La-Z-Boy (LZB) 10-Q 19 Nov 13 2014 Q2 Quarterly report Financial data

Document_and_Entity_Informatio

Document and Entity Information	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013	Nov. 12, 2013
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]	'	'
Entity Registrant Name	'LA-Z-BOY INC	'
Entity Central Index Key	'0000057131	'
Current Fiscal Year End Date	'--04-26	'
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	'No	'
Entity Voluntary Filers	'No	'
Entity Current Reporting Status	'Yes	'
Entity Filer Category	'Large Accelerated Filer	'
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	'	52,534,400
Document Fiscal Year Focus	'2014	'
Document Fiscal Period Focus	'Q2	'
Document Type	'10-Q	'
Amendment Flag	'false	'
Document Period End Date	26-Oct-13	'

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENT_OF_INCO

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF INCOME (Unaudited) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF INCOME (Unaudited) [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Sales	$366,403	$322,341	$685,316	$623,842
Cost of sales	242,643	222,032	458,270	433,921
Gross profit	123,760	100,309	227,046	189,921
Selling, general and administrative expense	98,342	89,746	186,806	171,732
Operating income	25,418	10,563	40,240	18,189
Interest expense	133	191	269	364
Interest income	176	116	356	237
Other income (expense), net	-279	212	257	91
Income before income taxes	25,182	10,700	40,584	18,153
Income tax expense (benefit)	8,165	3,868	13,632	6,626
Net income	17,017	6,832	26,952	11,527
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	-273	-213	-618	-510
Net income attributable to La-Z-Boy Incorporated	$16,744	$6,619	$26,334	$11,017
Basic weighted average shares outstanding (in shares)	52,537	52,356	52,440	52,274
Basic net income attributable to La-Z-Boy Incorporated per share (in dollars per share)	$0.32	$0.13	$0.50	$0.21
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding (in shares)	53,261	53,268	53,176	53,169
Diluted net income attributable to La-Z-Boy Incorporated per share (in dollars per share)	$0.31	$0.12	$0.49	$0.20
Dividends declared per share (in dollars per share)	$0.04	'	$0.08	'

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENT_OF_COMP

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (Unaudited) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (Unaudited) [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Net income	$17,017	$6,832	$26,952	$11,527
Other comprehensive income (loss)	'	'	'	'
Currency translation adjustment	-63	717	-1,306	950
Change in fair value of cash flow hedges, net of tax	-84	21	-364	102
Net unrealized gains (losses) on marketable securities, net of tax	371	-227	644	-531
Net pension amortization, net of tax	548	470	1,095	946
Total other comprehensive income (loss)	772	981	69	1,467
Total comprehensive income before allocation to noncontrolling interests	17,789	7,813	27,021	12,994
Comprehensive loss (income) attributable to noncontrolling interests	-277	-373	-168	-516
Comprehensive income attributable to La-Z-Boy Incorporated	$17,512	$7,440	$26,853	$12,478

CONSOLIDATED_BALANCE_SHEET_Una

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET (Unaudited) (USD $)	Oct. 26, 2013	Apr. 27, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Current assets	'	'
Cash and equivalents	$136,245	$131,085
Restricted cash	12,566	12,686
Receivables, net of allowance of $13,764 at 10/26/13 and $21,607 at 4/27/13	159,509	160,005
Inventories, net	158,582	146,343
Deferred income taxes - current	18,317	20,640
Other current assets	31,778	30,121
Total current assets	516,997	500,880
Property, plant and equipment, net	121,924	118,060
Goodwill	12,837	12,837
Other intangible assets	5,627	4,838
Deferred income taxes - long-term	32,423	30,572
Other long-term assets, net	59,692	53,184
Total assets	749,500	720,371
Current liabilities	'	'
Current portion of long-term debt	7,604	513
Accounts payable	56,463	50,542
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities	97,193	99,108
Total current liabilities	161,260	150,163
Long-term debt	486	7,576
Other long-term liabilities	77,420	70,664
Contingencies and commitments	'	'
Shareholders' equity	'	'
Preferred shares - 5,000 authorized; none issued	0	0
Common shares, $1 par value - 150,000 authorized; 52,567 outstanding at 10/26/13 and 52,392 outstanding at 4/27/13	52,567	52,392
Capital in excess of par value	252,127	241,888
Retained earnings	233,210	226,044
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	-34,977	-35,496
Total La-Z-Boy Incorporated shareholders' equity	502,927	484,828
Noncontrolling interests	7,407	7,140
Total equity	510,334	491,968
Total liabilities and equity	$749,500	$720,371

CONSOLIDATED_BALANCE_SHEET_Una1

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET (Unaudited) (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Oct. 26, 2013	Apr. 27, 2013
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified
Current assets	'	'
Receivables, allowance	$13,764	$21,607
Shareholders' equity	'	'
Preferred shares, authorized (in shares)	5,000	5,000
Preferred shares, issued (in shares)	0	0
Common shares, par value (in dollars per share)	$1	$1
Common shares, authorized (in shares)	150,000	150,000
Common shares, outstanding (in shares)	52,567	52,392

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENT_OF_CASH

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS (Unaudited) (USD $)	6 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012
Cash flows from operating activities	'	'
Net income	$26,952	$11,527
Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash provided by (used for) operating activities	'	'
Deferred income tax expense (benefit)	-391	-457
Restructuring	-54	2,686
Provision for doubtful accounts	-1,994	654
Depreciation and amortization	11,661	11,239
Stock-based compensation expense	5,671	6,959
Pension plan contributions	0	-2,320
Change in receivables	1,298	11,689
Change in inventories	-10,561	-22,290
Change in other assets	-1,920	-6,043
Change in payables	3,772	-4,619
Change in other liabilities	-2,021	-11,484
Net cash provided by (used for) operating activities	32,413	-2,459
Cash flows from investing activities	'	'
Proceeds from disposals of assets	2,241	985
Capital expenditures	-14,323	-11,637
Purchases of investments	-23,180	-31,514
Proceeds from sales of investments	18,196	5,684
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired	0	-15,863
Change in restricted cash	120	-6,931
Net cash provided by (used for) investing activities	-16,946	-59,276
Cash flows from financing activities	'	'
Payments on debt	-263	-2,255
Stock issued for stock and employee benefit plans	2,983	1,236
Excess tax benefit on stock option exercises	5,228	1,025
Purchases of common stock	-13,681	-4,012
Dividends paid	-4,214	0
Net cash used for financing activities	-9,947	-4,006
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and equivalents	-360	-21
Change in cash and equivalents	5,160	-65,762
Cash and equivalents at beginning of period	131,085	152,370
Cash and equivalents at end of period	$136,245	$86,608

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENT_OF_CHAN

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY (Unaudited) (USD $)	Common Shares [Member]	Capital in Excess of Par Value [Member]	Retained Earnings [Member]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Member]	Non-Controlling Interests [Member]	Total
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Balance at Apr. 28, 2012	$52,244	$231,332	$189,609	($31,281)	$5,911	$447,815
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net income	'	'	46,389	'	793	47,182
Other comprehensive income (loss)	'	'	'	-4,215	339	-3,876
Stock issued for stock and employee benefit plans, net of cancellations	817	1,849	-1,368	'	'	1,298
Purchases of common stock	-669	-5,314	-4,350	'	'	-10,333
Stock option and restricted stock expense	'	11,458	'	'	'	11,458
Tax benefit from exercise of options	'	2,563	'	'	'	2,563
Dividends paid	'	'	-4,236	'	'	-4,236
Change in noncontrolling interests	'	'	'	'	97	97
Balance at Apr. 27, 2013	52,392	241,888	226,044	-35,496	7,140	491,968
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net income	'	'	26,334	'	618	26,952
Other comprehensive income (loss)	'	'	'	519	-450	69
Stock issued for stock and employee benefit plans, net of cancellations	842	1,909	-4,509	'	'	-1,758
Purchases of common stock	-667	-2,569	-10,445	'	'	-13,681
Stock option and restricted stock expense	'	5,671	'	'	'	5,671
Tax benefit from exercise of options	'	5,228	'	'	'	5,228
Dividends paid	'	'	-4,214	'	'	-4,214
Change in noncontrolling interests	'	'	'	'	99	99
Balance at Oct. 26, 2013	$52,567	$252,127	$233,210	($34,977)	$7,407	$510,334

