment network rules and operating guidelines, data security standards and certification requirements, and rules governing electronic funds transfers. The regulatory environment related to information security and privacy is increasingly rigorous, with new and constantly changing requirements applicable to our business, and compliance with those requirements could result in additional costs or accelerate these costs with additional legal and financial exposure for noncompliance. For these payment methods, we pay interchange and other fees, which can increase over time and raise our operating costs. We rely on third parties to provide payment processing services. If these companies become unable to provide these services to us, or if their systems are compromised, it could disrupt our business.
The payment methods that we offer also subject us to potential fraud and theft by persons who seek to obtain unauthorized access to or exploit any weaknesses that may exist in the payment systems. We completed the implementation of Europay, Mastercard and Visa ("EMV") technology and received certification in Fiscal 2018; however future upgrades to our Company's systems could expose us to the fraudulent use of credit cards and increased costs, including possible fines and restrictions on our Company's ability to accept payments by credit or debit cards, if we were not to receive recertification. Because we accept debit and credit cards for payment, we are also subject to industry data protection standards and protocols, such as the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards (“PCI DSS”), issued by the Payment Card Industry Security Standards Council. Additionally, we have implemented technology in our stores to allow for the acceptance of EMV credit transactions and point-to-point encryption. Complying with PCI DSS standards and implementing related procedures, technology and information security measures require significant resources and ongoing attention. However, even if we comply with PCI DSS standards and offer EMV and point-to-point encryption technology in our stores, we may be vulnerable to, and unable to detect and appropriately respond to, data security breaches and data loss, including cybersecurity attacks or other breach of cardholder data.
In addition, the Payment Card Industry (“PCI”) is controlled by a limited number of vendors who have the ability to impose changes in the PCI’s fee structure and operational requirements on us without negotiation. Such changes in fees and operational requirements may result in our failure to comply with PCI DSS, and cause us to incur significant unanticipated expenses.
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A privacy breach, through a cybersecurity incident or otherwise, or failure to comply with privacy laws could materially adversely affect our business.
As part of normal operations, we and our third-party vendors and partners, receive and maintain confidential and personally identifiable information (“PII”) about our customers and employees, and confidential financial, intellectual property, and other information. We regard the protection of our customer, employee, and company information as critical. The regulatory environment surrounding information security and privacy is very demanding, with the frequent imposition of new and changing requirements some of which involve significant costs to implement and significant penalties if not followed properly. Despite our efforts and technology to secure our computer network and systems, a cybersecurity breach, whether targeted, random, or inadvertent, and whether at the hands of cyber criminals, hackers, rogue employees or other persons, may occur and could go undetected for a period of time, resulting in a material disruption of our computer network, a loss of information valuable to our business, including without limitation customer or employee PII, and/or theft. A similar cybersecurity breach to the computer networks and systems of our third-party vendors and partners, including those that are cloud-based, over which we have no control, may occur, and could lead to a material disruption of our computer network and/or the areas of our business that are dependent on the support, services and other products provided by our third-party vendors and partners. Additionally, the rapid evolution and increased adoption of machine learning and artificial intelligence ("AI") is further increasing risks in this area, including by making fraud detection more difficult, particularly with detection devices that use voice recognition or authentication. Our computer networks and our business may be adversely affected by such a breach of our third-party vendors and partners, which could result in a decrease in our e-commerce sales and/or a loss of information valuable to our business, including, without limitation, PII of customers or employees. Such a cyber-incident could result in any of the following:
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theft, destruction, loss, misappropriation, or release of confidential financial and other data, intellectual property, customer awards, or customer or employee information, including PII such as payment card information, email addresses, passwords, social security numbers, home addresses, or health information;
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operational or business delays resulting from the disruption of our e-commerce sites, computer networks or the computer networks of our third-party vendors and partners and subsequent material clean-up and mitigation costs and activities;
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negative publicity resulting in material reputation or brand damage with our customers, vendors, third-party partners or industry peers;
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loss of sales, including those generated through our e-commerce websites; and
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governmental penalties, fines and/or enforcement actions, payment and industry penalties and fines and/or class action and other lawsuits.
Any of the above risks, individually or in aggregate, could materially damage our reputation and result in lost sales, governmental and payment card industry fines, and/or class action and other lawsuits. Although we carry cybersecurity insurance, that insurance may not be extensive enough or adequate in scope of coverage or amount to reimburse us for damages we may incur. Further, a significant breach of federal, state, provincial, local or international privacy laws could have a material adverse effect on our reputation.
Data protection requirements are constantly evolving and these requirements could adversely affect our business and operating results.
We have access to collect or maintain information about our customers, and the protection of that data is critical to our business. The regulatory environment surrounding information security and privacy continues to evolve and new laws are increasingly giving customers the right to control how their personal data is used. One such law is the European Union's GDPR. Our failure to comply with the obligations of GDPR and similar U.S. federal and state laws, including California privacy laws, could in the future result in significant penalties which could have a material adverse effect on our business and results of operations. Data protection compliance could also cause us to incur substantial costs, forego a substantial amount of revenue or be subject to business risk associated with system changes and new business processes.
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The utilization, expansion and management of machine learning and other types of artificial intelligence in our business could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
We have been increasing our utilization of AI in our business and we anticipate that as technology advances, we may expand our application of AI, including generative AI. AI may become more important to our operations over time as we increase reliance on AI throughout our operations and administration. The rapid evolution of AI technology and potential regulation of AI may require that we expend significant resources to develop, test and maintain our implementation of AI. Our development, integration and use of AI technology in our operations remains in the early phases. Although we aim to implement AI technology according to responsible procedures and adequate safeguards, our current or future use of AI tools in our business operations could expose us to new or additional costs and risks, including the potential introduction of new vulnerabilities or cybersecurity risks within our information technology systems; the potential inadvertent or unauthorized release of our confidential or proprietary information resulting from the use (whether or not authorized) of AI tools by our employees, contractors, agents, representatives, vendors or customers; the potential loss of our intellectual property rights or our potential infringement of the intellectual property rights of third parties resulting from the use (whether or not authorized) of AI tools in our operations; and potential legal or reputational harms due to insufficient or flawed data, insufficient quality control, or unlawful bias or discrimination associated with the use of AI tools. In addition, the AI tools we may incorporate into certain aspects of our operations may not generate the intended efficiencies and may impact our business results. Our competitors may incorporate AI into their businesses faster or more successfully than us, which could impair our ability to compete effectively and adversely affect our results of operations. Additionally, if the information generated through our use of AI is or is deemed to be deficient, inaccurate or biased, our business, financial condition, and results of operations may be adversely affected.
Operational, Supply Chain and Third-Party Risks
Increased operating costs, including wage increases resulting from potential increases in the minimum wage or competitive pressures, could have an adverse effect on our results.
Increased operating costs, including wage increases resulting from potential increases in the minimum wage or wage increases reflecting competition in relevant labor markets, store occupancy costs, distribution center costs and other expense items, including healthcare costs, may reduce our operating margin, and make it more difficult to identify new store locations that we believe will meet our investment return requirements. In addition, other employment and healthcare law changes may increase the cost of provided retirement and healthcare benefits expenses. Increases in our overall employment costs could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, results of operations and financial and competitive position.
If we lose key members of management or are unable to attract and retain the talent required for our business, our operating results could suffer.
Our performance depends largely on the efforts and abilities of members of our management team. Our executives have substantial experience and expertise in our business and have made significant contributions to our growth and success. The unexpected future loss of services of one or more key members of our management team could have an adverse effect on our business. In addition, future performance will depend upon our ability to attract, retain and motivate qualified employees, including store personnel and field management. If we are unable to do so, our ability to meet our operating goals may be compromised. Finally, our stores are decentralized, are managed through a network of geographically dispersed management personnel and historically experience a high degree of turnover. If we are for any reason unable to maintain appropriate controls on store operations due to turnover or other reasons, including the ability to control losses resulting from inventory and cash shrinkage, our sales and operating margins may be adversely affected. There can be no assurance that we will be able to attract and retain the personnel we need in the future.
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The loss of, or disruption in, one of our distribution centers and other factors affecting the distribution of merchandise, including freight cost, could materially adversely affect our business.
Each of our divisions uses a single distribution center or third-party logistics provider to handle all or a significant amount of its merchandise. Most of our operations’ inventory is shipped directly from suppliers to our operations' distribution centers or third-party logistics provider, where the inventory is then processed, sorted and shipped to our stores, to our wholesale customers or to our e-commerce customers. We depend on the orderly operation of this receiving and distribution process, which depends, in turn, on adherence to shipping schedules and effective management of the distribution centers. Although we believe that our receiving and distribution processes are efficient and well positioned to support our current business and potential expansions, we cannot offer assurance that we have anticipated all of the changing demands that our expanding operations, particularly our e-commerce operations, will impose on our receiving and distribution system, or that events beyond our control, such as disruptions in operations due to fire or other catastrophic events, labor disagreements or shortages or shipping problems (whether in our own or in our third-party vendors’ or carriers’ businesses), will not result in delays in the delivery of merchandise to our stores or to our wholesale customers or e-commerce/retail customers. In addition, to the extent we need to add capacity to distribution centers by either leasing or building new distribution centers or adding capacity at existing centers or make changes in our distribution processes to improve efficiency and maximize capacity, we cannot assure that these changes will not result in unanticipated delays or interruptions in distribution. We depend upon third parties for shipment of a significant amount of merchandise. Interruptions in the services provided by third parties may occasionally result from damage or destruction to our distribution centers; weather-related events; natural disasters; pandemics; trade policy changes or restrictions; tariffs or import-related taxes; third-party labor disruptions; shipping capacity constraints; third-party contract disputes; military conflicts; acts of terrorism; or other factors beyond our control. An interruption in service by third parties for any reason could cause temporary disruptions in our business, a loss of sales and profits, and other material adverse effects.
