Academy Sports Reports Q4 EPS of $1.98, Raises Dividend 15%
Academy Sports Outdoors Q4 net sales rose 2.5% to $1.7185 billion, with diluted EPS up 4.8% to $1.98 while comparable sales fell 1.6%. The company increased its quarterly dividend by 15% to $0.15, opened 24 stores in 2025, and forecasts 2%–5% sales growth for fiscal 2026 alongside 20–25 new stores.
1. Fourth Quarter Financial Performance
Academy Sports Outdoors delivered Q4 net sales of $1,718.5 million, a 2.5% increase year-over-year, driven by higher demand and new store openings. Comparable store sales declined 1.6%, while diluted GAAP EPS rose 4.8% to $1.98, reflecting improved gross margins and disciplined expense management.
2. Capital Allocation and Store Expansion
During fiscal 2025, the company opened 24 new stores, bringing its total footprint to 322 locations, and increased its quarterly dividend by 15% to $0.15 per share. Share repurchases totaled $200.8 million, and cash and cash equivalents climbed 14.3% to $330.3 million as of January 31, 2026.
3. Fiscal 2026 Guidance
Academy projects full-year net sales growth of 2%–5% and anticipates opening 20–25 stores in fiscal 2026. Management expects ongoing tailwinds from digital transformation, omni-channel initiatives, increased tax refunds, and major sporting events, while acknowledging persistent consumer spending pressures.