Table of Contents

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

 
FORM 10-Q
 
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15 (d)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
For the Quarter Ended: Commission File Number:
November 1, 2014October 31, 2015 001-16435

 
Chico’s FAS, Inc.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in charter)
 
 

Florida 59-2389435
(State of Incorporation) 
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)
11215 Metro Parkway, Fort Myers, Florida 33966
(Address of principal executive offices)
239-277-6200
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
 
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.    Yes  ý    No  ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).    Yes  ý    No  ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer, accelerated filer and smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
Large accelerated filer ý  Accelerated filer ¨
    
Non-accelerated filer 
¨ (do not check if a smaller reporting company)
  Smaller reporting company ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).    Yes  ¨    No  ý
Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.
At November 19, 2014,18, 2015, the registrant had 152,935,126139,401,313 shares of Common Stock, $0.01 par value per share, outstanding.



Table of Contents

CHICO’S FAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
   
   
  
 
   
   
   
   
  

2

Table of Contents

PART I – FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
ITEM 1.FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

CHICO’S FAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (LOSS)OPERATIONS
(Unaudited)
(In thousands, except per share amounts)
 
Thirty-Nine Weeks Ended Thirteen Weeks EndedThirty-Nine Weeks Ended Thirteen Weeks Ended
November 1, 2014 November 2, 2013 November 1, 2014 November 2, 2013October 31, 2015 November 1, 2014 October 31, 2015 November 1, 2014
Amount 
% of
Sales
 Amount 
% of
Sales
 Amount 
% of
Sales
 Amount 
% of
Sales
Amount 
% of
Sales
 Amount 
% of
Sales
 Amount 
% of
Sales
 Amount 
% of
Sales
Net sales:               
Chico’s/Soma Intimates$1,290,239
 63.9% $1,255,214
 63.5% $418,230
 62.9% $415,819
 63.4 %
White House | Black Market655,639
 32.5% 643,688
 32.6% 224,552
 33.7% 218,200
 33.3 %
Boston Proper72,426
 3.6% 76,902
 3.9% 22,787
 3.4% 21,560
 3.3 %
Total net sales2,018,304
 100.0% 1,975,804
 100.0% 665,569
 100.0% 655,579
 100.0 %
Net sales$2,014,910
 100.0 % $2,018,304
 100.0% $641,219
 100.0 % $665,569
 100.0%
Cost of goods sold920,148
 45.6% 868,808
 44.0% 301,776
 45.3% 291,569
 44.5 %902,690
 44.8 % 920,148
 45.6% 290,737
 45.3 % 301,776
 45.3%
Gross margin1,098,156
 54.4% 1,106,996
 56.0% 363,793
 54.7% 364,010
 55.5 %1,112,220
 55.2 % 1,098,156
 54.4% 350,482
 54.7 % 363,793
 54.7%
Selling, general and administrative expenses945,360
 46.8% 899,689
 45.5% 321,574
 48.3% 308,528
 47.1 %964,229
 47.9 % 945,360
 46.8% 327,575
 51.1 % 321,574
 48.3%
Goodwill and trade name impairment charges
 0.0% 72,466
 3.7% 
 0.0% 72,466
 11.0 %
Acquisition and integration costs
 0.0% 914
 0.0% 
 0.0% 
 0.0 %
Goodwill and intangible impairment charges112,455
 5.6 % 
 0.0% 45,514
 7.1 % 
 0.0%
Restructuring and strategic charges34,178
 1.6 % 
 0.0% 3,137
 0.5 % 
 0.0%
Income (loss) from operations152,796
 7.6% 133,927
 6.8% 42,219
 6.4% (16,984) (2.6)%1,358
 0.1 % 152,796
 7.6% (25,744) (4.0)% 42,219
 6.4%
Interest income, net75
 0.0% 404
 0.0% 44
 0.0% 105
 0.0 %
Interest (expense) income, net(1,421) (0.1)% 75
 0.0% (466) (0.1)% 44
 0.0%
Income (loss) before income taxes152,871
 7.6% 134,331
 6.8% 42,263
 6.4% (16,879) (2.6)%(63) 0.0 % 152,871
 7.6% (26,210) (4.1)% 42,263
 6.4%
Income tax provision56,400
 2.8% 68,100
 3.4% 15,800
 2.4% 11,600
 1.7 %
Income tax (benefit) provision(23,100) (1.1)% 56,400
 2.8% (14,600) (2.3)% 15,800
 2.4%
Net income (loss)$96,471
 4.8% $66,231
 3.4% $26,463
 4.0% $(28,479) (4.3)%$23,037
 1.1 % $96,471
 4.8% $(11,610) (1.8)% $26,463
 4.0%
Per share data:                              
Net income (loss) per common share-basic$0.63
   $0.41
   $0.17
   $(0.18)  $0.16
   $0.63
   $(0.09)   $0.17
  
Net income (loss) per common and common equivalent share–diluted$0.63
   $0.41
   $0.17
   $(0.18)  $0.16
   $0.63
   $(0.09)   $0.17
  
Weighted average common shares outstanding–basic148,577
   156,662
   148,564
   155,228
  139,386
   148,577
   136,172
   148,564
  
Weighted average common and common equivalent shares outstanding–diluted149,093
   157,604
   149,037
   155,228
  139,724
   149,093
   136,172
   149,037
  
Dividends declared per share$0.225
   $0.165
   $
   $
  $0.2325
   $0.2250
   $
   $
  

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated statements.

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CHICO’S FAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
(Unaudited)
(In thousands)
 
Thirty-Nine Weeks Ended
Thirteen Weeks EndedThirty-Nine Weeks Ended
Thirteen Weeks Ended
November 1, 2014
November 2, 2013
November 1, 2014
November 2, 2013October 31, 2015
November 1, 2014
October 31, 2015
November 1, 2014
Net income (loss)$96,471
 $66,231
 $26,463
 $(28,479)$23,037
 $96,471
 $(11,610) $26,463
Other comprehensive income (loss):              
Unrealized gains (losses) on marketable securities, net of taxes(81) (81) (29) 70
Unrealized (losses) gains on marketable securities, net of taxes(6) (81) 12
 (29)
Foreign currency translation adjustment, net of taxes116
 10
 119
 10
90
 116
 (31) 119
Comprehensive income (loss)$96,506
 $66,160
 $26,553
 $(28,399)$23,121
 $96,506
 $(11,629) $26,553

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated statements.

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CHICO’S FAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(Unaudited)
(In thousands)
 
November 1, 2014 February 1, 2014 November 2, 2013October 31, 2015 January 31, 2015 November 1, 2014

   

   
ASSETS          
Current Assets:          
Cash and cash equivalents$67,172
 $36,444
 $52,524
$91,256
 $133,351
 $67,172
Marketable securities, at fair value124,042
 116,002
 197,235
47,316
 126,561
 124,042
Inventories294,234
 238,145
 267,430
268,968
 235,159
 294,234
Prepaid expenses and other current assets52,062
 50,698
 55,835
98,305
 51,088
 52,062
Assets held for sale41,802
 16,800
 
Total Current Assets537,510
 441,289
 573,024
547,647
 562,959
 537,510
Property and Equipment, net641,187
 631,050
 635,284
556,172
 606,147
 641,187
Other Assets:          
Goodwill171,427
 171,427
 171,427
96,774
 145,627
 171,427
Other intangible assets, net114,927
 118,196
 119,269
38,930
 109,538
 114,927
Other assets, net12,897
 9,229
 9,252
13,691
 14,310
 12,897
Total Other Assets299,251
 298,852
 299,948
149,395
 269,475
 299,251

$1,477,948
 $1,371,191
 $1,508,256
$1,253,214
 $1,438,581
 $1,477,948
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY          
Current Liabilities:          
Accounts payable$162,641
 $131,254
 $152,698
$147,526
 $144,534
 $162,641
Current debt10,000
 
 
Other current and deferred liabilities145,972
 142,073
 121,796
140,557
 158,396
 145,972
Liabilities held for sale8,478
 
 
Total Current Liabilities308,613
 273,327
 274,494
306,561
 302,930
 308,613
Noncurrent Liabilities:          
Long-term debt84,702
 
 
Deferred liabilities146,715
 138,874
 143,991
135,390
 142,371
 146,715
Deferred taxes42,306
 49,887
 53,338
20,385
 49,659
 42,306
Total Noncurrent Liabilities189,021
 188,761
 197,329
240,477
 192,030
 189,021
Stockholders’ Equity:          
Preferred stock
 
 

 
 
Common stock1,529
 1,522
 1,588
1,394
 1,529
 1,529
Additional paid-in capital401,110
 382,088
 372,325
429,746
 407,275
 401,110
Treasury stock, at cost(249,854) 
 
Retained earnings577,528
 525,381
 662,375
524,244
 534,255
 577,528
Accumulated other comprehensive income147
 112
 145
646
 562
 147
Total Stockholders’ Equity980,314
 909,103
 1,036,433
706,176
 943,621
 980,314
$1,477,948
 $1,371,191
 $1,508,256
$1,253,214
 $1,438,581
 $1,477,948

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated statements.

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CHICO’S FAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(Unaudited)
(In thousands)
 
Thirty-Nine Weeks EndedThirty-Nine Weeks Ended
November 1, 2014 November 2, 2013October 31, 2015 November 1, 2014
Cash Flows From Operating Activities:      
Net income$96,471
 $66,231
$23,037
 $96,471
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities —      
Goodwill and trade name impairment charges
 72,466
Goodwill and intangible impairment charges, pre-tax112,455
 
Depreciation and amortization90,514
 88,123
90,266
 90,514
Deferred tax (benefit) expense(9,204) 6,024
Loss on disposal and impairment of property and equipment22,609
 757
Deferred tax benefit(52,623) (9,204)
Stock-based compensation expense20,041
 19,542
20,712
 20,041
Excess tax benefit from stock-based compensation(1,654) (1,281)(2,992) (1,654)
Deferred rent and lease credits(13,754) (13,299)(15,018) (13,754)
Loss on disposal and impairment of property and equipment757
 1,432
Changes in assets and liabilities:      
Inventories(56,089) (60,581)(44,811) (56,089)
Prepaid expenses and other assets(5,032) (1,775)(27,653) (5,032)
Accounts payable31,387
 23,311
7,377
 31,387
Accrued and other liabilities27,655
 (25,087)(3,300) 27,655
Net cash provided by operating activities181,092
 175,106
130,059
 181,092
Cash Flows From Investing Activities:      
Purchases of marketable securities(81,134) (90,669)(43,479) (81,134)
Proceeds from sale of marketable securities73,062
 165,852
122,712
 73,062
Purchases of property and equipment, net(98,084) (113,376)(66,595) (98,084)
Net cash used in investing activities(106,156) (38,193)
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities12,638
 (106,156)
Cash Flows From Financing Activities:      
Proceeds from borrowings124,000
 
Payments on borrowings(29,000) 
Proceeds from issuance of common stock5,930
 10,176
10,614
 5,930
Excess tax benefit from stock-based compensation1,654
 1,281
2,992
 1,654
Dividends paid(34,329) (26,536)(32,933) (34,329)
Repurchase of common stock(17,579) (126,179)(260,555) (17,579)
Net cash used in financing activities(44,324) (141,258)(184,882) (44,324)
Effects of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents116
 10
90
 116
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents30,728
 (4,335)
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents(42,095) 30,728
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Beginning of period36,444
 56,859
133,351
 36,444
Cash and Cash Equivalents, End of period$67,172
 $52,524
$91,256
 $67,172
Supplemental Disclosures of Cash Flow Information:      
Cash paid for interest$230
 $269
$2,112
 $230
Cash paid for income taxes, net$48,321
 $62,162
$47,377
 $48,321

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated statements.