Our freight costs are impacted by changes in fuel prices, surcharges and other factors which can affect cost both on inbound freight from vendors to our distribution centers and outbound freight from distribution centers to our stores and customers. Increases in freight costs, including in connection with increased fuel prices, may increase our cost of goods sold and our selling and administrative expenses.
An increase in the cost or a disruption in the flow of our imported products could adversely affect our business.
Merchandise originally manufactured and imported from overseas makes up a large proportion of our total inventory. A disruption in the shipping of our imported merchandise or an increase in the cost of those products may significantly decrease our sales and profits. We may be unable to meet customer demands or pass on price increases to our customers. In addition, if imported merchandise becomes more expensive or unavailable, the transition to alternative sources may not occur in time to meet demand. Products from alternative sources may also be of lesser quality or more expensive than those we currently import. Risks associated with our reliance on imported products include:
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disruptions in the shipping and importation of imported products because of factors such as:
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raw material shortages, work stoppages, strikes, political unrest and civil disturbances;
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problems with oceanic shipping, including shipping container shortages, disruptions to significant trade routes and delays in ports;
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increased customs inspections of import shipments or other factors that could result in penalties causing delays in shipments;
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economic crises, natural disasters, pandemics, international disputes and wars, including the Russia-Ukraine war and the Israel-Hamas war; and
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increases in the cost of purchasing or shipping foreign merchandise resulting from:
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imposition of additional cargo or safeguard measures;
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denial by the United States of “most favored nation” trading status to or the imposition of quotas or other restriction on imports from a foreign country from which we purchase goods;
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changes in import duties, import quotas, tariffs and other trade sanctions; and
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increases in shipping rates.
Some of the inventory we sell is imported from China, which has historically been subject to efforts to increase duty rates or to impose restrictions on imports of certain products.
If we or our suppliers or licensees are unable to source raw materials or finished goods from the countries where we or they wish to purchase them, either because of a regulatory change or for any other reason, or if the cost of doing so should increase, it could have a material adverse effect on our sales and earnings.
A small portion of the products we buy abroad is priced in foreign currencies and, therefore, we are affected by fluctuating currency exchange rates. We may not be able to effectively protect ourselves in the future against currency rate fluctuations. Even dollar-denominated foreign purchases may be affected by currency fluctuations to reflect appreciation in the local currency against the dollar in the price of the products that they provide. See Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” for more information about our foreign currency exchange rate exposure and any hedging activities.
We are dependent on third-party vendors and licensors for the merchandise we sell.
We do not manufacture the merchandise we sell, and our Genesco Brands Group business is dependent on third-party licenses. Accordingly, our product supply is subject to our ability to renew our license agreements or identify new licenses and the ability and willingness of third-party suppliers to deliver merchandise we order on time and in the quantities and of the quality we need. In addition, a material portion of our retail footwear sales consists of products marketed under brands belonging to unaffiliated vendors, which have fashion significance to our customers. If those vendors were to decide not to sell to us or to limit the availability of their products to us, or if they become unable because of economic conditions, pandemics, work stoppages, labor shortages, strikes, political unrest and civil disturbances, raw materials supply disruptions, or any other reason to supply us with products, we could be unable to offer our customers the products they wish to buy and could lose their business. Additionally, manufacturers are required to remain in compliance with certain wage, labor and environment-related laws, regulations and policies. Delayed compliance or failure to comply with such laws, regulations and policies by our vendors could adversely affect our ability to obtain products generally or at favorable costs, affecting our overall ability to maintain and manage inventory levels.
The manufacture of our products and our distributing operations are subject to the risks of doing business abroad, including in China, which could affect our ability to obtain products from foreign suppliers or control the costs of our products.
We have been diversifying our sourcing base to ensure that we are not too concentrated in any single country. As we source some products in China, the possibility of adverse changes in trade or political relations with China, political instability, increases in labor costs, the occurrence of prolonged adverse weather conditions or a natural disaster such as an earthquake or typhoon, or the outbreak of infectious diseases in China could severely interfere with the manufacturing and/or shipment of our products and would have a material adverse effect on our operations. Our ability to source products from China may be adversely affected by changes in Chinese laws and regulations (or the interpretation thereof), including those relating to taxation, import and export tariffs, relations with the U.S. government, raw materials, environmental regulations, land use rights, property and other matters. Policy changes in China could adversely affect our interests through, among other factors: changes in laws and regulations, confiscatory taxation, restrictions on currency conversion, imports or sources of supplies, or the expropriation or nationalization of private enterprises. In addition, electrical shortages, labor shortages or work stoppages may extend the production time necessary to produce our orders. There may be circumstances in the future where we may have to incur higher freight charges to expedite the delivery of product to our customers which could negatively affect our gross profit if we are unable to pass on those charges to our customers.
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Tax, Legal, Regulatory, Global and Other External Risks
Changes in tax laws may result in increased volatility in our effective tax rates.
Our financial results are significantly impacted by the effective tax rates of both our domestic and international operations. Future changes in tax laws could materially impact our effective tax rate. Other factors, such as changes in the mix of earnings in countries with differing statutory tax rates, changes in permitted deductions, interpretations, policies and treaties and the outcome of income tax audits in various jurisdictions, may result in higher taxes, lower profitability and increased volatility in our financial results.
In addition, changes in the tax laws of foreign jurisdictions may arise as a result of the Pillar Two (“Pillar Two”) Global Anti-Base Erosion model rules that were released by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) in 2021. The OECD continues to release guidance and in many of the countries implementing the Pillar Two rule, the first component of the Pillar Two rule became effective in 2024, with the second component expected to come into effect in 2025. It is possible that the Pillar Two rule could adversely impact our effective tax rate in future periods. Additionally, administrative guidance with respect to tax law can be incomplete or vary from legislative intent, and therefore the application of tax law is uncertain. While we believe our reported positions comply with relevant tax laws and regulations, taxing authorities could interpret the application of certain laws and regulations differently.
We continue to expect the United States Treasury and the Internal Revenue Service to issue regulations and other guidance that could have a material impact on our effective tax rate in future periods.
Our ability to source our merchandise profitably or at all could be negatively impacted if new trade restrictions are imposed, existing trade restrictions become more burdensome or disruptions occur at our suppliers or at the ports.
Trade restrictions, including increased tariffs, safeguards or quotas, on footwear, apparel and accessories could increase the cost or reduce the supply of merchandise available to us. We source footwear, apparel and accessory products from foreign manufacturers located in Brazil, Cambodia, Canada, China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Italy, Mexico, Pakistan, Portugal, Peru, Spain, Turkey and Vietnam. Our retail operations, excluding Johnston & Murphy, sell primarily branded products from third parties who source primarily overseas. The investments we are making to develop our sourcing capabilities may not be successful and may, in turn, have an adverse impact on our financial position and results of operations.
There are quotas and trade restrictions on certain categories of goods and apparel from China and countries that are not subject to the applicable World Trade Organization Agreement, which could have a significant impact on our sourcing patterns in the future. In addition, political uncertainty in the United States may result in significant changes to U.S. trade policies, treaties and tariffs, including trade policies and tariffs regarding goods imported from China, Canada and Mexico. Existing and potential future tariffs on certain imported products could result in an increase in prices for those products. These developments, or the perception that any of them could occur, may have a material adverse effect on global economic conditions and the stability of global financial markets, and may significantly reduce global trade. Any of these factors could depress economic activity, restrict our sourcing from suppliers and have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. We cannot predict whether any of the countries in which our merchandise is currently or may be manufactured in the future will be subject to additional trade restrictions imposed by the U.S. and foreign governments, nor can we predict the likelihood, type or effect of any such restrictions. Trade restrictions, including increased tariffs or quotas, embargoes, safeguards and customs restrictions against items we source from foreign manufacturers could increase the cost, delay shipping or reduce the supply of products available to us or may require us to modify our current business practices, any of which could hurt our profitability.If we are unable to pass along increased costs to our customers, our gross margins could be adversely affected. Additionally, tariffs may cause us to shift production to other countries, resulting in significant costs and disruption to our business.
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We rely on our suppliers to manufacture and ship the products they produce for us in a timely and cost-effective manner. We also rely on the free flow of goods through open and operational ports worldwide. Labor disputes and other disruptions at various ports or at our suppliers could increase costs for us and delay our receipt of merchandise, particularly if these disputes result in work slowdowns, lockouts, strikes or other disruptions.