Basis_of_Presentation

Basis of Presentation	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Basis of Presentation [Abstract]	'
Basis of Presentation	'
	Note 1: Basis of Presentation
	The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the consolidated accounts of La-Z-Boy Incorporated and our majority-owned subsidiaries.  The April 27, 2013, balance sheet was derived from our audited financial statements.  The interim financial information is prepared in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles, and such principles are applied on a basis consistent with those reflected in our fiscal 2013 Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, but does not include all the disclosures required by generally accepted accounting principles. In the opinion of management, the interim financial information includes all adjustments and accruals, consisting only of normal recurring adjustments (except as otherwise disclosed), which are necessary for a fair presentation of results for the respective interim period.  The interim results reflected in the accompanying financial statements are not necessarily indicative of the results of operations which will occur for the full fiscal year ending April 26, 2014.
	Certain prior year information has been reclassified to be comparable to the current year presentation.  These items had no impact on the amounts of previously reported net income attributable to La-Z-Boy Incorporated or total equity.

Allowance_for_Credit_Losses

Allowance for Credit Losses	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Allowance for Credit Losses [Abstract]	'
Allowance for Credit Losses	'
	Note 2: Allowance for Credit Losses
	As of October 26, 2013, we had gross notes receivable of $5.0 million outstanding from six customers, with a corresponding allowance for credit losses of $0.2 million.  We have collateral from these customers in the form of inventory and/or real estate to support the net carrying value of these notes.  We do not accrue interest income on these notes receivable, but we record interest income when it is received.  During the second quarter, $2.3 million of our notes receivable and a corresponding $1.6 million of allowance for credit losses were written off, primarily related to our acquisition of the assets of one independent La-Z-Boy Furniture Galleries® dealer during the quarter.  Of the $5.0 million in notes receivable as of October 26, 2013, $0.8 million is expected to be repaid in the next twelve months, and was categorized as receivables in our consolidated balance sheet.  The remainder of the notes receivable and the entire allowance for credit losses were categorized as other long-term assets.
	The following is an analysis of the allowance for credit losses related to our notes receivable as of and for the quarter and six months ended October 26, 2013, and October 27, 2012:
		Second Quarter Ended						Six Months Ended
	(Unaudited, amounts in thousands)	10/26/13			10/27/12			10/26/13			10/27/12
	Beginning balance	$	1,726		$	1,519		$	1,986		$	1,537
	Recoveries		—			(38	)		—			(56	)
	Write-offs		(1,568	)		—			(1,888	)		—
	Provision for credit losses		—			—			60			—
	Ending balance	$	158		$	1,481		$	158		$	1,481

Inventories

Inventories	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Inventories [Abstract]	'
Inventories	'
	Note 3: Inventories
	A summary of inventories is as follows:
	(Unaudited, amounts in thousands)	10/26/13			4/27/13
	Raw materials	$	78,311		$	70,731
	Work in process		13,759			12,182
	Finished goods		96,355			93,273
	FIFO inventories		188,425			176,186
	Excess of FIFO over LIFO		(29,843	)		(29,843	)
	Inventories, net	$	158,582		$	146,343

Investments

Investments	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Investments [Abstract]	'
Investments	'
	Note 4:  Investments
	Our consolidated balance sheet at October 26, 2013, included $9.6 million of available-for-sale investments and $1.4 million of trading securities in other current assets and $35.1 million of available-for-sale investments in other long-term assets.  Available-for-sale investments of $10.8 million and trading securities of $1.1 million were included in other current assets and available-for-sale investments of $29.2 million were included in other long-term assets in our consolidated balance sheet at April 27, 2013.  At October 26, 2013, and April 27, 2013, $30.1 million and $29.9 million, respectively, of these investments were to enhance returns on our cash.  The remaining investments were designated to fund future obligations of our non-qualified defined benefit retirement plan and our executive deferred compensation plan.  If there were a decline in the fair value of an investment below its cost and the decline was considered other-than-temporary, the amount of decline below cost would be charged against earnings.
	The following is a summary of investments at October 26, 2013, and April 27, 2013:
	As of October 26, 2013
	(Unaudited, amounts in thousands)	Gross			Gross			Fair Value
		Unrealized Gains			Unrealized Losses
	Equity securities	$	1,303		$	(67	)	$	8,975
	Fixed income		155			(35	)		35,396
	Mutual funds		—			—			1,439
	Other		1			(8	)		293
	Total securities	$	1,459		$	(110	)	$	46,103
	As of April 27, 2013
	(Unaudited, amounts in thousands)	Gross			Gross			Fair Value
		Unrealized Gains			Unrealized Losses
	Equity securities	$	296		$	(152	)	$	6,668
	Fixed income		159			(1	)		33,076
	Mutual funds		—			—			1,126
	Other		1			(3	)		220
	Total securities	$	456		$	(156	)	$	41,090
	The following table summarizes sales of available-for-sale securities:
		Second Quarter Ended						Six Months Ended
	(Unaudited, amounts in thousands)	10/26/13			10/27/12			10/26/13			10/27/12
	Proceeds from sales	$	9,636		$	3,480		$	18,196		$	4,908
	Gross realized gains		32			621			45			845
	Gross realized losses		(29	)		(10	)		(65	)		(36	)
	The fair value of fixed income available-for-sale securities by contractual maturity was $9.6 million within one year, $23.5 million within two to five years, $1.8 million within six to ten years and $0.5 million thereafter.

Other_Intangible_Assets

Other Intangible Assets	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Other Intangible Assets [Abstract]	'
Other Intangible Assets	'
	Note 5: Other Intangible Assets
	During the second quarter of fiscal 2014, we acquired the assets of one independent La-Z-Boy Furniture Galleries® dealer in exchange for that dealer’s notes and accounts receivable net of reserves, valued at $1.6 million.  As a result of the acquisition we reacquired the right to own and operate La-Z-Boy Furniture Galleries® stores in that market.  We recorded an indefinite-lived intangible asset of $0.8 million in our Retail segment related to this reacquired right.
	The following is a roll-forward of other intangible assets for the six months ended October 26, 2013:
		Tradenames		Reacquired		Total Other
				Rights		Intangible
	(Unaudited, amounts in thousands)					Assets
	Balance at April 27, 2013	$	2,693	$	2,145	$	4,838
	Acquisition during the second quarter of fiscal 2014		—		789		789
	Balance at October 26, 2013	$	2,693	$	2,934	$	5,627

Pension_Plans

Pension Plans	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Pension Plans [Abstract]	'
Pension Plans	'
	Note 6: Pension Plans
	Net periodic pension costs were as follows:
		Second Quarter Ended						Six Months Ended
	(Unaudited, amounts in thousands)	10/26/13			10/27/12			10/26/13			10/27/12
	Service cost	$	311		$	277		$	622		$	585
	Interest cost		1,206			1,331			2,412			2,662
	Expected return on plan assets		(1,700	)		(1,714	)		(3,399	)		(3,428	)
	Net amortization		892			756			1,783			1,512
	Net periodic pension cost	$	709		$	650		$	1,418		$	1,331

