Biggest changeFor the fiscal years ended December 28, 2023 and December 29, 2022 The following tables summarize key components of our results of operations for the periods indicated (certain numbers may not sum due to rounding): Fiscal Year Ended 12/28/2023 12/29/2022 Increase (Decrease) dollars in thousands Amount % of Net sales Amount % of Net sales $ % Net sales $ 4,413,884 100.0 % $ 4,264,473 100.0 % $ 149,411 3.5 % Cost of sales 2,555,536 57.9 2,536,757 59.5 18,779 0.7 % Gross profit 1,858,348 42.1 1,727,716 40.5 130,632 7.6 % Operating expenses: Selling and store operating 1,239,225 28.1 1,078,466 25.3 160,759 14.9 % General and administrative 252,713 5.7 213,848 5.0 38,865 18.2 % Pre-opening 44,982 1.0 38,642 0.9 6,340 16.4 % Total operating expenses 1,536,920 34.8 1,330,956 31.2 205,964 15.5 % Operating income 321,428 7.3 396,760 9.3 (75,332) (19.0) % Interest expense, net 9,897 0.2 11,138 0.3 (1,241) (11.1) % Income before income taxes 311,531 7.1 385,622 9.0 (74,091) (19.2) % Income tax expense 65,551 1.5 87,427 2.1 (21,876) (25.0) % Net income $ 245,980 5.6 % $ 298,195 7.0 % $ (52,215) (17.5) % Fiscal Year Ended 12/28/2023 12/29/2022 Comparable store sales (7.1) % 9.2 % Comparable average ticket 0.2 % 17.0 % Comparable customer transactions (7.2) % (6.6) % Number of warehouse-format stores 221 191 Adjusted EBITDA (in thousands) (1) $ 551,133 $ 577,050 Adjusted EBITDA (% of net sales) 12.5 % 13.5 % (1) Refer to “Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Measures” further below for reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to net income. 34 Table of Contents Net Sales Net sales during fiscal 2023 increased $149.4 million, or 3.5%, compared to fiscal 2022 due to sales from the 31 new warehouse-format stores that we opened during the year and growth in our commercial business, partially offset by a decrease in comparable store sales of 7.1%.
Biggest changeThe following tables summarize key components of our results of operations for the periods indicated: Fiscal Year Ended December 26, 2024 December 28, 2023 Increase (Decrease) dollars in thousands Amount % of Net Sales Amount % of Net Sales $ % Net sales $ 4,455,770 100.0 % $ 4,413,884 100.0 % $ 41,886 0.9 % Cost of sales 2,527,519 56.7 2,555,536 57.9 (28,017) (1.1) % Gross profit 1,928,251 43.3 1,858,348 42.1 69,903 3.8 % Operating expenses: Selling and store operating 1,362,325 30.6 1,239,225 28.1 123,100 9.9 % General and administrative 266,165 6.0 252,713 5.7 13,452 5.3 % Pre-opening 43,585 0.9 44,982 1.0 (1,397) (3.1) % Total operating expenses 1,672,075 37.5 1,536,920 34.8 135,155 8.8 % Operating income 256,176 5.8 321,428 7.3 (65,252) (20.3) % Interest expense, net 2,773 0.1 9,897 0.2 (7,124) (72.0) % Income before income taxes 253,403 5.7 311,531 7.1 (58,128) (18.7) % Income tax expense 47,531 1.1 65,551 1.5 (18,020) (27.5) % Net income $ 205,872 4.6 % $ 245,980 5.6 % $ (40,108) (16.3) % Fiscal Year Ended December 26, 2024 December 28, 2023 Comparable store sales (7.1) % (7.1) % Comparable average ticket (2.5) % 0.2 % Comparable transactions (4.7) % (7.2) % Number of warehouse-format stores 251 221 Adjusted EBITDA (in thousands) (1) $ 512,504 $ 551,133 Adjusted EBITDA (% of net sales) 11.5 % 12.5 % (1) Refer to “Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures” below for a reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to net income. 31 Table of Contents Net Sales Net sales during fiscal 2024 increased $41.9 million, or 0.9%, compared to fiscal 2023 due to sales from the 30 new warehouse-format stores that we opened during the year and growth in Spartan, partially offset by a decrease in comparable store sales of 7.1%.
Operating income, EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are also frequently used by analysts, investors and other interested parties as performance measures to evaluate companies in our industry. EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are supplemental measures of financial performance that are not required by, or presented in accordance with, GAAP. We define EBITDA as net income before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization.
Operating income, EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are also frequently used by analysts, investors, and other interested parties as performance measures to evaluate companies in our industry. EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are supplemental measures of financial performance that are not required by or presented in accordance with GAAP. We define EBITDA as net income before interest, taxes, and depreciation and amortization.
