Positive Same-Store Sales Growth
Delivered another quarter of positive same-store sales and earnings ahead of expectations with eight consecutive months of positive comps, including a 2% increase in the second quarter.
Growth in Key Brands and Categories
Kay, Zales, and Jared delivered a combined same-store sales growth of approximately 5% in back-to-back quarters. Fashion category saw a 2% comp growth, and services posted a high single-digit comp growth.
Lab-Grown Diamonds (LGD) Expansion
LGD fashion pieces grew to approximately 14% penetration of fashion sales, doubling from the previous year, indicating strong consumer interest.
Improved Marketing Efficiency
Achieved a more than 40% increase in impressions on a mid-single-digit increase in media spend, with a more than 20% increase in social media channel buys.
Gross Margin and Operating Income Growth
Gross margin rate expanded by 60 basis points, with adjusted operating income growing more than 20% to $85 million for the quarter.
Strong Cash Position and Share Repurchases
Ended the quarter with $281 million in cash and repurchased approximately $32 million shares, with remaining repurchase authorization of $570 million.
Positive Developments in Digital Brands
Blue Nile returned to positive comps in July with a 25% increase in fashion revenue in the second quarter.