Net sales zoom 24% at Select Comfort in Q3

Cash from operating activities was $98 million for the first nine months of 2012 compared to $75 million in the same period one year ago. Capital expenditures for the first nine months of 2012 increased to $37 million as compared to $14 million in 2011, driven by increased investment in stores and information systems. During the third quarter, the company returned $10 million to shareholders through the repurchase of 0.4 million shares of its common stock, bringing the total share repurchases year-to-date to $20 million, or 0.8 million shares. As of the end of the quarter, cash, cash equivalents and marketable-debt securities totaled $193 million, and the company had no borrowings under its revolving credit facility.

Fiscal 2012 Outlook

The company is raising its outlook for 2012 GAAP earnings per diluted share, including the $5.6 million non-recurring charge in the first quarter of 2012, from between $1.35 and $1.41 to between $1.45 and $1.47, a 36 to 37 percent increase versus the prior year. Excluding the charge, this represents non-GAAP guidance of between $1.51 and $1.53, a 41 to 43 percent increase versus prior year. This outlook assumes total sales growth during the fourth quarter of at least 20 percent.

The company expects year-end 2012 store count to be between 408 and 412 stores, a 7 to 8 percent increase from the 381 stores at year-end 2011. Capital expenditures for 2012 are estimated to be approximately $50 million, reflecting new stores, repositioned stores and remodels, along with continued investment in information systems. The company also plans to continue repurchasing shares for the remainder of 2012, with the objective of maintaining share count.

Select Comfort Corporation is leading the industry in delivering an unparalleled sleep experience by offering consumers high-quality, innovative and individualized sleep solutions and services, which include a complete line of SLEEP NUMBER beds and bedding.

Select Comfort Corporation