Q1 2026 Burlington Stores Inc Earnings Cal

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Operator: Hello everyone and welcome to Burlington Stores Inc. first quarter 2025 earnings call. Please note that this call is being recorded.

Speaker Change: Hello, everyone and welcome to Burlington stores, Inc. First quarter 'twenty 25 earnings call at least note that this call is being recorded after the Speakers' prepared remarks, there will be a question and answer session. If you'd like to ask a question during that time. Please press star followed by one on your telephone keypad.

Operator: After the speakers prepare remarks, there will be a question and answer session. If you'd like to ask a question during that time, please press star followed by 1 on your telephone keypad. Thank you.

Speaker Change: Thank you I'd now like to hand, the call over to David Glick Group's senior Vice President Investor Relations and Treasurer, you May now begin Sir.

David Glick: I'd now like to hand the call over to David Glick, Group Senior Vice President, Investor Relations, and Treasurer. You may now begin, sir.

David Glick: Thank you, operator, and good morning, everyone. We appreciate everyone's participation in today's conference call to discuss Burlington's fiscal 2025 first quarter operating results.

Speaker Change: Thank you operator, and good morning, everyone. We appreciate everyone's participation in today's conference call to discuss Burlington's fiscal 2025 first quarter operating results.

Unknown Executive: Our presenters today are Michael O'Sullivan, our Chief Executive Officer, and Kristin Wolfe, our EVP and Chief Financial Officer.

Speaker Change: Our presenters today are Michael O'sullivan, our Chief Executive Officer, and Christian Moore, our EVP and Chief Financial Officer.

David Glick: Before I turn the call over to Michael, I would like to inform listeners that this call may not be transcribed, recorded, or broadcast without our express permission. Replay of the call will be available until June 5th, 2025. We take no responsibility for inaccuracies that may appear in transcripts of this call by third parties. Our remarks and the Q&A that follows are copyrighted today by Burlington Stores.

Speaker Change: Before I turn the call over to Michael I would like to inform listeners that this call may not be transcribed recorded or broadcast without our expressed permission.

Speaker Change: A replay of the call will be available until June five 2025.

Michael: We take no responsibility for inaccuracy that may appear in transcripts of this call by third parties.

Speaker Change: Our remarks, and the Q&A that follows are copyrighted today by Burlington stores.

David Glick: Remarks made on this call concerning future expectations, events, strategies, objectives, trends, or projected financial results are subject to certain risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from those that are projected in such forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include those that are described in the company's 10-K and in our filings with the FCC, all of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference.

Speaker Change: Remarks made on this call concerning future expectations events strategies objectives trends or projected financial results are subject to certain risks and uncertainties actual results may differ materially from those that are projected in such forward looking statements.

Speaker Change: Such risks and uncertainties include those that are described in the company's 10-K and in our filings with the SEC all of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference. Please note that the financial results and expectations. We discussed today are on a continuing operations basis reconciliations of the non-GAAP measures we discussed today.

David Glick: Please note that the financial results and expectations we discussed today are in a continuing operations-based manner. Reconciliations are the non-GAP measures we discussed today. The GAP measures are included in today's press. As a reminder, as indicated in this morning's press release, all profitability metrics discussed in this call exclude costs associated with bankruptcy-acquired leases. These pre-tax costs amounted to $6 million each during the fiscal first quarters of 2025 and 2020.

Speaker Change: The GAAP measures are included in today's press release.

Speaker Change: As a reminder, as indicated in this morning's press release, all profitability metrics discussed in this call exclude costs associated with bankruptcy acquired leases.

Speaker Change: These pretax costs amounted to $6 million each during the fiscal first quarters of 2025 and 2024.

Unknown Executive: Now, here's my.

Michael: Here's Michael.

Unknown Executive: Thank you, David.

Michael: Thank you David.

Unknown Executive: Good morning, everyone, and thank you for joining us. I would like to cover four topics this morning. Firstly, I will briefly discuss our first quarter results. Secondly, I will talk about our forward-looking guidance. Thirdly, I will comment on the two biggest drivers of uncertainty right now, the impact of tariffs and the state of the consumer.

Speaker Change: Good morning, everyone and thank you for joining us.

Speaker Change: I would like to cover four topics this morning.

Speaker Change: Firstly I will briefly discuss our first quarter results.

Speaker Change: Secondly, I will talk about our forward looking guidance.

Speaker Change: Thirdly, I will comment on the two biggest drivers of uncertainty right now the impact of tariffs and the state of the consumer.

Unknown Executive: Finally, I will share some thoughts on our longer term process.

Speaker Change: Finally, I will share some thoughts on our longer term prospects.

Unknown Executive: After that, I'll hand it over to Kristin to walk through the financial details. Then we will be happy to respond to your questions.

Speaker Change: After that I'll hand, it over to Christian to walk through the financial details.

Speaker Change: Then we will be happy to respond to your questions.

Unknown Executive: Okay, let's talk about our Q1 results. Total sales grew by 6% on top of 11% growth last year. Meanwhile, our comp sales were flat on top of 2% comp growth last year. Both metrics were at the midpoint of our guidance. As we discussed in our Q4 call in early March, the quarter started off slowly, with the trend in February being negatively impacted by unfavorable weather and a slower pace of tax refunds versus last year. We were pleased that the sales trend picked up in the March and April period once these factors began to normalize.

Christian: Okay, let's talk about our Q1 results.

Christian: Total sales grew by 6% on top of 11% growth last year.

Christian: Meanwhile, our comp sales were flat on top of 2% comp growth last year.

Christian: Both metrics were at the midpoint of our guidance.

Christian: As we discussed in our Q4 call in early March the quarter started off slowly with the trend in February being negatively impacted by unfavorable weather and a slower pace of tax refunds versus last year.

Christian: We were pleased that the sales trends pick up in the March and April period. Once these factors again to normal lines.

Unknown Executive: Moving on to Q1 earnings. Our EBIT margin increased 30 basis points and our adjusted EPS was up 18% over last year despite a slack comp. There were two drivers of this ahead-of-plan earnings performance. Firstly, there was some timing favorability between Q1 and Q2, mostly related to receipts. We expect this favorability to flip around in Q2. Secondly, in early Q1, in anticipation of the margin pressure that we are likely to feel from tariffs later in the year, we began to aggressively go after margin and expense savings opportunities across the P&L. We were able to capture some of these savings during the first quarter.

Christian: Moving on to Q1 earnings.

Christian: Our EBIT margin increased 30 basis points and our adjusted EPS was up 18% over last year, Despite a flat comp.

Christian: There were two drivers a bit ahead of plan earnings performance.

Christian: Firstly, there was some timing favorability between Q1 and Q2, mostly related to receipts.

Christian: We expect this favorability to flip around in Q2.

Christian: Secondly in early Q1.

Christian: Anticipation of the margin pressure that we are likely to fail from Paris later in the year, we began to aggressively go after margin and expense savings opportunities across the P&L.

Christian: We were able to capture some of these savings during the first quarter.

Unknown Executive: Okay, let's talk about the rest of the year. Our comp guidance for Q2 and for the full year 2025 is flat to up 2%. In fact, our full year comp sales and earnings guidance has not changed from the outlook we shared in early March. We feel good about our ability to achieve this guidance, but we recognize that the level of external uncertainty has increased over the last couple of months. So, we are reaffirming our full year guidance, subject to a few key assumptions that Kristin will describe later in the call.

Christian: Okay, let's talk about the rest of the year.

Christian: Our comp guidance for Q2 and for the full year 2025 is flat to up 2%.

Christian: In fact, our full year comp sales and earnings guidance has not changed from the outlook. We shared in early March.

Christian: We feel good about our ability to achieve this guidance, but we recognize that the level of external uncertainty has increased over the last couple of months.

Christian: No.

Christian: We are affirming our full year guidance subject to a few key assumptions that Christian will describe later in the call.

Unknown Executive: I would now like to discuss the major drivers of external uncertainty, specifically the impact of import tariffs and the state of the consumer.

Speaker Change: I would now like to discuss the major drivers of external uncertainty specifically the impact of import tariffs and the state of the consumer.

Unknown Executive: I will start with Terrence. As I have said previously, disruptions in supply for the retail industry often turn out well for off-price. Events like financial crises, disruptive weather, economic downturns, port strikes, and other forms of disruption often lead to excess supply which off-price retailers can benefit from.

Christian: I will start with tariffs.

Speaker Change: As I have said previously disruptions in supply for the retail industry, often turn out well for off price.

Speaker Change: Events like financial crises disruptive weather economic downturns port strikes and other forms of disruption often lead to excess supply, which off price retailers can benefit from.

Unknown Executive: That said, we think that the potential impact of terrorists is more complex and carries greater risk than other types of disruption. The tariffs that were announced in early April were of a scope and a scale well beyond the expectations of most analysts. The initial effect of these tariffs was to effectively shut down the flow of merchandise from China. If that had continued, then it would have been bad for consumers and bad for retailers, and that includes off-price retailers. For the past two weeks, since the tariffs on imports from China were cut from 145% to 30%, merchandise vendors have been scrambling to catch up.

Speaker Change: That said, we think that the potential impact of tariffs is more complex and carries greater risk than other types of disruption.

Speaker Change: The tariffs that were announced in early April, whereas the scope and the scale well beyond the expectations of most analysts.

Speaker Change: The initial effects of these tariffs was to effectively shut down the flow of merchandise from China.

Speaker Change: If that had continued and it would've been bad for consumers and bad for retailers and that includes off price retailers.

Speaker Change: For the past two weeks the tariffs on imports from China were cut from 145% to 30% merchandise vendors have been scrambling to catch up.

Unknown Executive: This stop-start-surge volatility is likely to lead to shortages in some merchandise categories, but it might also create excess supply in others. We see both risks and opportunities in the months ahead, and we are managing our business accordingly. In this situation, we need to be flexible and nimble.

Speaker Change: This stock start such volatility is likely to lead to shortages and some merchandise categories.

