Document


 
 
 
 
 


UNITED STATES
          SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
 Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 8-K
  
CURRENT REPORT
  
Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
 
 
Date of Report (Date of earliest event reported): October 26, 2017
 
Carter’s, Inc.
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)

Delaware
 
001-31829
 
13-3912933
(State or other jurisdiction
of incorporation)
 
(Commission File Number)
 
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)
 
 
 
 
 
Phipps Tower
3438 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 1800
Atlanta, Georgia 30326
(Address of principal executive offices, including zip code)
 
(678) 791-1000
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
 
 
(Former name or former address, if changed since last report.)  
 
Check the appropriate box below if the Form 8-K filing is intended to simultaneously satisfy the filing obligation of the Registrant under any of the following provisions (see General Instructions A.2. below):
o
Written communications pursuant to Rule 425 under the Securities Act (17 CFR 230.425)
 
 
o
Soliciting material pursuant to Rule 14a-12 under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14a-12)
 
 
o
Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 14d-2(b) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14d-2(b))
 
 
o
Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 13e-4(c) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.13e-4(c))

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an emerging growth company as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act of 1933 (17 CFR 230.405) or Rule 12b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (17 CFR 240.12b-2).
Emerging growth company ¨

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ¨






Item 2.02.                      Results of Operations and Financial Condition.

On October 26, 2017, Carter’s, Inc. issued a press release announcing its financial results for the fiscal quarter ended September 30, 2017.  A copy of that press release is attached as Exhibit 99.1 to this Current Report on Form 8-K.
 
The information in this Current Report on Form 8-K is being furnished and shall not be deemed “filed” for the purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or otherwise subject to the liabilities of that Section.  The information in this Current Report on Form 8-K shall not be incorporated by reference into any registration statement or other document filed pursuant to the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.
 
 
Item 9.01.                      Financial Statements and Exhibits.

Exhibits – The following exhibit is furnished as part of this Current Report on Form 8-K.
 
 
 
Exhibit
Number
Description
 
 
99.1





Signature
 
 
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, Carter’s, Inc. has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned hereunto duly authorized.
  
October 26, 2017
                               CARTER’S, INC.
 
 
 
 
 
By:
/s/ MICHAEL C. WU
 
Name:
Michael C. Wu
 
Title:
Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary
 
 
 
 
 
 


Exhibit


EXHIBIT 99.1    
https://cdn.kscope.io/a4e8650cf7d8f58b7b9672e8ed54336e-carters_logoa01a01a01a01a10.jpg
 
Contact:
 
Sean McHugh
 
Vice President & Treasurer
 
(678) 791-7615

Carters, Inc. Reports Third Quarter Fiscal 2017 Results

Net sales $948 million, growth of 5%
Diluted EPS $1.71, growth of 7%; adjusted diluted EPS $1.70, growth of 6%
Returned $204 million to shareholders through share repurchases and dividends in the first three quarters of fiscal 2017
Company acquires licensee in Mexico
Q4 fiscal 2017 outlook: net sales growth of 10%; adjusted diluted EPS growth of 21%
Full year fiscal 2017 outlook: net sales growth of 6%; adjusted diluted EPS growth of 9%
ATLANTA, October 26, 2017 - Carter’s, Inc. (NYSE:CRI), the largest branded marketer in North America of apparel exclusively for babies and young children, today reported its third quarter fiscal 2017 results.
“We achieved our third quarter sales and earnings objectives, despite the significant impact of hurricanes in Texas, Florida, and Puerto Rico,” said Michael D. Casey, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.  “Our growth was led by our U.S. retail and international businesses, including the contribution of our Skip Hop brand which we acquired earlier this year. We also announced today the acquisition of our licensee in Mexico, an investment which we believe will strengthen our leading market position in North America. Given the strength of our fall and holiday product offerings, together with the contribution of our new opportunities with Skip Hop, Amazon, China, and Mexico, we believe we are on track to achieve our growth objectives this year, our 29th consecutive year of sales growth.”
Acquisition of Licensee in Mexico
On August 1, 2017, the Company acquired its licensee in Mexico. The licensee’s 2016 net sales, from wholesale and retail store operations, were approximately $525 million Mexican Pesos, or approximately $28 million U.S. Dollars at the current exchange rate.


1



Consolidated Results
Third Quarter of Fiscal 2017 compared to Third Quarter of Fiscal 2016
Net sales increased $46.8 million, or 5.2%, to $948.2 million, principally driven by growth in the Company’s U.S. Retail segment and the benefit of Skip Hop, which was acquired by the Company in February 2017. Skip Hop, a global lifestyle brand for families with young children, and the recently-acquired business in Mexico contributed $27.9 million and $4.5 million, respectively, to consolidated net sales growth in the third quarter of fiscal 2017. Changes in foreign currency exchange rates in the third quarter of fiscal 2017 compared to the third quarter of fiscal 2016 favorably affected consolidated net sales in the third quarter of fiscal 2017 by $3.3 million, or 0.4%. On a constant currency basis (a non-GAAP measure), consolidated net sales increased 4.8% in the third quarter of fiscal 2017.
Operating income in the third quarter of fiscal 2017 decreased $0.2 million, or 0.1%, to $130.7 million, compared to $130.9 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2016. Operating margin decreased 70 basis points to 13.8%, compared to 14.5% in the third quarter of fiscal 2016.
Adjusted operating income (a non-GAAP measure) decreased $0.2 million, or 0.2%, to $131.2 million, compared to $131.4 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2016. Adjusted operating margin (a non-GAAP measure) decreased 80 basis points to 13.8%, compared to 14.6% in the third quarter of fiscal 2016, which principally reflects increased investments in retail operations, marketing, and technology, partially offset by favorable product costs.
Net income in the third quarter of fiscal 2017 increased $1.7 million, or 2.1%, to $82.5 million, or $1.71 per diluted share, compared to $80.8 million, or $1.60 per diluted share, in the third quarter of fiscal 2016.  
Adjusted net income (a non-GAAP measure) increased $1.0 million, or 1.3%, to $82.2 million, compared to $81.1 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2016. Adjusted earnings per diluted share (a non-GAAP measure) in the third quarter of fiscal 2017 increased 5.8% to $1.70, compared to $1.61 in the third quarter of fiscal 2016.
First Three Quarters of Fiscal 2017 compared to First Three Quarters of Fiscal 2016
Net sales increased $108.1 million, or 4.8%, to $2.37 billion, principally driven by growth in the Company’s U.S. Retail segment and the benefit of the Skip Hop acquisition. The Skip Hop and Mexico acquisitions contributed $63.3 million and $4.5 million, respectively, to consolidated net sales growth in the first three quarters of fiscal 2017. Changes in foreign currency exchange rates in the first three quarters of fiscal 2017 compared to the first three quarters of fiscal 2016 favorably affected consolidated