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Chico’s FAS, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
November 1, 2014October 31, 2015
(Unaudited)

Note 1. Basis of Presentation
The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements of Chico’s FAS, Inc. and its wholly-owned subsidiaries (collectively, the “Company”) have been prepared in accordance with the instructions to Form 10-Q and do not include all of the information and notes required by accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S. (“U.S. GAAP”) for complete financial statements. In the opinion of management, such interim financial statements reflect all normal, recurring adjustments considered necessary to present fairly the condensed consolidated financial position, the results of operations and cash flows for the interim periods presented. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. For further information, refer to the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto for the fiscal year ended February 1, 2014,January 31, 2015, included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on March 14, 2014.9, 2015.
As used in this report, all references to “we,” “us,” “our,” and “the Company,” refer to Chico’s FAS, Inc. and all of its wholly-owned subsidiaries.
Our fiscal years end on the Saturday closest to January 31 and are designated by the calendar year in which the fiscal year commences. Operating results for the thirteen weeks and thirty-nine weeks ended November 1, 2014October 31, 2015 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the entire year.

Note 2. New Accounting Pronouncements
In May 2014,July 2015, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued ASU No. 2015-11, Simplifying the Measurement of Inventory (Topic 330). The amendments, which apply to inventory that is measured using any method other than the last-in, first-out (LIFO) or retail inventory method, require that entities measure inventory at the lower of cost or net realizable value. ASU 2015-11 is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2016 and should be applied on a prospective basis. We are currently assessing the potential impact of adopting this ASU, but do not, at this time, anticipate a material impact to our consolidated results of operations, financial position or cash flows.
In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-03, Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs, which modifies the presentation of debt issuance costs in financial statements. ASU 2015-03 requires that debt issuance costs related to a recognized debt liability be presented in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of that debt liability, consistent with debt discounts, rather than the Company's current classification as a deferred asset within Other Assets. ASU 2015-03 is effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016. Early adoption is permitted. We elected to early adopt this guidance in the second quarter ended August 1, 2015, and have presented the debt issuance costs related to our revolving credit facility as a deferred asset within Other Assets, as is permitted by ASU No. 2015-15, Imputation of Interest, which was issued in August 2015. Such adoption did not have a material impact to our consolidated financial position.
In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers. The update outlines a single comprehensive model for entities to use in accounting for revenue arising from contracts with customers and supersedes most current revenue recognition guidance, including industry-specific guidance. ASU 2014-09 requires entities to recognize revenue in a way that depicts the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration the entity expects to be entitled to in exchange for those goods or services. ASU 2014-09 isIn August 2015, the FASB approved a one year deferral of the effective date, to make it effective for interimannual and annualinterim reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016.2017. The standard allows for either a full retrospective or a modified retrospective transition method. We are currently assessing the new standard and its potential impact of adopting this ASU, but do not, at this time, anticipate a material impact to our consolidated results of operations, financial position and cash flows.
In April 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-08, Presentation of Financial Statements (Topic 205) and Property, Plant, and Equipment (Topic 360). Under ASU 2014-08, only disposals that represent a strategic shift that has (or will have) a major effect on the entity's operations and financial results would qualify as discontinued operations. The update also requires expanded disclosures for discontinued operations and requires entities to disclose information about disposals of individually significant components that don't qualify for discontinued operations reporting. ASU 2014-08 was effective prospectively for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2014. We adopted this standard beginning with the first quarter ended May 2, 2015 and have applied this standard to the Boston Proper disposal, as further discussed in Note 3.


7


Chico’s FAS, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
October 31, 2015
(Unaudited)

Note 3. Restructuring and Strategic Charges
During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014, we initiated a restructuring program, including the acceleration of domestic store closures and an organizational realignment, to ensure that resources align with long-term growth initiatives, including omni-channel. In connection with this effort, in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014, we recorded pre-tax restructuring and other charges of approximately $16.7 million primarily related to severance, store closures and other impairment charges.
During the second quarter of fiscal 2015, in connection with the restructuring program, we completed an evaluation of the Boston Proper brand and initiated a plan (the "Plan") to sell the direct-to-consumer ("DTC") business and close its stores, allowing us to focus our efforts on our core omni-channel brands. During the third quarter of fiscal 2015 we signed a non-binding letter of intent to sell the Boston Proper DTC business. Subject to finalization of an asset purchase agreement and a transition services agreement, we expect to complete the sale in the fourth quarter of 2015. As of October 31, 2015, all assets and liabilities of the Boston Proper DTC business have been recorded as held for sale in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets at fair value less costs to sell. While we currently expect to sell the Boston Proper DTC business, the sale is dependent on various factors. There can be no assurance that we will realize our expected proceeds or that the sale, if any, will be complete within a reasonable time. We assessed the disposal group and determined that the sale of the Boston Proper DTC business will not have a major effect on our consolidated results of operations, financial position or cash flows. Accordingly, the disposal group is not presented in the consolidated financial statements as a discontinued operation. Pretax losses in the third quarter of fiscal 2015 and 2014 for the Boston Proper DTC business were $4.1 million and $2.3 million, respectively. Pretax losses in the year-to-date period of fiscal 2015 and 2014 were $8.4 million and $4.0 million, respectively.
A summary of the restructuring and strategic charges is presented in the table below:
 Thirty-Nine Weeks Ended Thirteen Weeks Ended
 October 31, 2015 November 1, 2014 October 31, 2015 November 1, 2014
        
 (in thousands)
Impairment charges$21,259
 $
 $329
 $
Continuing employee-related costs5,639
 
 
 
Severance charges1,808
 
 (12) 
Lease termination charges4,903
 
 2,146
 
Other569
 
 674
 
Total restructuring and strategic charges, pre-tax$34,178
 $
 $3,137
 $
During the third quarter of fiscal 2015, we recorded pre-tax restructuring and strategic charges in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations of $3.1 million, primarily consisting of $2.1 million in lease termination charges. During the year-to-date period of fiscal 2015, we recorded pre-tax restructuring and strategic charges of $34.2 million, primarily related to $21.3 million in property and equipment impairment charges, $5.6 million in continuing employee-related costs, $1.8 million in severance charges and $4.9 million in lease termination charges.
In connection with the restructuring and strategic activities, in the third quarter of fiscal 2015 we continued our evaluation of our domestic store portfolio and increased the number of under-performing stores identified for closure to 170-175, including the Boston Proper stores. Through the third quarter of 2015, 33 stores across our brands have been closed. We plan to close an additional 40 stores, including 20 Boston Proper stores, in fiscal 2015, with the remainder to be closed in fiscal 2016 and 2017. As a result, we expect to incur additional cash charges related to lease termination expenses of approximately $10.0 million.

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Chico’s FAS, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
October 31, 2015
(Unaudited)

As of October 31, 2015, a reserve of $5.7 million related to restructuring and strategic activities was included in other current and deferred liabilities in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets. A roll-forward of the reserve is presented as follows:
 Severance Charges Lease Termination Charges Other Total
        
 (in thousands)
Beginning Balance, January 31, 2015$7,577
 $
 $486
 $8,063
Charges1,808
 4,903
 1,269
 7,980
Payments(7,488) (1,707) (1,184) (10,379)
Ending Balance, October 31, 2015$1,897
 $3,196
 $571
 $5,664

Note 4. Goodwill and Intangible Impairment Charges
In the second quarter of fiscal 2015, in connection with the Plan, we recorded a pre-tax goodwill impairment charge of $48.9 million, reducing the carrying value of goodwill to zero, and a pre-tax impairment charge related to the Boston Proper trade name of $18.1 million, reducing the carrying value of the trade name to $23.6 million. In the third quarter of fiscal 2015, based on declining market indications of value as evidenced by our non-binding letter of intent, and as a result of a decline in third quarter sales, we recorded a pre-tax impairment charge related to the Boston Proper trade name of $21.3 million, reducing the carrying value of the trade name to $2.3 million, and a pre-tax impairment charge related to the Boston Proper customer relationship intangible of $24.2 million reducing the carrying value of the customer relationship intangible to $2.6 million. The carrying value of the Boston Proper trade name and customer list intangible are included in assets held for sale in the condensed consolidated balance sheet as of October 31, 2015.
The following table provides changes in the carrying amount of Boston Proper goodwill:
 October 31, 2015
  
 (in thousands)
Gross carrying amount$141,919
Cumulative impairment, January 31, 2015(93,066)
Impairment charges(48,853)
Cumulative impairment, October 31, 2015(141,919)
Net carrying amount$
Note 3.5. Stock-Based Compensation
For the thirty-nine weeks ended October 31, 2015 and November 1, 2014, and November 2, 2013, stock-based compensation expense was $20.0$20.7 million and $19.5$20.0 million, respectively. As of November 1, 2014,October 31, 2015, approximately 7.46.9 million shares remain available for future grants of equity awards under our 2012 Omnibus Stock and Incentive Plan.
Restricted Stock Awards
Restricted stock award activity for the thirty-nine weeks ended November 1, 2014October 31, 2015 was as follows:
 Number of
Shares
 Weighted
Average
Grant Date
Fair Value
Unvested, beginning of period3,883,134
 $15.13
Granted1,625,050
 16.47
Vested(1,195,585) 15.05
Forfeited(311,665) 16.23
Unvested, end of period4,000,934
 15.61

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Chico’s FAS, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
November 1, 2014October 31, 2015
(Unaudited)

Performance-based restricted stock award activity for the thirty-nine weeks ended November 1, 2014 was as follows:
Number of
Shares
 Weighted
Average
Grant Date
Fair Value
Number of
Shares
 Weighted
Average
Grant Date
Fair Value
Unvested, beginning of period17,222
 $13.69
3,918,189
 $15.70
Granted
 