Speaker Change: But it might also create excess supply and others.

Speaker Change: We see both risks and opportunities in the months ahead.

Speaker Change: And we are managing our business accordingly.

Speaker Change: In this situation, we need to be flexible and nimble.

Unknown Executive: One last point. We think it is very important to look through the short-term disruption caused by tariffs. Whatever level these tariffs settle at, the vendor base will adjust. Production capacity will migrate to countries that have the lowest all-in cost. the lowest all-in costs, including the tariff. In some cases, vendors are already making these sourcing shifts. In other categories, it may take a year or two to adjust. My point is that the way to think about terrorists is that they are just one more thing. Yes, they are going to create uncertainty in the short term, which we will navigate, but they are not likely to affect the longer term structural trends in our industry.

Speaker Change: One last point, we think it is very important to look through the short term disruption caused by Harris.

Speaker Change: The level of the tariffs that the vendor base will adjust.

Speaker Change: Production capacity will migrate to countries that have the lowest all in costs the lowest all in cost including the tariffs.

Speaker Change: In some cases vendors are already making these sourcing shifts in other categories. It may take a year or two to adjust.

Speaker Change: My point is that the way to think about tariffs is that they have.

Speaker Change: Just one more thing.

Speaker Change: Yes, they are going to create uncertainty in the short term, which we will navigate but they are not likely to affect the longer term structural trends in our industry.

Unknown Executive: As we have discussed in the past, we see these longer-term trends as being favorable for off-price and our business. So, the next 6 to 12 months could be challenging, but when we get to the other side, if we navigate this well, we should be in good shape. In fact, we expect to come out ahead.

Speaker Change: As we have discussed in the past, we see these longer term trends as being favorable for off price and our business.

Speaker Change: So the next six to 12 months could be challenging, but when we get to the other side. If we can navigate this well we should be in good shape.

Speaker Change: We expect to come out ahead.

Unknown Executive: Okay, let me talk about the other major source of uncertainty, the state of the consumer. Clearly, we saw a deceleration in our comp trend from Q4 to Q1. Our comp growth in the first quarter was flat. This was the midpoint of our comp guidance range. But please do not infer from this that we are happy with a flat comp. We are not. We expect to do better. To understand this trend, we have analyzed our own internal sales data. This shows that the slowdown from Q4 to Q1 was broad-based across trade areas with different demographic characteristics.

Speaker Change: Okay, Let me talk about the other major source of uncertainty the state of the consumer.

Speaker Change: Clearly, we saw a deceleration in our comp trend from Q4 to Q1.

Speaker Change: Our comp growth in the first quarter was flat.

Speaker Change: With the midpoint of our guidance range, but please do not infer from this that we are happy with a flat comp we are not.

Speaker Change: We expect to do better.

Speaker Change: To understand this trend we have analyzed our own internal sales data.

Speaker Change: This shows that the slowdown from Q4 to Q1 was broad based across trade areas with different demographic characteristics.

Unknown Executive: This is just one quarter, so it is too early to say if the slowdown that we saw in our trend from Q4 to Q1 is the start of a broader pullback in consumer spending. In addition to this trend, we are also somewhat concerned about macroeconomic indicators. Many economists have raised their probability estimates for a recession later this year. and there are also concerns that inflation will go up as terrorists work their way through the economy.

Speaker Change: This is just one quarter. So it is too early to say if the slowdown that we saw in our trend from Q4 to Q1 is the start of a broader pullback in consumer spending.

Speaker Change: In addition to this trend we are also somewhat concerned about macro economic indicators.

Speaker Change: Economists have raised that probability estimates or recession later this year.

Speaker Change: And there are also concerns that inflation will go up at tariffs work their way through the economy.

Unknown Executive: The good news is that we have a playbook for these situations. It's our standard playbook. We will manage our business carefully and flexibly, and we will be ready to chase the sales trend if it turns out to be stronger.

Speaker Change: Good news is that we have a playbook for these situations, it's our standard playbook.

Speaker Change: We will manage our business carefully and selectively and we will be ready to chase the sales trend if it turns out to be stronger.

Unknown Executive: I would like to wrap up with some comments on the longer term prospects for our business. The two items that I have just discussed, the impact of tariffs and the state of the consumer, are front and center for us and for investors right now. They create risks and opportunities in the short term that we need to navigate. But we're also focused on driving to our full potential over the longer term. As discussed before, we believe that there are longer-term structural and competitive factors that will continue to be favorable for off-price versus other forms of retail.

Speaker Change: I would like to wrap up with some comments on the longer term prospects for our business.

Speaker Change: The two items that I have just discussed the impact of tariffs and the state of the consumer are front and center for us and for investors right now.

Speaker Change: They create risks and opportunities in the short term that we need to navigate.

Speaker Change: We are also focused on driving through our full potential over the longer term.

Speaker Change: As discussed before we believe that there are longer term structural and competitive factors that will continue to be favorable for off price versus other forms of retail.

Unknown Executive: and we believe that at Burlington in particular we have the opportunity to significantly grow our market share, sales and earnings over time.

Speaker Change: And we believe that at Burlington in particular, we have the opportunity to significantly grow our market share sales and earnings over time.

Unknown Executive: With that as a setup, there are two aspects of our Burlington 2.0 full potential strategy that I would like to comment on. Firstly, we have talked a lot over the last couple of years about merchandising 2.0. The new systems, processes, and tools that we have rolled out to enable our buyers and planners to more effectively and rapidly respond to changes in the external environment. These new capabilities have been very important over the past couple of months as we have made multiple revisions to our assortment plans for the fall season. pivoting from categories that may face shortages to those with stronger supplies.

Speaker Change: With that as a setup there are two aspects of our Burlington to toe full potential strategy that I would like to comment on.

Speaker Change: Firstly, we have talked a lot over the last couple of years about merchandising to point out.

Speaker Change: The new systems processes and tools that we have rolled out to enable our buyers and planners to more effectively and rapidly respond to changes in the external environment.

Speaker Change: These new capabilities have been very important over the past couple of months as we have made multiple revisions to our assortment plans for the fall season.

Speaker Change: Pivoting from categories that may face shortages to those with stronger supply.

Unknown Executive: and Remixing and Remodeling our Margin Plans to Find Offsets to the Impact of Tariffs. A couple of years ago, we would not have had the transparency and the agility to make these kinds of adjustments. We expect that as the year goes on, the environment will continue to be volatile and dynamic. Our Merchandising 2.0 capabilities are going to be very important for our buyers and planners to manage through this external volatility.

Speaker Change: And we're mixing and remodeling our margin plans to find offsets to the impact of tariffs.

Speaker Change: A couple of years ago, we would not have had the transparency and the agility to make these kinds of adjustments.

Speaker Change: We expect that as the year goes on the environment, we will continue to be volatile and dynamic.

Speaker Change: Our merchandising to <unk> capabilities are going to be very important for our buyers and planners to manage through this external volatility.

Unknown Executive: Secondly, I would like to comment and provide an update on our new store pipeline. Our sales guidance for 2025 is predicated on opening 100 net new stores this year. We remain very confident in our ability to hit this number of open. We have also been active over the last few months in building out the pipeline for 2026. We were recently able to acquire 46 leases through the bankruptcy process for Joanne's Fabric. We are very excited about these locations.

Speaker Change: Secondly, I would like to comment and provide an update on our new store pipeline.

Speaker Change: Our sales guidance for 2025 is predicated on opening 100 net new stores this year we.

Speaker Change: We remain very confident in our ability to hit this number of openings.

Speaker Change: We have also been active over the last few months and building out the pipeline for 2026.

Speaker Change: We were recently able to acquire 46 leases through the bankruptcy process for Jo Ann fabrics.

Speaker Change: We are very excited about these locations.

Unknown Executive: Adding these stores to the 2026 pipeline, we are optimistic about hitting our 100 net new store target for next The silver lining of the current volatile environment is that it is likely to drive further consolidation of bricks and mortar stores, and these closures should provide more opportunities to expand our store footprint.

Speaker Change: Adding these stores for the 2026 pipeline, we are optimistic about hitting our 100 net new store target for next year.

Speaker Change: The silver lining of the current volatile environment is that it is likely to drive further consolidation of bricks and mortar stores and these closures should provide more opportunities to expand our store footprint.

Kristin Wolfe: Okay, at this point, I would like to turn the call over to Kristin. Thank you, Michael, and good morning, everyone. I plan to cover a few topics this morning. I will start with some additional color on our first quarter performance. Then I will share details on our guidance for the second quarter and for the full year. And finally, I will finish up by discussing three critical assumptions that underpin our 2025 sales and earnings guidance. Starting with the first quarter, total sales grew 6% while comp store sales were flat, which was at the midpoint of our guidance range.

Kristin: Okay. At this point I would like to turn the call over to Kristin.

Speaker Change: Kristin.

Kristin: Thank you Michael and good morning, everyone.

Kristin: I plan to cover a few topics. This morning, I will start with some additional color on our first quarter performance.

Kristin: Then I will share details on our guidance for the second quarter and for the full year.

Speaker Change: And finally, I will finish up by discussing three critical assumptions that underpin our 2020 guidance sales and earnings guidance.

Speaker Change: Starting with the first quarter.

Speaker Change: Total sales grew 6%.

Speaker Change: Comp store sales were flat.

Speaker Change: Which was at the midpoint of our guidance range.

Kristin Wolfe: The gross margin rate for the first quarter was 43.8%, an increase of 30 basis points versus last year. This was driven by a 20 basis point increase in merchandise margin and a 10 basis point decrease in freight expense. Modest IMU pressure was more than offset by the benefit of faster inventory turns. Product sourcing costs for $197 million versus $183 million in the first quarter of 2024. Product sourcing costs increased 10 basis points as a percentage of sales versus last year, as 10 basis points of supply chain leverage driven by productivity improvements and the timing of receipts was more than offset by increased asset protection investments.

Speaker Change: The gross margin rate for the first quarter with 43, 8%.