The impact of climate change, extreme weather, infectious disease outbreaks, and other unexpected events could result in an interruption to our business, as well as to the operations of our third-party partners, and have a material adverse impact on our business.
The operations of our retail stores, corporate offices, distribution centers, digital operations and supply chain, as well as the operations of our third-party partners, including vendors and manufacturers, are vulnerable to disruption from climate change, natural disasters, pandemics and other infectious disease outbreaks and other unexpected events. In addition to impacts on global operations, these events could result in the potential loss of customers and revenues due to mandatory or voluntary store closures, delay or cancellation of merchandise deliveries, reduced consumer confidence or changes in consumers’ discretionary spending habits.
These events could reduce the availability or quality of the materials used to manufacture our merchandise, which could cause delays in responding to consumer demand resulting in the potential loss of customers and revenues or we may incur increased costs to meet demand and may not be able to pass all or a portion of higher costs on to our customers, which could adversely affect our gross margin and results of our operations.
In addition, historically, our operations have been seasonal, and extreme weather conditions, including natural disasters, unseasonable weather or changes in weather patterns, may diminish demand for our seasonal merchandise and could also influence consumer preferences and fashion trends, consumer traffic and shopping habits. In addition, we may incur costs that exceed our applicable insurance coverage for any necessary repairs to property damage or business disruption resulting from climate or weather conditions.
Establishing and protecting our intellectual property is critical to our business.
Our ability to remain competitive is dependent upon our continued ability to secure and protect trademarks, patents and other intellectual property rights in the U.S. and internationally for all of our businesses. We rely on a combination of trade secret, patent, trademark, copyright and other laws, license agreements and other contractual provisions and technical measures to protect our intellectual property rights; however, some countries do not protect intellectual property rights to the same extent as the U.S.
Our business could be significantly harmed if we are not able to protect our intellectual property, or if a court found us to be infringing on others’ intellectual property rights. Any future intellectual property lawsuits or threatened lawsuits in which we are involved, either as a plaintiff or as a defendant, could cost us a significant amount of time and money and distract management’s attention from operating our business. If we do not prevail on any intellectual property claims, then we may have to change our manufacturing processes, products or trade names, any of which could reduce our profitability.
Legislative or regulatory initiatives related to climate change could have a material adverse effect on our business.
Greenhouse gases may have an adverse effect on global temperatures, weather patterns, and the frequency and severity of extreme weather and natural disaster. Such events could have a negative effect on our business. Concern over climate change may result in new or additional legislative and regulatory requirements to reduce or mitigate the effects of climate change on the environment, which could result in future tax, transportation cost, and utility increases. These risks could have a material adverse effect on our business.
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The scope of our non-U.S. operations exposes our performance to risks including foreign, political, legal and economic conditions and exchange rate fluctuations.
Our performance depends in part on general economic conditions affecting all countries in which we do business. Although the U.K. and the European Union (“E.U.”) entered into the E.U.-U.K. Trade and Cooperation Agreement on December 30, 2020, uncertainty remains about the impact on our business in the U.K. and ROI, including impact on tariffs, shipping costs, consumer demand and currency fluctuations.
In addition, across all of our markets, we could be adversely impacted by changes in trade policies, labor, tax or other laws and regulations, intellectual property rights and supply chain logistics. We are also dependent on foreign manufacturers for the products we sell, and our inventory is subject to cost and availability of foreign materials and labor. In addition to the other risks disclosed herein, demand for our product offering in our non-U.S. operations is also subject to local market conditions.
As we expand our international operations, we also increase our exposure to exchange rate fluctuations. Sales from stores outside the U.S. are denominated in the currency of the country in which these operations or stores are located and changes in foreign exchange rates affect the translation of the sales and earnings of these businesses into U.S. dollars for financial reporting purposes. Additionally, inventory purchase agreements may also be denominated in the currency of the country where the vendor resides.
If the U.S. dollar strengthens relative to foreign currencies, our revenues and profits are reduced when converted into U.S. dollars and our margins may be negatively impacted by the increase in product costs. Although we typically have sought to mitigate the negative impacts of foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations through price increases and further actions to reduce costs, we may not be able to fully offset the impact, if at all.
We are subject to regulatory proceedings and litigation and to regulatory changes that could have an adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.
We are party to certain lawsuits, governmental investigations, and regulatory proceedings, including the proceedings arising out of alleged environmental contamination relating to historical operations of the Company and various suits involving current operations as disclosed in Item 3, "Legal Proceedings" and Note 15 to the Consolidated Financial Statements. If these or similar matters are resolved against us, or if we incur significant costs to pursue claims against third parties, our results of operations, our cash flows, or our financial condition could be adversely affected. The costs of prosecuting or defending such lawsuits and responding to such investigations and regulatory proceedings may be substantial and their potential to distract management from day-to-day business is significant. Moreover, with retail operations in the United States, Puerto Rico, Canada, the U.K., and the ROI, we are subject to federal, state, provincial, territorial, local and foreign regulations, which impose costs and risks on our business. Numerous states and municipalities as well as the federal government of the U.S. are proposing or have implemented changes to minimum wage, overtime, employee leave, employee benefit requirements and other requirements that will increase costs. Changes in regulations could make compliance more difficult and costly, and failure to comply with these requirements, including even a seemingly minor infraction, could result in liability for damages or penalties.
Actions of activist shareholders have caused, and could cause us in the future to incur substantial costs, divert management’s attention and resources, and have an adverse effect on our business.
Our shareholders may from time to time engage in proxy solicitations, advance shareholders proposals or otherwise attempt to affect changes or acquire control over the Company. Activist shareholder activities could adversely affect our business because responding to proxy contests and reacting to other actions by activist shareholders can be costly and time-consuming, disrupt our operations and divert the attention of management and our employees. For example, we have retained, and may in the future, retain the services of various professionals to advise us on activist shareholder matters, including legal, financial and communication advisors, the costs of which may negatively impact our future financial results. In addition, perceived uncertainties as to our future direction, strategy or leadership created as a consequence of activist shareholders initiatives may
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result in the loss of potential business opportunities, harm our ability to attract new investors, customers, and employees, and cause our stock price to experience periods of volatility or stagnation.
Financial Risks
Our indebtedness is subject to floating interest rates.
Borrowings under our credit facility bear interest at varying rates and expose us to interest rate risk. If interest rates were to increase, our debt service obligations on the variable rate indebtedness referred to above would increase even if the principal amount borrowed remained the same, and our net income and cash flows will correspondingly decrease. Additionally, in connection with the Intercontinental Exchange Benchmark Administration’s announced phase-out of the London Inter-Bank Offered Rate ("LIBOR"), we amended our credit facility to, among other things, replace LIBOR with the Secured Overnight Financing Rate (“SOFR”), the Sterling Overnight Index Average (“SONIA”) and the Euro Interbank Offered Rate (“EURIBOR”).
ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
None.
ITEM 1C. CYBERSECURITY
Cybersecurity is one of our most critical risks. For many activities important to our business, we depend on the confidentiality, integrity and availability of information systems and data, some of which are provided or managed by third parties. We have strategically integrated cybersecurity risk management into our broader enterprise risk management function to promote a company-wide culture of cybersecurity risk management.
Management is responsible for the day-to-day handling of risks facing the Company, while the Board of Directors, as a whole and through its committees, oversees risk management, including cybersecurity risks. The Board has delegated certain risk management responsibilities with respect to cybersecurity to the Audit Committee.
On behalf of the Board, the Audit Committee provides oversight of our management of cybersecurity risk. The Audit Committee regularly reviews our cybersecurity risks, incidents, audits, assessments, crisis readiness, awareness activities and compliance with cybersecurity and privacy laws and regulations.Our Vice President, Information Security and Privacy jointly with our Senior Vice President, Chief Strategy and Digital Officer brief the Audit Committee quarterly, and more often, if necessary, on active and emerging cybersecurity threats and efforts to strengthen our defenses against these threats.
Our Information Security and Privacy teams reduce first and third-party risk by maintaining a proactive security posture aligned with current threats, detecting cybersecurity events and responding quickly, and building procedures to rapidly recover. These teams are managed by the Vice President, Information Security and Privacy, who reports to the Senior Vice President, Chief Strategy and Digital Officer. Our cybersecurity leaders collectively have more than 25 years of relevant experience and multiple professional certifications.
Internal and third-party risks are reviewed, monitored, and managed by our Cybersecurity and Privacy teams, audited by an Internal Audit team and various external experts, and tracked within an Enterprise Risk Management framework. We regularly engage third-party experts to assess the effectiveness of our cybersecurity programs. Biennially, an external independent consultancy team conducts an assessment of our cybersecurity program using the inputs from accepted Cybersecurity Frameworks. Targeted assessments are conducted regularly by internal and third-party experts to ensure compliance with specific federal and state laws and regulations. We continue to participate in the VISA TIP program and AMEX STEP program around our PCI DSS compliance.
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Our processes for identifying and managing first and third-party risks from cybersecurity threats include:
•Continuous monitoring of our systems and network for cybersecurity events;
•Regular testing of our Security Incident Response Plan, Business Continuity plans, and Disaster Recovery plans;
•Required annual security training for our employees with access to email, as well as tailored training for employees in more sensitive roles. Periodic testing to ensure the security training is effective.