2



net sales in the third quarter of fiscal 2017 by $2.1 million, or 0.1%. On a constant currency basis (a non-GAAP measure), consolidated net sales increased 4.7% in the first three quarters of fiscal 2017.
Operating income in the first three quarters of fiscal 2017 decreased $13.3 million, or 4.6%, to $273.8 million, compared to $287.1 million in the first three quarters of fiscal 2016. Operating margin decreased 120 basis points to 11.5%, compared to 12.7% in the first three quarters of fiscal 2016.
Adjusted operating income (a non-GAAP measure) decreased $12.0 million, or 4.1%, to $277.4 million, compared to $289.4 million in the first three quarters of fiscal 2016. Adjusted operating margin (a non-GAAP measure) decreased 110 basis points to 11.7%, compared to 12.8% in the first three quarters of fiscal 2016, which principally reflects increased investments in retail operations, marketing, and technology, partially offset by favorable product costs.
Net income in the first three quarters of fiscal 2017 decreased $3.9 million, or 2.3%, to $167.1 million, or $3.43 per diluted share, compared to $171.0 million, or $3.34 per diluted share, in the first three quarters of fiscal 2016.  
Adjusted net income (a non-GAAP measure) decreased $3.7 million, or 2.1%, to $168.7 million, compared to $172.4 million in the first three quarters of fiscal 2016. Adjusted earnings per diluted share (a non-GAAP measure) in the first three quarters of fiscal 2017 increased 2.7% to $3.46, compared to $3.37 in the first three quarters of fiscal 2016.
Cash flow from operations in the first three quarters of fiscal 2017 was $117.5 million compared to $116.6 million in the first three quarters of fiscal 2016.
See the “Reconciliation of GAAP to Adjusted Results” section of this release for additional disclosures and reconciliations regarding non-GAAP measures.
Business Segment Results
At the beginning of fiscal 2017, the Company combined its Carter’s Retail and OshKosh Retail segments into a single U.S. Retail operating segment, and its Carter’s Wholesale and OshKosh Wholesale segments into a single U.S. Wholesale operating segment, to reflect the sales-channel approach executive management now uses to evaluate business performance and manage operations in the U.S.  The International segment was not affected by these changes. The Company’s reportable segments are now U.S. Retail, U.S. Wholesale, and International. Prior periods have been conformed to reflect this current segment structure.

3



U.S. Retail Segment
In the third quarter and the first three fiscal quarters of fiscal 2017, the Company believes that U.S. Retail segment comparable sales were negatively affected by hurricanes in Texas, the Southeast, and Puerto Rico, as well as abnormally warm weather throughout much of the United States during the third quarter of fiscal 2017.
Third Quarter of Fiscal 2017 compared to Third Quarter of Fiscal 2016
U.S. Retail segment sales increased $32.3 million, or 7.7%, to $454.0 million. U.S. Retail comparable sales increased 2.6%, comprised of comparable eCommerce sales growth of 20.9%, partially offset by a comparable stores sales decline of 3.2%. Skip Hop contributed $1.8 million to segment net sales in the third quarter of fiscal 2017.
In the third quarter of fiscal 2017, the Company opened 12 stores and closed one store in the United States.
First Three Quarters of Fiscal 2017 compared to First Three Quarters of Fiscal 2016
U.S. Retail segment sales increased $81.1 million, or 7.2%, to $1.21 billion. U.S. Retail comparable sales increased 1.7%, comprised of comparable eCommerce sales growth of 22.5%, partially offset by a comparable stores sales decline of 4.3%. Skip Hop contributed $3.0 million to segment net sales in the first three quarters of fiscal 2017.
In the first three quarters of fiscal 2017, the Company opened 38 stores and closed nine stores in the United States.
As of the end of the third quarter of fiscal 2017, the Company operated 821 retail stores in the United States, comprised of 608 single brand and 213 dual-brand stores.
U.S. Wholesale Segment
Third Quarter of Fiscal 2017 compared to Third Quarter of Fiscal 2016
U.S. wholesale segment net sales decreased $4.2 million, or 1.1%, to $369.6 million, reflecting a decrease in demand for Carter’s and OshKosh products, partially offset by the benefit of the Skip Hop acquisition. Skip Hop contributed $16.3 million to segment net sales in the third quarter of fiscal 2017.
First Three Quarters of Fiscal 2017 compared to First Three Quarters of Fiscal 2016
U.S. wholesale segment net sales decreased $1.1 million, or 0.1%, to $879.8 million, reflecting a decrease in demand for Carter’s and OshKosh products, partially offset by the benefit of the Skip Hop acquisition. Skip Hop contributed $38.1 million to segment net sales in the first three quarters of fiscal 2017.