Speaker Change: Increased 30 basis points versus last year.

Speaker Change: This was driven by a 20 basis point increase in merchandise margin.

Speaker Change: 10 basis point decrease in freight expense.

Speaker Change: Modest IMU pressure was more than offset by the benefit of faster inventory turn.

Speaker Change: Product sourcing costs were $197 million.

Speaker Change: First is $183 million.

Speaker Change: In the first quarter of 2024.

Speaker Change: Product sourcing costs increased 10 basis points as a percentage of sales versus last year as 10 basis points of supply chain leverage driven by productivity improvement and the timing of receipt was more than offset by increased asset protection investment.

Kristin Wolfe: The timing of receipts benefited Q1 but will negatively impact Q2. Adjusted SG&A costs in Q1 decreased 30 basis points versus last year. A portion of this leverage on a flat comp was due to favorable timing of store expenses that will shift into Q2. The balance of the SG&A leverage was due to the expense savings opportunities Michael described earlier. Q1 Adjusted Event Margin was 6.1%, 30 basis points higher than last year. which was well above our guidance range of down 90 to down 50 basis points. Our adjusted earnings per share in Q1 was $1.67, which came in above our guidance range.

Speaker Change: The timing of receipts benefited Q1, but will negatively impact Q2.

Speaker Change: Adjusted SG&A costs in Q1 decreased 30 basis points versus last year.

Speaker Change: A portion of this leverage on a flat comp was due to favorable timing of store expenses that will shift into Q2.

Speaker Change: The balance of the SG&A leverage was due to the expense savings opportunities Michael described earlier.

Speaker Change: Q1, adjusted EBIT margin was six 1%.

Speaker Change: 30 basis points higher than last year.

Speaker Change: It was well above our guidance range and down 90 to down 50 basis points.

Speaker Change: Our adjusted earnings per share in Q1 with $1 67.

Speaker Change: Which came in above our guidance range. This.

Kristin Wolfe: This represents an 18% increase versus the prior year. At the end of the quarter, comparable store inventories were down 8% versus the end of the first quarter of 2024. Our reserve inventory was 48% of our total inventory versus 40% of our inventory last year. In dollar terms, our reserve inventory was up 31% compared to last year, reflecting the great deals we were able to make to get ahead of tariffs. We are very pleased with the quality of the merchandise and the values we have in reserve. We ended the quarter with approximately $1.1 billion in total liquidity.

Speaker Change: This represents an 18% increase versus the prior year.

Speaker Change: At the end of the quarter comparable store inventories were down 8% versus the end of the first quarter of 2024.

Speaker Change: Our reserve inventory was 48% of our total inventory versus 40% of our inventory last year.

Speaker Change: In dollar terms, our reserve inventory was up 31% compared to last year, reflecting the great deal, we were able to make to get ahead of tariffs.

Speaker Change: We are very pleased with the quality of the merchandise and the values we have in reserve.

Speaker Change: Ended the quarter with approximately $1 $1 billion in total liquidity.

Kristin Wolfe: which consisted of $371 million in cash and $748 million in availability on our ABL. We had $100 million in outstanding borrowings at the end of the quarter on our ABL. During the quarter, we took advantage of the volatility in our stock price, and we purchased $105 million in common stock. At the end of Q1, we had $158 million dollars remaining on our share repurchase authorization, which expires August 2025.

Speaker Change: Which consisted of $371 million in cash and $748 million in availability on our ABL.

Speaker Change: We had $100 million outstanding and outstanding borrowings at the end of the quarter on our ABL.

Speaker Change: During the quarter, we took advantage of the volatility in our stock price and repurchased $105 million in common stock.

Speaker Change: At the end of Q1, we had $158 million remaining on our share repurchase authorization, which expires August 2025.

Kristin Wolfe: In addition, our Board of Directors just approved a new two-year, $500 million share repurchase authorization. In Q1, we opened seven net new stores, bringing our store count at the end of the quarter to 1,115 stores. This includes 14 new store openings, four relocations, and three closings.

Speaker Change: In addition, our board of directors, just approved a new two year $500 million share repurchase authorization.

Speaker Change: In Q1, we opened seven net new stores, bringing our store count at the end of the quarter to 1115 stores.

Speaker Change: This includes 14, new store opening for relocations and three closings.

Kristin Wolfe: I will now move on to discuss our outlook for the second quarter and for the full fiscal year. Our second quarter guidance excludes approximately $11 million of expenses associated with bankruptcy-acquired leases. We expect total sales to increase 5% to 7%. comp store sales are seen to be flat to plus 2%. We are expecting adjusted EBIT margin to be in the range of down 30 basis points to flat versus the second quarter of 2024. This results in an adjusted ETS outlook in the range of $1.20 to $1.30 versus last year's second quarter adjusted earnings per share of $1.24.

Speaker Change: I will now move on to discuss our outlook for the second quarter and for the full fiscal year, our second quarter guidance excludes approximately $11 million of expenses associated with bankruptcy acquired leases.

Speaker Change: We expect total sales to increase 5% to 7% comp.

Speaker Change: Comp store sales are seem to be flat to plus 2%.

Speaker Change: We are expecting adjusted EBIT margin to be in the range of down 30 basis points to flat versus the second quarter of 2024.

Speaker Change: This results in an adjusted EPS outlook in the range of $1 20.

Speaker Change: To $1 30.

Speaker Change: Versus last year's second quarter adjusted earnings per share of $1 24.

Kristin Wolfe: excluding the roughly $12 million pre-tax timing shift, which positively impacted the first quarter. We believe second quarter earnings per share guidance would otherwise be about $0.14 higher.

Speaker Change: Excluding the roughly $12 million pre.

Speaker Change: Pre tax timing staffed which positively impacted the first quarter.

Speaker Change: We believe second quarter earnings per share guidance, what otherwise be about 14% higher.

Kristin Wolfe: I will now review fiscal 2025 guidance. This guidance excludes approximately $33 million in 2025 associated with bankruptcy-acquired leases compared to $16 million in 2024. For 2025, we still expect total sales growth in the range of 6% to 8%. This assumes 100 net new store openings this year. We anticipate that most of these stores will open in the latter half of the year. We are still forecasting comp store sales to increase in the range of flat to 2% and our adjusted EBIT margins to be in the range of flat to an increase of 30 basis points versus last year.

Speaker Change: I will now review fiscal 2025 guidance.

Speaker Change: This guidance excludes approximately $33 million in 2025 associated with bankruptcy acquired leases compared to $16 million in 2024.

Speaker Change: For 2025, we still expect total sales growth in the range of 6% to 8%.

Speaker Change: This assumes 100 net new store openings this year.

Speaker Change: We anticipate that most of these stores will open in the latter half of the year.

Speaker Change: We are still forecasting comp store sales to increase in the range of flat to 2% and.

Speaker Change: And our adjusted EBIT margin to be in the range of flat to an increase of 30 basis points versus last year.

Kristin Wolfe: All of this results in adjusted earnings per share guidance in the range of $8.70 to $9.30. This is consistent with our initial FY25 guidance. Capital expenditures, net of landlord allowances, are still expected to be approximately $950 million in fiscal 2025.

Speaker Change: All of this results in adjusted earnings per share guidance in the range of $8 70.

Speaker Change: To $9 30.

Speaker Change: This is consistent with our initial FY 'twenty five guidance.

Speaker Change: Capital expenditures net of landlord allowances are still expected to be approximately $950 million in fiscal 2025.

Kristin Wolfe: Let me wrap up by reinforcing the point that our sales and earnings guidance for fiscal 2025 is unchanged from the outlook that we provided in March. But we recognize that the level of uncertainty in the external environment has significantly increased since then.

Speaker Change: Let me wrap up by reinforcing the point that our sales and earnings guidance for fiscal 2025.

Speaker Change: Unchanged from the outlook that we provided in March.

Speaker Change: But we recognize that the level of uncertainty in the external environment has significantly increased since then.

Kristin Wolfe: Of course, guidance is always subject to risks and uncertainties, but it is important to call out that our FY25 guidance is contingent on three specific assumptions. First, the current tariff rate. 30% on imports from China and 10% on imports from other countries do not increase through year end. Secondly, that the inflationary impact of tariffs across the retail industry is modest, and does not trigger a significant deterioration in retail sales trend. especially among our core lower income customers. And thirdly, that the volatility in imports does not drive a material or sustained increase in ocean freight expense above our contracted rates.

Speaker Change: Of course guidance is always subject to risks and uncertainties.

Speaker Change: But it is important to call out that our FY 'twenty <unk> guidance.

Speaker Change: Is contingent on three specific assumptions.

Speaker Change: First the current tariff rates.

Speaker Change: 30% on imports from China, and 10% on imports from other countries.

Speaker Change: Not increased through year end.

Speaker Change: Secondly that the inflationary impact of tariffs across the retail industry is modest and does not trigger a significant deterioration in retail sales trends.

Speaker Change: Especially among our core lower income customers.

Speaker Change: And thirdly that the volatility and import does not drive the material are sustained increase in ocean freight expense above our contracted rate.

Unknown Executive: I will now turn the call back over to Michael. Thank you, Kristin.

Michael O'sullivan: I will now turn the call back over to Michael.

Michael O'sullivan: Thank you Kristen.

Unknown Executive: Before I hand it back to the operator for your questions. I would like to summarize the main points from this morning's call. In the first quarter, our total and comp store sales growth were at the midpoint of our guidance. while our earnings were well ahead.

Speaker Change: Before I hand, it back to the operator for your questions I would like to summarize the main points from this morning's call.

Speaker Change: In the first quarter, our total and comp store sales growth.

Michael O'sullivan: At the midpoint of our guidance.

Michael O'sullivan: While our earnings were well ahead.

Unknown Executive: We are maintaining our full year 2025 guidance, but we recognize that the external environment has become more uncertain. The two major sources of this uncertainty are tariffs and the state of the consumer. Tariffs are likely to create volatility in off-price supplies, and we anticipate that they will pressure our merchandise margins. But at their current levels, we are well-positioned to navigate these issues.

