Boot Barn Sees 5% Early Q1 Comps Growth, Cuts Fiscal ’27 Store Plan to 70

BOOTBOOT

Boot Barn reported 5% comps growth in first six weeks of Q1, led by high-single-digit gains in work boots and strength in denim and men's western boots. The company narrowed fiscal 2027 store openings to 70 after accelerating 10 into fiscal 2026 and expects a 10-basis-point freight cost tailwind.

1. Broad-Based Q1 Comparable Sales Growth

Boot Barn delivered 5% comparable sales growth during the first six weeks of Q1, driven by high-single-digit increases in work boots and notable strength in denim and men's western boots. Management also reported a 3% rise in average unit retail and a 1% increase in transactions over that period.

2. Updated Store Expansion Plan

The company revised its fiscal 2027 expansion plan to open 70 new stores, down from the original 80, after accelerating 10 openings into fiscal 2026. Management signaled this shift reflects optimized real estate pacing and increased focus on profitable markets.

3. Freight Cost Outlook

Boot Barn expects a freight cost tailwind worth roughly 10 basis points year-over-year, with a benefit in Q2 assuming stable shipping rates and flattish expense impact in the back half of the year. The finance team noted prior-year freight benefited Q1 and sees continued improvement under current logistics trends.

4. Exclusive Brand Penetration Progress

Exclusive brands reached 40.8% of total sales, surpassing last year’s target, as marketing and dedicated shop-in-shop sites boosted penetration. Leadership reiterated plans to achieve 50% exclusive brand share over the next several years through product expansion and customer engagement initiatives.

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