1,322,270
 18.00
Vested(17,222) 13.69
(1,658,369) 14.76
Forfeited
 
(482,662) 16.99
Unvested, end of period
 
3,099,428
 16.99
Performance-based Restricted Stock Units
For the thirty-nine weeks ended November 1, 2014,October 31, 2015, we granted performance-based restricted stock units (“PSUs”), contingent upon the achievement of a Company-specific performance goal during fiscal 2014.2015. Any units earned as a result of the achievement of this goal will vest over 3 years from the date of grant and will be settled in shares of our common stock.
Performance-based restricted stock unit activity for the thirty-nine weeks ended November 1, 2014October 31, 2015 was as follows:
Number of
Shares
 Weighted
Average
Grant Date
Fair Value
Number of
Shares
 Weighted
Average
Grant Date
Fair Value
Unvested, beginning of period485,935
 $15.01
213,453
 $15.01
Granted657,000
 16.51
526,810
 18.23
Vested(240,596) 15.01
(213,453) 15.01
Forfeited(55,352) 15.72
(23,972) 18.23
Unvested, end of period846,987
 16.13
502,838
 18.23
 Stock Option Awards
For the thirty-nine weeks ended October 31, 2015 and November 1, 2014, and November 2, 2013, we did not grant any stock options. In the years that we granted options, we used the Black-Scholes option-pricing model to value our stock options.
Stock option activity for the thirty-nine weeks ended November 1, 2014October 31, 2015 was as follows:
Number of
Shares
 Weighted
 Average
Exercise Price
Number of
Shares
 Weighted
 Average
Exercise Price
Outstanding, beginning of period2,642,269
 $15.63
1,947,928
 $15.16
Granted
 

 
Exercised(288,661) 11.98
(718,628) 11.42
Forfeited or expired(272,146) 19.78
(156,776) 31.31
Outstanding, end of period2,081,462
 15.59
Exercisable at November 1, 20142,051,300
 $15.67
Outstanding and exercisable at October 31, 20151,072,524
 15.31

Note 6. Income Taxes

The provision for income taxes is based on a current estimate of the annual effective tax rate and is adjusted as necessary for quarterly events. Our effective income tax rate may fluctuate from quarter to quarter as a result of a variety of factors, including changes in our assessment of certain tax contingencies, valuation allowances, changes in tax law, outcomes of administrative audits, the impact of discrete items, and the mix of earnings.
For the thirteen weeks ended October 31, 2015 and November 1, 2014 the effective tax rate was (55.7)% and 37.4%, respectively. The income tax benefit for the third quarter of 2015 of $14.6 million and effective tax rate of (55.7)% primarily

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Chico’s FAS, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
November 1, 2014October 31, 2015
(Unaudited)

Note 4. Impairment Charges
On September 19, 2011, we acquired all ofreflected the outstanding equity of Boston Proper, Inc. (“Boston Proper”), a privately held onlinepre-tax net loss during the period and catalog retailer of distinctive women’s apparel and accessories. Total cash consideration was approximately $214 million. We allocated the purchase pricetax credits related to the tangible and intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their estimated fair values onfiscal 2014 federal tax return, partially offset by the acquisition date, with the remaining unallocated purchase price recorded as goodwill.
In the third quarterimpact of 2013, due to sales declines in the Boston Proper catalog businessgoodwill impairment on the annual effective tax rate.
For the thirty-nine weeks ended October 31, 2015 the income tax benefit was $23.1 million. The effective tax rate for this period was not comparable to the 36.9% effective tax rate for the thirty-nine weeks ended November 1, 2014, primarily due to the increasingly competitive direct-to-consumer environmenttax benefit recorded in fiscal 2015 related to the expected disposition of Boston Proper's stock and the impact of integration efforts and new initiatives, we determined that certain Boston Proper intangibles were impaired and recorded a goodwill impairment charge of $67.3 million, reducing the carrying value of Boston Proper goodwill to $74.6 million and an impairment charge related toon the Boston Proper trade name of $5.2 million pre-tax, reducing the carrying value of the Boston Proper trade name to $46.0 million.annual effective tax rate.

Note 5.7. Earnings Per Share
In accordance with relevant accounting guidance, unvested share-based payment awards that include non-forfeitable rights to dividends, whether paid or unpaid, are considered participating securities. As a result, such awards are required to be included in the calculation of earnings per common share pursuant to the “two-class” method. For us, participating securities are composed entirely of unvested restricted stock awards and PSUs that have met their relevant performance criteria.
Earnings per share (“EPS”) is determined using the two-class method, as it is more dilutive than the treasury stock method. Basic EPS excludes dilution and is computed by dividing net income available to common stockholders by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period, including participating securities. Diluted EPS reflects the dilutive effect of potential common shares from non-participating securities such as stock options and PSUs.

The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted EPS shown on the face of the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of income (loss)operations (in thousands, except per share amounts):
Thirty-Nine Weeks Ended Thirteen Weeks EndedThirty-Nine Weeks Ended Thirteen Weeks Ended
November 1, 2014 November 2, 2013 November 1, 2014 November 2, 2013October 31, 2015 November 1, 2014 October 31, 2015 November 1, 2014
              
Numerator              
Net income (loss)$96,471
 $66,231
 $26,463
 $(28,479)$23,037
 $96,471
 $(11,610) $26,463
Net income and dividends declared allocated to participating securities(2,648) (1,785) (745) 
(492) (2,648) 
 (745)
Net income (loss) available to common shareholders$93,823
 $64,446
 $25,718
 $(28,479)$22,545
 $93,823
 $(11,610) $25,718
Denominator              
Weighted average common shares outstanding – basic148,577
 156,662
 148,564
 155,228
139,386
 148,577
 136,172
 148,564
Dilutive effect of non-participating securities516
 942
 473
 
338
 516
 
 473
Weighted average common and common equivalent shares outstanding – diluted149,093
 157,604
 149,037
 155,228
139,724
 149,093
 136,172
 149,037
Net income (loss) per common share:              
Basic$0.63
 $0.41
 $0.17
 $(0.18)$0.16
 $0.63
 $(0.09) $0.17
Diluted$0.63
 $0.41
 $0.17
 $(0.18)$0.16
 $0.63
 $(0.09) $0.17
For the thirty-nine weeks ended October 31, 2015 and November 1, 2014, and November 2, 2013, 0.61.3 million and 1.00.6 million potential shares of common stock, respectively, were excluded from the diluted per share calculation relating to non-participating securities, because the effect of including these potential shares was antidilutive.

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Chico’s FAS, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
November 1, 2014
(Unaudited)

For the thirteen weeks ended October 31, 2015 and November 1, 2014, and November 2, 2013, 0.50.3 million and 0.80.5 million potential shares of common stock, respectively, were excluded from the diluted per share calculation relating to non-participating securities, because the effect of including these potential shares was antidilutive.



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Chico’s FAS, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
October 31, 2015
(Unaudited)

Note 6.8. Fair Value Measurements
Our financial instruments consist of cash, money market accounts, marketable securities, assets held in our non-qualified deferred compensation plan, and accounts receivable and payable.payable, and debt. Cash, accounts receivable and accounts payable are carried at cost, which approximates their fair value due to the short-term nature of the instruments. Refer to Note 11 for the fair value of the Company's outstanding debt instruments.
Marketable securities are classified as available-for-sale and as of November 1, 2014October 31, 2015 generally consist ofcorporate bonds, U.S. government agencies and commercial paper municipal bonds, and U.S. government and agency securities with $92.6$26.0 million of securities with maturity dates within one year or less and $31.4$21.3 million with maturity dates over one year and less than two years.
We consider all marketable securities available-for-sale, including those with maturity dates beyond 12 months, and therefore classify these securities within current assets on the condensed consolidated balance sheets as they are available to support current operational liquidity needs. Marketable securities are carried at fair value, with the unrealized holding gains and losses, net of income taxes, reflected in accumulated other comprehensive income until realized. For the purposes of computing realized and unrealized gains and losses, cost is determined on a specific identification basis.
Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in the principal or most advantageous market in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. Entities are required to use a three-level hierarchy, which requires an entity to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value.
The valuation hierarchy is based upon the transparency of inputs to the valuation of an asset or liability on the measurement date. The three levels are defined as follows: 
 Level 1Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities
    
 Level 2Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for similar assets or liabilities, or; Unadjusted quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, or; Inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability
    
 Level 3Unobservable inputs for the asset or liability
We measure certain financial assets at fair value on a recurring basis, including our marketable securities, which are classified as available-for-sale securities, certain cash equivalents, specifically our money market accounts, and assets held in our non-qualified deferred compensation plan. The money market accounts are valued based on quoted market prices in active markets. Our marketable securities are generally valued based on other observable inputs for those securities (including market corroborated pricing or other models that utilize observable inputs such as interest rates and yield curves) based on information provided by independent third party pricing entities, except for U.S. government securities which are valued based on quoted market prices in active markets. The investments in our non-qualified deferred compensation plan are valued using quoted market prices and are included in other assets on our condensed consolidated balance sheets.
From time to time, we measure certain assets at fair value on a non-recurring basis, including evaluation of long-lived assets, goodwill and other intangible assets for impairment using company-specific assumptions which would fall within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The carrying value of the current assets and liabilities held for sale related to the the Boston Proper DTC business approximate their fair value due to their short-term nature. We estimate the fair value of other assets held for sale using market values for similar assets which would fall within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. During the third quarter of fiscal 2013,2015, we recorded a $72.5$128.1 million in pre-tax impairment chargecharges related to assets measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis, comprised of $67.3$48.9 million in Boston Proper goodwill impairment, and $5.2$39.4 million pre-tax in Boston Proper trade name impairment.impairment, $24.2 million in Boston Proper customer relationship intangible impairment, $13.9 million in property and equipment impairment charges related to Boston Proper and a $1.7 million loss recognized on Boston Proper DTC assets held for sale.
To assess the fair value of Boston Proper goodwill in the second quarter of fiscal 2015, we utilized both an income approach, and awhich incorporated market approach.assumptions. Inputs used to calculate the fair value based on the income approach primarily included estimated future cash flows for the catalogDTC business, discounted at a rate that approximates a rate that would be used by a market participant. Inputs used to calculate the fair value based on the market approach included identifying multiples of sales and earnings based on guidelines for publicly traded companies and recent transactions.

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Chico’s FAS, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
November 1, 2014October 31, 2015
(Unaudited)

used by a market participant. Inputs used to calculate the fair value also incorporated market assumptions and included consideration of multiples of sales and earnings based on guidelines for publicly traded companies and recent transactions.
To assess the fair value of the Boston Proper trade name in the second quarter of fiscal 2015, we utilized a relief from royalty approach. Inputs used to calculate the fair value of the trade name utilizing the relief from royalty approach, in the second quarter of fiscal 2015, primarily included future sales projections for the catalogDTC business, discounted at a rate that approximates a rate that would be used by a market participant and estimated royalty rate.
To assess the fair value of the Boston Proper trade name and customer relationship intangible in the third quarter of fiscal 2015, we utilized a market approach. The market approach estimated the fair value of the intangible assets based on indications of value received from third parties.
Fair value calculations contain significant judgments and estimates, which may differ from actual results due to, among other things, economic conditions, changes to the business model or changes in operating performance.
During the quarter ended November 1, 2014,October 31, 2015, we did not make any transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 financial assets. Furthermore, as of October 31, 2015, January 31, 2015 and November 1, 2014, February 1, 2014 and November 2, 2013, we did not have any Level 3 cash equivalents or marketable securities. We conduct reviews on a quarterly basis to verify pricing, assess liquidity, and determine if significant inputs have changed that would impact the fair value hierarchy disclosure.