We define Adjusted EBITDA as net income before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, adjusted to eliminate the impact of non-cash stock-based compensation expense and certain items that we do not consider indicative of our core operating performance.
We define Adjusted EBITDA as net income before interest, taxes, and depreciation and amortization adjusted to eliminate the impact of non-cash stock-based compensation expense and certain items that we do not consider indicative of our core operating performance.
Net Cash Used In Investing Activities Investing activities typically consist primarily of capital expenditures for new store openings and existing store remodels, including leasehold improvements, racking, fixtures, vignettes, and design centers, and new infrastructure and information systems. Cash payments to acquire businesses are also included in investing activities.
Net Cash Used in Investing Activities Investing activities typically consist primarily of capital expenditures for new store openings and existing store remodels, including leasehold improvements, racking, fixtures, vignettes, design centers, and new infrastructure and information systems. Cash payments to acquire businesses are also included in investing activities.
As we continue to manage the impact these tariffs may have on our business, we continue taking steps to mitigate some of these cost increases through negotiating lower costs from our vendors, increasing retail pricing as we deem appropriate, and sourcing from alternative countries.
As we continue to manage the impact these tariffs may have on our business, we continue taking steps to mitigate some of these cost increases through negotiating lower costs from our vendors, sourcing from alternative countries, and increasing retail pricing as we deem appropriate.
Our primary cash needs are for merchandise inventories, payroll, store rent, and other operating expenses and capital expenditures associated with opening new stores and remodeling existing stores, as well as information technology, e-commerce, and store support center infrastructure. We also use cash for the payment of taxes and interest and, as applicable, acquisitions.
Our primary cash needs are for merchandise inventories, payroll, store rent, and other operating expenses and capital expenditures associated with opening new stores and remodeling existing stores as well as information technology, e-commerce, store support center, and distribution center infrastructure. We also use cash for the payment of taxes and interest and, as applicable, acquisitions.
Pre-opening expenses primarily include the following: rent, advertising, training, staff recruiting, utilities, personnel, and equipment rental. A store is considered to be relocated if it is closed temporarily and re-opened within the same primary trade area. Segments We have two operating segments and one reportable segment.
Pre-opening expenses primarily include the following: rent, advertising, recruiting, training, utilities, personnel, and equipment rental. A store is considered to be relocated if it is closed temporarily and re-opened within the same primary trade area. Segments We have two operating segments and one reportable segment.
In particular, a weakening of our financial condition, including an increase in our leverage or decrease in our profitability or cash flows, could adversely affect our ability to obtain necessary funds, result in a credit rating downgrade or change in outlook, or otherwise increase our cost of borrowing. 37 Table of Contents Supply Chain Finance Programs As part of our ongoing efforts to improve cash flow and liquidity, we facilitate supply chain finance programs through financial intermediaries.
In particular, a weakening of our financial condition, including an increase in our leverage or decrease in our profitability or cash flows, could adversely affect our ability to obtain necessary funds, result in a credit rating downgrade or change in outlook, or otherwise increase our cost of borrowing. 34 Table of Contents Supply Chain Finance Programs As part of our ongoing efforts to improve cash flow and liquidity, we facilitate supply chain finance programs through financial intermediaries.
We capitalize transportation, duties, and other costs to get product to our retail locations. Judgments and uncertainties involved in the estimate. We provide provisions for losses related to shrinkage and other amounts that are otherwise not expected to be fully recoverable. These provisions are calculated based on historical shrinkage, selling prices, margins, and current business trends.
We capitalize transportation, duties, and other costs to get product to our retail locations. Judgments and uncertainties involved in the estimate. We provide provisions for losses related to shrink and other amounts that are otherwise not expected to be fully recoverable. These provisions are calculated based on historical shrink, selling prices, margins, and current business trends.
With respect to our merchandising assortment, certain of our products tend to generate somewhat higher margins than other products within the same product categories or among different product categories. We have experienced inflation increases in certain of our product categories but historically have been able to source from a different manufacturer or pass increases on to our consumers.
With respect to our merchandising assortment, certain of our products generate higher margins than other products within the same product categories or among different product categories. We have experienced inflation increases in certain of our product categories but historically have been able to source from a different manufacturer or pass increases on to our consumers.
Net Cash (Used in) Provided by Financing Activities Financing activities consist primarily of borrowings and related repayments under our credit agreements, tax payments related to the vesting or exercise of stock-based compensation awards, proceeds from the exercise of stock options and our employee share purchase program, and payments of contingent earn-out consideration.
Net Cash Used in Financing Activities Financing activities consist primarily of borrowings and related repayments under our credit agreements, tax payments related to the vesting or exercise of stock-based compensation awards, proceeds from the exercise of stock options and our employee share purchase program, and payments of contingent earn-out consideration.
For fiscal 2023, we were not party to any material off-balance sheet arrangements that are reasonably likely to have a current or future effect on our financial condition, net sales, expenses, results of operations, liquidity, capital expenditures, or capital resources.
