Quarterly Revenue Growth and Beat
Q3 revenue was $2.8 billion, up 2% year-over-year on a constant dollar basis and above guidance (guidance was down 1% to down 3%). Over 75% of the business grew by revenue; excluding Vans and Dickies, revenue was up 5%.
Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) Recovery
DTC returned to growth in Q3, up 3%, driven by the U.S. and especially e-commerce — the first positive DTC quarter in a couple of years, contributing materially to the quarter’s outperformance.
Strong Americas Performance
The Americas region delivered a strong quarter, up 6% overall. The North Face grew 15% in The Americas and Timberland was up 9% in The Americas, driving much of the company’s improvement.
Brand-Level Momentum (The North Face, Timberland, Altra)
The North Face: revenue up 5% globally (all categories up; double-digit footwear and Summit Series growth), strong flagship New York store launch. Timberland: revenue up 5% globally with product drivers (six-inch premium boot, boat shoe). Altra: revenue up 23% and on track to exceed $250 million in FY26 with clear runway for further growth.
Margin and Profit Progress
Adjusted gross margin improved ~10 basis points year-over-year in Q3; adjusted operating margin was 12.1%, up 30 basis points year-over-year. Q3 operating income reported at $341 million (stronger than anticipated).
Debt Reduction and Cash Flow
Reported net debt (excluding leases) was down almost $600 million versus last year (nearly 20% reduction); reported net debt including leases down ~ $500 million (~11%). Free cash flow through Q3 was $513 million, broadly flat to last year despite tariff headwinds.
Fiscal Year Targets and Outlook
Management reiterated FY26 targets: annual revenue flat to up, gross margin of 54.5% or better (within reach of the FY28 55% target), operating margin of at least 6.5%, operating and free cash flow up year-over-year, and leverage targeted at 3.5x or lower by year-end.
Tactical Wins and Marketing Momentum
Notable marketing/product wins included an impactful social-first strategy, strong early performance of large flagship (TNF NYC 5th Ave), fast collaboration-to-shelf execution (Vans Demon Hunters in 10 weeks), celebrity/artistic director engagement for Vans (SZA), and continued external recognition for The North Face (design/innovation awards).