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Chico’s FAS, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
November 1, 2014October 31, 2015
(Unaudited)

In accordance with the provisions of the guidance, we categorized our financial assets, which are valued on a recurring basis, based on the priority of the inputs to the valuation technique for the instruments, as follows:
  Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using  Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using
Balance as of November 1, 2014 Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets
(Level 1)
 Significant Other Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
 Significant Unobservable Inputs
(Level 3)
Balance as of October 31, 2015 Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets
(Level 1)
 Significant Other Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
 Significant Unobservable Inputs
(Level 3)
       
(in thousands)
Current Assets       
Cash equivalents:       
Money market accounts$3,100
 $3,100
 $
 $
Marketable securities:       
U.S. government agencies17,817
 
 17,817
 
Corporate bonds27,256
 
 27,256
 
Commercial paper2,243
 
 2,243
 
Non Current Assets       
Deferred compensation plan8,632
 8,632
 
 
Total$59,048
 $11,732
 $47,316
 $
              
(in thousands)Balance as of January 31, 2015      
Current Assets              
Cash equivalents:              
Money market accounts$2,721
 $2,721
 $
 $
$338
 $338
 $
 $
Marketable securities:              
Municipal securities22,103
 
 22,103
 
16,663
 
 16,663
 
U.S. government securities1,403
 1,403
 
 
1,402
 1,402
 
 
U.S. government agencies20,313
 
 20,313
 
26,299
 
 26,299
 
Corporate bonds49,225
 
 49,225
 
79,202
 
 79,202
 
Commercial paper30,998
 
 30,998
 
2,995
 
 2,995
 
Non Current Assets              
Deferred compensation plan8,085
 8,085
 
 
8,461
 8,461
 
 
Total$134,848
 $12,209
 $122,639
 $
$135,360
 $10,201
 $125,159
 $
              
Balance as of February 1, 2014      Balance as of November 1, 2014      
Current Assets              
Cash equivalents:              
Money market accounts$7,509
 $7,509
 $
 $
$2,721
 $2,721
 $
 $
Marketable securities:              
Municipal securities51,519
 
 51,519
 
22,103
 
 22,103
 
U.S. government securities9,812
 9,812
 
 
1,403
 1,403
 
 
U.S. government agencies9,020
 
 9,020
 
20,313
 
 20,313
 
Corporate bonds45,651
 
 45,651
 
49,225
 
 49,225
 
Commercial paper30,998
 
 30,998
 
Non Current Assets              
Deferred compensation plan6,299
 6,299
 
 
8,085
 8,085
 
 
Total$129,810
 $23,620
 $106,190
 $
$134,848
 $12,209
 $122,639
 $
       
Balance as of November 2, 2013      
Current Assets       
Cash equivalents:       
Money market accounts$17,291
 $17,291
 $
 $
Marketable securities:       
Municipal securities81,963
 
 81,963
 
U.S. government securities32,194
 32,194
 
 
U.S. government agencies9,013
 
 9,013
 
Corporate bonds74,065
 
 74,065
 
Non Current Assets       
Deferred compensation plan6,246
 6,246
 
 
Total$220,772
 $55,731
 $165,041
 $

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Chico’s FAS, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
November 1, 2014October 31, 2015
(Unaudited)


Note 9. Inventories
As of October 31, 2015, in connection with the Plan, Boston Proper DTC inventories of $11.0 million were included in assets held for sale, as further discussed in Note 10. When including inventory related to the Boston Proper DTC business, inventories totaled $280.0 million compared to $294.2 million in last year's third quarter.
Note 10. Assets and Liabilities Held for Sale
As of October 31, 2015, all assets and liabilities of the Boston Proper DTC business have been recorded as held for sale in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets. All assets held for sale were measured at fair value less costs to sell, resulting in a loss of $1.7 million in fiscal 2015, which is reflected in restructuring and strategic charges in the condensed consolidated statements of operations.
The following table summarizes the balances of assets and liabilities held for sale as of October 31, 2015. Other intangible assets are presented net of impairment charges, as further discussed in Note 4:
 October 31, 2015
  
 (in thousands)
Assets: 
Inventories$11,002
Other current assets1,891
Property and equipment, net2,258
Other intangible assets, net4,827
Boston Proper DTC assets19,978
Loss recognized on Boston Proper DTC assets held for sale(1,700)
Total Boston Proper DTC assets held for sale18,278
Land and other assets held for sale23,524
Total assets held for sale$41,802
  
Liabilities: 
Current liabilities$8,478
Total Boston Proper DTC liabilities held for sale$8,478

Note 11. Debt
On May 4, 2015, we entered into a credit agreement (the "Agreement") among the Company, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. as Administrative Agent, Bank of America, N.A., as Syndication Agent and the Lenders party hereto. Our obligations under the Agreement are guaranteed by certain of our material U.S. subsidiaries. The Agreement provides for a term loan commitment in the amount of $100.0 million, of which $100.0 million was drawn at closing, and matures on May 4, 2020, payable in quarterly installments, as defined in the Agreement, with the remainder due at maturity. The Agreement also provides for a $100.0 million revolving credit facility, of which $24.0 million was drawn at closing and was repaid in the second quarter of 2015. The revolving credit facility matures on May 4, 2020. The Agreement has borrowing options which accrue interest by reference, at our election, at either an adjusted eurodollar rate tied to LIBOR or an Alternate Base Rate plus an interest rate margin, as defined in the Agreement. The Agreement contains customary representations, warranties, and affirmative covenants, including the requirement to maintain certain financial ratios. The Company was in compliance with the applicable ratio requirements and other covenants at October 31, 2015.
On May 4, 2015, in connection with our entry into the Agreement, we repaid and terminated, with no prepayment penalties, the $124.0 million outstanding obligation under our 2011 revolving credit facility. We used the proceeds from the initial draw of the term loan and revolving credit facility of the Agreement to repay such obligations.

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Chico’s FAS, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
October 31, 2015
(Unaudited)

As of October 31, 2015, $94.7 million in net borrowings were outstanding under the Agreement, and are reflected as $10.0 million in current debt and $84.7 million in long-term debt in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets. As of October 31, 2015, an unamortized debt discount of $0.4 million was outstanding related to the Agreement and is allocated to other assets and long-term debt in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheet.
The following table provides details on our debt outstanding as of October 31, 2015, January 31, 2015 and November 1, 2014:
 October 31, 2015 January 31, 2015 November 1, 2014
      
 (in thousands)
Credit Agreement, net of unamortized debt discount$94,702
 $
 $
Less: current portion(10,000) 
 
Total long-term debt, net of unamortized debt discount$84,702
 $
 $

Note 12. Share Repurchases
In December 2013, we announced a $300.0 million share repurchase authorization, and immediately prior to the execution of the accelerated stock repurchase agreements ("ASR Agreements") described below, we had $290.0 million remaining under the existing authority.
In March 2015, we entered into ASR Agreements with each of Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner and Smith Incorporated ("Merrill Lynch"), as agent for Merrill Lynch International, and J.P. Morgan Securities, LLC ("JP Morgan"), as agent for JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., to purchase $250.0 million in outstanding shares of our common stock. Under the ASR Agreements, we made a payment of approximately $125.0 million to each of Merrill Lynch and JP Morgan and received from each of them an initial delivery of approximately 5.35 million common shares. The value of the initial shares received on the date of purchase was approximately $187.5 million. In the second quarter of fiscal 2015, Merrill Lynch and JP Morgan delivered an additional 3.9 million shares upon completion of the ASR Agreements, valued at approximately $62.5 million.
We accounted for the ASR Agreements as treasury stock repurchase transactions, reducing the shares outstanding by the 10.7 million common shares initially repurchased and resulted in an immediate reduction of the outstanding shares used to calculate the weighted-average common shares outstanding for basic and diluted earnings per share. The additional 3.9 million shares delivered resulted in a reduction of the outstanding shares on the date of delivery in the second quarter of fiscal 2015.
Following the consummation of the ASR Agreements, we had approximately $40.0 million remaining under our share repurchase program. The repurchase program has no specific termination date and will expire when we have repurchased all securities authorized for repurchase thereunder, unless terminated earlier by our Board of Directors. There were no share repurchases during the third quarter of fiscal 2015.

Note 7.13. Subsequent Events
On November 25, 2014,24, 2015, we announced that our Board of Directors has canceled the remainder of the December 2013 share repurchase program, under which $40 million was remaining as of October 31, 2015,and approved a new $300 million share repurchase authorization for the Company's common stock. We also announced that our Board of Directors has declared a quarterly dividend of $0.075$0.0775 per share on our common stock. The dividend will be payable on December 22, 201421, 2015 to shareholders of record at the close of business on December 8, 2014.7, 2015. Although it is our Company’s intention to continue to pay a quarterly cash dividend in the future, any decision to pay future cash dividends will be made by the Board of Directors and will depend on future earnings, financial condition and other factors.



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ITEM 2.MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (“MD&A”) should be read in conjunction with the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements and notes thereto and our 20132014 Annual Report to Stockholders.

