Same-Store Sales and Operating Income Growth
Same-store sales and adjusted operating income growth exceeded expectations, supported by the Grow Brand Love strategy. Same-store sales growth was reported at 2.5%.
Brand Strategy Success
The company's efforts to align its brands (Kay, Zales, and Jared) with unique target audiences resulted in a combined 4% comp sales increase for these brands in the first quarter.
E-commerce and New Product Performance
Kay, Zales, and Jared achieved double-digit e-commerce sales growth, and new product sales penetration increased by eight points.
Lab-Grown Diamonds (LGD) Growth
Lab-grown diamond fashion growth was 60% this quarter, contributing to merchandise average unit retail (AUR) growth, with LGD penetration reaching approximately 20%.
Share Repurchase and Liquidity
The company repurchased approximately 2.3 million shares year-to-date and has a liquidity position of $1.4 billion.
Store Reorganization Progress
The company renovated approximately 40 stores and closed 14 stores in the quarter, with plans to close underperforming mall locations and reposition others.