Gross Margin – Third Quarter
Consolidated gross margin for the 13 weeks ended November 2, 2024 was 42.6% of sales compared to 43.5% of sales for the 13 weeks ended October 28, 2023.
Retail gross margin for the 13 weeks ended November 2, 2024 was 44.5% of sales compared to 45.3% of sales for the 13 weeks ended October 28, 2023. Compared to the prior year third quarter, retail gross margin increased slightly in ladies’ accessories and lingerie and was flat in men’s apparel and accessories and cosmetics. Gross margin decreased slightly in shoes and juniors’ and children’s apparel and decreased moderately in home and furniture and ladies’ apparel.
Inventory increased 3% at November 2, 2024 compared to October 28, 2023. The Company notes a shorter selling period between Thanksgiving and Christmas this year.
Selling, General & Administrative Expenses – Third Quarter
Consolidated selling, general and administrative expenses (“operating expenses”) for the 13 weeks ended November 2, 2024 decreased $2.9 million to $418.9 million (29.4% of sales) compared to $421.8 million (28.6% of sales) for the 13 weeks ended October 28, 2023. Compared to the prior year third quarter, payroll expense was flat while insurance benefit expense increased. The Company worked to control expenses during the quarter, and these efforts will continue.
Highlights of the 39 Weeks (compared to the prior year 39 weeks):
| • | Total retail sales decreased 3% |
| • | Comparable store sales decreased 4% |
| • | Net income of $379.1 million compared to $488.3 million |
| • | Earnings per share of $23.42 compared to $29.38 |
| • | Retail gross margin of 43.3% of sales compared to 43.7% of sales |
| • | Operating expenses were $1,279.2 million (28.6% of sales) compared to $1,240.7 million (26.8% of sales) |
39-Week Results
Dillard’s reported net income for the 39 weeks ended November 2, 2024 of $379.1 million, or $23.42 per share, compared to $488.3 million, or $29.38 per share, for the 39 weeks ended October 28, 2023. Included in net income for the 39 weeks ended October 28, 2023 is a pretax gain of $6.0 million ($4.6 million after tax or $0.28 per share) primarily related to the sale of two store properties.
Sales – 39 Weeks
Net sales for the 39 weeks ended November 2, 2024 and October 28, 2023 were $4.466 billion and $4.628 billion, respectively.
Total retail sales for the 39 weeks ended November 2, 2024 and October 28, 2023 were $4.275 billion and $4.423 billion, respectively. Total retail sales decreased 3% for the 39-week period ended