4



International Segment
Third Quarter of Fiscal 2017 compared to Third Quarter of Fiscal 2016
International segment net sales increased $18.6 million, or 17.6%, to $124.6 million, reflecting the benefits of the Skip Hop and Mexico acquisitions and growth in Canada and China, partially offset by decreased wholesale demand in other markets outside of the U.S. The Skip Hop and Mexico acquisitions contributed $9.9 million and $4.5 million, respectively, to segment net sales growth in the third quarter of fiscal 2017.
Changes in foreign currency exchange rates in the third quarter of fiscal 2017 compared to the third quarter of fiscal 2016 favorably affected international segment net sales in the third quarter of fiscal 2017 by $3.3 million, or 3.1%. On a constant currency basis (a non-GAAP measure), international segment net sales increased 14.5%.
For the third quarter of fiscal 2017, Canada retail comparable sales increased 0.7%, comprised of comparable eCommerce sales growth of 60.7%, mostly offset by a comparable stores sales decline of 3.9%. In the third quarter of fiscal 2017, the Company opened four stores in Canada.
First Three Quarters of Fiscal 2017 compared to First Three Quarters of Fiscal 2016
International segment net sales increased $28.1 million, or 11.0%, to $283.6 million, reflecting the benefits of the Skip Hop and Mexico acquisitions and growth in Canada and China, partially offset by decreased wholesale demand in other markets outside of the U.S. The Skip Hop and Mexico acquisitions contributed $22.2 million and $4.5 million, respectively, to segment net sales growth in the first three quarters of fiscal 2017.
Changes in foreign currency exchange rates in the first three quarters of fiscal 2017 compared to the first three quarters of fiscal 2016 favorably affected international segment net sales in the first three quarters of fiscal 2017 by $2.1 million, or 0.8%. On a constant currency basis (a non-GAAP measure), international segment net sales increased 10.2%.
For the first three quarters of fiscal 2017, Canada retail comparable sales increased 0.3%, comprised of comparable eCommerce sales growth of 50.4%, offset by a comparable stores sales decline of 3.3%.
In the first three quarters of fiscal 2017, the Company opened 10 stores and closed two stores in Canada. As of the end of the third quarter of fiscal 2017, the Company operated 172 retail stores in Canada and 40 retail stores in Mexico.


5



Return of Capital
In the third quarter and first three quarters of fiscal 2017, the Company returned to shareholders, through share repurchases and cash dividends, a total of $70.4 million and $204.4 million, respectively, as described below.
During the third quarter of fiscal 2017, the Company repurchased and retired 596,178 shares of its common stock for $52.7 million at an average price of $88.47 per share. In the first three quarters of fiscal 2017, the Company repurchased and retired 1,727,587 shares of its common stock for $151.0 million at an average price of $87.39 per share. Fiscal year-to-date through October 25, 2017, the Company repurchased and retired a total of 1,850,762 shares for $162.6 million at an average price of $87.83 per share. All shares were repurchased in open market transactions pursuant to applicable regulations for such transactions. As of October 25, 2017, the total remaining capacity under the Company’s previously announced repurchase authorizations was approximately $112 million.
During the third quarter of fiscal 2017, the Company paid a cash dividend of $0.37 per share totaling $17.6 million. In the first three quarters of fiscal 2017, the Company paid cash dividends totaling $1.11 per share, or $53.4 million. Future declarations of quarterly dividends and the establishment of related record and payment dates will be at the discretion of the Company’s Board of Directors based on a number of factors, including the Company’s future financial performance and other considerations.
2017 Business Outlook
For fiscal 2017, the Company projects net sales to increase approximately 6% compared to fiscal 2016 and adjusted earnings per diluted share to increase approximately 9% compared to adjusted earnings per diluted share of $5.14 in fiscal 2016. This forecast for fiscal 2017 adjusted earnings per diluted share excludes: (1) anticipated expenses of approximately $4.6 million related to acquisitions, $2.7 million related to retail store restructuring, and $0.3 million related to the Company's direct sourcing initiative, which includes severance and relocation costs, and (2) a benefit of approximately $3.6 million related to an acquisition contingency fair value adjustment.
For the fourth quarter of fiscal 2017, the Company projects net sales to increase approximately 10% compared to the fourth quarter of fiscal 2016 and adjusted earnings per diluted share to increase approximately 21% compared to adjusted earnings per diluted share of $1.79 in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2016. This forecast for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2017 adjusted earnings per diluted share excludes anticipated expenses of approximately $0.5 million related to acquisitions