External managed security services providers and industry-leading security tools continuously monitor our systems and network for cybersecurity threats. Our cybersecurity teams evaluate the escalated threats, and if necessary, take steps to contain and recover from pervasive threats in accordance with our Security Incident Response Plan. The plan includes reporting and escalation procedures to inform the Executive Committee, Audit Committee, and full Board, as appropriate to enable them to carry out their oversight responsibilities, and to ensure timely compliance with applicable reporting rules. Our Business Continuity Management and Disaster Recovery plans include procedures for business recovery and are tested regularly.
No risks from cybersecurity threats or previous cybersecurity incidents have materially affected our business strategy, results of operations, or financial condition. However, there can be no assurance that our controls and procedures in place to monitor and mitigate the risks of cyber threats will be sufficient and/or timely and that we will not suffer material losses or consequences in the future. Additionally, while we have in place insurance coverage designed to address certain aspects of cyber risks, such insurance coverage may be insufficient to cover all insured losses or all types of claims that may arise.
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ITEM 2. PROPERTIES
At February 1, 2025, we operated 1,278 retail footwear, apparel and accessory stores throughout the United States, Puerto Rico, Canada, the U.K. and the ROI. New shopping center store leases in the United States, Puerto Rico and Canada typically have initial terms of approximately 10 years. New store leases in the U.K. and the ROI typically have initial terms of between 10 and 15 years. We have leases with fixed base rental payments, rental payments based on a percentage of retail sales over contractual amounts and others with predetermined fixed escalations of the minimum rental payments based on a defined consumer price index or percentage.
The general location, use and approximate size of our principal properties are set forth below:
Location Owned/Leased Segment Use ApproximateAreaSquareFeet
Bathgate, Scotland Owned Schuh Group Distribution warehouse 244,644
Chapel Hill, TN Owned Genesco Brands Group Distribution warehouse 182,000
Fayetteville, TN Owned Johnston & Murphy Group Distribution warehouse 178,500
Fayetteville, TN Leased Johnston & Murphy Group Distribution warehouse 91,580
Nashville, TN Leased Various Corporate headquarters 182,078
We believe that all leases of properties that are material to our operations may be renewed, or that alternative properties are available, on terms not materially less favorable to us than existing leases.
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
From time to time, we are subject to legal and/or administrative proceedings incidental to our business. It is the opinion of management that the outcome of pending legal and/or administrative proceedings will not have a material effect on our financial position and results of operations.
Further information with respect to this item may be found in Note 15 to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data," which is incorporated herein by reference.
ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES
Not applicable.
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PART II
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUERPURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES
Market Information
Our stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol "GCO".
There were approximately 1,250 common shareholders of record on March 14, 2025.
We have not paid cash dividends to our holders of our Common Stock since 1973 and we do not currently anticipate paying cash dividends in the foreseeable future. Our ability to pay cash dividends to our holders of common stock is subject to various restrictions. See Note 10 to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" for information regarding restrictions on dividends and redemption of capital stock.
Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities
None.
Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES
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Equity Compensation Plan Information
Refer to Part III, Item 12, "Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters" included elsewhere in this report.
ITEM 6. RESERVED
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OFOPERATIONS
This Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations should be read in conjunction with our Consolidated Financial Statements and related Notes and other financial information appearing elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, and with Part II, Item 7 (“Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations”) of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 3, 2024, filed with the SEC on March 27, 2024, which provides a discussion of our financial condition and results of operations for Fiscal 2024 compared to our Fiscal 2023.
Summary of Results of Operations
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Net sales were flat in Fiscal 2025 compared to Fiscal 2024.
•
Fiscal 2024 included a 53rd week. Excluding the 53rd week, net sales increased 1.1% for Fiscal 2025.
•
Journeys Group sales increased 3%, partially offset by a sales decrease of 6% at Johnston & Murphy Group and a sales decrease of 11% at Genesco Brands Group, while Schuh Group sales were flat.
•
Total comparable sales increased 3% for Fiscal 2025, including flat same store sales and a 12% increase in comparable e-commerce sales.
•
Gross margin decreased 10 basis points as a percentage of net sales from 47.3% in Fiscal 2024 to 47.2% in Fiscal 2025.
•
Selling and administrative expenses decreased 10 basis points as a percentage of net sales from 46.5% in Fiscal 2024 to 46.4% in Fiscal 2025.
•
Operating margin increased 120 basis points as a percentage of net sales from (0.6%) in Fiscal 2024 to 0.6% in Fiscal 2025.
•
The effective income tax rate increased from (8.5%) in Fiscal 2024 to 309.6% in Fiscal 2025 as a result of a $26.2 million valuation allowance in Fiscal 2025.
•
Diluted loss per share from continuing operations was $1.80 per share in Fiscal 2025 compared to $2.10 per share in Fiscal 2024.
Key Performance Indicators
In assessing the performance of our business, we consider a variety of performance and financial measures. The key performance indicators we use to evaluate the financial condition and operating performance of our business are comparable sales, net sales, gross margin, operating income and operating margin. These key performance indicators should not be considered superior to, as a substitute for or as an alternative to, and should be considered in conjunction with, the U.S. GAAP financial measures presented herein. These measures may not be comparable to similarly-titled performance indicators used by other companies.
Comparable Sales
We consider comparable sales to be an important indicator of our current performance, and investors may find it useful as such. Comparable sales results are important to achieve leveraging of our costs, including occupancy, selling salaries, depreciation,
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etc. Comparable sales also have a direct impact on our total net revenue, working capital and cash. We define "comparable sales" as sales from stores open longer than one year, beginning with the first day a store has comparable sales (which we refer to in this report as "same store sales"), and sales from websites operated longer than one year and direct mail catalog sales (which we refer to in this report as "comparable e-commerce sales"). Temporarily closed stores are excluded from the comparable sales calculation if closed for more than seven days. Expanded stores are excluded from the comparable sales calculation until the first day an expanded store has comparable prior year sales. Current year foreign exchange rates are applied to both current year and prior year comparable sales to achieve a consistent basis for comparison.
Results of Operations—Fiscal 2025 Compared to Fiscal 2024
Our net sales for Fiscal 2025 (52 weeks) were flat at $2.3 billion compared to Fiscal 2024 (53 weeks). The flat net sales for Fiscal 2025 reflected an increase in comparable e-commerce sales offset by 63 net store closings, the negative impact of the extra week in Fiscal 2024 due the 53-week calendar shift and decreased wholesale sales. Excluding the 53rd week in Fiscal 2024, net sales increased 1.1% for Fiscal 2025. Inflationary pressures and economic uncertainty continue to impact the discretionary spending behavior of our consumers. Consumers continue to show a willingness to shop when there is a reason and retreat when there is not. Consumers remain selective in their purchases and we continue to innovate and add freshness to our assortments to satisfy our customers. Journeys Group sales increased 3% offset by a sales decrease of 6% at Johnston & Murphy Group and a sales decrease of 11% at Genesco Brands Group, while Schuh Group sales were flat for Fiscal 2025 compared to Fiscal 2024. Schuh's sales decreased 2% on a local currency basis for Fiscal 2025. Total comparable sales increased 3% for Fiscal 2025, with same store sales flat and comparable e-commerce sales up 12%.
Gross margin decreased 0.2% to $1.097 billion in Fiscal 2025 from $1.099 billion in Fiscal 2024 and decreased as a percentage of net sales from 47.3% in Fiscal 2024 to 47.2% in Fiscal 2025, reflecting decreased gross margin as a percentage of net sales in Journeys Group and Schuh Group, partially offset by an increase in gross margin as a percentage of net sales in Johnston & Murphy Group and Genesco Brands Group. The overall decrease in gross margin as a percentage of net sales reflects increased promotional activity at Schuh Group, partially offset by better initial margins and lower wholesale reserves at Johnston & Murphy Group and a favorable change in product mix at Genesco Brands Group.
Selling and administrative expenses in Fiscal 2025 decreased to $1.080 billion compared to $1.082 billion in Fiscal 2024. Selling and administrative expenses decreased 10 basis points as a percentage of net sales in Fiscal 2025 compared to Fiscal 2024 from 46.5% to 46.4%, reflecting decreased expenses as a percentage of net sales at Journeys Group and Genesco Brands Group, partially offset by increased expenses as a percentage of net sales at Schuh Group and Johnston & Murphy Group. The overall decrease in expenses as a percentage of net sales in Fiscal 2025 reflects a decrease in occupancy costs, partially offset by increased marketing expenses. Explanations of the changes in results of operations are provided by business segment in discussions following these introductory paragraphs.
Operating margin was 0.6% in Fiscal 2025 compared to an operating margin loss of (0.6)% in Fiscal 2024 reflecting improved operating margin at Journeys Group and Genesco Brands Group, partially offset by decreased operating margin at Schuh Group and Johnston & Murphy Group. The improvement in operating margin in Fiscal 2025 primarily reflects a non-cash goodwill impairment charge of $28.5 million in Fiscal 2024 and decreased selling and administrative expenses as a percentage of net sales, partially offset by decreased gross margin as a percentage of net sales in Fiscal 2025 compared to Fiscal 2024.