For fiscal 2024, we were not party to any material off-balance sheet arrangements that are reasonably likely to have a current or future effect on our financial condition, net sales, expenses, results of operations, liquidity, capital expenditures, or capital resources.
See Note 14, “Supply Chain Finance” of the notes to our consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report for additional details related to our Finance Programs. Material Cash Requirements, including Contractual Obligations to Third Parties We enter into long-term obligations and commitments in the normal course of business, primarily debt obligations and non-cancelable operating leases.
See Note 13, “Supply Chain Finance” of the notes to our consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report for additional details related to our supply chain finance programs. Material Cash Requirements, including Contractual Obligations to Third Parties We enter into long-term obligations and commitments in the normal course of business, primarily non-cancelable operating leases and debt obligations.
Cost of sales consists of merchandise costs, as well as freight costs to transport inventory to our distribution centers and stores, and duty and other costs that are incurred to distribute the merchandise to our stores. Cost of sales also includes shrinkage, damage, warehousing costs, sourcing and compliance costs.
Cost of sales consists of merchandise costs, as well as freight costs to transport inventory to our distribution centers and stores, and duty and other costs that are incurred to distribute the merchandise to our stores. Cost of sales also includes shrink, damage, warehousing costs, sourcing and compliance costs.
Sales returns reserves and related return asset accruals over the last few years have fluctuated primarily based on changes in sales levels and, to a lesser extent, changes in customer return rates. Inventory Valuation and Shrinkage Description. Inventories consist of merchandise held for sale and are stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value.
Sales returns reserves and related return asset accruals over the last few years have fluctuated primarily based on changes in sales levels and, to a lesser extent, changes in customer return rates. Merchandise Inventories Description. Inventories consist of merchandise held for sale and are stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value.
Since our e-commerce, regional account manager, and design studio sales are fulfilled by individual stores, they are included in comparable store sales only to the extent the fulfilling store meets the above mentioned store criteria. Sales through our Spartan Surfaces, LLC. (“Spartan”) subsidiary do not involve our stores and are therefore excluded from the comparable store sales calculation.
Since our e-commerce, regional account manager, and design studio sales are fulfilled by individual stores, they are included in comparable store sales only to the extent the fulfilling store meets the above mentioned store criteria. Sales through our Spartan subsidiary do not involve our stores and are therefore excluded from the comparable store sales calculation.
The key measures we use to determine how our business is performing are comparable store sales, the number of new store openings, gross profit and gross margin, operating income, and EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA. Comparable Store Sales Our comparable store sales growth is a significant driver of our net sales, profitability, cash flow, and overall business results.
The key measures we use to determine how our business is performing are comparable store sales, the number of new store openings, gross profit and gross margin, operating income, and EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA. 27 Table of Contents Comparable Store Sales Our comparable store sales growth is a significant driver of our net sales, profitability, cash flow, and overall business results.
However, the potential significance and duration of these macroeconomic difficulties is uncertain, and further pressures on the housing market could have an adverse impact on our business. 30 Table of Contents Key Performance Indicators We consider a variety of performance and financial measures in assessing the performance of our business.
However, the potential significance and duration of these macroeconomic difficulties is uncertain, and further pressures on the housing market could have an adverse impact on our business. Key Performance Indicators We consider a variety of performance and financial measures in assessing the performance of our business.
This discussion and analysis contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Our actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of certain factors, including those discussed in “Item 1A. Risk Factors.” See the cautionary note regarding forward-looking statements set forth at the beginning of this Annual Report.
This discussion and analysis contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Our actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of certain factors, including those discussed in Item 1A, “Risk Factors.” See the cautionary note regarding forward-looking statements set forth at the beginning of this Annual Report.
Total capital expenditures in fiscal 2024 are planned to be between approximately $400 million to $475 million and are expected to be funded primarily by cash generated from operations and borrowings under the ABL Facility. Our capital needs may change in the future due to changes in our business, new opportunities that we choose to pursue, or other factors.
Total capital expenditures in fiscal 2025 are planned to be between approximately $330 million to $400 million and are expected to be funded primarily by cash generated from operations and borrowings under the ABL Facility. Our capital needs may change in the future due to changes in our business, new opportunities that we choose to pursue, or other factors.
We believe that our continued focus on providing exceptional value to customers through our broad assortment and everyday low price strategy, while remaining disciplined to maintain profitability through cost control and strategic growth investments, have been instrumental in helping us to navigate this challenging housing market.
Despite these macroeconomic challenges, we believe that our continued focus on providing exceptional value to customers through our broad assortment and everyday low price strategy, while remaining disciplined to maintain profitability through cost control and strategic growth investments, have been instrumental in helping us to navigate this challenging housing market.