Product_Warranties

Product Warranties	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Product Warranties [Abstract]	'
Product Warranties	'
	Note 7: Product Warranties
	We accrue an estimated liability for product warranties at the time the revenue is recognized. We estimate future warranty claims based on claim experience and any additional anticipated future costs on previously sold products.  Our liability estimates incorporate the cost of repairs including materials consumed, labor and overhead amounts necessary to perform the repair and any costs associated with delivery of the repaired product to the customer.  Over 90% of our warranty liability relates to our Upholstery segment as we generally warrant our products against defects for one year on fabric and leather, from one to ten years on cushions and padding, and up to a lifetime on certain mechanisms and frames.  Labor costs relating to our parts are warrantied for one year from the date of purchase by the end customer.  Considerable judgment is used in making our estimates. Differences between actual and estimated costs are recorded when the differences are known.
	A reconciliation of the changes in our product warranty liability for the three months ended October 26, 2013, and October 27, 2012, is as follows:
		Second Quarter Ended						Six Months Ended
	(Unaudited, amounts in thousands)	10/26/13			10/27/12			10/26/13			10/27/12
	Balance as of the beginning of the period	$	15,821		$	14,319		$	15,525		$	14,327
	Accruals during the period		3,884			3,518			7,672			6,908
	Settlements during the period		(3,776	)		(3,524	)		(7,268	)		(6,922	)
	Balance as of the end of the period	$	15,929		$	14,313		$	15,929		$	14,313
	As of October 26, 2013, and April 27, 2013, $9.9 million and $9.5 million, respectively, of our product warranty liability was included in accrued expenses and other current liabilities in our consolidated balance sheet, with the remainder included in other long-term liabilities. The accruals recorded during the periods presented primarily reflect charges related to warranties issued during the respective periods.

StockBased_Compensation

Stock-Based Compensation	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Stock-Based Compensation [Abstract]	'
Stock-Based Compensation	'
	Note 8:  Stock-Based Compensation
	The table below summarizes the total stock-based compensation expense recognized for all outstanding grants in our consolidated statement of income:
		Second Quarter Ended						Six Months Ended
	(Unaudited, amounts in thousands)	10/26/13				10/27/12		10/26/13		10/27/12
	Equity-based awards expense	$	2,478			$	3,340	$	5,671	$	6,959
	Liability-based awards expense		1,886				963		3,790		891
	Total stock-based compensation expense	$	4,364			$	4,303	$	9,461	$	7,850
	The table below summarizes the grants made during the first six months of fiscal 2014:
	(Unaudited, shares/units in thousands)	Shares/units			Liability/		Settlement
		granted			Equity
					award
	Stock options		175		Equity		Common shares
	Stock appreciation rights (“SARs”)		142		Liability		Cash
	Restricted stock units – employees		122		Liability		Cash
	Restricted stock units – directors		34		Equity		Common shares
	Performance-based units		35		Liability		Cash
	Performance-based shares		191		Equity		Common shares
	Stock Options. We granted 174,595 stock options to employees during the first quarter of fiscal 2014.  Stock options are accounted for as equity-based awards because upon exercise of the stock option they will be settled in common shares.  Compensation expense for stock options is equal to the fair value on the date the award was approved and is recognized over the vesting period.  The vesting period for our stock options ranges from one to four years.  Options granted to retirement eligible employees are expensed immediately because they vest upon retirement.  The fair value for the employee stock options granted was estimated at the date of the grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model, which requires management to make certain assumptions.  Expected volatility was estimated based on the historical volatility of our common shares.  The average expected life was based on the contractual term of the stock option and expected employee exercise and post-vesting employment termination trends.  The risk-free rate was based on U.S. Treasury issues with a term equal to the expected life assumed at the date of the grant.
	The fair value of stock options granted during the first quarter of fiscal 2014 was calculated using the following assumptions:
	(Unaudited)	7/27/13
	Risk-free interest rate		0.84	%
	Dividend rate		0.84	%
	Expected life in years		5
	Stock price volatility		81.3	%
	Fair value per share	$	11.63
	Stock Appreciation Rights.  We granted 141,546 stock appreciation rights to employees during the first quarter of fiscal 2014.  SARs will be paid in cash upon vesting and as such are accounted for as liability-based awards that will be remeasured to reflect the fair value at the end of each reporting period.  These awards vest at 25% per year, beginning one year from the grant date for a term of four years.  SARs granted to retirement eligible employees are expensed immediately because they vest upon retirement.  The fair value for the SARs is estimated at the end of each period using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model, which requires management to make certain assumptions.  The average expected life was based on the contractual term of the SARs and expected employee exercise and post-vesting employment termination trends (which is consistent with the expected life of our option awards).  The risk-free rate was based on U.S. Treasury issues with a term equal to the expected life assumed at the end of the reporting period.
	The fair value of the SARs granted during the first quarter of fiscal 2014 was remeasured at October 26, 2013, using the following assumptions:
	(Unaudited)	10/26/13
	Risk-free interest rate		1.6	%
	Dividend rate		0.7	%
	Expected life in years		4.64
	Stock price volatility		65.16	%
	Fair value per share	$	13.01
	In fiscal 2013, we granted SARs as described in our Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended April 27, 2013.  The fair value of the SARs granted during fiscal 2013 was remeasured at October 26, 2013, using the following assumptions:
	(Unaudited)	10/26/13
	Risk-free interest rate		1.6	%
	Dividend rate		0.7	%
	Expected life in years		3.71
	Stock price volatility		51.75	%
	Fair value per share	$	13.59
	Restricted Stock Units. We granted 122,007 restricted stock units to employees during the first quarter of fiscal 2014.  These units are accounted for as liability-based awards because upon vesting these awards will be paid in cash.  Compensation expense is initially measured and recognized based on the market value (intrinsic value) of our common stock on the grant date and amortized over the vesting period.  The liability is remeasured and adjusted based on the market value (intrinsic value) of our common shares on the last day of the reporting period until paid with a corresponding adjustment to reflect the cumulative amount of compensation expense.  The fair value of the restricted stock units at October 26, 2013, was $23.35.  Each restricted stock unit is the equivalent of one common share.  Restricted stock units vest at 25% per year, beginning one year from the grant date for a term of four years.
	During the second quarter of fiscal 2014, we granted 34,200 restricted stock units to our non-employee directors.  They vest upon the director leaving the board.  They will be settled in shares of our common stock upon vesting, and we account for them as equity-based awards.  Compensation expense for these awards is measured and recognized based on the market price of our common shares on the date of grant, which was $21.20.
	Performance Awards. During the first quarter of fiscal 2014, we granted 35,083 performance-based units and 191,410 performance-based shares.  Payout of these grants depends on our financial performance (80%) and a market-based condition based on the total return that our shareholders receive on their investment in our stock relative to returns earned through investments in other public companies (20%).  The performance award opportunity ranges from 50% of the employee’s target award if minimum performance requirements are met to a maximum of 200% of the target award based on the attainment of certain financial and shareholder-return goals over a specific performance period, which is generally three fiscal years.
	The performance-based units are accounted for as liability-based awards because upon vesting they will be paid in cash.  For performance-based units that vest based on performance conditions, the fair value of each unit was $22.91 at October 26, 2013, which was the market value of our common shares on the last day of the reporting period less expected dividends to be paid prior to vesting, and compensation cost is expensed based on the probability that the performance goals will be obtained.  For performance-based units that vest based on market conditions, the fair value of the award was estimated using a Monte Carlo valuation model on the last day of the reporting period, and compensation cost is expensed over the vesting period.  The liability for these units was remeasured and adjusted based on the Monte Carlo valuation at the end of each reporting period until paid.  Based on the Monte Carlo valuation, the fair value of each performance-based unit that vests based on market conditions was $33.39 at October 26, 2013.
	The performance-based shares are accounted for as equity-based awards because upon vesting they will be settled in common shares.  The grant date fair value of performance-based shares is expensed over the service period.  For performance-based shares that vest based on performance conditions, the fair value of each share was $18.58, which was the market value of our common shares on the date of grant less expected dividends to be paid prior to vesting, and compensation cost is expensed based on the probability that the performance goals will be obtained.  For performance-based shares that vest based on market conditions, the fair value of each share was estimated using a Monte Carlo valuation model on the date of grant, and compensation cost is expensed over the vesting period, regardless of the ultimate vesting of the award, similar to the expensing of a stock option award.  The fair value for each performance-based share that vests based on market conditions, as determined by the Monte Carlo valuation, was $26.08 at the grant date.
	In fiscal 2013, we granted performance-based units as described in our Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended April 27, 2013.  For those of the performance-based units that vest based on performance conditions, the fair value of each unit was $23.07 at October 26, 2013, which was the market value of our common shares on the last day of the reporting period less expected dividends to be paid prior to vesting.  For those of the performance-based units that vest based on market conditions, the fair value of each unit was $36.41 at October 26, 2013, which was based on the Monte Carlo valuation at the end of the reporting period.