Earnings from continuing operations before income taxes (“pretax earnings") for Fiscal 2025 was $9.3 million, compared to a loss from continuing operations before income taxes ("pretax loss") of $21.8 million for Fiscal 2024. Pretax earnings for Fiscal 2025 included asset impairment and other charges of $3.2 million which included $1.8 million for severance and $1.4 million for asset impairments. The pretax loss for Fiscal 2024 included a non-cash goodwill impairment charge of $28.5 million and asset impairment and other charges of $1.8 million which included $1.1 million for severance and $1.0 million for asset impairments, partially offset by a $0.3 million insurance gain.
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The effective income tax rate was 309.6% for Fiscal 2025 compared to (8.5%) for Fiscal 2024. The higher effective tax rate for Fiscal 2025 compared to Fiscal 2024 reflects a $26.2 million U.S. valuation allowance recorded in Fiscal 2025, reflecting the uncertainty regarding our ability to realize the benefit of our general tax attributes in the U.S. See Item 8, Note 11, "Income Taxes", to our Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for additional information.
The net loss for Fiscal 2025 was $18.9 million, or $1.74 diluted loss per share compared to a net loss of $16.8 million, or $1.50 diluted loss per share for Fiscal 2024. The net loss for Fiscal 2025 and Fiscal 2024 includes a $1.2 million ($0.9 million, net of tax) and $9.4 million ($7.2 million, net of tax), respectively, gain from insurance proceeds related to legacy environmental matters.
Journeys Group
Fiscal Year Ended %
(dollars in thousands)
Operating margin 1.9 % 0.8 %
Net sales from Journeys Group increased 2.6% to $1.40 billion for Fiscal 2025 compared to $1.36 billion for Fiscal 2024. The increase in net sales was primarily due to a total comparable sales increase of 6% driven by increased comparable e-commerce sales and increased same store sales, partially offset by a 5% decrease in the average number of Journeys stores for Fiscal 2025 due to 57 net store closures and a decrease in sales related to the 53-week calendar shift. We believe our Journeys consumer is more interested in a broader range of brands they are buying and more diversified in the styles they are wearing. We have injected the product assortment with more new relevant product offerings across several casual and athletic brands and increased investment in the Journeys brand to elevate the customer experience.
The store count for Journeys Group was 1,006 stores at the end of Fiscal 2025, including 211 Journeys Kidz stores, 35 Journeys stores in Canada and 30 Little Burgundy stores in Canada, compared to 1,063 stores at the end of Fiscal 2024, including 222 Journeys Kidz stores, 39 Journeys stores in Canada and 33 Little Burgundy stores in Canada.
The 110 basis point improvement in operating margin for Journeys Group in Fiscal 2025 compared to Fiscal 2024 was primarily due to decreased selling and administrative expenses as a percentage of net sales reflecting decreased occupancy, compensation and freight expenses, partially offset by increased performance-based compensation and marketing expenses. Gross margin decreased by 10 basis points as a percentage of net sales in Fiscal 2025, reflecting changes in product mix, partially offset by decreased markdowns.
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Schuh Group
Fiscal Year Ended %
(dollars in thousands)
Operating margin 2.1 % 4.5 %
Net sales from the Schuh Group were flat at $479.9 million for Fiscal 2025 compared to $480.2 million for Fiscal 2024. Net sales in Fiscal 2025 included a total comparable sales decrease of 2% driven by decreased store sales, partially offset by increased e-commerce comparable sales, accelerating to over 40% of Schuh sales, and a favorable impact of $9.0 million in sales due to changes in foreign exchange rates. Schuh's sales decreased 2% on a local currency basis for Fiscal 2025. Schuh continues to contend with a challenging and highly promotional U.K. footwear market. The consumer continues to be selective with their discretionary purchases. In addition, Schuh Group sales in Fiscal 2025 compares against back-to-back years of record sales growth. Schuh Group operated 124 stores at the end of Fiscal 2025 compared to 122 stores at the end of Fiscal 2024.
The 240 basis point decrease in operating margin for Fiscal 2025 compared to Fiscal 2024 reflects decreased gross margin as a percentage of net sales reflecting a more promotional environment at Schuh Group during Fiscal 2025, partially offset by decreased shipping and warehouse expenses. The increase in selling and administrative expenses as a percentage of net sales also contributed to the decrease in operating margin reflecting increased selling salaries, marketing expense and depreciation expense, partially offset by decreased performance-based compensation expense and occupancy expense. In addition, operating income included a favorable impact of $0.2 million due to changes in foreign exchange rates compared to last year.
Johnston & Murphy Group
Fiscal Year Ended %
(dollars in thousands)
Operating margin 2.6 % 4.8 %
Johnston & Murphy Group net sales decreased 5.7% to $320.2 million for Fiscal 2025 from $339.4 million for Fiscal 2024 primarily due to decreased total comparable sales of 2% driven by decreased store and e-commerce comparable sales, a 3% decrease in the average number of Johnston & Murphy stores for Fiscal 2025 and decreased wholesale sales. The softening in men's non-athletic premium footwear market made for a difficult operating environment in Fiscal 2025. Johnston & Murphy continues to make inroads with more casual footwear and in apparel and accessories, such as outerwear and leather goods. Retail operations accounted for 78.3% of Johnston & Murphy Group's sales in both Fiscal 2025 and Fiscal 2024. The store count for
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Johnston & Murphy retail operations at the end of Fiscal 2025 was 148 Johnston & Murphy shops and factory stores, compared to 156 Johnston & Murphy shops and factory stores, including five stores in Canada, at the end of Fiscal 2024. Johnston & Murphy closed its five Canadian stores at the end of Fiscal 2025.
The 220 basis point decrease in operating margin for Johnston & Murphy Group for Fiscal 2025 compared to Fiscal 2024 reflects increased selling and administrative expenses as a percentage of net sales for Fiscal 2025, reflecting the deleverage of expenses, especially marketing expense, selling salaries and compensation expense in part as a result of decreased revenue in Fiscal 2025. Johnston & Murphy continues to make investments in marketing to enhance the brand as the men's non-athletic premium footwear market returns to a more normal operating environment. Gross margin as a percentage of net sales increased in Fiscal 2025, primarily reflecting improved initial margins and lower markdowns.
Genesco Brands Group
Fiscal Year Ended %
(dollars in thousands)
Operating income (loss) $ 6,806 $ (8 ) NM
Operating margin 5.4 % (0.0 )%
Net sales for Genesco Brands Group decreased 10.7% to $126.0 million for Fiscal 2025 from $141.2 million for Fiscal 2024, primarily due to the repositioning of the business to a more refined portfolio of licenses to emphasize key brands, partially offset by increased sales of Dockers footwear.
The 540 basis point improvement in operating margin for Genesco Brands Group in Fiscal 2025 was primarily due to decreased selling and administrative expenses as a percentage of net sales reflecting decreased royalty, marketing and other expenses primarily as a result of an amendment to the Levi's license agreement, partially offset by increased performance-based compensation and freight expenses. Gross margin increased as a percentage of net sales which also contributed to the operating margin improvement, reflecting a favorable brand sales mix shift.
Corporate, Interest Expenses and Other Charges
Corporate and other expense for Fiscal 2025 decreased 39% to $37.8 million compared to $62.3 million for Fiscal 2024. Corporate and other expense in Fiscal 2025 included a $3.2 million charge in asset impairment and other charges which included $1.8 million for severance and $1.4 million for asset impairments. Corporate and other expense in Fiscal 2024 included non-cash impairment charges of $28.5 million related to goodwill and a $1.8 million charge in asset impairment and other charges which included $1.1 million in severance and $1.0 million for asset impairments, partially offset by a $0.3 million insurance gain. The corporate expense increase, excluding asset impairment and other charges in Fiscal 2025 and Fiscal 2024 and goodwill impairment in Fiscal 2024, primarily reflects an increase in performance-based compensation and compensation expenses in Fiscal 2025 compared to Fiscal 2024.
Net interest expense decreased $3.5 million or 45.4% to $4.3 million in Fiscal 2025 from $7.8 million in Fiscal 2024 primarily reflecting decreased average borrowings in Fiscal 2025 compared to Fiscal 2024.
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Liquidity and Capital Resources
Working Capital
Our business is seasonal, with our investment in inventory and accounts receivable normally reaching peaks in the spring and fall of each year. Historically, cash flow from operations has been generated principally in the fourth quarter of each fiscal year.
Cash flow changes: Fiscal Year Ended
(in thousands) February 1, 2025 February 3, 2024 Increase(Decrease)
Effect of foreign exchange rate fluctuations on cash (900 ) (51 ) (849 )
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents $ (1,148 ) $ (12,835 ) $ 11,687
Reasons for the major variances in cash provided by (used in) the table above are as follows:
Cash provided by operating activities was $6.9 million lower in Fiscal 2025 compared to Fiscal 2024, reflecting primarily the following factors:
•
a $129.4 million decrease in cash flow from changes in inventory, primarily reflecting a year over year increase in Journeys Group, Johnston & Murphy Group and Genesco Brands Group inventory, partially offset by a year over year decrease in Schuh inventory; and partially offset by
•
an $82.0 million increase in cash flow from changes in accounts payable, primarily reflecting changes in buying patterns in Fiscal 2025;
•
a $17.6 million increase in cash flow from changes in accounts receivable, primarily reflecting the distribution model transition at Genesco Brands Group and decreased Genesco Brands Group sales; and
•
a $61.7 million increase in cash flow from changes in other assets and liabilities, partially offset by a $47.6 million decrease in cash flow from changes in prepaids and other current assets, primarily reflecting changes in timing of prepaid income taxes and changes in timing of rent payments in Fiscal 2025 compared to Fiscal 2024.
