Company News

Macy’s Expects 3-4% Gain in Q4

Bellwether retailer's prediction provides holiday guidance.

Author Image

By: TOM BRANNA

Editor

Thanksgiving in the U.S. is still weeks away, but recent comments from Macy’s Inc., a bellwether retailer here in the States, is providing some guidance on how the holiday selling season will play out. The company said it expects same-store sales in the fourth quarter to be up 3 to 4 percent, and based on stronger sales expectations, Macy’s increased earnings guidance for the second half of 2010 to $1.50 to $1.55 a diluted share, compared with previous guidance in August of $1.45 to $1.50. Full year earnings per share guidance is $1.94 to $1.99, compared with an earlier forecast of between $1.89 to $1.94.

For the third quarter, Macy’s Inc. posted a profit, reversing a year-ago loss, and that sales gained 6.6 percent. For the three months ended Oct. 30, income was $10 million, or 2 cents a diluted share, against a loss of $35 million, or 8 cents, last year. Sales rose to $5.62 billion from $5.28 billion.
“Throughout 2010, we have gained confidence and momentum as customers have responded favorably to our execution of key strategies developed and activated over the past few years. This bodes well for our business as we enter the holiday selling season with a differentiated and tailored merchandise offering, compelling marketing, and an energized organization of store associates focused on engaging customers,” said Terry J. Lundgren, chairman, president and chief executive officer.

Keep Up With Our Content. Subscribe To Happi Newsletters