6



The Company believes non-GAAP measurements, including adjusted earnings per diluted share, provide investors with a meaningful view of the Company’s core operating results, and are the same measurements used by the Company's executive management to assess the Company's performance.
Conference Call
The Company will hold a conference call with investors to discuss third quarter fiscal 2017 results and its business outlook on October 26, 2017 at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Daylight Time. To participate in the call, please dial 719-457-2602. To listen to a live broadcast via the internet, please visit www.carters.com and select the “Q3 2017 Earnings Conference Call” link under the “Investor Relations” tab. Presentation materials for the call can be accessed under the same tab by selecting the link for “News & Events” followed by “Webcasts & Presentations”. A replay of the call will be available shortly after the broadcast through November 4, 2017, at 888-203-1112 (U.S. / Canada) or 719-457-0820 (international), passcode 2017321. The replay will also be archived on the Company’s website under the “Investor Relations” tab.
About Carter’s, Inc.
Carter’s, Inc. is the largest branded marketer in North America of apparel and related products exclusively for babies and young children. The Company owns the Carter’s and OshKosh B’gosh brands, two of the most recognized brands in the marketplace. These brands are sold in leading department stores, national chains, and specialty retailers domestically and internationally. They are also sold through more than 1,000 Company-operated stores in the United States, Canada, and Mexico and on-line at www.carters.com, www.oshkosh.com, and www.cartersoshkosh.ca. The Company’s Just One You, Precious Firsts, and Genuine Kids brands are available at Target, its Child of Mine brand is available at Walmart, and its Simple Joys brand is available on Amazon. The Company also owns Skip Hop, a global lifestyle brand for families with young children. Carter’s is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. Additional information may be found at www.carters.com.
Cautionary Language
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 relating to the Company’s future performance, including, without limitation, statements with respect to the Company’s anticipated financial results for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2017 and fiscal year 2017, or any other future period, assessments of the Company’s performance and financial position, and drivers of the Company’s sales and earnings growth. Such statements are based on current expectations only, and are subject to certain risks, uncertainties, and assumptions. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize or not materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those anticipated,

7



estimated, or projected. Certain of the risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results and performance to differ materially are described in the Company’s most recently filed Annual Report on Form 10-K and other reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission from time to time under the headings “Risk Factors”. Included among the risks and uncertainties that may impact future results are the risks of: losing one or more major customers, vendors, or licensees, due to competition, inadequate quality of the Company’s products, or otherwise; financial difficulties for one or more of the Company’s major customers, vendors, or licensees, or an overall decrease in consumer spending; fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates; our products not being accepted in the marketplace, due to quality concerns, changes in consumer preference and fashion trends, or otherwise; negative publicity, including as a result of product recalls or otherwise; failure to protect the Company’s intellectual property; various types of litigation, including class action litigation brought under various consumer protection, employment, and privacy and information security laws; a breach of the Company’s consumer databases, systems, or processes; the risk of slow-downs, disruptions, or strikes along the Company’s supply chain, including disruptions resulting from foreign supply sources, the Company’s distribution centers, or in-sourcing capabilities; unsuccessful expansion into international markets or failure to successfully manage legal, regulatory, political and economic risks of the Company’s existing international operations, including maintaining compliance with worldwide anti-bribery laws; and an inability to obtain additional financing on favorable terms. The Company does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

8




CARTER’S, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
(unaudited)


 
Fiscal Quarter Ended
 
Three Fiscal Quarters Ended
 
September 30, 2017
 
October 1, 2016
 
September 30, 2017
 
October 1, 2016
Net sales
$
948,232

 
$
901,425

 
$
2,373,104

 
$
2,264,981

Cost of goods sold
544,384

 
525,879

 
1,349,997

 
1,296,324

Gross profit
403,848

 
375,546

 
1,023,107

 
968,657

Selling, general, and administrative expenses
283,480

 
255,322

 
781,420

 
712,782

Royalty income
(10,350
)
 
(10,670
)
 
(32,118
)
 
(31,270
)
Operating income
130,718

 
130,894

 
273,805

 
287,145

Interest expense
8,061

 
6,779

 
22,359

 
20,321

Interest income
(41
)
 
(68
)
 
(259
)
 
(453
)
Other (income) expense, net
(815
)
 
(36
)
 
(1,580
)
 
3,673

Income before income taxes
123,513

 
124,219

 
253,285

 
263,604

Provision for income taxes
41,027

 
43,408

 
86,210

 
92,615

Net income
$
82,486

 
$
80,811

 
$
167,075

 
$
170,989

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic net income per common share
$
1.73

 
$
1.62

 
$
3.47

 
$
3.37

Diluted net income per common share
$
1.71

 
$
1.60

 
$
3.43

 
$
3.34

Dividend declared and paid per common share
$
0.37

 
$
0.33

 
$
1.11

 
$
0.99



9



CARTER’S, INC.
BUSINESS SEGMENT RESULTS
(dollars in thousands)
(unaudited)
 
Fiscal Quarter Ended
 
 
Three Fiscal Quarters Ended
 
September 30,
2017
 
% of
Total Net Sales
 
October 1,
2016
 
% of
Total Net Sales
 
 
September 30,
2017
 
% of
Total Net Sales
 
October 1,
2016
 
% of
Total Net Sales
Net sales:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
U.S. Wholesale
$
369,577

 
39.0
%
 
$
373,732

 
41.4
%
 
 
$
879,842

 
37.1
%
 
$
880,908

 
38.9
%
U.S. Retail (a)
454,032

 
47.9
%
 
421,698

 
46.8
%
 
 
1,209,625

 
50.9
%
 
1,128,569

 
49.8
%
International (b)
124,623

 
13.1
%
 
105,995

 
11.8
%
 
 
283,637

 
12.0
%
 
255,504

 
11.3
%
Total net sales
$
948,232

 
100.0
%
 
$
901,425

 
100.0
%
 
 
$
2,373,104

 
100.0
%
 
$
2,264,981

 
100.0
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating income (loss):
 
 
% of
Segment
Net Sales
 
 
 
% of
Segment
Net Sales
 
 
 
 
% of
Segment
Net Sales
 
 
 
% of
Segment
Net Sales
U.S. Wholesale (i)
$
78,572

 
21.3
%
 
$
86,001

 
23.0
%
 
 
$
184,073

 
20.9
%
 
$
195,921

 
22.2
%
U.S. Retail (a) (h) (i)
55,789

 
12.3
%
 
50,703

 
12.0
%
 
 
128,031

 
10.6
%
 
127,124

 
11.3
%
International (b) (i)
16,726

 
13.4
%
 
19,645

 
18.5
%
 
 
28,008

 
9.9
%
 
37,191

 
14.6
%
Corporate expenses (c) (d) (e) (f) (g)
(20,369
)
 
