Genesco Sees 10% Same-Store Growth, Lifts FY26 EPS Forecast to $1.30

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Genesco reported quarter-to-date comparable sales rose 9%, with same-store up 10% and e-commerce up 9% for the eight weeks ended December 27, 2025. Following this holiday performance, it raised its FY26 adjusted EPS forecast to at least $1.30 per share, up from its prior outlook.

1. Holiday Sales Drive Double-digit Growth

Genesco reported an 8.1% share price rally today after disclosing that holiday quarter comparable sales rose 9% year-over-year for the eight-week period ended December 27, 2025. Same-store sales climbed 10%, reflecting strong full-price conversion and elevated consumer demand during peak shopping windows. E-commerce channels matched overall growth with a 9% gain, underscoring the effectiveness of the company’s omnichannel fulfillment strategies and digital marketing initiatives.

2. Brand Performance Highlights

Journeys led the portfolio with a 12% comparable sales increase, driven by fresh seasonal assortments and enhanced in-store experiences that lifted conversion rates. Schuh delivered a 6% gain as the U.K. market continued to trade at promotional levels—management emphasized inventory discipline to exit the quarter with cleaner stock. Johnston & Murphy posted a 1% rise, supported by targeted promotions in premium men’s footwear, while direct-to-consumer channels across all banners sustained robust growth.

3. FY26 EPS Outlook Revised Upward

In light of the holiday strength, Genesco now expects adjusted earnings per share for fiscal 2026 to reach at least $1.30, up from its previous guidance. This revision reflects a $13.8 million net adjustment to forecasted earnings from continuing operations—comprised of $7.3 million reported earnings and $6.5 million in asset impairment and other adjustments. The upgraded outlook underscores management’s confidence in disciplined cost controls and margin management despite residual promotional pressures at Schuh.

4. Strategic Execution and Investor Engagement

Genesco reiterated its focus on disciplined execution, cost efficiencies and dynamic inventory management as consumer demand becomes more concentrated around key shopping moments. The company will present a detailed business update and full-year results at the ICR Conference on January 12, 2026. Investors will be watching for commentary on capital allocation priorities, including share repurchase capacity and lease cost variability, as well as any forward guidance on store openings, digital growth targets and margin expansion initiatives.

Sources

BZ