Michael O'sullivan: We are maintaining our full year 2025 guidance, but we recognize that the external environment has become more uncertain.

Michael O'sullivan: The two major sources of this uncertainty.

Michael O'sullivan: Tariffs and the state of the consumer.

Michael O'sullivan: Tariffs are likely to create volatility in off price supply and we anticipate that they will pressure our merchandise margin.

Speaker Change: At their current levels, we are well positioned to navigate these issues.

Unknown Executive: Add to that, we see reasons for caution on the state of the consumer, especially if there is a slowdown in the economy or a significant pickup in inflation. The good news is that in these situations we have a playbook and, as the last couple of years have demonstrated, we have gotten better at executing this playbook. We're managing our business cautiously, focusing on offering great value to the customer. And we are ready to react if we see supply opportunities or stronger sales trends.

Speaker Change: After that we see reasons for caution on the state of the consumer, especially if there is a slowdown in the economy.

Speaker Change: <unk> a significant pickup in inflation.

Speaker Change: The good news is that in these situations we have a playbook.

Speaker Change: And as the last couple of years have demonstrated we have gotten better at executing this type book.

Speaker Change: We're managing our business cautiously focusing on offering great value to the customer.

Speaker Change: We are ready to react if we see supply opportunities or stronger sales trends.

Operator: I would now like to turn the call over for your questions. opening the floor for question and answer session. If you'd like to ask a question, please press star followed by one on your telephone keypad.

Speaker Change: I would now like to turn the call over for your questions.

Speaker Change: We're opening the floor for a question and answer session. If you'd like to ask a question. Please press star followed by one on your telephone keypad. Please limit your question to one question and one follow up your first question comes from the line of Matthew Boss.

Operator: Please limit your one your question to one question and one follow up.

Matthew Boss: Your first question comes from the line of Matthew Boss of JP Morgan. Your line is now open. Great, thanks and appreciate all the call. So Michael, maybe larger picture, I'm interested in whether you think the disruption caused by tariffs is good or bad overall for off-price, and separately, any initial reactions to the recent news that tariffs have been struck down by the court of international Well, good morning, Matt. Thank you for the thank you for the question. I think I should answer the last part of your question first. I think probably like everybody else on this call, we read the news last night that the tariffs had been struck down.

Matthew Boss: Of J P. Morgan Your line is now open.

Matthew Boss: Great. Thanks, and I appreciate all the color.

Speaker Change: So Michael maybe larger picture.

Speaker Change: I'm interested in whether you think the disruption caused by tariffs. This is good or bad overall for off price and separately any initial reactions to the recent news that tariffs have been struck down by the court of international trade.

Speaker Change: Well good morning, Matt. Thank you for the thank you for the question.

Speaker Change: I think I should answer the last part of your question first.

Speaker Change: Yes, I think probably like everybody else on this call.

Speaker Change: We read the news last night.

Speaker Change: Tariffs have been struck down.

Michael O'sullivan: It feels like another curveball that demonstrates the importance of being flexible and nimble. But, candidly, we don't yet know what it means. Is the judgment temporary or permanent? Does it cover every category? Does it cover every country? It certainly doesn't feel like the end of the matter, but I guess we'll get more information in the coming days. Until we know more, I think it's probably better for me not to speculate. So, for now... Our planning assumption for our guidance, comments and our answers this morning is that tariffs remain at current levels. In other words, 30% on imports from China and 10% on imports from other countries.

Speaker Change: It feels like another careful that demonstrates the importance of being flexible and nimble.

Speaker Change: But candidly, we don't yet know what it means is as the judgment temporary or permanent does.

Speaker Change: Does it cover every category.

Speaker Change: Does it cover every country.

Speaker Change: It certainly doesn't feel like the end of the matter but.

Speaker Change: But I guess, we'll get more information in the coming days.

Speaker Change: Until we know more I think it's probably better for me not not to speculate so for now.

Speaker Change: Our planning assumption for our guidance comments and our answer is this morning is that tariffs remain.

Speaker Change: At current levels in other words, 30% on imports from China, and 10% on imports from other countries.

Michael O'sullivan: Once we better understand Court of Appeals So, with that said, let me move on to the first part of your question. Is the disruption caused by tariffs good or bad for off-price? Our view, I think, is that disruption is usually good for off-price, but with tariffs, kind of depends, and let me explain what I mean. Until a couple of weeks ago, tariffs on imports from China were 145 percent. At that tariff level, production and shipping of imports from China pretty much shut down. You know, China is still an important source country. across the retail industry.

Speaker Change: Once we better understand.

Speaker Change: The court decision, obviously, we'll adjust and update our plans.

Speaker Change: So with that said, let me move on to the first part of your question.

Speaker Change: Is the disruption caused by terrorists, good or bad for off price.

Speaker Change: Okay.

Speaker Change: Our view I think is the disruption is usually good for off price, but with Paris.

Speaker Change: It depends.

Speaker Change: Okay, Let me, let me explain what I mean.

Speaker Change: Yes until a couple of weeks ago.

Speaker Change: Chris on imports from China were 145%.

Speaker Change: Tariff level production and shipping of imports from China pretty much shut down.

Speaker Change: China is still an important source country.

Speaker Change: Across the retail industry. So if that had continued it would likely have led to shortages in many many important categories.

Michael O'sullivan: So if that had continued, it would likely have led to shortages in many, many import categories. At that point, it was very difficult to see how that shutdown was going to be good for off price. Now, in the last two weeks, things have changed. Things have changed a lot. The 90-day reduction in Paris for China from 145% to 30% has completely reversed the dynamic. There's now a huge rush on production and shipping across the industry. Now, the court decision last night could add to that rush. Now, as an off-price retailer, this is starting to feel like much more familiar territory.

Speaker Change: Point, it was very difficult to see how that shutdown was going to be good for off price.

Speaker Change: Now in the last two weeks.

Speaker Change: Things have changed things have changed a lot.

Speaker Change: The 90 day reduction in Paris for China.

Speaker Change: 145% to 30%.

Speaker Change: It's completely robust the dynamic there is now.

Speaker Change: A huge rush on production and shipping across the industry.

Speaker Change: The court decision last night.

Speaker Change: Could add to that rush.

Speaker Change: Now as an off price retailer.

Speaker Change: This is starting to feel like much more familiar territory instead of shortages.

Michael O'sullivan: Instead of shortages, this topsy-turvy stop-start surge has the potential to create attractive buying opportunities. Now, the situation is very dynamic, so it remains to be seen if that will happen. But yes, I would say compared with two weeks ago, it's starting to look like the disruption caused by tariffs could turn out very well for off-price. That's great color.

Speaker Change: Topsy Turvy stop start search.

Speaker Change: As the potential tick.

Speaker Change: To create attractive buying opportunities.

Speaker Change: No.

Speaker Change: It's very situation is very dynamic so it remains to be seen if that will happen but.

Speaker Change: Yes, I would say compared with two weeks ago, it's starting to look like the disruption caused by tariffs could turn out very well for off price.

Speaker Change: That's great color and maybe just a follow up on an assumption that tariffs don't go away and remain at current levels can you elaborate on the work that you've done and just why you feel confident and still hitting your original guidance despite margin pressure from tariffs.

Michael O'sullivan: And maybe just to follow up on an assumption that tariffs don't go away and remain at current levels, can you elaborate on the work that you've done and just why you feel confident in still hitting your original guidance despite margin pressure from tariffs? Good. Yes.

Speaker Change: Good.

Michael O'sullivan: Yeah, let me let me talk through what we've done in the last few months. The starting point was actually the initial round of tariffs on China. If you recall, I think it was in early February, the U.S. announced a 10 percent tariff on all imports from China. That was then raised to 20 percent in early March. Now, at that early stage, we began to look for ways that we could absorb and offset the impact of those tariffs. Obviously, the size of the challenge grew enormously as the tariffs ramped up to 145 percent in April. Then two weeks ago, they suddenly dropped back down to 30 percent.

Speaker Change: Yes.

Speaker Change: Yeah, Let me, let me talk through what we've done in the last few months.

Speaker Change: The starting point was actually the initial round of tariffs on China. If you recall I think it was an early temporary.

Speaker Change: U S announced a 10% tariff on all imports from China.

Speaker Change: That was then raised to 20% in early March.

Speaker Change: Now at that early stage, we began to look for ways that we could absorb and offset the impact of those tariffs.

Speaker Change: Obviously the size of the challenge grew enormously as the tariffs ramped up to 145% in April than two weeks ago. They suddenly dropped back down to 30.

Michael O'sullivan: And then based on last night's court judgment, now maybe there'll be less. We don't know for sure.

Speaker Change: Based on last Night's Court judgment now maybe there'll be less we don't know for sure.

Michael O'sullivan: Anyway, as I said, in early March, we began to identify and pursue numerous actions we could take that might help offset the potential impact of tariffs on our merchandise margin. So let me provide some examples of those actions. Firstly, as you might expect, we started by looking at opportunities to switch away from products or brands or categories that have more sourcing exposure to China to those that have less exposure to China. Now, there are limits to that, but because we, Burlington, directly import very little of the merchandise that we sell, we actually have a lot of flexibility.

Speaker Change: As I said.

Speaker Change: In early March we began to identify and pursue.

Speaker Change: Numerous actions, we could take that might help offset the potential impact of tariffs on our merchandise margin.

Speaker Change: Let me provide some examples of those actions.

Speaker Change: Firstly as you might expect we started by looking at opportunities to switch away from products or brands or categories that have more sourcing exposure to China to those that have less exposure to China.

Speaker Change: There are limits to that but because we burlington directly import very little of the merchandise that we sell we actually have a lot of flexibility.