 
 
(25,455
)
 
 
 
 
(66,307
)
 


 
(73,091
)
 


Total operating income
$
130,718

 
13.8
%
 
$
130,894

 
14.5
%
 
 
$
273,805

 
11.5
%
 
$
287,145

 
12.7
%

(a)
Includes retail store and eCommerce results.
(b)
Net sales includes international retail, eCommerce, and wholesale sales.
(c)
Corporate expenses include expenses related to incentive compensation, stock-based compensation, executive management, severance and relocation, finance, office occupancy, information technology, legal, consulting, and audit fees.
(d)
Includes charges related to the amortization of the H.W. Carter and Sons tradenames of approximately $1.7 million for the three fiscal quarters ended October 1, 2016.
(e)
Includes acquisition-related costs of approximately $0.8 million and $3.3 million for the fiscal quarter and three fiscal quarters ended 30, 2017, respectively. The $3.3 million for the three fiscal quarters ended September 30, 2017 includes approximately $0.7 million of costs incurred during the first and second quarters of fiscal 2017 that were not originally reported as acquisition-related costs.
(f)
Includes an expense credit of $3.6 million for the fiscal quarter and three fiscal quarters ended September 30, 2017 due to an acquisition contingency fair value adjustment.
(g)
Includes charges related to the Company's direct sourcing initiative of approximately $0.1 million and $0.3 million for the fiscal quarter and three fiscal quarters ended September 30, 2017, respectively, and $0.5 million for the fiscal quarter and three fiscal quarters ended October 1, 2016.
(h)
Includes approximately $2.7 million of expenses recognized during the third quarter and first three quarters of fiscal 2017 related to store restructuring costs.
(i)
$0.4 million and $0.8 million of certain costs related to inventory acquired from Skip Hop is included in operating income of U.S. Wholesale, U.S. Retail, and International for the fiscal quarter and three fiscal quarters ended September 30, 2017, respectively.




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CARTER’S, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
(unaudited)

 
September 30, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
 
October 1, 2016
ASSETS
 
 
 
 
 
Current assets:
 
 
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
$
105,370

 
$
299,358

 
$
140,626

Accounts receivable, net
285,651

 
202,471

 
271,207

Finished goods inventories
609,996

 
487,591

 
552,726

Prepaid expenses and other current assets
48,083

 
32,180

 
43,155

Deferred income taxes

 
35,486

 
37,600

Total current assets
1,049,100

 
1,057,086

 
1,045,314

Property, plant, and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $387,041, $345,907, and $333,660, respectively
382,014

 
385,874

 
388,440

Tradenames and other intangible assets, net
412,217

 
308,928

 
308,973

Goodwill
234,193

 
176,009

 
176,956

Other assets
26,539

 
18,700

 
18,022

Total assets
$
2,104,063

 
$
1,946,597

 
$
1,937,705

 
 
 
 
 
 
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
 
 
 
 
 
Current liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
Accounts payable
$
193,878

 
$
158,432

 
$
155,223

Other current liabilities
134,031

 
119,177

 
126,922

Total current liabilities
327,909

 
277,609

 
282,145

 
 
 
 
 
 
Long-term debt, net
687,074

 
580,376

 
580,613

Deferred income taxes
138,239

 
130,656

 
129,278

Other long-term liabilities
178,878

 
169,832

 
169,535

Total liabilities
1,332,100

 
1,158,473

 
1,161,571

 
 
 
 
 
 
Commitments and contingencies
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Stockholders' equity:
 
 
 
 
 
Preferred stock; par value $.01 per share; 100,000 shares authorized; none issued or outstanding at September 30, 2017, December 31, 2016, and October 1, 2016

 

 

Common stock, voting; par value $.01 per share; 150,000,000 shares authorized; 47,419,316, 48,948,670 and 49,625,609 shares issued and outstanding at September 30, 2017, December 31, 2016 and October 1, 2016, respectively
474

 
489

 
496

Accumulated other comprehensive loss
(26,496
)
 
(34,740
)
 
(31,889
)
Retained earnings
797,985

 
822,375

 
807,527

Total stockholders' equity
771,963

 
788,124

 
776,134

Total liabilities and stockholders' equity
$
2,104,063

 
$
1,946,597

 
$
1,937,705



11



CARTER’S, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(dollars in thousands)
(unaudited)
 
Three Fiscal Quarters Ended
 
September 30, 2017
 
October 1, 2016
Cash flows from operating activities:
 
 
 
Net income
$
167,075

 
$
170,989

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
 
 
 
Depreciation and amortization
60,455

 
52,384

Amortization of intangible assets
1,687

 
1,875

Adjustment to earn-out liability
(3,600
)
 

Amortization of debt issuance costs
1,143

 
1,092

Non-cash stock-based compensation expense
13,451

 
13,026

Foreign currency (gain) loss, net
(1,154
)
 
2,361

Income tax benefit from stock-based compensation

 
(4,067
)
Loss on disposal of property, plant, and equipment
602

 
821

Deferred income taxes
(841
)
 
(2,333
)
Effect of changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions:
 
 
 
Accounts receivable, net
(62,298
)
 
(63,436
)
Finished goods inventories
(81,285
)
 
(81,011
)
Prepaid expenses and other assets
(17,754
)
 