Executive Overview
We are a leading omni-channel specialty retailer of women’s private branded, sophisticated, casual-to-dressy clothing, intimates, complementary accessories, and other non-clothing items operating under the Chico’s, White House | Black Market (“WH|BM”), Soma Intimates and Boston Proper brand names. We earn revenues and generate cash through the sale of merchandise in our domestic and international retail stores, on our various websites, through our call center which takes orders for all of our brands, and through our internationalan unaffiliated franchise arrangements.partner in Mexico.
We utilize an integrated omni-channel approach to managing our business. We want our customers to experience our brands, not a channel within our brands, and view our various sales channels as a single, integrated process rather than as separate sales channels operating independently. This approach allows our customers to browse, purchase, return, or exchange our merchandise through whatever sales channel and at whatever time is most convenient for her. As a result, we track total sales and comparable sales on a combined basis.
During the second quarter of fiscal 2015, we completed an evaluation of the Boston Proper brand, including consideration of the long-term potential of stores for the brand, and initiated a plan (the "Plan") to sell the direct-to-consumer ("DTC") business and close its stores, as further discussed in Note 3, allowing us to focus our efforts on our core omni-channel brands. During the third quarter of fiscal 2015 we signed a non-binding letter of intent to sell the Boston Proper DTC business. Subject to finalization of an asset purchase agreement and a transition services agreement, we expect to complete the sale in the fourth quarter of 2015.
Net sales for the third quarter of fiscal 20142015 were $665.6$641.2 million, an increasea decrease of 1.5%3.7% compared to $655.6$665.6 million in last year's third quarter. The increasedecrease reflected 87 net new stores for a 5.4% square footage increase since last year’s third quarter, partially offset by a 1.6%3.3% decrease in comparable sales.sales and a 0.8% net decrease in selling square footage. The 1.6%3.3% decrease in comparable sales for the third quarter was following a 1.4%1.6% decrease in last year’s third quarter, reflecting a decrease in average dollar sale partially offset by an increase inand transaction count.
Net incomeWe reported a net loss for the third quarter of fiscal 2014 was $26.52015 of $11.6 million, or $0.17$0.09 per diluted share, compared to a net lossincome of $28.5$26.5 million, or $0.18$0.17 per diluted share, in last year’s third quarter. Results for the third quarter of fiscal 20132015 include the impact of Boston Proper non-cash goodwill and trade nameintangible impairment charges of $64.3$23.9 million after-tax, or $0.40$0.18 per diluted share, restructuring and strategic charges primarily related to lease termination charges for the Boston Proper stores of $1.9 million after-tax, or $0.01 per diluted share, and the impact of Boston Proper's operating loss of $3.5 million after tax, or $0.03 per diluted share. The change in earnings per share also reflects higher net income and the impact of a net loss during the period andapproximately 7.314.6 million shares repurchased since the end of the third quarter last year.year, all of which were repurchased in fiscal 2015.
Net sales for the year-to-date period of fiscal 20142015 were $2.018$2.015 billion, an increasea decrease of 2.2%0.2% compared to $1.976$2.018 billion in last year’s year-to-date period. Net income for the year-to-date period of fiscal 20142015 was $96.5$23.0 million, or $0.63$0.16 per diluted share, compared to net income of $66.2$96.5 million, or $0.41$0.63 per diluted share, in last year's year-to-date period. Results for the year-to-date period of fiscal 2015 include the impact of Boston Proper non-cash goodwill and intangible impairment charges of $71.0 million after-tax, or $0.50 per diluted share, restructuring and strategic charges primarily related to property and equipment impairment charges, employee-related costs and lease termination charges of $21.2 million after-tax, or $0.15 per diluted share, a tax benefit related to the expected disposition of Boston Proper's stock of $23.8 million, or $0.17 per diluted share, and the impact of Boston Proper's operating loss of $8.2 million after tax, or $0.06 per diluted share. The change in earnings per share also reflects highera decrease in net income, andpartially offset by the impact of approximately 7.314.6 million shares repurchased since the end of the third quarter last year.year, all of which were repurchased in fiscal 2015.
Long-term Financial ObjectivesOur Business Strategy
The Company’s goals remain to increaseOur overall business strategy is focused on building and cultivating a portfolio of high-performing retail brands serving the fashion needs of women 35 years and older. In the near term, we are focused on increasing the sales volume and profitability of our existing brands. Over the long term, we may build our brand portfolio by a low double-digit percentageconsidering the organic development or acquisition of other specialty retail concepts when our research indicates that the opportunity complements our current brands and diluted earnings per shareis appropriate and in the best interest of the shareholders.

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We pursue the growth of the brands in our portfolio by a mid-teen percentage; financial targets that we believe are both sustainable and reflect strong growth metrics. The Company believes that by delivering on these financial objectives over the long-term, the Company will provide its shareholders with substantial value despite periods where we do not meet these objectives.
Consistent with these objectives, the Company is pursuing previously announced strategic initiatives to fuel future growth, including enhancedbuilding our omni-channel capabilities, international expansion, testingwhich includes managing our store base and our growing online presence, executing innovative marketing plans, effectively leveraging expenses and optimizing the usepotential of physicaleach of our brands. As part of our continuous efforts to improve our overall strategy while seeking to enhance and support our long-term growth, in fiscal 2014, we initiated new capital allocation and cost reduction initiatives that are focused on advancing our omni-channel capabilities in order to improve the overall customer experience, reducing overall capital expenditures, re-balancing our store fronts forfleet, effectively managing other expenses and improving our inventory management. Additionally, in fiscal 2015, we completed an evaluation of the Boston Proper brand and updatinginitiated a Plan to sell the DTC business and close its stores, allowing us to focus our various loyalty programs.efforts on our other omni-channel brands.


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RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Thirteen Weeks Ended November 1, 2014October 31, 2015 Compared to the Thirteen Weeks Ended November 2, 20131, 2014
The following table depicts net sales by Chico’s/Soma Intimates,Chico’s, WH|BM, Soma and Boston Proper in dollars and as a percentage of total net sales for the thirteen weeks ended October 31, 2015 and November 1, 2014 and November 2, 2013:2014:
Thirteen Weeks EndedThirteen Weeks Ended
November 1, 2014 November 2, 2013October 31, 2015 November 1, 2014
              
(dollars in thousands)(dollars in thousands)
Chico’s/Soma Intimates$418,230
 62.9% $415,819
 63.4%
Chico's$332,033
 51.8% $347,562
 52.3%
WH|BM224,552
 33.7% 218,200
 33.3%220,125
 34.3% 224,552
 33.7%
Soma71,749
 11.2% 70,668
 10.6%
Boston Proper22,787
 3.4% 21,560
 3.3%17,312
 2.7% 22,787
 3.4%
Total net sales$665,569
 100.0% $655,579
 100.0%$641,219
 100.0% $665,569
 100.0%
Net sales for the third quarter increased 1.5%decreased 3.7% to $665.6$641.2 million from $655.6$665.6 million in last year’s third quarter, primarily reflecting 87a 3.3% decrease in comparable sales and a 0.8% net new stores for a 5.4%decrease in selling square footage increase since last year's third quarter, partially offset by a 1.6% decrease in comparable sales.quarter. The 1.6%3.3% decrease in comparable sales for the third quarter was following a 1.4%1.6% decrease in last year’s third quarter, reflecting a decrease in average dollar sale partially offset by an increase inand transaction count.
The Chico’s/Soma Intimates brands’following table depicts comparable sales decreased 1.6% following a 3.3% decrease in last year’s third quarter. The Chico’s brand experienced a low single digit decrease in comparable sales inpercentages by Chico's, WH|BM and Soma for the third quarter compared to a mid-single digit decrease in last year’s third quarter,thirteen weeks ended October 31, 2015 and the Soma Intimates brand experienced a mid-single digit comparable sales increase in the third quarter compared to a high-single digit increase in last year’s third quarter. The WH|BM brand’s comparable sales decreased 1.4% following a 2.5% increase in last year’s third quarter. Boston Proper net sales increased $1.2 million during the current third quarter as compared to last year, primarily due to additional new stores.November 1, 2014:
 Thirteen Weeks Ended
 October 31, 2015 November 1, 2014
Chico's(4.7)% (2.6)%
WH|BM(2.0)% (1.4)%
Soma(0.9)% 3.7 %
Total Company(3.3)% (1.6)%
Cost of Goods Sold/Gross Margin
The following table depicts cost of goods sold and gross margin in dollars and gross margin as a percentage of total net sales for the thirteen weeks ended October 31, 2015 and November 1, 2014 and November 2, 2013:2014:
Thirteen Weeks EndedThirteen Weeks Ended
November 1, 2014 November 2, 2013October 31, 2015 November 1, 2014
      
(dollars in thousands)(dollars in thousands)
Cost of goods sold$301,776
 $291,569
$290,737
 $301,776
Gross margin$363,793
 $364,010
$350,482
 $363,793
Gross margin percentage54.7% 55.5%54.7% 54.7%
For the third quarter of fiscal 2014,2015, gross margin was $363.8$350.5 million compared to $364.0$363.8 million in last year’s third quarter. Gross margin was 54.7% of net sales, an 80 basis point decrease fromin line with the same period last year’s third quarter, primarily reflecting increased promotional activity to sell through seasonal merchandise.year.

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Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
The following table depicts SG&A, which includes store and direct operating expenses, marketing expenses and National Store Support Center (“NSSC”) expenses, in dollars and as a percentage of total net sales for the thirteen weeks ended October 31, 2015 and November 1, 2014 and November 2, 2013:2014:
Thirteen Weeks EndedThirteen Weeks Ended
November 1, 2014 November 2, 2013October 31, 2015 November 1, 2014
      
(dollars in thousands)(dollars in thousands)
Selling, general and administrative expenses$321,574
 $308,528
$327,575
 $321,574
Percentage of total net sales48.3% 47.1%51.1% 48.3%
For the third quarter of fiscal 2014,2015, SG&A was $321.6$327.6 million compared to $308.5$321.6 million in last year’s third quarter. SG&A was 48.3%51.1% of net sales, a 120280 basis point increase from last year’s third quarter, primarily reflecting sales deleverage ofas well as an increase in store occupancy and point-of-sale implementation costs.

Restructuring and Strategic Charges
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TableIn fiscal 2014, we initiated a restructuring program, including the acceleration of Contents

