Consolidated gross margin for the 26 weeks ended August 3, 2024 was 41.2% of sales compared to 41.3% of sales for the 26 weeks ended July 29, 2023.
Retail gross margin (which excludes CDI) for the 26 weeks ended August 3, 2024 was 42.7% of sales compared to 43.0% of sales for the 26 weeks ended July 29, 2023.
Inventory was essentially unchanged at August 3, 2024 compared to July 29, 2023.
Selling, General & Administrative Expenses – 26 Weeks
Consolidated selling, general and administrative expenses (“operating expenses”) for the 26 weeks ended August 3, 2024 were $860.3 million (28.3% of sales) compared to $818.9 million (26.0% of sales) for the 26 weeks ended July 29, 2023. The increase in operating expenses is primarily due to increased payroll expenses.
Highlights of the Second Quarter (compared to the prior year second quarter):
•Total retail sales decreased 5%
| • | Comparable store sales decreased 5% |
| • | Net income of $74.5 million compared to $131.5 million |
| • | Earnings per share of $4.59 compared to $7.98 |
| • | Retail gross margin of 39.1% of sales compared to 40.4% of sales |
| • | Operating expenses were $433.6 million (29.1% of sales) compared to $412.6 million (26.3% of sales) |
Second Quarter Results
Dillard’s reported net income for the 13 weeks ended August 3, 2024 of $74.5 million, or $4.59 per share, compared to $131.5 million, or $7.98 per share, for the 13 weeks ended July 29, 2023.
Sales – Second Quarter
Net sales for the 13 weeks ended August 3, 2024 and July 29, 2023 were $1.490 billion and $1.567 billion, respectively.
Total retail sales for the 13 weeks ended August 3, 2024 and July 29, 2023 were $1.426 billion and $1.499 billion, respectively. Total retail sales decreased 5% for the 13-week period ended August 3, 2024 compared to the 13-week period ended July 29, 2023. Sales in comparable stores for that same period decreased 5%. Cosmetics was the strongest performing merchandise category, with the weakest performances noted in men’s apparel and accessories and shoes.
Gross Margin – Second Quarter
Consolidated gross margin for the 13 weeks ended August 3, 2024 was 37.6% of sales compared to 38.8% of sales for the 13 weeks ended July 29, 2023.