(10,138
)
Accounts payable and other liabilities
40,025

 
35,011

Net cash provided by operating activities
117,506

 
116,574

 
 
 
 
Cash flows from investing activities:
 
 
 
Capital expenditures
(51,656
)
 
(71,190
)
Acquisitions of businesses, net of cash acquired
(159,365
)
 

Proceeds from sale of property, plant, and equipment

 
216

Net cash used in investing activities
(211,021
)
 
(70,974
)
 
 
 
 
Cash flows from financing activities:
 
 
 
Payment of debt issuance costs
(2,138
)
 

Borrowings under secured revolving credit facility
200,000

 

Payments on secured revolving credit facility
(93,965
)
 

Repurchases of common stock
(150,974
)
 
(239,138
)
Dividends paid
(53,443
)
 
(50,131
)
Income tax benefit from stock-based compensation

 
4,067

Withholdings from vestings of restricted stock
(5,654
)
 
(8,594
)
Proceeds from exercises of stock options
5,140

 
6,386

Net cash used in financing activities
(101,034
)
 
(287,410
)
 
 
 
 
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents
561

 
1,227

Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents
(193,988
)
 
(240,583
)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period
299,358

 
381,209

Cash and cash equivalents, end of period
$
105,370

 
$
140,626


12



CARTER’S, INC.
RECONCILIATION OF GAAP TO ADJUSTED RESULTS
(dollars in millions, except earnings per share)
(unaudited)

 
Fiscal Quarter Ended September 30, 2017
 
Gross Margin
 
% Net Sales
 
SG&A
 
% Net Sales
 
Operating Income
 
% Net Sales
 
Net Income
 
Diluted EPS
As reported (GAAP)
$
403.8

 
42.6
%
 
$
283.5

 
29.9
%
 
$
130.7

 
13.8
%
 
$
82.5

 
$
1.71

Store restructuring costs (b)

 
 
 
(2.7
)
 
 
 
2.7

 
 
 
2.0

 
0.04

Acquisition-related costs (b)
0.4

 
 
 
(0.8
)
 
 
 
1.2

 
 
 
1.2

 
0.02

Direct sourcing initiative (b) (c)

 
 
 
(0.1
)
 
 
 
0.1

 
 
 
0.1

 

Acquisition contingency fair value adjustment

 
 
 
3.6

 
 
 
(3.6
)
 
 
 
(3.6
)
 
(0.07
)
As adjusted (a)
$
404.2

 
42.6
%
 
$
283.4

 
29.9
%
 
$
131.2

 
13.8
%
 
$
82.2

 
$
1.70

 
Three Fiscal Quarters Ended September 30, 2017
 
Gross Margin
 
% Net Sales
 
SG&A
 
% Net Sales
 
Operating Income
 
% Net Sales
 
Net Income
 
Diluted EPS
As reported (GAAP)
$
1,023.1

 
43.1
%
 
$
781.4

 
32.9
%
 
$
273.8

 
11.5
%
 
$
167.1

 
$
3.43

Acquisition-related costs (b) (d)
0.8

 
 
 
(3.3
)
 
 
 
4.1

 
 
 
3.3

 
0.07

Store restructuring costs (b)

 
 
 
(2.7
)
 
 
 
2.7

 
 
 
1.7

 
0.04

Direct sourcing initiative (b) (c)

 
 
 
(0.3
)
 
 
 
0.3

 
 
 
0.2

 

Acquisition contingency fair value adjustment

 
 
 
3.6

 
 
 
(3.6
)
 
 
 
(3.6
)
 
(0.07
)
As adjusted (a)
$
1,023.9

 
43.1
%
 
$
778.6

 
32.8
%
 
$
277.4

 
11.7
%
 
$
168.7

 
$
3.46

 
Fiscal Quarter Ended October 1, 2016
 
Gross Margin
 
% Net Sales
 
SG&A
 
% Net Sales
 
Operating Income
 
% Net Sales
 
Net Income
 
Diluted EPS
As reported (GAAP)
$
375.5

 
41.7
%
 
$
255.3

 
28.3
%
 
$
130.9

 
14.5
%
 
$
80.8

 
$
1.60

Direct sourcing initiative (b) (c)

 
 
 
(0.5
)
 
 
 
0.5

 
 
 
0.3

 
0.01

As adjusted (a)
$
375.5

 
41.7
%
 
$
254.8

 
28.3
%
 
$
131.4

 
14.6
%
 
$
81.1

 
$
1.61

 
Three Fiscal Quarters Ended October 1, 2016
 
Gross Margin
 
% Net Sales
 
SG&A
 
% Net Sales
 
Operating Income
 
% Net Sales
 
Net Income
 
Diluted EPS
As reported (GAAP)
$
968.7

 
42.8
%
 
$
712.8

 
31.5
%
 
$
287.1

 
12.7
%
 
$
171.0

 
$
3.34

Amortization of tradename (b)

 
 
 
(1.7
)
 
 
 
1.7

 
 
 
1.1

 
0.02

Direct sourcing initiative (b) (c)

 
 
 
(0.5
)
 
 
 
0.5

 
 
 
0.3

 
0.01

As adjusted (a)
$
968.7

 
43.5
%
 
$
710.5

 
31.4
%
 
$
289.4

 
12.8
%
 
$
172.4

 
$
3.37


(a)
In addition to the results provided in this earnings release in accordance with GAAP, the Company has provided adjusted, non-GAAP financial measurements that present gross margin, SG&A, operating income, net income, and net income on a diluted share basis excluding the adjustments discussed above.  The Company believes these adjustments provide a meaningful comparison of the Company’s results and affords investors a view

13



of what management considers to be the Company's core performance.  The adjusted, non-GAAP financial measurements included in this earnings release should not be considered as an alternative to net income or as any other measurement of performance derived in accordance with GAAP.  The adjusted, non-GAAP financial measurements are presented for informational purposes only and are not necessarily indicative of the Company’s future condition or results of operations.
(b)
The difference between the impacts on Operating Income and Net Income represents the income taxes related to the adjustment item (calculated using the applicable tax rate of the underlying jurisdiction).  
(c)
Costs associated with the Company's direct sourcing initiative, which includes severance and relocation.
(d)
SG&A and operating income include approximately $0.7 million of costs incurred during the first and second quarters of fiscal 2017 that were not originally reported as acquisition-related costs.