domestic store expenses,closures and an organizational realignment, to ensure that resources are aligned with long-term growth initiatives, including omni-channel. In connection with this effort, in the third quarter of fiscal 2015, we recorded pre-tax restructuring and strategic charges of $3.1 million, primarily consisting of $2.1 million in Boston Proper lease termination charges. The after-tax impact of approximately $5the restructuring and strategic charges in the third quarter totaled $1.9 million, or $0.01 per diluted share.
In connection with the restructuring and strategic activities, in incremental investment spending on strategic initiativesthe third quarter of fiscal 2015 we continued our evaluation of our domestic store portfolio and cyclingincreased the reversalnumber of incentive compensationunder-performing stores identified for closure to 170-175, including the Boston Proper stores. Through the third quarter of 2015, we have closed 33 stores across our brands. We plan to close an additional 40 stores, including 20 Boston Proper stores, in fiscal 2013.2015, with the remainder to be closed in fiscal 2016 and 2017. As a result, we expect to incur additional cash charges related to lease termination expenses of approximately $10.0 million.
Goodwill and Trade NameIntangible Impairment Charges
In last year's the third quarter of fiscal 2015, based on declining market indications of value as evidenced by our non-binding letter of intent, and as a result of a decline in third quarter sales, the Company determined that certain Boston Proper intangibles were impaired and recorded $72.5$45.5 million in pre-tax, non-cash goodwill and trade nameintangible impairment charges. These impairment charges were the result of sales declines in the Boston Proper catalog business due to the increasingly competitive direct-to-consumer environment and the impact of integration efforts and new initiatives. The $72.5$45.5 million Boston Proper impairment charges included $67.3$21.3 million related to goodwill impairment and $5.2 million related to the trade name impairment.and $24.2 million related to the customer relationship intangible.
InThe after-tax impact of the Boston Proper impairment charges totaled $23.9 million, or $0.18 per diluted share, inclusive of a $4.4 million non-cash tax benefit resulting from the tax effect of the goodwill impairment on the annual effective tax rate. The $4.4 million non-cash tax benefit in the third quarter of 2014, Boston Proper's sales performance has shown improvement. The Company will perform its annual test for goodwill impairment duringis expected to be offset by non-cash tax charges in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014.2015.
Provision for Income Taxes
Our effective tax rate for the third quarter of fiscal 20142015 was 37.4%(55.7)%, compared to an effective tax rate of (68.7)%37.4% in last year's third quarter. The income tax provisionbenefit of $11.6$14.6 million and effective tax rate of (68.7)(55.7)% in last year's third quarter reflectsprimarily reflected the pre-tax net loss during the period and tax credits related to the fiscal 2014 federal tax return, partially offset by the impact of the Boston Proper goodwill and trade name impairment charges on the annual effective tax rate. Excluding the tax impact of the expected disposition of Boston Proper's stock, Boston Proper goodwill and trade name impairment charges, Boston Proper's operating loss and restructuring and strategic charges, the 20132015 third quarter effective tax rate would have been 35.6%37.0% compared to an effective tax rate of 37.4% in the third quarter of fiscal 2014, primarily reflecting federal tax and refund claims filed in the third quarter of 2013.2014.
Net Income (Loss) and Earnings (Loss) Per Diluted Share
Net incomeWe reported a net loss for the third quarter of fiscal 2014 was $26.52015 of $11.6 million, or $0.17$0.09 per diluted share, compared to a net lossincome of $28.5$26.5 million, or $0.18$0.17 per diluted share in last year’s third quarter. Results for the third quarter of fiscal 20132015 include the impact of Boston Proper non-cash goodwill and trade nameintangible impairment charges of $64.3$23.9 million after-tax, or $0.40 $0.18 per diluted share, restructuring and strategic charges primarily related to lease termination charges for the Boston Proper stores of $1.9 million after-tax, or $0.01 per diluted share, and the impact of Boston Proper's operating loss of $3.5 million after tax, or $0.03

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per diluted share. The change in earnings per share also reflects higher net income and the impact of a net loss during the period and approximately 7.314.6 million shares repurchased since the end of the third quarter last year.year, all of which were repurchased in fiscal 2015.
Thirty-Nine Weeks Ended November 1, 2014October 31, 2015 Compared to the Thirty-Nine Weeks Ended November 2, 20131, 2014
The following table depicts net sales by Chico’s/Soma Intimates,Chico’s, WH|BM, Soma and Boston Proper in dollars and as a percentage of total net sales for the thirty-nine weeks ended October 31, 2015 and November 1, 2014 and November 2, 2013:2014:
Thirty-Nine Weeks EndedThirty-Nine Weeks Ended
November 1, 2014 November 2, 2013October 31, 2015 November 1, 2014
              
(dollars in thousands)(dollars in thousands)
Chico’s/Soma Intimates$1,290,239
 63.9% $1,255,214
 63.5%
Chico's$1,054,367
 52.3% $1,069,833
 53.1%
WH|BM655,639
 32.5% 643,688
 32.6%657,082
 32.6% 655,639
 32.5%
Soma238,159
 11.8% 220,406
 10.8%
Boston Proper72,426
 3.6% 76,902
 3.9%65,302
 3.3% 72,426
 3.6%
Total net sales$2,018,304
 100.0% $1,975,804
 100.0%$2,014,910
 100.0% $2,018,304
 100.0%
Net sales for the year-to-date period increased 2.2%decreased 0.2% to $2.018$2.015 billion from $1.976$2.018 billion in last year’s year-to-date period, primarily reflecting 87 net new stores for a 5.4% square footage increase since last year's third quarter,1.0% decrease in comparable sales, partially offset by a 1.3% decrease in comparablefranchise sales. The 1.3%1.0% decrease in comparable sales for the year-to-date period was following a 1.3% decrease in last year’s year-to-date period, reflecting lowera decrease in average dollar salepartially offset by an increase in and transaction count.
The Chico’s/Soma Intimates brands’following table depicts comparable sales increased 0.1% following a 3.1% decrease in last year’s year-to-date period. The Chico’s brand experienced a decrease of slightly less than 1% in comparable sales compared to a mid-single digit decrease in last year’s year-to-date period,percentages by Chico's, WH|BM and Soma for the Soma Intimates brand experienced a mid-single digit comparable sales increase compared to a high-single digit increase in last year’s year-to-date period. The WH|BM brand’s comparable sales decreased 4.0% following a 2.5% increase in last year’s year-to-date period. Boston Proper net sales decreased $4.5 million, during the current year-to-date period as compared to last year, primarily reflecting decreased customer demand.thirty-nine weeks ended October 31, 2015 and November 1, 2014:

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 Thirty-Nine Weeks Ended
 October 31, 2015 November 1, 2014
Chico's(2.1)% (0.9)%
WH|BM(0.8)% (4.0)%
Soma3.6 % 5.7 %
Total Company(1.0)% (1.3)%

Cost of Goods Sold/Gross Margin
The following table depicts cost of goods sold and gross margin in dollars and gross margin as a percentage of total net sales for the thirty-nine weeks ended October 31, 2015 and November 1, 2014 and November 2, 2013:2014:
Thirty-Nine Weeks EndedThirty-Nine Weeks Ended
November 1, 2014 November 2, 2013October 31, 2015 November 1, 2014
      
(dollars in thousands)(dollars in thousands)
Cost of goods sold$920,148
 $868,808
$902,690
 $920,148
Gross margin$1,098,156
 $1,106,996
$1,112,220
 $1,098,156
Gross margin percentage54.4% 56.0%55.2% 54.4%
Gross margin for the year-to-date period was $1.098 billion$1,112.2 million compared to $1.107 billion$1,098.2 million in last year’s year-to-date period. Gross margin was 54.4%55.2% of net sales, a 160an 80 basis point decreaseincrease from fiscal 2013,2014, primarily reflecting increaseda decrease in promotional activity in response to sell through seasonal merchandise.improved inventory management.

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Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
The following table depicts SG&A, which includes store and direct operating expenses, marketing expenses and NSSC expenses, in dollars and as a percentage of total net sales for the thirty-nine weeks ended October 31, 2015 and November 1, 2014 and November 2, 2013:2014:
Thirty-Nine Weeks EndedThirty-Nine Weeks Ended
November 1, 2014 November 2, 2013October 31, 2015 November 1, 2014
      
(dollars in thousands)(dollars in thousands)
Selling, general and administrative expenses$945,360
 $899,689
$964,229
 $945,360
Percentage of total net sales46.8% 45.5%47.9% 46.8%

SG&A for the year-to-date period was $945.4$964.2 million compared to $899.7$945.4 million in last year’s year-to-date period. SG&A was 46.8%47.9% of net sales, a 130110 basis point increase from last year’s year-to-date period, primarily reflecting sales deleveragean increase in store occupancy costs, point-of-sale implementation costs, and accrued incentive compensation, partially offset by benefits from previously announced cost reduction efforts.
Restructuring and Strategic Charges
Restructuring and strategic charges for the year-to-date period was $34.2 million pre-tax, which consisted primarily of store expenses$21.3 million in non-cash property and theequipment impairment charges, $5.6 million in continuing employee-related costs, $4.9 million in lease termination charges and $1.8 million in severance charges. The after-tax impact of approximately $14the restructuring and strategic charges totaled $21.2 million, in incremental investment spending on strategic initiatives.or $0.15 per diluted share.
Goodwill and Trade NameIntangible Impairment Charges
In last year's fiscal 2015, based on declining market indications of value as evidenced by our non-binding letter of intent, and as a result of a decline in third quarter sales, the Company determined that certain Boston Proper intangibles were impaired and recorded $72.5$112.5 million in pre-tax, non-cash goodwill and trade nameintangible impairment charges. These impairment charges were the result of sales declines in the Boston Proper catalog business due to the increasingly competitive direct-to-consumer environment and the impact of integration efforts and new initiatives. The $72.5$112.5 million Boston Proper impairment charges included $67.3$48.9 million related to goodwill, impairment and $5.2$39.4 million related to the trade name, impairment.and $24.2 million related to the customer relationship intangible.
InThe after-tax impact of the third quartergoodwill and intangible impairment charges totaled $71.0 million, or $0.50 per diluted share, inclusive of 2014, Boston Proper's sales performance has shown improvement. The Company will perform its annual test fora $17.3 million non-cash tax benefit resulting from the tax effect of the goodwill impairment duringon the annual effective tax rate. The $17.3 million non-cash tax benefit in the year-to-date period is expected to be offset by approximately $17.3 million in non-cash tax charges in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014.2015.
Provision for Income Taxes
Our effective tax rate for the year-to-date period of fiscal 2014 was 36.9%, comparednot comparable to anthe effective tax rate of 50.7%36.9% in last year's year-to-date period. The income tax provisionbenefit of $68.1$23.1 million primarily reflected the tax benefit recorded in fiscal 2015 related to the expected disposition of Boston Proper's stock and effective tax rate of 50.7% in last year's year-to-date period reflects the impact of the Boston Proper goodwill and trade name impairment charges on the annual effective tax rate. Excluding the tax impact of the expected disposition of Boston Proper's stock, Boston Proper goodwill and trade name impairment charges, last year's year-to-dateBoston Proper's operating loss and restructuring and strategic charges, the effective tax rate for the year-to-date period of fiscal 2015 would have been 36.9%37.6% compared to an effective tax rate of 36.9% in thelast year's year-to-date period of fiscal 2014.period.
Net Income and Earnings Per Diluted Share
Net income for the year-to-date period of fiscal 2015 was $96.5$23.0 million, compared to $66.2 million in last year’s year-to-date period, and earningsor $0.16 per diluted share, for the year-to-date period were $0.63 compared to $0.41net income of $96.5 million, or $0.63 per diluted share, in last year’syear's year-to-date period. Results for the year-to-date period of fiscal 20132015 include the impact of Boston Proper non-cash goodwill and trade

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nameintangible impairment charges of $64.3$71.0 million after-tax, or $0.40$0.50 per diluted share, restructuring and strategic charges primarily related to property and equipment impairment charges, employee-related costs and lease termination charges, of $21.2 million after-tax, or $0.15 per diluted share, the tax benefit related to the expected disposition of Boston Proper's stock of $23.8 million, or $0.17 per diluted share, and the impact of Boston Proper's operating loss of $8.2 million after tax, or $0.06 per diluted share. The change in earnings per share also reflects highera decrease in net income, andpartially offset by the impact of approximately 7.314.6 million shares repurchased since the end of the third quarter last year.year, all of which were repurchased in fiscal 2015.


