Ulta Beauty’s Q4 Sales Jump 11.8% to $3.9B but EPS Misses Forecast
Ulta Beauty’s Q4 net sales rose 11.8% to $3.9B, driven by a 5.8% comp gain, Space NK acquisition and new stores, while EPS of $8.01 missed analyst views of $8.03. For fiscal 2026, Ulta forecasts net sales growth of 6–7% and expects beauty category growth of 2–4%, citing resilient demand.
1. Q4 Revenue and Comparable Sales
Ulta Beauty’s net sales rose 11.8% to $3.9 billion in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2025, driven by a 5.8% increase in comparable sales, the acquisition of Space NK and contributions from new store openings.
2. Category Performance
Fragrance led with double-digit comparable gains from brands including YSL, Prada, Noyz and Summer Mink; hair delivered high-single-digit comps boosted by Amika, Moroccanoil and Cecred; skin care and wellness grew midsingle digits, while makeup saw low-single-digit growth in both mass and prestige segments.
3. Earnings and Market Reaction
Earnings per share came in at $8.01, slightly below the $8.03 consensus, prompting a roughly 10% after-hours stock dip following a 4.3% decline at the close.
4. Fiscal 2026 Outlook
Ulta projects net sales growth of 6–7% for fiscal 2026, with beauty category expansion expected at 2–4%, as the company anticipates resilient consumer demand while monitoring potential economic risks.