Cash used in investing activities was $18.9 million lower in Fiscal 2025 compared to Fiscal 2024 reflecting decreased capital expenditures primarily related to omni-channel capabilities and investments in retail stores.
Cash used in financing activities was $0.6 million lower in Fiscal 2025 as compared to Fiscal 2024 primarily reflecting decreased share repurchases, partially offset by decreased net borrowings this year compared to last year.
Sources of Liquidity and Future Capital Needs
We have three principal sources of liquidity: cash flow from operations, cash on hand and our credit facilities discussed in Item 8, Note 8, "Long-Term Debt", to our Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
On January 28, 2022, we entered into a Third Amendment (the "Third Amendment") to our Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated as of January 31, 2018 between us, certain of our subsidiaries, the lenders party thereto and Bank of America, N.A. as agent (as amended, the "Credit Facility" or the "Credit Agreement") to, among other things, extend the maturity date to January 28, 2027 and remove the $17.5 million first in-last out term loan. The Total Commitments (as defined in the Credit Agreement) for revolving loans is $332.5 million. As of February 1, 2025 we did not have any revolver borrowings outstanding.
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We had outstanding letters of credit of $5.9 million under the Credit Facility at February 1, 2025. These letters of credit support lease and insurance indemnifications.
On November 2, 2022, Schuh entered into a facility agreement (the "Facility Agreement") with Lloyds Bank PLC (“Lloyds”) for a £19.0 million revolving credit facility. The Facility Agreement expires November 2, 2025, with options to request two one-year extensions to this termination date subject to lender approval, and bears interest at 2.35% over the Bank of England Base Rate. This Facility Agreement replaced Schuh's Facility Letter that would have expired in October 2023. The Facility Agreement includes certain financial covenants specific to Schuh. Following certain customary events of default outlined in the Facility Agreement, payment of outstanding amounts due may be accelerated or the commitments may be terminated. The Facility Agreement is secured by charges over all of the assets of Schuh, and Schuh's subsidiary, Schuh (ROI) Limited. Pursuant to a Guarantee in favor of Lloyds in its capacity as security trustee, Genesco Inc. has guaranteed the obligations of Schuh under the Facility Agreement and certain existing ancillary facilities on an unsecured basis. As of February 1, 2025, we did not have any borrowings under the Schuh Facility Agreement.
We were in compliance with all the relevant terms and conditions of the Credit Facility and Facility Agreement as of February 1, 2025.
We believe that cash on hand, cash provided by operations and borrowings under our amended Credit Facility and the Schuh Facility Agreement will be sufficient to support our liquidity needs in Fiscal 2026 and the foreseeable future.
In the fourth quarter of Fiscal 2021, we implemented tax strategies allowed under the 5-year carryback provisions in the CARES Act which we believed would generate approximately $55 million of net tax refunds. We received approximately $26 million of such net tax refunds in Fiscal 2022 and anticipated receipt of the remaining outstanding net tax refund in Fiscal 2023. However, in the third quarter of Fiscal 2023, we were notified that the Internal Revenue Service ("IRS") would conduct an audit of the periods related to the outstanding net tax refund. As a result, the timing of the net tax refund was extended due to the audit process. On January 17, 2025, we executed Form 870 with the IRS exam team and began the process of completing the separate Joint Committee on Taxation review of our claim. Form 870 is used upon completion of an IRS examination to indicate the taxpayer’s agreement with the revenue agent’s report of proposed adjustments and agreement to pay any deficiency. As a result, we now expect a refund of $59.3 million based on additional accrued interest and minor changes to the refund as agreed to on Form 870. Further, we now expect to complete the remaining requirements of the Joint Committee on Taxation governmental review process and collect the refund during Fiscal 2026. As such, we have moved the receivable from noncurrent prepaid income taxes to prepaids and other current assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of February 1, 2025.
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Contractual Obligations
The following table sets forth aggregate contractual obligations as of February 1, 2025.
(in thousands)
Contractual Obligations Total Current Long-Term
Long-Term Debt Obligations $ — $ — $ —
(1) Operating lease obligations excludes $27.9 million for leases signed but not yet commenced.
We issue inventory purchase orders in the ordinary course of business, which represent authorizations to purchase that are cancelable by their terms. We do not consider purchase orders to be firm inventory commitments. If we choose to cancel a purchase order, we may be obligated to reimburse the vendor for unrecoverable outlays incurred prior to cancellation.
Capital Expenditures
Capital expenditures were $41.1 million and $60.3 million for Fiscal 2025 and 2024, respectively. The $19.2 million decrease in Fiscal 2025 capital expenditures as compared to Fiscal 2024 is primarily due to decreases in computer hardware, software and warehouse enhancements to drive traffic and omni-channel initiatives and decreases for new stores, partially offset by increased renovations.
We expect total capital expenditures for Fiscal 2026 to be approximately $50-$65 million of which approximately 70% is for new stores and renovations and 30% is for computer hardware, software and warehouse enhancements for initiatives to drive traffic and omni-channel initiatives and other projects. We do not currently have any longer term capital expenditures or other cash requirements other than as set forth in the contractual obligations table. We also do not currently have any off-balance sheet arrangements.
Common Stock Repurchases
We repurchased 399,633 shares during Fiscal 2025 at a cost of $9.8 million or an average of $24.49 per share. We were operating under a $100.0 million repurchase authorization from February 2022. In June 2023, we announced an additional $50.0 million share repurchase authorization. As of February 1, 2025, we have $42.3 million remaining under the expanded share repurchase authorization. We repurchased 1,261,295 shares during Fiscal 2024 at a cost of $32.0 million or an average of $25.39 per share. We repurchased 1,380,272 shares during Fiscal 2023 at a cost of $72.7 million or an average of $52.66 per share. During the first quarter of Fiscal 2026, through March 26, 2025, we repurchased 469,325 shares at a cost of $10.0 million or an average of $21.31 per share.
Environmental and Other Contingencies
We are subject to certain loss contingencies related to environmental proceedings and other legal matters, including those disclosed in Item 8, Note 15, "Legal Proceedings", to our Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
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Financial Market Risk
The following discusses our exposure to financial market risk.
Outstanding Debt – We do not have any outstanding revolver borrowings as of February 1, 2025.
Cash and Cash Equivalents – Our cash and cash equivalent balances are held in our bank accounts and are invested primarily in institutional money market funds. We did not have significant exposure to changing interest rates on invested cash at February 1, 2025. As a result, we consider the interest rate risk implicit in these investments at February 1, 2025 to be low. We had cash equivalents of $7.5 million at February 1, 2025.
Summary – Based on our overall market interest rate exposure at February 1, 2025, we believe that the effect, if any, of reasonably possible near-term changes in interest rates on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows for Fiscal 2026 would not be material.
Accounts Receivable – Our accounts receivable balance at February 1, 2025 is concentrated in our wholesale businesses, which sell primarily to department stores and independent retailers across the United States. In the wholesale businesses, one customer accounted for 27%, one customer accounted for 19%, one customer accounted for 11% and one customer accounted for 10% of our total trade receivables balance, while no other customer accounted for more than 7% of our total trade receivables balance as of February 1, 2025. We monitor the credit quality of our customers and establish an allowance for doubtful accounts based upon factors surrounding credit risk of specific customers, historical trends and other information, as well as customer specific factors; however, credit risk is affected by conditions or occurrences within the economy and the retail industry, as well as company-specific information.
Foreign Currency Exchange Risk – We are exposed to translation risk because certain of our foreign operations utilize the local currency as their functional currency and those financial results must be translated into United States dollars. As currency exchange rates fluctuate, translation of our financial statements of foreign businesses into United States dollars affects the comparability of financial results between years. Schuh Group's net sales and operating income for Fiscal 2025 were positively impacted by $9.0 million and $0.2 million, respectively, due to the change in foreign exchange rates.
New Accounting Principles
Descriptions of recently issued accounting pronouncements, if any, and the accounting pronouncements adopted by us during Fiscal 2025 are included in Note 2, "New Accounting Pronouncements", to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data".
Critical Accounting Estimates
Inventory Valuation
In our footwear wholesale operations and our Schuh Group segment, cost for inventory that we own is determined using the first-in, first-out ("FIFO") method. Net realizable value is determined using a system of analysis which evaluates inventory at the stock number level based on factors such as inventory turn, average selling price, inventory level, and selling prices reflected in future orders for footwear wholesale. We provide a valuation allowance when the inventory has not been marked down to net realizable value based on current selling prices or when the inventory is not turning and is not expected to turn at satisfactory levels.