Note: Results may not be additive due to rounding.

CARTER’S, INC.
RECONCILIATION OF GAAP TO ADJUSTED RESULTS
(dollars in millions, except earnings per share)
(unaudited)

 
Fiscal Quarter Ended December 31, 2016
 
Gross Margin
 
SG&A
 
Operating Income
 
Net Income
 
Diluted EPS
As reported (GAAP)
$
410.5

 
$
282.6

 
$
139.4

 
$
87.1

 
$
1.76

Acquisition-related costs (b)

 
(2.4
)
 
2.4

 
1.5

 
0.03

Direct sourcing initiative (b) (c)


 
(0.2
)
 
0.2

 
0.1

 

As adjusted (a)
$
410.5

 
$
280.0

 
$
142.0

 
$
88.7

 
$
1.79



 
Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2016
 
Gross Margin
 
SG&A
 
Operating Income
 
Net Income
 
Diluted EPS
As reported (GAAP)
$
1,379.1

 
$
995.4

 
$
426.6

 
$
258.1

 
$
5.08

Acquisition-related costs (b)

 
(2.4
)
 
2.4

 
1.5

 
0.03

Amortization of tradename (b)

 
(1.7
)
 
1.7

 
1.1

 
0.02

Direct sourcing initiative (b) (c)

 
(0.7
)
 
0.7

 
0.5

 
0.01

As adjusted (a)
$
1,379.1

 
$
990.6

 
$
431.4

 
$
261.1

 
$
5.14


(a)
In addition to the results provided in this earnings release in accordance with GAAP, the Company has provided adjusted, non-GAAP financial measurements that present SG&A, operating income, net income, and net income on a diluted share basis excluding the adjustments discussed above.  The Company believes these adjustments provide a meaningful comparison of the Company’s results and affords investors a view of what management considers to be the Company's core performance.  The adjusted, non-GAAP financial measurements included in this earnings release should not be considered as an alternative to net income or as any other measurement of performance derived in accordance with GAAP.  The adjusted, non-GAAP financial measurements are presented for informational purposes only and are not necessarily indicative of the Company’s future condition or results of operations.
(b)
The difference between the impacts on Operating Income and Net Income represents the income taxes related to the adjustment item (calculated using the applicable tax rate of the underlying jurisdiction).  
(c)
Costs associated with the Company's direct sourcing initiative, which include severance and relocation.


Note: Results may not be additive due to rounding.





14



CARTER’S, INC.
RECONCILIATION OF NET INCOME ALLOCABLE TO COMMON SHAREHOLDERS
(unaudited)
 
Fiscal Quarter Ended
 
 
Three Fiscal Quarters Ended
 
September 30,
2017
 
October 1,
2016
 
 
September 30,
2017
 
October 1,
2016
Weighted-average number of common and common equivalent shares outstanding:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic number of common shares outstanding
47,303,074

 
49,526,480

 
 
47,829,794

 
50,282,345

Dilutive effect of equity awards
541,325

 
460,271

 
 
549,213

 
470,050

Diluted number of common and common equivalent shares outstanding
47,844,399

 
49,986,751

 
 
48,379,007

 
50,752,395

As reported on a GAAP Basis:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic net income per common share:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income
$
82,486

 
$
80,811

 
 
$
167,075

 
$
170,989

Income allocated to participating securities
(653
)
 
(632
)
 
 
(1,314
)
 
(1,359
)
Net income available to common shareholders
$
81,833

 
$
80,179

 
 
$
165,761

 
$
169,630

Basic net income per common share
$
1.73

 
$
1.62

 
 
$
3.47

 
$
3.37

Diluted net income per common share:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income
$
82,486

 
$
80,811

 
 
$
167,075

 
$
170,989

Income allocated to participating securities
(647
)
 
(627
)
 
 
(1,304
)
 
(1,350
)
Net income available to common shareholders
$
81,839

 
$
80,184

 
 
$
165,771

 
$
169,639

Diluted net income per common share
$
1.71

 
$
1.60

 
 
$
3.43

 
$
3.34

As adjusted (a):
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic net income per common share:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income
$
82,170

 
$
81,135

 
 
$
168,739

 
$
172,411

Income allocated to participating securities
(650
)
 
(634
)
 
 
(1,328
)
 
(1,371
)
Net income available to common shareholders
$
81,520

 
$
80,501

 
 
$
167,411

 
$
171,040

Basic net income per common share
$
1.72

 
$
1.63

 
 
$
3.50

 
$
3.40

Diluted net income per common share:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income
$
82,170

 
$
81,135

 
 
$
168,739

 
$
172,411

Income allocated to participating securities
(645
)
 
(629
)
 
 
(1,317
)
 
(1,362
)
Net income available to common shareholders
$
81,525

 
$
80,506

 
 
$
167,422

 
$
171,049

Diluted net income per common share
$
1.70

 
$
1.61

 
 
$
3.46

 
$
3.37


(a)
In addition to the results provided in this earnings release in accordance with GAAP, the Company has provided adjusted, non-GAAP financial measurements that present per share data excluding the adjustments discussed above. The Company has excluded $0.3 million in after-tax net credits and $1.7 million in after-tax expenses from these results for the fiscal quarter and three fiscal quarters ended September 30, 2017, respectively. The Company has excluded $0.3 million and $1.4 million in after-tax expenses from these results for the fiscal quarter and three fiscal quarters ended October 1, 2016, respectively.