Accumulated_Other_Comprehensiv

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Abstract]	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	'
	Note 9: Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
	The activity in accumulated other comprehensive loss for the first six months of fiscal 2014 is as follows:
	(Amounts in thousands)	Unrealized			Translation			Change in			Net pension			Accumulated
		gain on			adjustment			fair value			amortization			other
		marketable						of cash			and net			comprehensive
		securities						flow hedge			actuarial			loss
											loss
	Balance at April 27, 2013	$	474		$	4,779		$	231		$	(40,980	)	$	(35,496	)
	Changes before reclassifications		1,030			(857	)		(562	)		—			(389	)
	Amounts reclassified to net income		20			—			(31	)		1,783			1,772
	Tax effect		(405	)		—			229			(688	)		(864	)
	Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to La-Z- Boy Incorporated		645			(857	)		(364	)		1,095			519
	Balance at October 26, 2013	$	1,119		$	3,922		$	(133	)	$	(39,885	)	$	(34,977	)
	The unrealized gain on marketable securities was reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss to net income through other income (expense) in our consolidated statement of income, and the change in fair value of cash flow hedge and the net pension amortization were reclassified to net income through selling, general and administrative expense.

Segment_Information

Segment Information	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Segment Information [Abstract]	'
Segment Information	'
	Note 10: Segment Information
	Our reportable operating segments are the Upholstery segment, the Casegoods segment and the Retail segment.
	Upholstery Segment.  The Upholstery segment consists of three operating units: La-Z-Boy, England and Bauhaus.  This segment manufactures or imports upholstered furniture. Upholstered furniture includes recliners and motion furniture, sofas, loveseats, chairs, sectionals, modulars, ottomans and sleeper sofas.  The Upholstery segment sells directly to La-Z-Boy Furniture Galleries® stores, operators of Comfort Studios® locations, major dealers and other independent retailers.
	Casegoods Segment. The Casegoods segment consists of four brands: American Drew, Lea, H1ammary, and Kincaid.  This segment sells imported or manufactured wood furniture to furniture retailers.  Casegoods product includes bedroom, dining room, entertainment centers, occasional pieces and some coordinated upholstered furniture.  The Casegoods segment sells to major dealers and other independent retailers.
	Retail Segment. The Retail segment consists of 97 company-owned La-Z-Boy Furniture Galleries® stores in 12 primary markets.  The Retail segment sells upholstered furniture, in addition to some casegoods and other accessories, to end consumers through the retail network.
		Second Quarter Ended						Six Months Ended
	(Unaudited, amounts in thousands)	10/26/13			10/27/12			10/26/13			10/27/12
	Sales
	Upholstery segment:
	Sales to external customers	$	261,317		$	228,487		$	485,669		$	438,850
	Intersegment sales		34,881			30,975			65,403			58,779
	Upholstery segment sales		296,198			259,462			551,072			497,629
	Casegoods segment:
	Sales to external customers		31,190			32,028			58,466			65,345
	Intersegment sales		2,742			2,500			4,902			3,792
	Casegoods segment sales		33,932			34,528			63,368			69,137
	Retail segment sales		73,359			61,198			139,633			118,317
	Corporate and Other		537			628			1,548			1,330
	Eliminations		(37,623	)		(33,475	)		(70,305	)		(62,571	)
	Consolidated sales	$	366,403		$	322,341		$	685,316		$	623,842
	Operating Income (Loss)
	Upholstery segment	$	32,525		$	21,790		$	54,762		$	37,368
	Casegoods segment		645			902			1,202			2,181
	Retail segment		3,251			(575	)		5,177			(2,563	)
	Restructuring		142			(2,654	)		55			(2,686	)
	Corporate and Other		(11,145	)		(8,900	)		(20,956	)		(16,111	)
	Consolidated operating income	$	25,418		$	10,563		$	40,240		$	18,189

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Income Taxes [Abstract]	'
Income Taxes	'
	Note 11: Income Taxes
	Our effective tax rate for the second quarter of fiscal 2014 was 32.4% compared to 36.1% for the second quarter of fiscal 2013, and was 33.6% for the first six months of fiscal 2014 compared to 36.5% for the first six months of fiscal 2013.
	Impacting our effective tax rate for the second quarter and first six months of fiscal 2014 was the release of a portion of the valuation allowance relating to our U.S. state deferred tax assets, resulting in a net tax benefit of $0.9 million.  During the second quarter of fiscal 2014 we determined that the valuation allowance should be reversed because we believed that it had become more likely than not that the value of those deferred tax assets would be realized.  This determination was primarily the result of our assessment of our cumulative pre-tax income in a certain jurisdiction. Absent this discrete adjustment, the effective tax rate for the second quarter of fiscal 2014 would have been 35.8%, and for the first six months of fiscal 2014 would have been 35.7%.
	Our consolidated balance sheet at the end of the second quarter of fiscal 2014 reflected a $1.4 million net liability for uncertain income tax positions.  It is reasonably possible that $0.2 million of this liability will be settled within the next 12 months.  The remaining balance will be paid or released as tax audits are completed or settled, statutes of limitation expire or other new information becomes available.
	In September 2013, the Internal Revenue Service enacted final tax regulations regarding the capitalization and expensing of amounts paid to acquire, produce, or improve tangible property.  The regulations also include guidance regarding the retirement of depreciable property.  The regulations are required to be effective in taxable years beginning on or after January 1, 2014, although taxpayers may choose to apply them in taxable years beginning on or after January 1, 2012.  We are currently assessing the impact of the final regulations on our financial statements.
	On October 31, 2013, Mexico’s Senate passed a new income tax law to replace existing law, to be effective January 1, 2014.  The new income tax law includes a number of generally applicable changes in the value added tax, the special production services tax, and the federal tax code.  We expect these changes to affect our operations in Mexico, and we are currently assessing the impact of the new tax law on our financial statements.