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Liquidity and Capital Resources
We believe that our existing cash and marketable securities balances, and cash generated from operations, available credit facilities and potential future borrowings will be sufficient to fund capital expenditures, working capital needs, dividend payments, potential share repurchases, commitments, and other liquidity requirements associated with our operations for the foreseeable future. Furthermore, while it is our intention to repurchase our stock and pay a quarterly cash dividend in the future, any determination to repurchase additional shares of our stock or pay future dividends will be made by the Board of Directors and will depend on our stock price, future earnings, financial condition, and other factors considered by the Board.

Our ongoing capital requirements will continue to be primarily for enhancing and expanding our omni-channel capabilities, including: information technology and relocated, remodeled and new expanded, relocated and remodeled stores; and information technology.stores.
Operating Activities
Net cash provided by operating activities for the year-to-date period of fiscal 20142015 was $181.1$130.1 million, an increasea decrease of approximately $6.0$51.0 million from the same period last year.year's year-to-date period. This increasedecrease primarily reflected the benefit of changes in working capital, and higher fiscal 2014 net income, partially offset by changes inhigher net income when adjusted for non-cash impairment charges and the deferred taxestax benefit related to lower incentive compensation and the impactexit of goodwill and trade name impairment charges in last year's year-to-date period.Boston Proper. The changes in working capital primarily reflected the tax impact of accrued income taxes in fiscal 2014the expected disposition of Boston Proper's stock and incentive compensation in fiscal 2013.Boston Proper goodwill and trade name impairment charges as well as the timing of payables.

At the end of the third quarter of 2014, total2015, inventories per selling square foot increased 1.6%, excluding in-transit inventories. In-transit inventories increased by $10.0totaled $280.0 million, a decrease of 4.8% when including inventory related to the Boston Proper DTC business, compared to $294.2 million in last year's third quarter, primarily reflecting an increase in the length of in-transit times for ocean shipments, as well as delays at West Coast ports.improved inventory management.
Investing Activities
Net cash used inprovided by investing activities for the year-to-date period of fiscal 20142015 was $106.2$12.6 million compared to $38.2$106.2 million used in the sameinvesting activities in last year's year-to-date period, last year,primarily reflecting an $8.1a $79.2 million increasedecrease in marketable securities in fiscal 20142015 related to the investmentpartial funding of cash from operationsthe ASR Agreements as further discussed in Note 12, compared to a $75.2$8.1 million decreaseincrease in the same period last year related to $120.0 million in share repurchases.the investment of cash from operations. Investing activities in the year-to-date period of fiscal 20142015 included net purchases of property and equipment totaling $98.1$66.6 million compared to $113.4$98.1 million in the same period last year.year, consistent with our overall business strategy.
Financing Activities
Net cash used in financing activities for the year-to-date period of fiscal 20142015 was $44.3$184.9 million compared to $141.3$44.3 million in the same period last year.year's year-to-date period. The decreaseincrease in net cash used in financing activities primarily reflects $10.0$250.0 million in fiscal 20142015 share repurchases under our publicly announced repurchase program, compared to $120.0 million in the same period last year,ASR Agreements, partially offset by an increase$95.0 million in dividends paidnet proceeds from borrowings under the Credit Agreement, as a result of the per share dividend increase announcedfurther discussed in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2013.Note 11.
Credit Facility
In fiscal 2011,On May 4, 2015, we entered into a $70 million senior five-year unsecured revolving credit facilityagreement (the “Credit Facility”"Agreement") with a syndicate led byamong the Company, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. as Administrative Agent, Bank of America, N.A., as administrative agentSyndication Agent and HSBC Bank USA, National Association, as syndication agent.

the Lenders party hereto. Our obligations under the Agreement are guaranteed by certain of our material U.S. subsidiaries. The Credit FacilityAgreement provides for a $70term loan commitment in the amount of $100.0 million, of which $100.0 million was drawn at closing, and matures on May 4, 2020. The Agreement also provides for a $100.0 million revolving credit facility, thatof which $24.0 million was drawn at closing and was repaid in the second quarter of 2015. The revolving credit facility matures on July 27, 2016.May 4, 2020. The Credit Facility provides for swing advancesAgreement has borrowing options which accrue interest by reference, at our election, at either an adjusted eurodollar rate tied to LIBOR or an Alternate Base Rate plus an interest rate margin, as defined in the Agreement.
On May 4, 2015, in connection with our entry into the Agreement, we repaid and terminated, with no prepayment penalties, the $124.0 million outstanding obligation under our 2011 revolving credit facility. We used the proceeds from the initial draw of upthe term loan and revolving credit facility of the Agreement to $5 million and issuance of letters of credit up to $40 million. The Credit Facility also contains a feature that provides us the ability, subject to satisfaction of certain conditions, to expand the commitments available under the Credit Facility from $70 million up to $125 million. repay such obligations.
As of November 1, 2014, noOctober 31, 2015, $94.7 million in net borrowings arewere outstanding under the Credit Facility.Agreement,and are reflected as $10.0 million in current debt and $84.7 million in long-term debt in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets.
New Store Openings
During the fiscal 2014 year-to-date period, we had 85 net openings, consisting of 21 Chico’s, 20 WH|BM, 31 Soma and 13 Boston Proper stores. Currently, we expect our net new stores in fiscal 2014 to increase approximately 6%, reflecting net openings of approximately 17 Chico’s, 18 WH|BM, 31 Soma stores and 15 Boston Proper stores. We continuously evaluate

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Store and Franchise Activity
During the fiscal 2015 year-to-date period, we had 1 net closure, consisting of net closures of 4 Chico's and 6 WH|BM stores, and net openings of 8 Soma stores and 1 Boston Proper store. Currently, we expect 30-35 net store closures in fiscal 2015, reflecting approximately 8 net closures of Chico's stores, 9 net closures of WH|BM stores, 6 net openings of Soma stores and 19 net closures of Boston Proper stores. We continuously evaluate the appropriate new store growth rate in light of economic conditions and may adjust the growth rate as conditions require or as opportunities arise. As of October 31, 2015, we also sold merchandise through 37 international franchise locations.
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
The discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations are based upon the condensed consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. The preparation of condensed consolidated financial statements requires us to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenue, expenses, and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions. Management has discussed the development and selection of these critical accounting policies and estimates with the Audit Committee of our Board of Directors and believes the assumptions and estimates, as set forth in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 1, 2014,January 31, 2015, are significant to reporting our results of operations and financial position. There have been no material changes to our critical accounting policies as disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 1, 2014.

January 31, 2015.
Forward-Looking Statements
This Form 10-Q may contain certain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, which reflect our current views with respect to certain events that could have an effect on our future financial performance, including but without limitation, statements regarding our plans, objectives, and future growth rates of our store concepts. These statements may address items such as future sales, gross margin expectations, SG&A expectations, operating margin expectations, earnings per share expectations, planned store openings, closings and expansions, future comparable sales, future product sourcing plans, inventory levels, planned marketing expenditures, planned capital expenditures and future cash needs. In addition, from time to time, we may issue press releases and other written communications, and our representatives may make oral statements, which contain forward-looking information.
These statements, including those in this Form 10-Q and those in press releases or made orally, relate to expectations concerning matters that are not historical fact and may include the words or phrases such as “expects,” “believes,” “anticipates,” “plans,” “estimates,” “approximately,” “our planning assumptions,” “future outlook,” and similar expressions. Except for historical information, matters discussed in such oral and written statements, including this Form 10-Q, are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based largely on information currently available to our management and on our current expectations, assumptions, plans, estimates, judgments and projections about our business and our industry, and are subject to various risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from historical results or those currently anticipated. Although we believe our expectations are based on reasonable estimates and assumptions, they are not guarantees of performance and there are a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties, contingencies, and other factors (many of which are outside our control) that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Accordingly, there is no assurance that our expectations will, in fact, occur or that our estimates or assumptions will be correct, and we caution investors and all others not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to, those described in Item 1A, “Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on March 14, 20149, 2015 and the following:
These potential risks and uncertainties includeinclude: the financial strength of retailing in particular and the economy in general,general; the extent of financial difficulties that may be experienced by customers,customers; our ability to secure and maintain customer acceptance of styles and store concepts,concepts; the ability to maintain an appropriate level of inventory, the quality of merchandise received from suppliers,inventory; the extent and nature of competition in the markets in which we operate,operate; the extent of the market demand and overall level of spending for women’s private branded clothing and related accessories,accessories; the effectiveness of our brand awareness and marketing programs,programs; the adequacy and perception of customer service,service; the ability to respond to actions of activist shareholders and others; the ability to coordinate product development with buying and planning,planning; the quality of merchandise received from suppliers; the ability to efficiently, timely and successfully execute significant shifts in the countries from which merchandise is supplied,supplied; the ability of

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our suppliers to timely produce and deliver clothing and accessories,accessories; the changes in the costs of manufacturing, labor and advertising,advertising; the rateavailability of newquality store openings,sites; our ability to grow through new store openings andopenings; the buying public’s acceptance of any of our new store concepts,concepts; the ability to successfully execute our business strategies; the continuing performance, implementation and integration of management information systems,systems; the impact of any systems failures, cyber security or security breaches, including any security breaches that result in theft, transfer, or unauthorized disclosure of customer,

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employee, or company information or our compliance with information security and privacy laws and regulations in the event of such an incident,incident; the ability to hire, train, energize and retain qualified sales associates, managerial employees and other employees,employees; the availabilityability to achieve the results of quality store sites,our restructuring program; the ability to expand our distribution center and other support facilities in an efficient and effective manner, the ability to hire and train qualified managerial employees,manner; the ability to effectively and efficiently establish our websites,websites; the ability to secure and protect trademarks and other intellectual property rights and to protect our reputation and brand images,images; the ability to effectively and efficiently operate our brands,brands; risks associated with terrorist activities,activities; risks associated with natural disasters such as hurricanes and other risks. In addition, there are potential risks and uncertainties that are related to our reliance on sourcing from foreign suppliers, including the impact of work stoppages,stoppages; transportation delays and other interruptions,interruptions; political or civil instability,instability; imposition of and changes in tariffs and import and export controls such as import quotas,quotas; changes in governmental policies in or towards foreign countries,countries; currency exchange rates and other similar factors.
All written or oral forward-looking statements that are made or attributable to us are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary notice. The forward-looking statements included herein are only made as of the date of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.


