Genesco estimates Q2 FY'14 sales to rise 5.7%

In order to provide an estimate on a comparable basis with previously reported periods, and assuming for this purpose the continued application of the Company's historical method of accounting for such bonus awards, which is under review by the Company and its independent auditors.

Tthe Company estimates earnings from continuing operations for the second quarter ended August 3, 2013 would be $12.1 million, or $0.52 per diluted share, compared to previously reported earnings from continuing operations of $10.6 million, or $0.44 per diluted share, for the second quarter ended July 28, 2012. 

Fiscal 2014 second quarter results are expected to reflect expenses of $0.7 million, or $0.04 per diluted share after tax, including $2.8 million of expenses related to deferred purchase price payments in connection with the acquisition of Schuh Group Limited, which are required to be expensed as compensation because the payment is contingent upon the payees' continued employment,  and $1.2 million for other legal matters, network intrusion expenses and asset impairment charges, partially offset by a net gain of $3.3 million on the  termination of  the lease of a New York City Journeys store location.

Last year's  second quarter results included $3.3 million, or $0.06 per diluted share after tax, in deferred purchase price payments in connection with the acquisition of Schuh Group Limited and asset impairment charges, decreased by tax rate adjustments.

Net sales for the second quarter of Fiscal 2014 increased 5.7% to $574.7 million from $543.5 million in the second quarter of Fiscal 2013, reflecting a comparable store sales decrease of 2%.  The Lids Sports Group's comparable store sales decreased by 3%, the Journeys Group decreased by 1%, Schuh Group decreased by 7%, and Johnston & Murphy Retail increased by 7%.

Robert J. Dennis, chairman, president and chief executive officer of Genesco, said, "We are disappointed that our second quarter performance fell short of expectations.  Sales trends proved to be more challenging as the quarter progressed and results came in below our plan.

"The third quarter has gotten off to a difficult start with comparable sales down 3% through  Saturday, August 24. Despite our current sales trajectory we remain optimistic that we can deliver a modest comp improvement in the fourth quarter based primarily on a product mix shift in footwear that moves in our favor and easier comparisons for Journeys and Lids."

Genesco