Earnings_per_Share

Earnings per Share	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Earnings per Share [Abstract]	'
Earnings per Share	'
	Note 12: Earnings per Share
	Certain share-based payment awards that entitle their holders to receive non-forfeitable dividends prior to vesting are considered participating securities.  We grant restricted stock awards that contain non-forfeitable rights to dividends on unvested shares; as participating securities, the unvested shares are required to be included in the calculation of our basic earnings per common share, using the two-class method.
	A reconciliation of the numerators and denominators used in the computations of basic and diluted earnings per share is as follows:
		Second Quarter Ended						Six Months Ended
	(Unaudited, amounts in thousands)	10/26/13			10/27/12			10/26/13			10/27/12
	Numerator (basic and diluted):
	Net income attributable to La-Z-Boy Incorporated	$	16,744		$	6,619		$	26,334		$	11,017
	Income allocated to participating securities		(111	)		(88	)		(248	)		(166	)
	Net income available to common shareholders	$	16,633		$	6,531		$	26,086		$	10,851
		Second Quarter Ended						Six Months Ended
		10/26/13			10/27/12			10/26/13			10/27/12
	Denominator:
	Basic weighted average common shares outstanding		52,537			52,356			52,440			52,274
	Add:
	Contingent common shares		320			366			305			366
	Stock option dilution		404			546			431			529
	Diluted weighted average common shares outstanding		53,261			53,268			53,176			53,169
	Contingent common shares reflect the dilutive effect of common shares that would be issued under the terms of performance-based share grants made to employees, assuming the reporting period was the performance period.
	We had outstanding options to purchase 0.2 million shares for the quarter and six months ended October 27, 2012, with a weighted average exercise price of $20.74.  We excluded the effect of these options from the diluted share calculation since, for each period presented, the weighted average exercise price of the options was higher than the average market price, and including the options’ effect would have been anti-dilutive.  There were no outstanding options to purchase shares that were excluded from the diluted share calculation because their effect would have been anti-dilutive for the quarter and six months ended October 26, 2013.

Fair_Value_Measurements

Fair Value Measurements	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Fair Value Measurements [Abstract]	'
Fair Value Measurements	'
	Note 13: Fair Value Measurements
	Accounting standards require the categorization of financial assets and liabilities, based on the inputs to the valuation technique, into a three-level fair value hierarchy. The various levels of the fair value hierarchy are described as follows:
		·	Level 1 — Financial assets and liabilities whose values are based on unadjusted quoted market prices for identical assets and liabilities in an active market that we have the ability to access.
		·	Level 2 — Financial assets and liabilities whose values are based on quoted prices in markets that are not active or model inputs that are observable for substantially the full term of the asset or liability.
		·	Level 3 — Financial assets and liabilities whose values are based on prices or valuation techniques that require inputs that are both unobservable and significant to the overall fair value measurement.
	Accounting standards require the use of observable market data, when available, in making fair value measurements. When inputs used to measure fair value fall within different levels of the hierarchy, the level within which the fair value measurement is categorized is based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement.  Transfers between levels are recognized at the end of the reporting period in which they occur.
	In addition to assets and liabilities that are recorded at fair value on a recurring basis, we are required to record assets and liabilities at fair value on a non-recurring basis.  Non-financial assets such as trade names, goodwill, and other long-lived assets are measured at fair value when there is an indicator of impairment and recorded at fair value only when an impairment loss is recognized.
	The following table presents the fair value hierarchy for those assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis at October 26, 2013, and April 27, 2013:
	As of October 26, 2013
			Fair Value Measurements
	(Unaudited, amounts in thousands)		Level 1(a)			Level 2(a)			Level 3
	Assets
	Available-for-sale securities		$	3,640		$	41,024		$	—
	Trading securities			—			1,439			—
	Total		$	3,640		$	42,463		$	—
		(a)	There were no transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 during fiscal 2014.
	As of April 27, 2013
		Fair Value Measurements
	(Unaudited, amounts in thousands)	Level 1(b)			Level 2(b)			Level 3
	Assets
	Available-for-sale securities		$	1,217		$	38,747		$	—
	Trading securities			—			1,126			—
	Total		$	1,217		$	39,873		$	—
		(b)	There were no transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 during fiscal 2013.
	At October 26, 2013, and April 27, 2013, we held available-for-sale marketable securities intended to enhance returns on our cash and to fund future obligations of our non-qualified defined benefit retirement plan, as well as trading securities to fund future obligations of our executive deferred compensation plan.  The fair value measurements for our securities are based upon quoted prices in active markets, as well as through broker quotes and independent valuation providers, multiplied by the number of shares owned exclusive of any transaction costs.

Allowance_for_Credit_Losses_Ta

Allowance for Credit Losses (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Allowance for Credit Losses [Abstract]	'
Analysis of allowance for credit losses	'
	The following is an analysis of the allowance for credit losses related to our notes receivable as of and for the quarter and six months ended October 26, 2013, and October 27, 2012:
		Second Quarter Ended						Six Months Ended
	(Unaudited, amounts in thousands)	10/26/13			10/27/12			10/26/13			10/27/12
	Beginning balance	$	1,726		$	1,519		$	1,986		$	1,537
	Recoveries		—			(38	)		—			(56	)
	Write-offs		(1,568	)		—			(1,888	)		—
	Provision for credit losses		—			—			60			—
	Ending balance	$	158		$	1,481		$	158		$	1,481

Inventories_Tables

Inventories (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Inventories [Abstract]	'
Components of Inventory	'
	A summary of inventories is as follows:
	(Unaudited, amounts in thousands)	10/26/13			4/27/13
	Raw materials	$	78,311		$	70,731
	Work in process		13,759			12,182
	Finished goods		96,355			93,273
	FIFO inventories		188,425			176,186
	Excess of FIFO over LIFO		(29,843	)		(29,843	)
	Inventories, net	$	158,582		$	146,343

Investments_Tables

Investments (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Investments [Abstract]	'
Summary of investments	'
	The following is a summary of investments at October 26, 2013, and April 27, 2013:
	As of October 26, 2013
	(Unaudited, amounts in thousands)	Gross			Gross			Fair Value
		Unrealized Gains			Unrealized Losses
	Equity securities	$	1,303		$	(67	)	$	8,975
	Fixed income		155			(35	)		35,396
	Mutual funds		—			—			1,439
	Other		1			(8	)		293
	Total securities	$	1,459		$	(110	)	$	46,103
	As of April 27, 2013
	(Unaudited, amounts in thousands)	Gross			Gross			Fair Value
		Unrealized Gains			Unrealized Losses
	Equity securities	$	296		$	(152	)	$	6,668
	Fixed income		159			(1	)		33,076
	Mutual funds		—			—			1,126
	Other		1			(3	)		220
	Total securities	$	456		$	(156	)	$	41,090
Sales of available-for-sale securities	'
	The following table summarizes sales of available-for-sale securities:
		Second Quarter Ended						Six Months Ended
	(Unaudited, amounts in thousands)	10/26/13			10/27/12			10/26/13			10/27/12
	Proceeds from sales	$	9,636		$	3,480		$	18,196		$	4,908
	Gross realized gains		32			621			45			845
	Gross realized losses		(29	)		(10	)		(65	)		(36	)

Other_Intangible_Assets_Tables

Other Intangible Assets (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Other Intangible Assets [Abstract]	'
Rollforward of other intangible assets	'
	The following is a roll-forward of other intangible assets for the six months ended October 26, 2013:
		Tradenames		Reacquired		Total Other
				Rights		Intangible
	(Unaudited, amounts in thousands)					Assets
	Balance at April 27, 2013	$	2,693	$	2,145	$	4,838
	Acquisition during the second quarter of fiscal 2014		—		789		789
	Balance at October 26, 2013	$	2,693	$	2,934	$	5,627

Pension_Plans_Tables

Pension Plans (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Pension Plans [Abstract]	'
Net Periodic Pension Costs	'
	Net periodic pension costs were as follows:
		Second Quarter Ended						Six Months Ended
	(Unaudited, amounts in thousands)	10/26/13			10/27/12			10/26/13			10/27/12
	Service cost	$	311		$	277		$	622		$	585
	Interest cost		1,206			1,331			2,412			2,662
	Expected return on plan assets		(1,700	)		(1,714	)		(3,399	)		(3,428	)
	Net amortization		892			756			1,783			1,512
	Net periodic pension cost	$	709		$	650		$	1,418		$	1,331