Michael O'sullivan: It depends on the merchandise category. Now, as part of that exercise, we worked very closely with our vendors. We have thousands of vendors, and I would describe our vendors as being very entrepreneurial. It helped. that at Burlington, we're growing rapidly. So our vendors know that they have the opportunity to win a larger slice of our business if they work hard to absorb the impact of tariffs. Another action that we started to take in early March, and Kristin referenced this in her remarks, is that we worked with vendors to find buying opportunities in the inventory that they already had here in the United States.

Speaker Change: It depends on the merchandize category.

Speaker Change: As part of that exercise, we worked very closely with our vendors.

Speaker Change: Thousands of vendors and I would describe how vendors as being very entrepreneurial.

Speaker Change: Helps.

Speaker Change: At Burlington, we're growing rapidly so our vendors know that they have the opportunity to win a larger slice of our business.

Speaker Change: They work hard to absorb the impact of tariffs.

Speaker Change: Another another action that we started to take in early March and Christian referenced in her remarks.

Speaker Change: Is that we worked with vendors to find buying opportunities in.

Speaker Change: And the inventory that they already had.

Speaker Change: The United States.

Michael O'sullivan: Now, of course, this is merchandise that did not incur any terror. In the first quarter, we were able to make some great buys and we've packed those goods away in reserve with a plan to release them later in the year.

Speaker Change: Of course, this is merchandise that did not incur any tariff.

Speaker Change: In the first quarter, we were able to make some great buys and we packed those goods away in reserve.

Speaker Change: With a plan to release some later in the year.

Speaker Change:

Michael O'sullivan: So in addition to remixing our sales plans and working with vendors, in early March, we also began a cross-functional effort to build a war chest, that is actually what we're calling it internally. And that war chest is comprised of numerous margin and expense actions. For example, we've tightened up our inventory plans, looking for places where we can drive a faster turn and squeeze out some margin dollars. We've taken up plans for businesses that are naturally higher margin, where we think that we may have incremental sales opportunity. We've accelerated some of the initiatives that we are pursuing in our supply chain organization.

Speaker Change: So in addition to Remixing, our sales plans and working with vendors in early March. We also began a cross functional effort to build a war chest that is actually what we're calling it internally.

Speaker Change: And that war chest is comprised of numerous margin and expense actions for example.

Speaker Change: We've tightened up our inventory plan looking for places, where we can drive a path to turn and squeeze out some margin dollars.

Speaker Change: We've taken up plans for businesses that are naturally higher margin, where we think that we may have incremental sales opportunity.

Speaker Change: <unk>.

Speaker Change: We've accelerated some of the savings initiatives that we are pursuing and our supply chain organization.

Michael O'sullivan: We've gone after productivity and process improvements in stores, and we've pursued numerous savings opportunities in other SG&A line items. As I said earlier, we don't yet know the implications of last night's decision by the Court of International Trade, but no matter how that turns out, I think the work that we've done over the last few months has put us in a pretty good position. Even if the tariffs stay at current levels, 30% on imports from China and 10% for other countries. With the offsetting margin and expense savings I've just described, we still feel like we have a pretty good path to our original guidance.

Speaker Change: Gone off kept productivity and process improvements in stores and we've.

Speaker Change: Pursued numerous savings opportunities in other SG&A line items.

Speaker Change: Yes, like I said earlier, we don't yet know the implications of last night decision by the court of International trade.

Speaker Change: But no matter how that turns out I think the work that we've done over the last few months has put us in a pretty good position.

Speaker Change: Even if the tariffs stay at current levels.

Speaker Change: 30% on imports from China, and 10% for other countries.

Speaker Change: With the offsetting margin and expense savings I. Just described we still feel like we have a pretty good path to our original our original guidance.

Michael O'sullivan: Great color. Best of luck.

Speaker Change: That's great color best of luck.

Speaker Change: Thanks, Matt.

Ike Boruchow: Your next question comes from the line of Ike Boruchow of Wells Fargo. Your line is now open.

Speaker Change: Your next question comes from the line of <unk> of Wells Fargo. Your line is now open.

Kristin Wolfe: Hey, good morning, Michael, a couple non tariff questions, if that's okay. Curious if you could maybe dig into a little bit the cadence of the monthly comp sales trend to the first quarter, February, March, April, and also any color you can provide, maybe on the trend that you've seen, May month of date would be super helpful.

Speaker Change: Hey, good morning, Michael a couple of non tariff questions about okay.

Speaker Change: Curious if you could maybe dig into a little bit the cadence of the monthly comp sales.

Speaker Change: Trends for the first quarter February March April and also any color you can provide maybe on the trend that you've seen may motivate would be super helpful.

Kristin Wolfe: Good morning, it's Kristin. I'll actually take the non-tariff question. Back in February, our comp sales were down about 2%. And as we discussed on our Q4 call in early March, we were fairly confident that the weakness in February was really attributable to two factors. The disruptive weather versus last year in our key regions in the Northeast and the Midwest. And then secondly, the timing of tax refunds versus last year. Our core customer is very sensitive to the timing of tax refunds, specifically as it we got into March, our sales trend began to pick up. Our stores are closed on Easter Sunday.

Speaker Change: Good morning, I guess, its Kristen I'll actually take the non tariff question.

Speaker Change: Back in February our comp sales were down about 2%.

Speaker Change: As we discussed on our Q4 call in early March we were fairly confident that the weakness in February was really attributable to two factors the disruptive weather versus last year in our key regions in the northeast Midwest and then secondly, the timing of tax refunds versus last year, our core customers.

Speaker Change: Very sensitive to the timing of tax refund.

Speaker Change: Typically as it relates to the earned income tax credit.

Speaker Change: In mid to late February.

Speaker Change: That's fair enough as we got into March our sales trend began to pick up our stores are closed on Easter Sunday, So with the timing of Easter. This year, we had one more day in March and one less day in April so from a comp sales perspective, we look at both months combined and our comp growth for the March April.

Kristin Wolfe: So with the timing of Easter this year, we had one more day in March and one less day in April. So from a comp sales perspective, we look at both months combined. And our comp growth for the March, April combined period was up 1%. So this is certainly better than February, but we would like to be doing better than that. And as for the last part of your question, May months to date, the trend in May has been fairly similar to that of the March and April combined trend at about the middle of our Q2 guidance range.

Speaker Change: Buying period was up 1%. So this is certainly better than February, but we would like to be doing better than that.

Speaker Change: And as for the last part of your question May month to date. The trend in May has been fairly similar to that of the March and April combined trend at about the middle of our Q2 guidance range.

Kristin Wolfe: Got it. Thanks, Kristin.

Speaker Change: Got it thanks, Kristen and then maybe just one more can you walk us through.

Kristin Wolfe: And then maybe just one more.

Kristin Wolfe: Can you walk us through this first quarter sources of upside as well as the expense shift details into Q2? Great. Yes. So Q1 adjusted event margin increased 30 basis points despite a flat comp. Earnings per share was $1.67. That represents about a 30 cent beat to the midpoint of our guidance. And there were two drivers of that of that beat or that higher earnings performance. First, as you said in your question, there was a timing shift between the first and second quarter. This was primarily in supply chain receipt timing, as well as some store related and SG&A expenses.

Speaker Change: First quarter sources of upside.

Speaker Change: As well as the expense shift details into Q2.

Speaker Change: Great. Yes, so Q1, adjusted EBIT margin increased 30 basis points. Despite a flat comp earnings per share was $1 67 and that represents about 30%.

Speaker Change: B to the midpoint of our guidance.

Speaker Change: There are two drivers of that of that beat or not higher earnings performance first as you said in your question. There was a timing shift between the first and second quarter. This was primarily in supply chain receipt timing as well as some store related and SG&A expenses.

Kristin Wolfe: This favorability will negatively impact Q2, and it's worth about half of that 30-cent beat or about 14 cents. And the second, as Michael referenced just a moment ago, early in the quarter, we began to aggressively go after savings opportunities across the P&L. We did this in anticipation of the potential impact from tariffs, and we were able to capture some of these savings during the first quarter, and that makes up the balance of the Q1 beat. Those savings are across the P&L and will be used to help offset the anticipated cost impact of tariffs later in the year.

Speaker Change: This favorability will negatively impact Q2.

Speaker Change: In Q2 and is worth about half of that 30 beat or about 14.

Michael: And the second as Michael referenced.

Speaker Change: Unlimited out early in the quarter, we began to aggressively go after savings opportunities across the P&L. We did this in anticipation of the potential impact from tariffs and we were able to capture some of these savings during the first quarter and that makes up the balance of the Q1 beat those savings are cross the <unk>.

Speaker Change: Now and will be used to help offset the anticipated cost impact of tariffs later in the year.

Kristin Wolfe: Got it. Thanks so much.

Speaker Change: Got it thanks, so much.

Speaker Change: Right.

Lorraine Hutchinson: Your next question comes from the line of Lorraine Hutchinson of Bank of America. Your line is now.

Speaker Change: Your next question comes from the line of Lorraine Hutchinson of Bank.

Speaker Change: Think of America. Your line is now open.

Michael O'sullivan: Good morning. Michael, you said that the comp performance in Q1 was broad-based. Others have said lower-income consumers have actually been an area of strength for them. Are you seeing this? And I'd also be interested in any other call-outs in terms of comp trends for different demographic groups.

Speaker Change: Good morning, Michael you said that the comp performance in Q1 was broad based others have said lower income consumers have actually been an area of strength for them are you seeing this and I'd also be interested in any other call outs in terms of comp trends for different demographic groups.

Michael O'sullivan: Good morning, Lorraine. Thank you for the question. Yes, as I said, in the prepared remark, Our slowdown in comp growth from Q4 to Q1 was fairly broad-based, affecting stores in all demographic trade areas. Now, when we look at our stores that are in lower-income trade areas, Those stores outperformed the rest of the chain in Q4 and throughout 2024, and that relative outperformance continued into Q1. In other words, yes, they slowed down from Q4 to Q1 along with the rest of the chain, but relatively speaking, their comp sales trend continued to be stronger than the chain as a whole.

Speaker Change: Well good morning Lorraine.

Speaker Change: Thank you for the question.

Speaker Change: Yes, as I said in.