In our retail operations, other than the Schuh Group segment, we employ the retail inventory method, applying average cost-to-retail ratios to the retail value of inventories. Under the retail inventory method, valuing inventory at the lower of cost or market is achieved as markdowns are taken or accrued as a reduction of the retail value of inventories.
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Inherent in the retail inventory method are subjective judgments and estimates about the recoverability of the inventory and its market value, including merchandise mark-on, markups, markdowns and shrinkage. These judgments and estimates, coupled with the fact that the retail inventory method is an averaging process, could produce a range of cost figures. To reduce the risk of inaccuracy and to ensure consistent presentation, we employ the retail inventory method in multiple subclasses of inventory with similar gross margins. We analyze markdown requirements at the stock number level based on factors such as inventory
turn, average selling price and inventory age and we accrue markdowns as necessary. These additional markdown accruals reflect all of the above factors as well as current agreements to return products to vendors and vendor agreements to provide markdown support. In addition to markdown allowances, we maintain reserves for shrinkage and damaged goods based on historical rates.
Inherent in the analysis of both wholesale and retail inventory valuation are subjective judgments about current market conditions, fashion trends and overall economic conditions as well as expectations surrounding future sales. Failure to make appropriate conclusions regarding these factors may result in an overstatement or understatement of inventory value. A change of 10% from the recorded amounts for markdowns, shrinkage and damaged goods would have changed inventory by $0.9 million at February 1, 2025.
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets
We periodically assess the recoverability of our long-lived assets, other than goodwill, and evaluate such assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Asset impairment is determined to exist if an asset's fair value is less than the carrying amount. Fair value of our long-lived assets is determined by estimated future cash flows, undiscounted and without interest charges, and comparable market rents. Inherent in the analysis of impairment are subjective judgments about future cash flows. Failure to make appropriate conclusions regarding these judgments may result in an overstatement or understatement of the value of long-lived assets.
We annually assess our goodwill and indefinite lived trademarks for impairment and on an interim basis if indicators of impairment are present. Our annual assessment date of goodwill and indefinite lived trade names is the first day of the fourth quarter.
In accordance with ASC 350, "Intangibles - Goodwill and Other" ("ASC 350") we have the option first to assess qualitative factors to determine whether events and circumstances indicate that it is more likely than not that goodwill is impaired. If, after such assessment, we conclude that the asset is not impaired, no further action is required. However, if we conclude otherwise, we are required to determine the fair value of the asset using a quantitative impairment test. The quantitative impairment test for goodwill compares the fair value of each reporting unit with the carrying value of the reporting unit with which the goodwill is associated. If the fair value of the reporting unit is less than the carrying value of the reporting unit, an impairment charge would be recorded for the amount, if any, in which the carrying value exceeds the reporting unit's fair value. We estimate fair value using the best information available, and compute the fair value derived by a combination of the market and income approach. The market approach is based on observed market data of comparable companies to determine fair value. The income approach utilizes a projection of a reporting unit’s estimated operating results and cash flows that are discounted using a weighted-average cost of capital that reflects current market conditions. A key assumption in our fair value estimate is the weighted average cost of capital utilized for discounting our cash flow projections in our income approach. The projection uses our best estimates of economic and market conditions over the projected period including growth rates in sales, costs, estimates of future expected changes in operating margins and cash expenditures. Other significant estimates and assumptions include terminal value growth rates, future estimates of capital expenditures and changes in future working capital requirements. For additional information regarding impairment of long-lived assets, see Item 8, Note 3, "Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets" and Note 4,"Asset Impairments and Other Charges" to our Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
The quantitative impairment test for indefinite lived trademarks compares the fair value of the trademark with the carrying value of the related trademark. If the fair value of the trademark is less than the carrying value of the trademark, an impairment charge
40
would be recorded for the amount, if any, in which the carrying value exceeds the trademark’s fair value. We estimate fair value using the best information available, and compute the fair value using an income approach that estimates the savings that the trademark owner would realize from owning that asset instead of having to pay rent or a royalty for the use of it. Key assumptions in our fair value estimate are the selected royalty rate and discount rate. Other significant estimates and assumptions include terminal value growth rates and future profitability expectations.
Revenue Recognition
In accordance with ASU 2014-09, "Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606)" ("ASC 606"), revenue shall be recognized upon satisfaction of all contractual performance obligations and transfer of control to the customer. Revenue is measured as the amount of consideration we expect to be entitled to in exchange for corresponding goods. Substantially all of our sales are single performance obligation arrangements for retail sale transactions for which the transaction price is equivalent to the stated price of the product, net of any stated discounts applicable at a point in time. Each sales transaction results in an implicit contract with the customer to deliver a product at the point of sale. Revenue from retail sales is recognized at the point of sale, is net of estimated returns, and excludes sales and value added taxes. Revenue from catalog and internet sales is recognized at estimated time of delivery to the customer, is net of estimated returns, and excludes sales and value added taxes. Wholesale revenue is recorded net of estimated returns and allowances for markdowns, damages and miscellaneous claims when the related goods have been shipped and legal title has passed to the customer. Actual amounts of markdowns have not differed materially from estimates. Shipping and handling costs charged to customers are included in net sales. We elected the practical expedient within ASC 606 related to taxes that are assessed by a governmental authority, which allows for the exclusion of sales and value added tax from transaction price.
Revenue from gift cards is deferred and recognized upon the redemption of the cards. These cards have no expiration date. Income from unredeemed cards is recognized in our Consolidated Statements of Operations within net sales in proportion to the pattern of rights exercised by the customer in future periods. We perform an evaluation of historical redemption patterns from the date of original issuance to estimate future period redemption activity.
Income Taxes
As part of the process of preparing our Consolidated Financial Statements, we are required to estimate our income taxes in each of the tax jurisdictions in which we operate. This process involves estimating actual current tax obligations together with assessing temporary differences resulting from differing treatment of certain items for tax and accounting purposes, such as depreciation of property and equipment and valuation of inventories. These temporary differences result in deferred tax assets and liabilities, which are included within our Consolidated Balance Sheets. We then assess the likelihood that our deferred tax assets will be recovered from future taxable income. Actual results could differ from this assessment if adequate taxable income is not generated in future periods. To the extent it is more likely than not that some portion or all of a deferred asset will not be realized, valuation allowances are established. To the extent valuation allowances are established or increased in a period, we include an expense within the tax provision in our Consolidated Statements of Operations. These deferred tax valuation allowances may be released in future years when we consider that it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will be realized. In making such a determination, we will need to periodically evaluate whether or not all available evidence, such as future taxable income and reversal of temporary differences, tax planning strategies, and recent results of operations, provides sufficient positive evidence to offset any other negative evidence that may exist at such time. In the event the deferred tax valuation allowance is released, we would record an income tax benefit for a portion or all of the deferred tax valuation allowance released. At February 1, 2025, we had a deferred tax valuation allowance of $72.4 million.
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Income tax reserves for uncertain tax positions are determined using the methodology required by the Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Income Tax Topic, ("ASC 740"). This methodology requires companies to assess each income tax position taken using a two-step process. A determination is first made as to whether it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained, based upon the technical merits, upon examination by the taxing authorities. If the tax position is expected to meet the more likely than not criteria, the benefit recorded for the tax position equals the largest amount that is greater than 50% likely to be realized upon ultimate settlement of the respective tax position. Uncertain tax positions require determinations and estimated liabilities to be made based on provisions of the tax law which may be subject to change or varying interpretation. If our determinations and estimates prove to be inaccurate, the resulting adjustments could be material to our future financial results. See Item 8, Note 11, "Income Taxes", to our Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for additional information related to income taxes.
ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
We incorporate by reference the information regarding market risk appearing under the heading “Financial Market Risk” in Item 7, "Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations."
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ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Page
Consolidated Balance Sheets, February 1, 2025 and February 3, 2024 47
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 52
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Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Shareholders and the Board of Directors of Genesco Inc.
Opinion on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
We have audited Genesco Inc. and Subsidiaries’ internal control over financial reporting as of February 1, 2025, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (2013 framework) (the COSO criteria). In our opinion, Genesco Inc. and Subsidiaries (the Company) maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of February 1, 2025, based on the COSO criteria.
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the consolidated balance sheets of Genesco Inc. and Subsidiaries as of February 1, 2025 and February 3, 2024, the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income (loss), cash flows, and equity for each of the three fiscal years in the period ended February 1, 2025, and the related notes and financial statement schedule listed in the Index at Item 15, and our report dated March 26, 2025 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.
Basis for Opinion
The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting included in the accompanying Management’s annual report on internal control over financial reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects.
Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
Definition and Limitations of Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
/s/ Ernst & Young LLP
Nashville, Tennessee
March 26, 2025
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Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Shareholders and the Board of Directors of Genesco Inc.