Product_Warranties_Tables

Product Warranties (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Product Warranties [Abstract]	'
Reconciliation of changes in product warranty liability	'
	A reconciliation of the changes in our product warranty liability for the three months ended October 26, 2013, and October 27, 2012, is as follows:
		Second Quarter Ended						Six Months Ended
	(Unaudited, amounts in thousands)	10/26/13			10/27/12			10/26/13			10/27/12
	Balance as of the beginning of the period	$	15,821		$	14,319		$	15,525		$	14,327
	Accruals during the period		3,884			3,518			7,672			6,908
	Settlements during the period		(3,776	)		(3,524	)		(7,268	)		(6,922	)
	Balance as of the end of the period	$	15,929		$	14,313		$	15,929		$	14,313

StockBased_Compensation_Tables

Stock-Based Compensation (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Stock-Based Compensation [Abstract]	'
Stock-based compensation expense recognized in consolidated statement of income	'
	The table below summarizes the total stock-based compensation expense recognized for all outstanding grants in our consolidated statement of income:
		Second Quarter Ended						Six Months Ended
	(Unaudited, amounts in thousands)	10/26/13				10/27/12		10/26/13		10/27/12
	Equity-based awards expense	$	2,478			$	3,340	$	5,671	$	6,959
	Liability-based awards expense		1,886				963		3,790		891
	Total stock-based compensation expense	$	4,364			$	4,303	$	9,461	$	7,850
Schedule of grants made during the period	'
	The table below summarizes the grants made during the first six months of fiscal 2014:
	(Unaudited, shares/units in thousands)	Shares/units			Liability/		Settlement
		granted			Equity
					award
	Stock options		175		Equity		Common shares
	Stock appreciation rights (“SARs”)		142		Liability		Cash
	Restricted stock units – employees		122		Liability		Cash
	Restricted stock units – directors		34		Equity		Common shares
	Performance-based units		35		Liability		Cash
	Performance-based shares		191		Equity		Common shares
Stock Options [Member]	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'
Valuation Assumptions	'
	The fair value of stock options granted during the first quarter of fiscal 2014 was calculated using the following assumptions:
	(Unaudited)	7/27/13
	Risk-free interest rate		0.84	%
	Dividend rate		0.84	%
	Expected life in years		5
	Stock price volatility		81.3	%
	Fair value per share	$	11.63
Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs) [Member] | 2014 Grant Remeasured [Member]	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'
Valuation Assumptions	'
	The fair value of the SARs granted during the first quarter of fiscal 2014 was remeasured at October 26, 2013, using the following assumptions:
	(Unaudited)	10/26/13
	Risk-free interest rate		1.6	%
	Dividend rate		0.7	%
	Expected life in years		4.64
	Stock price volatility		65.16	%
	Fair value per share	$	13.01
Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs) [Member] | 2013 Grant Remeasured [Member]	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'
Valuation Assumptions	'
	In fiscal 2013, we granted SARs as described in our Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended April 27, 2013.  The fair value of the SARs granted during fiscal 2013 was remeasured at October 26, 2013, using the following assumptions:
	(Unaudited)	10/26/13
	Risk-free interest rate		1.6	%
	Dividend rate		0.7	%
	Expected life in years		3.71
	Stock price volatility		51.75	%
	Fair value per share	$	13.59

Accumulated_Other_Comprehensiv1

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Abstract]	'
Activity in accumulated other comprehensive loss	'
	The activity in accumulated other comprehensive loss for the first six months of fiscal 2014 is as follows:
	(Amounts in thousands)	Unrealized			Translation			Change in			Net pension			Accumulated
		gain on			adjustment			fair value			amortization			other
		marketable						of cash			and net			comprehensive
		securities						flow hedge			actuarial			loss
											loss
	Balance at April 27, 2013	$	474		$	4,779		$	231		$	(40,980	)	$	(35,496	)
	Changes before reclassifications		1,030			(857	)		(562	)		—			(389	)
	Amounts reclassified to net income		20			—			(31	)		1,783			1,772
	Tax effect		(405	)		—			229			(688	)		(864	)
	Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to La-Z- Boy Incorporated		645			(857	)		(364	)		1,095			519
	Balance at October 26, 2013	$	1,119		$	3,922		$	(133	)	$	(39,885	)	$	(34,977	)

Segment_Information_Tables

Segment Information (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Segment Information [Abstract]	'
Segment information	'
		Second Quarter Ended						Six Months Ended
	(Unaudited, amounts in thousands)	10/26/13			10/27/12			10/26/13			10/27/12
	Sales
	Upholstery segment:
	Sales to external customers	$	261,317		$	228,487		$	485,669		$	438,850
	Intersegment sales		34,881			30,975			65,403			58,779
	Upholstery segment sales		296,198			259,462			551,072			497,629
	Casegoods segment:
	Sales to external customers		31,190			32,028			58,466			65,345
	Intersegment sales		2,742			2,500			4,902			3,792
	Casegoods segment sales		33,932			34,528			63,368			69,137
	Retail segment sales		73,359			61,198			139,633			118,317
	Corporate and Other		537			628			1,548			1,330
	Eliminations		(37,623	)		(33,475	)		(70,305	)		(62,571	)
	Consolidated sales	$	366,403		$	322,341		$	685,316		$	623,842
	Operating Income (Loss)
	Upholstery segment	$	32,525		$	21,790		$	54,762		$	37,368
	Casegoods segment		645			902			1,202			2,181
	Retail segment		3,251			(575	)		5,177			(2,563	)
	Restructuring		142			(2,654	)		55			(2,686	)
	Corporate and Other		(11,145	)		(8,900	)		(20,956	)		(16,111	)
	Consolidated operating income	$	25,418		$	10,563		$	40,240		$	18,189

Earnings_per_Share_Tables

Earnings per Share (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Earnings per Share [Abstract]	'
Reconciliation of numerators and denominators used in the computations of basic and diluted earnings per share	'
	A reconciliation of the numerators and denominators used in the computations of basic and diluted earnings per share is as follows:
		Second Quarter Ended						Six Months Ended
	(Unaudited, amounts in thousands)	10/26/13			10/27/12			10/26/13			10/27/12
	Numerator (basic and diluted):
	Net income attributable to La-Z-Boy Incorporated	$	16,744		$	6,619		$	26,334		$	11,017
	Income allocated to participating securities		(111	)		(88	)		(248	)		(166	)
	Net income available to common shareholders	$	16,633		$	6,531		$	26,086		$	10,851
		Second Quarter Ended						Six Months Ended
		10/26/13			10/27/12			10/26/13			10/27/12
	Denominator:
	Basic weighted average common shares outstanding		52,537			52,356			52,440			52,274
	Add:
	Contingent common shares		320			366			305			366
	Stock option dilution		404			546			431			529
	Diluted weighted average common shares outstanding		53,261			53,268			53,176			53,169

Fair_Value_Measurements_Tables

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Fair Value Measurements [Abstract]	'
Schedule of assets measured at fair value on recurring basis	'
	The following table presents the fair value hierarchy for those assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis at October 26, 2013, and April 27, 2013:
	As of October 26, 2013
			Fair Value Measurements
	(Unaudited, amounts in thousands)		Level 1(a)			Level 2(a)			Level 3
	Assets
	Available-for-sale securities		$	3,640		$	41,024		$	—
	Trading securities			—			1,439			—
	Total		$	3,640		$	42,463		$	—
		(a)	There were no transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 during fiscal 2014.
	As of April 27, 2013
		Fair Value Measurements
	(Unaudited, amounts in thousands)	Level 1(b)			Level 2(b)			Level 3
	Assets
	Available-for-sale securities		$	1,217		$	38,747		$	—
	Trading securities			—			1,126			—
	Total		$	1,217		$	39,873		$	—
		(b)	There were no transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 during fiscal 2013.