Speaker Change: In the prepared remarks.

Speaker Change: A slowdown in comp growth from Q4 to Q1.

Speaker Change: Was fairly broad based affecting stores in all demographic credit areas.

Speaker Change: When we look at our stores et cetera, and lower income trade areas.

Speaker Change: Those stores outperformed the rest of the chain in Q4 and throughout 2024 and that relative outperformance continued into Q1.

Speaker Change: Other words, yes, they slowed down from.

Speaker Change: From Q4 to Q1, along with the rest of the chain, but relatively speaking that comp sales trend continued to be stronger.

Speaker Change: On the chain as a whole.

Michael O'sullivan: Now, we've seen that relative strength in lower income trade areas for a couple of years now. Now, of course, for us, this is something that matters a lot. These are our core customers. And these shoppers were badly impacted in 2022 by the loss of pandemic-era benefits and by the higher cost of living. But we've seen a nice recovery with these customers in the last couple of years. You know, as you'd expect, we're watching the trend for those customers very closely.

Speaker Change: And we've seen that that relative strength in lower income trade areas for a couple of years now.

Speaker Change: Now of course for US this is something that matters a lot. These are our core customers.

Speaker Change: These shoppers work.

Speaker Change: Badly impacted in 2022 by the loss of pandemic here of benefits and by the higher cost of living.

Speaker Change: But we've seen a nice recovery with these customers in the last couple of years.

Speaker Change: As you would expect we're watching the trend for those customers very closely.

Michael O'sullivan: On the other part of your question, other call outs on demographics. You know, I know that many investors have questions about Hispanic consumers. So let me talk about what we're seeing in the data there. In addition to segmenting our stores based on income of the trade area, we also analyze our stores based on the mix of households in the trade areas that are Hispanic. Again, this is a very important customer for us. And again, the data tells quite a similar story. In 2024, our stores in high Hispanic trade areas had a slightly higher comp trend than the chain.

Speaker Change: On the other part of your question.

Speaker Change: The call outs on on demographics.

Speaker Change: Know that many investors have questions about Hispanic consumers. So let me talk about.

Ken: What we're seeing in the data that Ken.

Speaker Change: Addition to segmenting our stores based on income up the credit area. We also.

Speaker Change: Analyze our stores based on the mix of households in the trade area today. Hispanic.

Speaker Change: Again this is a very important customer for us and again the data tells quite a similar story.

Speaker Change: In 2024 hour stores in high Hispanic trade areas had a slightly higher comp trend in the chain.

Michael O'sullivan: And that slight outperformance continued in Q1. So from Q4 to Q1, those stores slowed down along with the rest of the chain. But again, their relative outperformance continued. So no specific or unique concerns based on the data at this point.

Speaker Change: And that slight outperformance continued in Q1.

Speaker Change: So from Q4 to Q1, those stores slow down along with the rest of the chain, but again their relative outperformance continued so no specific or unique concerns based on the data at this point.

Michael O'sullivan: Now, the only exception to what I've said is actually stores along the southern border. In 2024, you know, stores along the southern border, and we have quite a few, had a significantly higher comp trend than the chain, but in Q1, they underperformed the chain. In other words, those border stores fell off significantly versus other stores. The same thing, I think, has been repeated or reported by other retailers, and I think the reasons are probably obvious and specific to the border.

Speaker Change: Now the only exception to what I've said is actually stores along with southern border.

Speaker Change: In 2024.

Speaker Change: Stores, along the southern border and we have quite a few had a significantly higher comp trend in the chain, but in Q1, they underperformed the chain in other words.

Speaker Change: Those border stores fell off significantly versus other stores. The same thing I think it's been repeated or reported.

Speaker Change: By by other retailers.

Speaker Change: I think the reasons appropriate <unk> specific to the border.

Michael O'sullivan: One last point. Let me just talk about, you know, trade-down customers. You know, as I've said previously, a trade-down shopper for us is not necessarily... a high-income customer visiting our store for the first time, they're just as likely or more likely to be a middle-income customer who's coming to our store more often. So it's difficult to assess trade down activity just based upon income demographics. It's easier for us actually to see trade down activity by looking at sales trends by price point in the store. So in Q1, we continue to see strong comp trends at higher price points.

Speaker Change: One last point.

Speaker Change: Just talk about trade down customers.

Speaker Change: As I've said previously a trade down shopper for us is not necessarily.

Speaker Change: Our high income customer.

Speaker Change: <unk> App store for the first time.

Speaker Change: Just as likely or more likely to be a middle income customer who is coming to a store more often.

Speaker Change: It's difficult to assess trade at trade down activity just based upon income demographics.

Speaker Change: It's easier for us actually to see.

Speaker Change: Down activity by looking at sales trends by price point in the store.

Speaker Change: So in Q1, we continued to see strong comp trends at higher price points in other words, the customer's voting for elevated merchandise, especially for key brands and.

Michael O'sullivan: In other words, the customers voting for elevated merchandise, especially for key brands. And we see that data as evidence of potential trade down traffic in our stores.

Speaker Change: And we see that data as evidence of potential crate down traffic in our stores.

Lorraine Hutchinson: Thank you. Kristin, in dollar terms, reserve inventory is 31% higher than last year. Seems a little high.

Kristen: Thank you Kristen.

Kristen: <unk> terms reserve inventory is 31% higher than last year. It seems a little high whats what has driven this increase.

Kristin Wolfe: What has driven this increase? Good morning, Lorraine. Thanks for that question. At the end of the quarter, our reserve inventory was 48% of total inventory, and that compared to 40% last year. So, you're right in your question, in dollar terms, reserve was up 31% compared to last year, as you said. The increase is due to the great deal we were able to make to get ahead of tariffs. The goods we have in reserve are highly branded and include spring, back to school, and fall merchandise. And importantly, Michael referenced this earlier, these goods did not incur a tariff, as they were already in the country when we acquired them.

Kristen: Good morning, Lorraine. Thanks for that question at the end of the quarter.

Kristen: Reserve inventory was 48% as total inventory and that compared to 40% last year. So you are right in your question.

Kristen: Dollar terms reserve was up 31% compared to last year as you said.

Kristen: The increase is due to the great deal, we were able to make to get ahead of tariffs. The goods. We have in reserve are highly branded and include spring back to school and fall merchandise.

Kristen: And importantly, Michael referenced this earlier these goods did not incur a tariff as they were already in the country when we acquired them.

Kristin Wolfe: So, reserve is a very important lever we have as an off-price retailer, especially in this environment. It allows us to be more flexible, acquire branded, high-quality merchandise that we can pack away and release later when it's seasonably appropriate. So, overall, we feel very good about the merchandise we have in reserve, both from a quantity as well as a quality standpoint.

Kristen: Our reserve is a very important lever we have as an off price retailer vaseline in this environment. It allows us to be more flexible acquire branded high quality merchandise that we can pack away and release later when it's seasonally appropriate.

Kristen: Overall, we feel very good about the merchandise, we Havent reserve both from a quantity as well as a quality standpoint.

Kristen: Yes.

Unknown Executive: Thank you.

Kristen: Thank you.

Kristen: Excellent.

John Kernan: Your next question comes from the line of John Kernan of TD Cohen. Your line is now open. Good morning, Michael and Kristin. and John John. Great. I think that comp guidance for the full year, obviously, no change there at flat to two. I'm wondering what you see as the potential drivers of risk to this guidance. It sounds like the macro is your biggest concern. And are there any potential drivers of comp sales upside? Are there any categories or opportunities, buying opportunities you're most excited about?

Speaker Change: Your next question comes from the line of John Kernan of TD Cowen. Your line is now open.

John Kernan: Good morning, Michael Chris.

John Jones: John Jones.

John Jones: Okay.

Speaker Change: I think the comp guidance for the full year, obviously no change there at flat to two I'm wondering what you see as the potential drivers of risk. So this guidance it sounds like the macro is your biggest concern.

Speaker Change: Are there any potential drivers of comp sales upsides are there any categories or opportunities buying opportunities you're most excited about.

Michael O'sullivan: Well, good morning, John. Thank you for the question. Yeah, it is the macro that we're most concerned about. But, you know, I would say in this environment, we actually see both potential drivers of risk and potential drivers of upside.

John: Good morning, John Thank.

John: Thank you for the question.

Speaker Change: Yes. It is the macro that we're most concerned about.

John: But I would say in this environment, we actually see both potential drivers of risk and potential drivers of upside.

Michael O'sullivan: I'll start by discussing the major risks. Firstly, The economy, you know, there are numerous external indicators right now that seem to be pointing negative. And also, you know, many experts have raised their probability estimates for a recession, so. So, we are a little worried about the macro environment. My view is that, typically, economic slowdowns hurt the rest of retail more than they hurt off-price. But in the short term, they also hurt off price. Historically, again, I think the pattern is that all retailers are hurt in the short term as the trend slows down. But then the off price retailers are better able to bounce back by by moving quickly to take advantage of buying opportunities and turning those deals into great value for customers.

John: I'll start by.

John: Discussing the major risks firstly.

John: The economy there.

John: Numerous external indicators right now that seem to be pointing negative.

John: And also many experts have raised probability estimates or recession. So.

John: So we are worried about the macro environment.

John: My view is that typically.

John: Economic slowdowns.

John: Rest of retail more than they hurt off price.

John: But in the short term they also hold off price.

John: Historically.

John: Again, I think the patent is that all retailers are hurt in the short term as the trends. So I was down but then the off price retailers are better able to bounce back.

John: By moving quickly to take advantage of buying opportunities and turning those deals.

John: Integrate value for customers.

Michael O'sullivan: Now, if that pattern, that historic pattern holds, then an economic slowdown could hurt us later this year. You know, then, of course, we would we would we would hope to bounce back in 2026.

John: If that pattern that historic pattern holds then an economic slowdown could hurt US later this year.

John: Then of course, we would we would hope to bounce back in 2026.