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ITEM 3.QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
The market risk of our financial instruments as of November 1, 2014October 31, 2015 has not significantly changed since February 1, 2014.January 31, 2015. We are exposed to market risk from changes in interest rates on any future indebtedness and our marketable securities and from foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations.
Our exposure to interest rate risk relates in part to our revolving line of credit with our bank. However,On May 4, 2015, we entered into a credit agreement, as further discussed in Note 11. The Agreement, which matures on May 4, 2020, has borrowing options which accrue interest by reference, at our election, at either an adjusted eurodollar rate tied to LIBOR or an Alternate Base Rate plus an interest rate margin, as defined in the Agreement. An increase or decrease in market interest rates of November 1, 2014, we did100 basis points would not have any outstanding borrowingsa material effect on our line of credit.annual interest expense. 
Our investment portfolio is maintained in accordance with our investment policy which identifies allowable investments, specifies credit quality standards and limits the credit exposure of any single issuer. Our investment portfolio consists of cash equivalents and marketable securities including corporate bonds, commercial paper, municipal bonds, and U.S. government agencies and agency securities. commercial paper.The marketable securities portfolio as of November 1, 2014,October 31, 2015, consisted of $92.6$26.0 million of securities with maturity dates within one year or less and $31.4$21.3 million with maturity dates over one year and less than or equal to two years. We consider all marketable securities available-for-sale, including those with maturity dates beyond 12 months, and therefore classify these securities as short-term investments within current assets on the condensed consolidated balance sheets as they are available to support current operational liquidity needs. As of November 1, 2014,October 31, 2015, an increase or decrease of 100 basis points in interest rates would reducenot have a material effect on the fair value of our marketable securities portfolio by approximately $0.9 million. Conversely, a reduction of 100 basis points in interest rates would increase the fair value of our marketable securities portfolio by approximately $0.3 million.portfolio.

ITEM 4.CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
Our disclosure controls and procedures are designed to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed in our reports under the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms.

As of the end of the period covered by this report, an evaluation was carried out under the supervision and with the participation of management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended). Based upon that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that, as of the end of such period, our disclosure controls and procedures were effective in providing reasonable assurance in timely alerting them to material information relating to us (including our consolidated subsidiaries) and that information required to be disclosed in our reports is recorded, processed, summarized, and reported as required to be included in our periodic SEC filings.
Changes in Internal Controls
There were no significant changes in our internal controls or in other factors that could significantly affect our disclosure controls and procedures subsequent to the date of the above referenced evaluation. Furthermore, there was no change in our internal control over financial reporting or in other factors during the quarterly period covered by this report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

On May 14, 2013, the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) issued an updated version of its Internal Control – Integrated Framework, referred to as the 2013 COSO Framework and has indicated that after December 15, 2014, the 1992 Framework will be considered superseded. We expect that management’s assessment of the overall effectiveness of our internal controls over financial reporting for the year ending January 31, 2015 will be based on the 2013 COSO Framework and that the change will not be significant to our overall control structure over financial reporting.

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PART II – OTHER INFORMATION
 
ITEM 1.LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
    
In June 2015, the normal course of business, we are subject to proceedings, lawsuits and other claims including proceedings under laws and government regulations relating to labor, product, intellectual property and other matters. Such matters are subject to many uncertainties, and outcomes are not predictable with assurance. Consequently, the ultimate aggregate amount of monetary liability or financial impact with respect to these matters at November 1, 2014, cannot be ascertained. Although these matters could affect the consolidated operating results of any one quarter when resolved in future periods, and although there can be no assurance with respect thereto, management believes that, after final disposition, any monetary liability or financial impact to us would not be material to the annual consolidated financial statements.
The Company was named as a defendant in a putative classrepresentative Private Attorney General action filed in February 2014 in the Superior Court of the State of California, for the County of Sacramento:Los Angeles, Toni Delfierro, et al,Ackerman v. White House Black Market,Chico's FAS, Inc.  The Complaint allegesattempts to allege numerous violations of California law related to wages, meal periods, rest periods, wage statements, and failure to reimburse business expenses, among other things. The Company denies the material allegations of the Complaint and filed its Answer on July 27, 2015. The Company believes that its policiesthe case is without merit and procedures for paying its associates comply with all applicable California laws. In mid-October,intends to vigorously defend. As a result, the Company anddoes not believe that the plaintiffs agreed to settle this matter. The settlement is subject to the review and approval of the Court, which is not expected to occur until approximately mid-fiscal 2015. If approved by the Court, the settlement amount will notcase should have a material adverse effect on the Company’s consolidated financial condition or results of operations.
In July 2015, the Company was named as a defendant in a putative class action filed in July 2015 in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Georgia, Altman v. White House Black Market, Inc.  The Complaint alleges that the Company, in violation of federal law, published more than the last five digits of a credit or debit card number or an expiration date on customers' receipts.​The Company denies the material allegations of the complaint and filed a motion to dismiss on September 9, 2015, which is pending. The Company believes that the case is without merit and​ intends to vigorously defend. As a result, the Company does not believe that the case should have a material adverse effect on the Company’s consolidated financial condition or results of operations.
Other than as noted above, we are not currently a party to any legal proceedings other than various claims and lawsuits arising in the normal course of business, nonebusiness. All such matters are subject to uncertainties and outcomes may not be predictable. Consequently, the ultimate aggregate amount of which we believe should have a material adverse effect onmonetary liability or financial impact with respect to these matters as of October 31, 2015 are not ascertainable. However, while such matters could affect our consolidated operating results when resolved in future periods, management believes that upon final disposition, any monetary liability or financial condition or results of operations.

impact to us would not be material to our annual consolidated financial statements.
ITEM 1A.RISK FACTORS
In addition to the other information discussed in this report, the factors described in Part I, Item 1A. “Risk Factors” in our 20132014 Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on March 14, 20149, 2015 should be considered as they could materially affect our business, financial condition or future results. ThereOther than as noted below, there have not been any significant changes with respect to the risks described in our 20132014 Form 10-K, but these are not the only risks facing our company. Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or that we currently deem to be immaterial also may adversely affect our business, financial condition or operating results.
During the second quarter of fiscal 2015, we completed an evaluation of the Boston Proper brand and initiated a Plan to sell the DTC business and close its stores, as further discussed in Note 3. As of October 31, 2015, all current year assets and liabilities of the Boston Proper DTC business have been recorded as held for sale in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets at fair value less costs to sell. Although we have an executed letter of intent for the proposed sale of the Boston Proper DTC business, there can be no assurance that we will ultimately enter into a definitive agreement for such sale or, if so, that the transaction will be consummated or will be at a price where we realize our expected proceeds from any such sale.  If a definitive agreement is not successfully negotiated, we would again need to seek buyers and there is no assurance that we would be successful in identifying a buyer or receive an acceptable offering price.


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ITEM 2.UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS
The following table sets forth information concerning our purchases of common stock for the periods indicated (amounts in thousands, except share and per share amounts):
PeriodTotal
Number of
Shares
Purchased (a)
 Average Price
Paid per Share
 Total Number
of Shares
Purchased as
Part of
Publicly
Announced
Plans (b)
 Approximate Dollar
Value of Shares that
May Yet Be
Purchased Under
the Publicly
Announced  Plans
August 3, 2014 - August 30, 201455,177
 $15.43
 
 $290,000
August 31, 2014 - October 4, 20144,799
 $15.03
 
 $290,000
October 5, 2014 - November 1, 20148,559
 $15.08
 
 $290,000
Total68,535
 $15.36
 
 $290,000
PeriodTotal
Number of
Shares
Purchased (a)
 Average Price
Paid per Share
 Total Number
of Shares
Purchased as
Part of
Publicly
Announced
Plans (b)
 Approximate Dollar
Value of Shares that
May Yet Be
Purchased Under
the Publicly
Announced  Plans
August 2, 2015 - August 29, 2015109,949
 $14.88
 
 $40,000
August 30, 2015 - October 3, 20155,506
 $15.36
 
 $40,000
October 4, 2015 - October 31, 2015
 $
 
 $40,000
Total115,455
 $14.90
 
 $40,000
 
(a) Represents 68,535The 115,455 shares of restricted stock were repurchased in connection with employee tax withholding obligations under employee compensation plans, which are not purchases under any publicly announced plan.
(b) In December 2013, we announced a $300$300.0 million share repurchase plan. There was approximately $290$40.0 million remaining under the program as of the end of the third quarter. The repurchase program has no specific termination date and will expire when we have repurchased all securities authorized for repurchase thereunder, unless terminated earlier by our Board of Directors.



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ITEM 5.OTHER INFORMATION

On November 20, 2015, the Company's Board of Directors passed a resolution, appointing Shelley E. Broader to its Board of Directors (the "Board") and appointing David F. Dyer as Vice-Chair of the Board, effective December 1, 2015, increasing the size of the Board from nine to ten. Ms. Broader will serve as a Class II director until the 2016 Annual Meeting of Stockholders and is expected to stand for re-election at that Meeting. Ms. Broader has not been appointed to serve on any Committees of the Board of Directors at this time.

The Board also authorized a consulting arrangement for Mr. Dyer in order that he be available to assist Ms. Broader in her transition to Chief Executive Officer and President and, for such services, the Board approved a monthly consulting fee for Mr. Dyer of $73,705 through March 31,2016. In addition, supplementing the terms of his current employment letter, Mr. Dyer will receive an amount following the end of the fiscal year that he would have received under the Company's Management Bonus Plan if he were still an officer, an accelerated vesting of his outstanding restricted stock awards to December 1, 2015, and, to the extent that the Company satisfies the performance criteria for fiscal 2015 as set forth in his performance award agreements, his performance awards will vest entirely, following the end of the fiscal year.  Mr. Dyer will continue to serve as a Class II director and will receive standard remuneration in accordance with the Company’s non-employee director compensation policies as described in the Company’s 2015 Proxy Statement.


ITEM 6.EXHIBITS
 
(a)The following documents are filed as exhibits to this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q:
 Exhibit 31.1  Chico’s FAS, Inc. and Subsidiaries Certification Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 - Chief Executive Officer
   
 Exhibit 31.2  Chico’s FAS, Inc. and Subsidiaries Certification Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 - Chief Financial Officer
   
 Exhibit 32.1  Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
   
 Exhibit 32.2  Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
   
 Exhibit 101.INS  XBRL Instance Document
   
 Exhibit 101.SCH  XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
   
 Exhibit 101.CAL  XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document
   
 Exhibit 101.DEF  XBRL Taxonomy Definition Linkbase Document
   
 Exhibit 101.LAB  XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document
   
 Exhibit 101.PRE  XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document



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SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
 
      CHICO’S FAS, INC.
     
Date:November 26, 201425, 2015   By:/s/ David F. Dyer
      David F. Dyer
      President and Chief Executive Officer
     
Date:November 26, 201425, 2015   By:/s/ Todd E. Vogensen
      Todd E. Vogensen
      SeniorExecutive Vice President,
Chief Financial Officer and Assistant Corporate Secretary
       
Date:November 26, 201425, 2015   By:/s/ David M. Oliver
      David M. Oliver
      Group Vice President-Finance,President Finance - Controller, and
Chief Accounting Officer and Treasurer

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