Allowance_for_Credit_Losses_De

Allowance for Credit Losses (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012
Allowance for Credit Losses [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Notes receivable, gross	$5,000,000	'	$5,000,000	'
Notes receivable written off during the period	2,300,000	'	'	'
Number of customers with notes receivable balance	6	'	6	'
Notes receivable, current	800,000	'	800,000	'
Allowance for Credit Losses [Member]	'	'	'	'
Analysis of allowance for credit losses [Roll Forward]	'	'	'	'
Beginning balance	1,726,000	1,519,000	1,986,000	1,537,000
Recoveries	0	-38,000	0	-56,000
Write-offs	-1,568,000	0	-1,888,000	0
Provision for credit losses	0	0	60,000	0
Ending balance	$158,000	$1,481,000	$158,000	$1,481,000

Inventories_Details

Inventories (Details) (USD $)	Oct. 26, 2013	Apr. 27, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Inventories [Abstract]	'	'
Raw materials	$78,311	$70,731
Work in process	13,759	12,182
Finished goods	96,355	93,273
FIFO inventories	188,425	176,186
Excess of FIFO over LIFO	-29,843	-29,843
Inventories, net	$158,582	$146,343

Investments_Details

Investments (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012	Apr. 27, 2013
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Amount of investment which enhance return on cash	$30,100,000	'	$30,100,000	'	$29,900,000
Summary of investments [Abstract]	'	'	'	'	'
Gross Unrealized Gains	1,459,000	'	1,459,000	'	456,000
Gross Unrealized Losses	-110,000	'	-110,000	'	-156,000
Fair Value	46,103,000	'	46,103,000	'	41,090,000
Sales of available-for-sale securities [Abstract]	'	'	'	'	'
Proceeds from sales	9,636,000	3,480,000	18,196,000	4,908,000	'
Gross realized gains	32,000	621,000	45,000	845,000	'
Gross realized losses	-29,000	-10,000	-65,000	-36,000	'
Available-for-sale fair value by contractual maturity [Abstract]	'	'	'	'	'
Available-for-sale securities, within one year, fair value	9,600,000	'	9,600,000	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, within two through five years, fair value	23,500,000	'	23,500,000	'	'
Available-for-sale securities, within six through ten years, fair value	1,800,000	'	1,800,000	'	'
Available-for-sale securities, after ten years, fair value	500,000	'	500,000	'	'
Other Current Assets [Member]	'	'	'	'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Available-for-sale investments, current	9,600,000	'	9,600,000	'	10,800,000
Trading securities, current	1,400,000	'	1,400,000	'	1,100,000
Other Long-Term Assets [Member]	'	'	'	'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Available-for-sale investments	35,100,000	'	35,100,000	'	29,200,000
Equity Securities [Member]	'	'	'	'	'
Summary of investments [Abstract]	'	'	'	'	'
Gross Unrealized Gains	1,303,000	'	1,303,000	'	296,000
Gross Unrealized Losses	-67,000	'	-67,000	'	-152,000
Fair Value	8,975,000	'	8,975,000	'	6,668,000
Fixed Income [Member]	'	'	'	'	'
Summary of investments [Abstract]	'	'	'	'	'
Gross Unrealized Gains	155,000	'	155,000	'	159,000
Gross Unrealized Losses	-35,000	'	-35,000	'	-1,000
Fair Value	35,396,000	'	35,396,000	'	33,076,000
Mutual Funds [Member]	'	'	'	'	'
Summary of investments [Abstract]	'	'	'	'	'
Gross Unrealized Gains	0	'	0	'	0
Gross Unrealized Losses	0	'	0	'	0
Fair Value	1,439,000	'	1,439,000	'	1,126,000
Other [Member]	'	'	'	'	'
Summary of investments [Abstract]	'	'	'	'	'
Gross Unrealized Gains	1,000	'	1,000	'	1,000
Gross Unrealized Losses	-8,000	'	-8,000	'	-3,000
Fair Value	$293,000	'	$293,000	'	$220,000

Other_Intangible_Assets_Detail

Other Intangible Assets (Details) (USD $)	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Rollforward of other intangible assets [Roll Forward]	'
Balance at April 27, 2013 (Excluding Goodwill)	$4,838,000
Acquisition during the second quarter of fiscal 2014	789,000
Balance at October 26,2013 (Excluding Goodwill)	5,627,000
Trade Names [Member]	'
Rollforward of other intangible assets [Roll Forward]	'
Balance at April 27, 2013	2,693,000
Acquisition during the second quarter of fiscal 2014	0
Balance at October 26, 2013	2,693,000
Reacquired Rights [Member]	'
Rollforward of other intangible assets [Roll Forward]	'
Balance at April 27, 2013 (Excluding Goodwill)	2,145,000
Acquisition during the second quarter of fiscal 2014	789,000
Balance at October 26, 2013 (Excluding Goodwill)	2,934,000
Independent La-Z-Boy Furniture Galleries [Member]	'
Business Acquisition [Line Items]	'
Value of acquisition	$1,600,000

Pension_Plans_Details

Pension Plans (Details) (Pension Plans [Member], USD $)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012
Pension Plans [Member]	'	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Service cost	$311	$277	$622	$585
Interest cost	1,206	1,331	2,412	2,662
Expected return on plan assets	-1,700	-1,714	-3,399	-3,428
Net amortization	892	756	1,783	1,512
Net periodic pension cost	$709	$650	$1,418	$1,331

Product_Warranties_Details

Product Warranties (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012	Apr. 27, 2013
Product Warranty Contingency [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Percentage of warranty liability relating to Upholstery Group (in hundredths)	'	'	90.00%	'	'
Reconciliation of changes in product warranty liability [Roll Forward]	'	'	'	'	'
Balance as of the beginning of the period	$15,821,000	$14,319,000	$15,525,000	$14,327,000	'
Accruals during the period	3,884,000	3,518,000	7,672,000	6,908,000	'
Settlements during the period	-3,776,000	-3,524,000	-7,268,000	-6,922,000	'
Balance as of the end of the period	15,929,000	14,313,000	15,929,000	14,313,000	'
Amount of product warranty liability included in accrued expenses and other current liabilities	$9,900,000	'	$9,900,000	'	$9,500,000
Fabric and Leather [Member]	'	'	'	'	'
Product Warranty Contingency [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Warranty term	'	'	'1 year	'	'
Padding [Member]	'	'	'	'	'
Product Warranty Contingency [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Warranty term	'	'	'1 to 10 years	'	'
Certain Mechanisms and Frames [Member]	'	'	'	'	'
Product Warranty Contingency [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Warranty term	'	'	'Up to a lifetime	'	'
Labor Costs Relating to Parts [Member]	'	'	'	'	'
Product Warranty Contingency [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Warranty term	'	'	'1 year	'	'

StockBased_Compensation_Detail

Stock-Based Compensation (Details) (USD $)

3 Months Ended

6 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

6 Months Ended

In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified

Oct. 26, 2013

Oct. 27, 2012

Oct. 26, 2013

Oct. 27, 2012

Jul. 27, 2013

Oct. 26, 2013

Oct. 26, 2013

Oct. 26, 2013

Oct. 26, 2013

Oct. 26, 2013

Oct. 26, 2013

Oct. 26, 2013

Oct. 26, 2013

Oct. 26, 2013

Oct. 26, 2013

Oct. 26, 2013

Oct. 26, 2013

Oct. 26, 2013

Oct. 26, 2013

Oct. 26, 2013

Oct. 26, 2013

Oct. 26, 2013

Oct. 26, 2013

Oct. 26, 2013

Oct. 26, 2013

Oct. 26, 2013

Stock Options [Member]

Stock Options [Member]