Note: Results may not be additive due to rounding.


15



RECONCILIATION OF U.S. GAAP AND NON-GAAP INFORMATION
(unaudited)

The following table provides a reconciliation of net income to EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA for the periods indicated:
 
 
Fiscal Quarter Ended
 
Three Fiscal Quarters Ended
 
Four Fiscal Quarters Ended
 
 
September 30, 2017
 
October 1, 2016
 
September 30, 2017
 
October 1, 2016
 
September 30, 2017
(dollars in millions)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income
 
$
82.5

 
$
80.8

 
$
167.1

 
$
171.0

 
$
254.2

Interest expense
 
8.1

 
6.8

 
22.4

 
20.3

 
29.1

Interest income
 

 
(0.1
)
 
(0.3
)
 
(0.4
)
 
(0.4
)
Income tax expense
 
41.0

 
43.4

 
86.2

 
92.6

 
131.6

Depreciation and amortization (a)
 
21.5

 
17.5

 
62.1

 
54.3

 
81.3

EBITDA
 
$
153.1

 
$
148.4

 
$
337.5

 
$
337.7

 
$
495.8

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Adjustments to EBITDA
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Acquisition-related costs
 
$
1.2

 
$

 
$
4.1

 
$

 
$
6.5

Store restructuring costs
 
2.7

 

 
2.7

 

 
2.7

Direct sourcing initiative (b)
 
0.1

 
0.5

 
0.3

 
0.5

 
0.5

Acquisition contingency fair value adjustment
 
(3.6
)
 

 
(3.6
)
 

 
(3.6
)
Adjusted EBITDA
 
$
153.5

 
$
148.9

 
$
341.1

 
$
338.2

 
$
501.9


(a)
Includes amortization of acquired tradename.
(b)
Pre-tax costs associated with the Company's direct sourcing initiative, which includes severance and relocation.

Note: Results may not be additive due to rounding.

EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are supplemental financial measures that are not defined or prepared in accordance with GAAP. We define EBITDA as net income before interest, income taxes, and depreciation and amortization. Adjusted EBITDA is EBITDA adjusted for the items listed in the table above.

We present EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA because we consider them important supplemental measures of our performance and believe they are frequently used by securities analysts, investors, and other interested parties in the evaluation of companies in our industry. These measures also afford investors a view of what management considers to be the Company's core performance.

The use of EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA instead of net income or cash flows from operations has limitations as an analytical tool, and you should not consider them in isolation, or as a substitute for analysis of our results as reported under GAAP. EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA do not represent net income or cash flow from operations as those terms are defined by GAAP and do not necessarily indicate whether cash flows will be sufficient to fund cash needs. While EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and similar measures are frequently used as measures of operations and the ability to meet debt service requirements, these terms are not necessarily comparable to other similarly titled captions of other companies due to the potential inconsistencies in the method of calculation. EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA do not reflect the impact of earnings or charges resulting from matters that we consider not to be indicative of our ongoing operations. Because of these limitations, EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA should not be considered as discretionary cash available to us for working capital, debt service and other purposes.



16



RECONCILIATION OF U.S. GAAP AND NON-GAAP INFORMATION
(dollars in millions)
(unaudited)

The tables below reflect the calculation of constant currency for total net sales of the International segment and consolidated net sales for the fiscal quarter and three fiscal quarters ended September 30, 2017:
 
Fiscal Quarter Ended
 
Reported Net Sales September 30, 2017
 
Impact of Foreign Currency Translation
 
Constant-Currency Net Sales September 30, 2017
 
Reported Net Sales October 1, 2016
 
Reported Net Sales % Change
 
Constant-Currency Net Sales % Change
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated net sales
$
948.2

 
$
3.3

 
$
944.9

 
$
901.4

 
5.2
%
 
4.8
%
International segment net sales
$
124.6

 
$
3.3

 
$
121.3

 
$
106.0

 
17.6
%
 
14.5
%

 
Three Fiscal Quarters Ended
 
Reported Net Sales September 30, 2017
 
Impact of Foreign Currency Translation
 
Constant-Currency Net Sales September 30, 2017
 
Reported Net Sales October 1, 2016
 
Reported Net Sales % Change
 
Constant-Currency Net Sales % Change
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated net sales
$
2,373.1

 
$
2.1

 
$
2,371.0

 
$
2,265.0

 
4.8
%
 
4.7
%
International segment net sales
$
283.6

 
$
2.1

 
$
281.5

 
$
255.5

 
11.0
%
 
10.2
%
The Company evaluates its net sales on both an “as reported” and a “constant currency” basis.  The constant currency presentation, which is a non-GAAP measure, excludes the impact of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates that occurred between the comparative periods.  Constant currency net sales results are calculated by translating current period net sales in local currency to the U.S. dollar amount by using the currency conversion rate for the prior comparative period.  The Company consistently applies this approach to net sales for all countries where the functional currency is not the U.S. dollar.  The Company believes that the presentation of net sales on a constant currency basis provides useful supplemental information regarding changes in our net sales that were not due to fluctuations in currency exchange rates and such information is consistent with how the Company assesses changes in its net sales between comparative periods.
Note: Results may not be additive due to rounding.



17