Michael O'sullivan: So that's the macroeconomy that the other major risk. is an increase in inflation if tariffs continue. And it seems likely that inflation will pick up as those tariffs work their way through the economy. Of course, there's a lot of uncertainty here. We don't know what the tariffs will settle at. But we do know that our core customer is very sensitive to inflation. And we saw what happened when inflation spiked in 2022. You know, our customer, our core customer does not have savings that they can use to cushion the impact of higher prices. You know, our strategy is to offer great value to the customer.

John: So that would be.

John: The macro economy that the other major risks.

John: <unk> is an increase in inflation.

John: Yes tariffs continue.

John: And it seems likely that inflation will pick up as those tariffs work their way through the economy.

John: Of course, there's a lot of uncertainty here, we don't know what the tariffs will settle at.

John: We do know that our core customer is very sensitive to inflation, we saw what happened when inflation spiked in 2022.

John: Our customer our core customer does not have savings that they can use to cushion the impact of higher prices.

John: Our strategy is to offer great value to the customer so we plan to resist on raising our own retails.

Michael O'sullivan: So we plan to resist on raising our own retails. But even if we keep our own prices low, our sales trend could still be impacted if a higher general cost of living squeezes the discretionary income and spending of lower-income households. Okay, so those are the risks, the economy and inflation.

John: But even if we keep our own prices low our sales trend could still be impacted.

John: We have a higher general cost of living squeezes, the discretionary income and spending is lower income households.

John: So those are those are the risks to the economy and inflation.

Michael O'sullivan: Let me, I think there also are some potential sources of optimism and three things that I think could drive upside to sales. Firstly, let me go back to the point on inflation. Our focus and our strategy are to find ways to offer great value to customers. If prices rise across retail because of tariffs, then I would expect the price differentiation between us and the rest of retail to grow in our favor. And if that happens, then it might drive higher traffic to stores, or it might, in some cases, give us an opportunity. to adjust their own retails.

John: Let me I think there are also some potential sources of optimism.

John: And.

John: Three things that I think could drive upside to sales.

John: Firstly, let me go back to the point on inflation, our focus and our strategy.

John: And ways to offer great value to customers.

John: Prices rise across retail because of tariffs.

John: And I would expect the price differentiation between us and the rest of retail to grow in our valuable and if that happens then it might drive higher traffic to stores or it might in some cases give us an opportunity.

John: To address their own retails.

Michael O'sullivan: Secondly, and I hesitate to bring this up, but there are items in the bill that's currently working its way through Congress that could help our customers and be a tailwind for our trend. In particular, no taxes on tips and overtime income would be a nice benefit for our customers.

John: Secondly.

John: I hesitate to bring this up but there are items in the bill that is currently working its way through Congress.

John: It could help our customers and be a tailwind for our trend in particular, no taxes on tips and overtime income would be would be a nice benefit for our customers.

Michael O'sullivan: Let me add a third point. The macro environment is very important, but You know, we know that our success does not just depend on the macro environment. We have agency, too. You know, we're doing things at Burlington that should help to drive our sales trend. You know, for example, you know, we continue to go after opportunities to elevate our assortment in merchandising. We are pleased with the progress we're making to improve the localization of our assortment at a store level, and we're very excited about the initiatives that we're rolling out to improve customer experience and service levels in our stores.

John: Let me add a third point the macro environment is very important bugs.

John: We know that our success does not just depend on the macro environment, we have agency to.

John: Doing things that Burlington that should help to drive our sales trend for example.

John: We continue to go after opportunities to elevate our assortment and merchandising.

John: We're pleased with the progress, we're making to improve the localization of our assortments.

John: <unk> level and we're very excited about the initiatives that we're rolling out to improve.

John: Customer experience and service levels in our stores.

Michael O'sullivan: So let me wrap up by reiterating we feel good about our flat 2% comp guidance for the year. We see some risks to that comp range, but we also see some potential tailwinds. And right now, I think those risks and those tailwinds feel fairly well balanced.

John: So let.

John: Let me wrap up by reiterating we feel good about our flat to 2% comp guidance for the year, we see some risks to that comp range, but we also see some potential tailwind.

John: And right now I think those risks and those tailwind still fairly fairly well balanced.

John Kernan: Understood.

Kristin Wolfe: Maybe just a quick follow up question about freight. Kristin, in the prepared remarks, I think you mentioned your full year guidance is contingent on being able to hold ocean freight costs to contracted rates. Can you just expand on that? And how much of a swing factor is this in your guidance? And then any commentary in the domestic freight cost picture also helpful given there's been some volatility there as well.

Speaker Change: Understood and maybe just a quick follow up question about freight Kristen.

Speaker Change: In the prepared remarks, I think you mentioned in your full year guidance is contingent on being able to hold ocean freight cost to contracted rates can you just expand on that and how much of a swing factor is this in your guidance and then.

Speaker Change: Any commentary on the domestic freight cost picture also helpful. Given there's been some volatility there as well.

Kristin Wolfe: Good morning, John. Thanks for that question. It's a good question.

John: Good morning, John Thanks for that question.

Kristin Wolfe: Maybe I'll take the last part first on domestic freight. We recently secured truck and intermodal capacity at rates we feel very good about. In addition, diesel fuel rate could potentially be an expense tailwind, but that's obviously hard to predict or count on. On international freight, to the crux of your question, this is primarily captured in our merchandise margin. We've locked in our contracted ocean rates through the first quarter of 2026, and we feel good about those rates and our ability to meet our capacity needs. However, given the potential volatility of shipments and potential spikes as China comes back online, there is potentially a risk of spot market exposure.

John: Good question, maybe I'll take the last part first on domestic freight we recently secured truck and intermodal capacity at rates, we feel very good about it.

John: In addition diesel fuel rate could potentially be an expense tailwind, but that's obviously hard to predict.

John: <unk>.

John: On international freight to the crux of your question. This is currently captured in our merchandise margin we've locked in our contracted ocean rates through the first quarter of 2026, and we feel good about those rates and our ability to meet our capacity needs.

John: However, given the potential volatility of shipments and potential spikes.

John: As China comes back online there is pets.

John: Potentially a risk of spot market exposure and so as I mentioned in the prepared remarks, our guidance assumes we do not see an increase in ocean freight expense above our contracted rates.

Kristin Wolfe: And so, as I mentioned in the prepared remarks, our guidance assumes we do not see an increase in ocean freight expense above our contracted rates.

John: Okay.

Alex Straton: Your next question comes from the line of Alex Straton of Morgan Stanley. Your line is now open. Thanks a lot. I just have a couple for Kristin.

Alex Chang: Your next question comes from the line of Alex Chang of Morgan Stanley. Your line is now open.

Alex Chang: Thanks, a lot I just have a couple for Chris then maybe <unk> can you just walk through first quarter comp performance by region as well as address if weather impacted performance at all then I have a just quick follow up after that.

Kristin Wolfe: Maybe first, can you just walk through first quarter comp performance by region, as well as address if weather impacted performance at all? Then I have a just quick follow up after that. Great. Good morning, Alex. In terms of regional performance, the southeast region was, outperformed the chain, was above the chain, while the Midwest region trailed the chain. This is likely due to the unfavorable weather in that region. In the first quarter, weather certainly had an impact on comp and traffic, particularly in February. And it had a significant impact in February on two important regions of ours, the northeast and the Midwest.

Speaker Change: Great Good morning, Alex.

Alex Chang: In terms of regional performance the southeast region was outperformed the chain was above the chain, while the Midwest Midwest region trailed the chain. This is likely due to the unfavorable weather in that region in the first quarter weather certainly had an impact on comp and traffic, particularly in February and.

Alex Chang: It had a significant impact in February two important regions of the northeast and the Midwest, but once we got into the March April time period weather pretty much normalized and was neutral to our March and April trends.

Kristin Wolfe: But once we got into the March, April time period, weather pretty much normalized and was neutral to our March and April trend. Great.

Kristin Wolfe: Maybe just secondly, can you also discuss comp performance in the quarter by category if any were weaker or stronger? Great. Yeah, it's a good question. Although performance across categories was was fairly broad based in the first quarter. The only real call out I'd make is that the best performing category in the quarter was our beauty business. Thanks so much. Thanks, Alex.

Speaker Change: Great. Maybe just secondly can you also discuss comp performance in the quarter or by category, if any or weaker or stronger.

Alex Chang: Great Yeah. It's a good question, although performance across categories was fairly broad based in the first quarter. The only real callout I'd make is that the best performing category in the quarter with our beauty business.

Alex Chang: Thanks, so much thanks Alex.

Brooke Roach: Your next question comes from the line of Brooke Roach of Goldman Sachs. Your line is now open. Good morning, and thank you for taking our question. Michael, in response to an earlier question, you talked about some of the actions you're taking to drive continued comp momentum on an idiosyncratic basis.

Speaker Change: Your next question comes from the line of Brooks Roche.

Speaker Change: Eldon Sachs. Your line is now open.

Speaker Change: Good morning, and thank you for taking our question Michael in response to an earlier question you talked about some of the actions you are taking to drive continued comp momentum on an idiosyncratic basis, along those lines can you provide an update on your marketing programs.

Michael O'sullivan: Along those lines, can you provide an update on your marketing program? Sure. Good morning, Brooke. Thank you for the question. Actually, I'm really glad that you asked that question. It gives me a chance to describe some of the things that are going on in marketing.

Speaker Change: Sure.

Speaker Change: Brooke.

Speaker Change: Thank you for the question.

Speaker Change: Thanks, John.

Speaker Change: Really glad that you asked that question. It gives me a chance to describe.

Speaker Change: Some of the things that are going on and marketing I would say that over the last few years.

Michael O'sullivan: I would say that over the last few years, Our marketing programs have evolved to play a really important role in supporting Burlington 2.0. You know, our marketing and strategy teams are much more integrated now in driving our business than they ever used to be.

Speaker Change: Our marketing programs have evolved to play a really important role in supporting Burlington to point it out.

Speaker Change: Our marketing and strategy teams are much more integrated now and driving our business.