Stock Options [Member]

Stock Options [Member]

Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs) [Member]

Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs) [Member]

Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs) [Member]

Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs) [Member]

Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs) [Member]

Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]

Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]

Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]

Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]

Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]

Performance Share Units [Member]

Performance Share Units [Member]

Performance Share Units [Member]

Performance Share Units [Member]

Performance Share Units [Member]

Performance Share Units [Member]

Performance-Based Shares [Member]

Performance-Based Shares [Member]

Minimum [Member]

Maximum [Member]

2013 Grant Remeasured [Member]

2014 Grant Remeasured [Member]

Minimum [Member]

Maximum [Member]

Employees [Member]

Director [Member]

Minimum [Member]

Maximum [Member]

2013 Grant Remeasured [Member]

Monte Carlo Valuation Model [Member]

Monte Carlo Valuation Model [Member]

Minimum [Member]

Maximum [Member]

Monte Carlo Valuation Model [Member]

2013 Grant Remeasured [Member]

Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Options granted (in shares)

'

'

'

'

'

174,595

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Equity instruments other than options, granted in period (in shares/units)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

141,546

'

'

'

'

'

122,007

34,200

'

'

35,083

'

'

'

'

'

191,410

'

Percentage of grants with market-based vesting (in hundredths)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

20.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Percentages of share based payment award percent vesting each year from date of grant (in hundredths)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

25.00%

'

'

'

'

25.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Vesting period of stock-based award

'

'

'

'

'

'

'1 year

'4 years

'

'

'

'1 year

'4 years

'

'

'

'1 year

'4 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Percentage of grants with performance vesting (in hundredths)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

80.00%

'

'

'

50.00%

200.00%

'

'

Performance awards, performance period

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'3 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Award common share equivalent (in shares)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Fair value of shares (in dollars per unit)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$23.35

'

$21.20

'

'

$22.91

$23.07

$33.39

$36.41

'

'

'

'

Fair value of granted performance-based shares (in dollars per share)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$18.58

$26.08

Stock-based compensation expense recognized consolidated statement of income

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Equity-based awards expense

$2,478

$3,340

$5,671

$6,959

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Liability-based awards expense (income)

1,886

963

3,790

891

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Total stock-based compensation expense

$4,364

$4,303

$9,461

$7,850

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Fair value assumptions [Abstract]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Risk-free interest rate (in hundredths)

'

'

'

'

0.84%

'

'

'

'

1.60%

1.60%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Dividend rate (in hundredths)

'

'

'

'

0.84%

'

'

'

'

0.70%

0.70%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Expected life in years

'

'

'

'

'5 years

'

'

'

'

'3 years 8 months 16 days

'4 years 7 months 20 days

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Stock price volatility (in hundredths)

'

'

'

'

81.30%

'

'

'

'

51.75%

65.16%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Fair value per share (in dollars per share)

'

'

'

'

$11.63

'

'

'

'

$13.59

$13.01

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Accumulated_Other_Comprehensiv2

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss (Details) (USD $)	6 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 26, 2013
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss [Line Items]	'
Balance	($35,496)
Changes before reclassifications	-389
Amounts reclassified to net income	1,772
Tax effect	-864
Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to La-Z-Boy Incorporated	519
Balance	-34,977
Unrealized gain on marketable securities [Member]	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss [Line Items]	'
Balance	474
Changes before reclassifications	1,030
Amounts reclassified to net income	20
Tax effect	-405
Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to La-Z-Boy Incorporated	645
Balance	1,119
Translation adjustment [Member]	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss [Line Items]	'
Balance	4,779
Changes before reclassifications	-857
Amounts reclassified to net income	0
Tax effect	0
Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to La-Z-Boy Incorporated	-857
Balance	3,922
Change in fair value of cash flow hedge [Member]	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss [Line Items]	'
Balance	231
Changes before reclassifications	-562
Amounts reclassified to net income	-31
Tax effect	229
Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to La-Z-Boy Incorporated	-364
Balance	-133
Net pension amortization and net actuarial loss [Member]	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss [Line Items]	'
Balance	-40,980
Changes before reclassifications	0
Amounts reclassified to net income	1,783
Tax effect	-688
Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to La-Z-Boy Incorporated	1,095
Balance	($39,885)

Segment_Information_Details

Segment Information (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Sales	$366,403	$322,341	$685,316	$623,842
Operating Income (Loss)	25,418	10,563	40,240	18,189
Restructuring [Member]	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Operating Income (Loss)	142	-2,654	55	-2,686
Upholstery Segment [Member]	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Number of operating units	3	'	3	'
Sales to external customers	261,317	228,487	485,669	438,850
Intersegment sales	34,881	30,975	65,403	58,779
Sales	296,198	259,462	551,072	497,629
Operating Income (Loss)	32,525	21,790	54,762	37,368
Casegoods Segment [Member]	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Number of operating units	4	'	4	'
Sales to external customers	31,190	32,028	58,466	65,345
Intersegment sales	2,742	2,500	4,902	3,792
Sales	33,932	34,528	63,368	69,137
Operating Income (Loss)	645	902	1,202	2,181
Retail Segment [Member]	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Number of stores	97	'	97	'
Number of primary markets	12	'	12	'
Sales	73,359	61,198	139,633	118,317
Operating Income (Loss)	3,251	-575	5,177	-2,563
Corporate and Other [Member]	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Sales	537	628	1,548	1,330
Operating Income (Loss)	-11,145	-8,900	-20,956	-16,111
Eliminations [Member]	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Sales	($37,623)	($33,475)	($70,305)	($62,571)

Income_Taxes_Details

Income Taxes (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012
Income Taxes [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Effective tax rate (in hundredths)	32.40%	36.10%	33.60%	36.50%
Liability for uncertain tax positions	$1.40	'	$1.40	'
Liability for uncertain tax positions to be settled within 12 months	0.2	'	0.2	'
Tax benefit on change in valuation allowance	'	'	$0.90	'
Tax rate absent the valuation allowance adjustment (in hundredths)	35.80%	'	35.70%	'

Earnings_per_Share_Details

Earnings per Share (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012
Numerator (basic and diluted) [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Net income attributable to La-Z-Boy Incorporated	$16,744	$6,619	$26,334	$11,017
Income allocated to participating securities	-111	-88	-248	-166
Net income available to common shareholders	$16,633	$6,531	$26,086	$10,851
Denominator [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Basic weighted average common shares outstanding (in shares)	52,537,000	52,356,000	52,440,000	52,274,000
Add [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Contingent common shares	320,000	366,000	305,000	366,000
Stock option dilution (in shares)	404,000	546,000	431,000	529,000
Diluted weighted average common shares outstanding (in shares)	53,261,000	53,268,000	53,176,000	53,169,000
Outstanding options to purchase shares (in shares)	0	200,000	0	200,000
Weighted average exercise price (in dollars per share)	'	$20.74	'	$20.74

Fair_Value_Measurements_Detail

Fair Value Measurements (Details) (Recurring Basis [Member], USD $)	Oct. 26, 2013		Apr. 27, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Level 1 [Member]	'		'
Assets [Abstract]	'		'
Available-for-sale securities	$3,640	[1]	$1,217	[2]
Trading securities	0	[1]	0	[2]
Total	3,640	[1]	1,217	[2]
Level 2 [Member]	'		'
Assets [Abstract]	'		'
Available-for-sale securities	41,024	[1]	38,747	[2]
Trading securities	1,439	[1]	1,126	[2]
Total	42,463	[1]	39,873	[2]
Level 3 [Member]	'		'
Assets [Abstract]	'		'
Available-for-sale securities	0		0
Trading securities	0		0
Total	$0		$0
[1]	There were no transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 during fiscal 2014.
[2]	There were no transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 during fiscal 2013.