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Genesco Inc. (the Company) as of February 1, 2025 and February 3, 2024, the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income (loss), cash flows, and equity for each of the three fiscal years in the period ended February 1, 2025, and the related notes and financial statement schedule listed in the Index at Item 15 (collectively referred to as the “consolidated financial statements”). In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company at February 1, 2025 and February 3, 2024, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended February 1, 2025, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of February 1, 2025, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (2013 framework), and our report dated March 26, 2025 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
Critical Audit Matter
The critical audit matter communicated below is a matter arising from the current period audit of the financial statements that was communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that: (1) relates to accounts or disclosures that are material to the financial statements and (2) involved our especially challenging, subjective or complex judgments. The communication of the critical audit matter does not alter in any way our opinion on the consolidated financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matter below, providing a separate opinion on the critical audit matter or on the account or disclosure to which it relates.
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Valuation of Journeys Group Inventory - Markdown Allowances
/s/ Ernst & Young LLP
We have served as the Company's auditor since 2001.
Nashville, Tennessee
March 26, 2025
46
Genesco Inc.
and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Balance Sheets
In Thousands, except share amounts
As of Fiscal Year End
Current Assets:
Non-current prepaid income taxes — 56,839
Liabilities and Equity
Current Liabilities:
Commitments and contingent liabilities
Equity
Non-redeemable preferred stock 835 813
Common equity:
Common stock, $1 par value:
Accumulated other comprehensive loss (45,424 ) (39,624 )
The accompanying Notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.
47
Genesco Inc.
and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Operations
In Thousands, except per share amounts
Fiscal Year
Goodwill impairment — 28,453 —
Other components of net periodic benefit cost 367 537 248
Gain (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax 622 6,801 (327 )
Basic earnings (loss) per common share:
Continuing operations $ (1.80 ) $ (2.10 ) $ 5.80
Net earnings (loss) $ (1.74 ) $ (1.50 ) $ 5.77
Diluted earnings (loss) per common share:
Continuing operations $ (1.80 ) $ (2.10 ) $ 5.69
Net earnings (loss) $ (1.74 ) $ (1.50 ) $ 5.66
Weighted average shares outstanding:
The accompanying Notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.
48
Genesco Inc.
and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss)
In Thousands, except as noted
Fiscal Year
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Postretirement liability adjustment (1,557 ) 99 340
Foreign currency translation adjustment (4,243 ) 1,488 (5,143 )
Total other comprehensive income (loss) (5,800 ) 1,587 (4,803 )
The accompanying Notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.
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Genesco Inc.
and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
In Thousands
Fiscal Year
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Goodwill impairment — 28,453 —
Provision for discontinued operations 360 514 440
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Other investing activities — 215 —
Proceeds from asset sales 1 87 —
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Shares repurchased related to share repurchase plan (9,789 ) (32,027 ) (77,470 )
Additions to deferred financing costs — (12 ) (144 )
Effect of foreign exchange rate fluctuations on cash (900 ) (51 ) (2,187 )
Supplemental information:
The accompanying Notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.
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Genesco Inc.
and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Equity
In Thousands
Other comprehensive loss — — — — (4,803 ) — (4,803 )
Share-based compensation expense — — 14,017 — — — 14,017
Restricted stock issuance — 316 (316 ) — — — —
Restricted shares withheld for taxes — (73 ) 73 (3,942 ) — — (3,942 )
Other comprehensive income — — — — 1,587 — 1,587
Share-based compensation expense — — 14,014 — — — 14,014
Restricted stock issuance — 296 (296 ) — — — —
Restricted shares withheld for taxes — (86 ) 86 (2,249 ) — — (2,249 )
Excise taxes related to repurchases of common stock — — — (262 ) — — (262 )
Other (2 ) (77 ) 79 — — — —
Other comprehensive loss — — — — (5,800 ) — (5,800 )
Share-based compensation expense — — 12,866 — — — 12,866
Restricted stock issuance — 338 (338 ) — — — —
Restricted shares withheld for taxes — (90 ) 90 (2,572 ) — — (2,572 )
Excise taxes related to repurchases of common stock — — — (28 ) — — (28 )
The accompanying Notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.
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Genesco Inc.
and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 1
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Nature of Operations
Genesco Inc. and its subsidiaries business includes the sourcing and design, marketing and distribution of footwear, apparel and accessories through retail stores in the U.S., Puerto Rico and Canada primarily under the Journeys®, Journeys Kidz®, Little Burgundy® and Johnston & Murphy® banners and under the Schuh banner in the U.K. and the ROI; through catalogs and e-commerce websites including the following: journeys.com, journeyskidz.com, journeys.ca, schuh.co.uk, schuh.ie, schuh.eu, littleburgundyshoes.com, johnstonmurphy.com, nashvilleshoewarehouse.com and dockersshoes.com and at wholesale, primarily under our Johnston & Murphy brand, the licensed Dockers® brand, the licensed Levi's® brand, the licensed G.H. Bass® brand and other brands that we license for footwear. At February 1, 2025, we operated 1,278 retail stores in the U.S., Puerto Rico, Canada, the U.K. and the ROI.
During Fiscal 2025, we operated four reportable business segments (not including corporate): (i) Journeys Group, comprised of the Journeys, Journeys Kidz and Little Burgundy retail footwear chains and e-commerce operations; (ii) Schuh Group, comprised of the Schuh retail footwear chain and e-commerce operations; (iii) Johnston & Murphy Group, comprised of Johnston & Murphy retail operations, e-commerce operations and wholesale distribution of products under the Johnston & Murphy brand; and (iv) Genesco Brands Group, comprised of the licensed Dockers, Levi's, and G.H. Bass brands, as well as other brands we license for footwear.
Principles of Consolidation
All subsidiaries are consolidated in our Consolidated Financial Statements. All significant intercompany transactions and accounts have been eliminated.
Fiscal Year
Our fiscal year ends on the Saturday closest to January 31. This reporting schedule is followed by many national retail companies and typically results in a 52-week fiscal year, but occasionally will contain an additional week resulting in a 53-week fiscal year. The periods presented in these financial statements each consisted of 52 weeks, except for Fiscal 2024, which consisted of 53 weeks. Fiscal 2025 ended on February 1, 2025, Fiscal 2024 ended on February 3, 2024 and Fiscal 2023 ended on January 28, 2023.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Our foreign subsidiaries held cash of approximately $13.9 million and $23.2 million as of February 1, 2025 and February 3, 2024, respectively, which is included in cash and cash equivalents on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Based upon evaluation of our worldwide operations and specific plans to remit foreign earnings back to the U.S., we can no longer assert that earnings from certain foreign operations will be indefinitely reinvested and have recorded U.S. taxes in accordance with applicable U.S.
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Genesco Inc.
and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 1
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, Continued
tax rules and regulations.
There were $7.5 million of cash equivalents at February 1, 2025 and no cash equivalents at February 3, 2024. Cash equivalents include highly-liquid financial instruments, which we define as those having an original maturity of three months or less. Our $7.5 million of cash equivalents at February 1, 2025 were invested in institutional money market funds which invest exclusively in highly rated, short-term securities that are issued, guaranteed or collateralized by the U.S. government or by U.S. government agencies and instrumentalities. The majority of payments due from banks for customer credit cards are classified as cash, as they generally settle within 24 to 48 hours.
At February 1, 2025 and February 3, 2024, outstanding checks drawn on zero-balance accounts at certain banks exceeded book cash balances at those banks by approximately $3.2 million and $3.3 million, respectively. These amounts are included in accounts payable in our Consolidated Balance Sheets.
Concentration of Credit Risk and Allowances on Accounts Receivable
Our wholesale businesses sell primarily to independent retailers and department stores across the United States. Receivables arising from these sales are not collateralized. Customer credit risk is affected by conditions or occurrences within the economy and the retail industry as well as by customer specific factors. In the wholesale businesses, one customer accounted for 27%, one customer accounted for 19%, one customer accounted for 11% and one customer accounted for 10% of our total trade receivables balance, while no other customer accounted for more than 7% of our total trade receivables balance as of February 1, 2025.
We establish an allowance for doubtful accounts based upon factors surrounding the credit risk of specific customers, historical trends and other information, as well as customer specific factors. We also establish allowances for sales returns, customer deductions and co-op advertising based on specific circumstances, historical trends and projected probable outcomes.
Inventory Valuation
In our footwear wholesale operations and our Schuh Group segment, cost for inventory that we own is determined using the first-in, first-out ("FIFO") method. Net realizable value is determined using a system of analysis which evaluates inventory at the stock number level based on factors such as inventory turn, average selling price, inventory level, and selling prices reflected in future orders for footwear wholesale. We provide a valuation allowance when the inventory has not been marked down to net realizable value based on current selling prices or when the inventory is not turning and is not expected to turn at satisfactory levels.
In our retail operations, other than the Schuh Group segment, we employ the retail inventory method, applying average cost-to-retail ratios to the retail value of inventories. Under the retail inventory method, valuing inventory at the lower of cost or market is achieved as markdowns are taken or accrued as a reduction of the retail value of inventories.
Inherent in the retail inventory method are subjective judgments and estimates about the recoverability of the inventory and its market value, including merchandise mark-on, markups, markdowns and shrinkage. These judgments and estimates, coupled with the fact that the retail inventory method is an averaging process, could produce a range of cost figures. To reduce the risk of inaccuracy and to ensure consistent presentation, we employ the retail inventory method in multiple subclasses of inventory with similar gross margins. We analyze markdown requirements at the stock number level based on factors such as inventory