Speaker Change: It used to be.

Michael O'sullivan: Maybe the best way for me to illustrate that is to talk about a few things. Firstly, our marketing message. Secondly, I'll talk about external marketing. And then thirdly, our in-store marketing. Let's start with our marketing message. Our marketing message is now focused on one thing, value. I would say it used to be that our marketing message was broader, more diffuse and less clear. But our marketing team has done a really nice job building excitement around and really focusing the message on great value. You know, now if you see any of our marketing, it's all about deals, brands, wow.

Speaker Change: Maybe the best way for me to illustrate that is to talk about a few things.

Speaker Change: Firstly, our marketing message.

Speaker Change: Secondly, I will talk about external marketing and then thirdly.

Speaker Change: Our in store marketing.

Speaker Change: With our marketing message.

Speaker Change: Our marketing message is now focused on one thing value.

Speaker Change: I would say it used to be.

Speaker Change: And our marketing message was broader.

Speaker Change: More of a few some less clear.

Speaker Change: Our marketing team has done a really nice job building excitement around and really focusing the message on great value.

Speaker Change: Now if you see any of our marketing, it's all about deals brands Wow.

Michael O'sullivan: Secondly, external marketing. We know that our customers are passionate about finding a great deal. When our customers find a great brand, great fashion, a great deal in our runs. They don't keep it a secret. They tell all their friends. That's much more powerful than traditional broadcast advertising. Our marketing team, again, has found some really great ways to encourage and amplify this word of mouth advertising in social media and elsewhere.

Speaker Change: Secondly, external marketing, we know that our customers are.

Speaker Change: About finding a great deal.

Speaker Change: Went out with our customers find a great brand with great fashion, a great deal and our runs.

Speaker Change: They don't they don't keep a secret they tell their friends.

Speaker Change: That's much more powerful and traditional broadcast advertising marketing team again has found some really great ways to encourage and amplify this word of mouth advertising.

Speaker Change: In social media.

Speaker Change: And elsewhere.

Michael O'sullivan: Thirdly, let me talk about in-store marketing. If you walk into one of our new or recently remodeled stores, you will see an environment that's very different to historic Burlington. We call this Store Experience 2.0. And about half of our stores have now been converted to Store Experience 2.0. The other half will be converted by the end of 2026. Now, instead of a difficult-to-navigate and endless sea of racks, You'll find a store layout that's much more welcoming, inviting, exciting, and off-price. A layout that's much more deals, brands, wow. Our stores, our store team, our merchandising team, and our marketing teams all collaborated on this new layout and design for our stores.

Speaker Change: Thirdly, let me, let me talk about in store marketing, if you walk into one of our new or recently remodeled stores.

Speaker Change: You will see an environment, that's very different to historic Burlington, We call. This store experience to point out.

Speaker Change: At about about half of our stores have now been conducted in store experience to point out the other half will be converted by the end of 2026.

Speaker Change: Instead of a difficult to navigate and endless sea of racks.

Speaker Change: Youll find a store layout that that's much more welcoming and biting exciting and off price.

Speaker Change: Lay out that's much more deals brands Wow.

Speaker Change: Our stores.

Speaker Change: Our store team.

Speaker Change: Merchandising team and our marketing teams all collaborated on this new layout and design for our stores. We're really excited about it reinforces that we are it reinforces Burlington to point out.

Michael O'sullivan: We're really excited about it. It reinforces who we are. It reinforces Burlington 2.0. Great.

Michael O'sullivan: And then just one follow up for you, Michael.

Speaker Change: Great and then just one follow up for you Michael as you contemplate.

Michael O'sullivan: As you contemplate in mitigation actions for current tariffs, are there any useful lessons from 2018 when tariffs on China were initially introduced during the first Trump administration? Yeah, it's a good question. I remember living through that. And actually, I remember being quite worried at the time. But, you know, as it turned out, those tariffs really had very little impact. on the supply or the cost of off-price merchandise. The key difference, of course, is that those tariffs were on a much smaller scale than the tariffs we've been contemplating over the last couple of months. And they covered, I want to say that the...

Michael O'sullivan: Mitigation actions for current tariffs are there any useful lesson from 2018, when tariffs on China, where initially introduced during the first Trump administration.

Michael O'sullivan: Yes.

Speaker Change: It's a good it's a good question.

Speaker Change: I remember living through that.

Speaker Change: And actually I remember being quite worried at the time.

Speaker Change: But as it turned out those tariffs really had Brian that'll impact on the supply or the cost of off price merchandise.

Speaker Change: The key difference of course is that those tariffs were on a much smaller scale.

Speaker Change: And the tariffs we've been contemplating over the last couple of months.

Speaker Change: And they covered I want to say that thing.

Michael O'sullivan: The tariffs back then ran from 10 to 25 percent, that order of magnitude, and they were on a limited number of categories, mostly in the home business. Now, for sure, there were a big headache for the merchants in those categories, but overall, the impact was fairly modest, and we were able to find offsets. Now, in contrast, the tariffs that were announced in April were on everything from everywhere all at once. Now, again, last night's court judgment, we don't know if the tariffs will continue or not, but clearly, their potential, based upon the rates that were set in April, is much more significant than it was in 2018.

Speaker Change: The tariffs back then ran from 10% to 25% that order of magnitude.

Speaker Change: They were on a limited number of categories, mostly in the home business. After sure. They were a big headache for the merchants in those categories, but overall the impact was fairly modest and we were able to find offsets.

Speaker Change: In contrast, the.

Speaker Change: The tariffs that were announced in April we're on everything from everywhere all at once.

Speaker Change: So again last night court judgment.

Speaker Change: We don't know if the tariffs will continue or not but.

Speaker Change: Clearly that potential based upon the rates that were set in April.

Speaker Change: Much more significant than it was in 2018.

Michael O'sullivan: That said, there's a lesson from back then. I think it's that, as an off-price retailer, we have a level of flexibility that other retailers do not have. So tariffs are likely, if tariffs continue, they're likely to be a challenge for all retailers. But we are in a better position to react and adjust, and we really need to play to those strengths in this environment.

Speaker Change: <unk>.

Speaker Change: This lesson from back then I think that as an off price retailer, we have a level of flexibility.

Speaker Change: Other retailers do not have.

Speaker Change: So tariffs are unlikely if the tariffs continue that likely could be a challenge for all retailers.

Speaker Change: But we are in a better position to react and adjust and we will you need to play to those strengths in this environment.

Michael O'sullivan: Great.

Michael O'sullivan: Thanks so much. I'll pass it on.

Speaker Change: Great. Thanks, so much I'll pass it on.

Kurt: Thanks Kurt.

Speaker Change: Okay.

Dana Telsey: Your next question comes from the line of Dana Telsey of Telsey Advisory Group. Your line is now open. Hi, good morning, everyone.

Speaker Change: Your next question comes from the line of Dana Telsey Telsey Advisory group.

Speaker Change: Your line is now open.

Dana Telsey: Hi, Good morning, everyone. As you think about real estate and Michael that's exciting about the new layout Christian when we will have 100 stores in 2025 open spring versus fall.

Kristin Wolfe: As you think about real estate and Michael, that's exciting about the new layout. Kristin, when will the 100 stores in 2025 open, spring versus fall? And given the landscape where you acquired, I believe, around 46 stores from Joanne's, how are you thinking of those openings and will they be in the new layout also? Thank you.

Speaker Change: Given the landscape, where you acquired I believe around 46 stores from Joanne how are you thinking of those openings and will they be in the new layout also thank you.

Speaker Change: Okay.

Kristin Wolfe: Good morning, Dana. Yeah, thanks for the question. For 2025, we still have a lot of confidence in our 100 net new stores. That assumes 100 net new and about 130 or so growth new store openings. We expect about 25% of stores to open in the first half of the year, and 75% or the majority will be opening in the second half, but those will almost all be in the third quarter in 2025. And and then you mentioned in your question, yes, we're excited. We recently acquired the leases of 46 former Joanne stores. Because we recently acquired those leases, we're paying rent on those stores now, so we're focused on getting them open as quickly as possible.

Speaker Change: Good morning, Dana Thanks for the question.

Speaker Change: For 2025, we still have a lot of confidence in our 100 net new stores.

Speaker Change: That assumes 100, net new and about 130, or so growth new store openings we.

Speaker Change: We expect about 25% of stores to open in the first half of the year and 75% are the majority will be opening in the second half, but those will almost all be in the third quarter.

Speaker Change: 2025.

Speaker Change: And then you mentioned in your question, Yes. We're excited we recently acquired the leases are 46, former joann stores.

Speaker Change: Because we recently acquired those leases were paying rent on those stores now that we're focused on getting them open as quickly as possible right now and we're expecting those stores to open in spring of 2026, and most will likely open in the first quarter.

Kristin Wolfe: Right now, we're expecting those stores to open in spring of 2026, and most will likely open in the first quarter of next year.

Speaker Change: Next year.

Speaker Change: Yeah.

Unknown Executive: Thank you so much.

Michael Sullivan: Thank you so much I would now like to hand, the call back to Michael Sullivan for final remarks.

Michael O'sullivan: I would now like to hand the call back to Michael O'Sullivan for final remarks. Let me close by thanking everyone on this call for your interest in Burlington Stores.

Michael Sullivan: Let me close by thanking everyone on this call for your interest in Burlington stores.

Unknown Executive: We look forward to talking to you again in August to discuss our second quarter 2025 results. Thank you for your time. Thank you for attending today's call.

Michael Sullivan: We look forward to talking to you again in August to discuss our second quarter 2020 results. Thank.

Michael Sullivan: Thank you for your time today.

Michael Sullivan: Thank you for attending today's call you may now disconnect Goodbye.

Operator: You may now disconnect.

Operator: Goodbye.

Michael Sullivan: [music].

Michael Sullivan: Okay.

Michael Sullivan: Okay.

Michael Sullivan: [music].

Michael Sullivan: Okay.

Michael Sullivan: Okay.