Our gross profit and gross margin can also be impacted by changes in our prices, our merchandising assortment, shrinkage, damage, selling of discontinued products, the cost to transport our products from the manufacturer to our stores, and our distribution center costs.
Our gross profit and gross margin can also be impacted by changes in our prices, our merchandising assortment, customer preferences, shrink, damage, selling of discontinued products, the cost to transport our products from the manufacturer to our stores, and our distribution center costs.
We believe that operating income, EBITDA, and Adjusted EBITDA are useful measures, as they eliminate certain expenses that are not indicative of our core operating performance and facilitate a comparison of our core operating performance on a consistent basis from period to period.
We also believe that EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are useful measures, as they eliminate certain expenses that are not indicative of our core operating performance and facilitate comparisons on a consistent basis from period to period.
A 10% change in our sales returns reserves and related return asset accruals at December 28, 2023 would have had a net impact of approximately $1.3 million on operating income in fiscal 2023.
A 10% change in our sales returns reserves and related return asset accruals at December 26, 2024 would have had a net impact of approximately $1.3 million on operating income in fiscal 2024.
In evaluating EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA, you should be aware that in the future we will incur expenses that are the same as or similar to some of the items eliminated in the adjustments made to determine EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA, such as stock-based compensation expense, distribution center relocation expenses, fair value adjustments related to contingent-earn out liabilities, and other adjustments.
In evaluating EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA, you should be aware that in the future we may incur expenses that are the same as or similar to some of the items eliminated in the adjustments made to determine EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA, such as stock-based compensation expense, litigation settlement recovery, fair value adjustments related to contingent earn-out liabilities, and other adjustments.
The estimates have calculations that require management to make assumptions based on the current rate of sales, age, salability and profitability of inventory, historical percentages that can be affected by changes in our merchandising mix, customer preferences, rates of sell through, and changes in actual shrinkage trends. 39 Table of Contents Effect if actual results differ from assumptions.
The estimates have calculations that require management to make assumptions based on the current rate of sales, age, salability and profitability of inventory, historical percentages that can be affected by changes in our merchandising mix, customer preferences, and changes in actual shrink trends. Effect if actual results differ from assumptions.
We believe that we offer the industry’s broadest in-stock assortment of tile, wood, laminate and vinyl, and natural stone flooring along with decorative and installation accessories and adjacent categories at everyday low prices, positioning us as the one-stop destination for our customers’ entire hard surface flooring needs.
We believe that we offer the broadest in-stock assortment of laminate and vinyl, tile, wood, and natural stone flooring and installation materials and decorative accessories, as well as adjacent categories, at everyday low prices. This positions us as the one-stop destination for our customers’ entire hard surface flooring needs.
Amounts due to financial intermediaries for suppliers that elected to participate in a supply chain finance program totaled $114.0 million and $82.5 million as of December 28, 2023 and December 29, 2022, respectively, and are included in trade accounts payable in our Consolidated Balance Sheets.
Amounts due to financial intermediaries for suppliers that elected to participate in a supply chain finance program totaled $167.7 million and $114.0 million as of December 26, 2024 and December 28, 2023, respectively, and are included in trade accounts payable in our Consolidated Balance Sheets.
For additional information regarding our Term Loan Facility and ABL Facility, including applicable covenants, and other details, please refer to Note 10, “Debt” of the notes to the consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report. Credit Ratings Our credit ratings are periodically reviewed by rating agencies. In November 2023, Moody’s updated the Company’s outlook from positive to stable.
For additional information regarding our Term Loan Facility and ABL Facility, including applicable covenants and other details, please refer to Note 10, “Debt” of the notes to the consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report. Credit Ratings Our credit ratings are periodically reviewed by rating agencies.
Overview Founded in 2000, Floor & Decor is a high-growth, differentiated, multi-channel specialty retailer of hard surface flooring and related accessories and seller of commercial surfaces with 221 warehouse-format stores across 36 states as of December 28, 2023.
Overview Founded in 2000, Floor & Decor is a high-growth, differentiated, multi-channel specialty retailer of hard surface flooring and related accessories and seller of commercial surfaces with 251 warehouse-format stores across 38 states as of December 26, 2024.
Moody’s issuer credit rating of Ba3 for the Company remains unchanged. As of December 28, 2023, Standard & Poor's issuer credit rating of BB with a stable outlook for the Company remains unchanged. These ratings and our current credit condition affect, among other things, our ability to access new capital.
As of December 26, 2024, our Standard & Poor’s issuer credit rating of BB with a stable outlook and Moody’s issuer credit rating of Ba3 with a stable outlook remain unchanged from December 28, 2023. These ratings and our current credit condition affect, among other things, our ability to access new capital.
The housing market continued to be impacted by a number of macroeconomic factors during fiscal 2023, including rising interest rates and higher home prices putting pressure on housing affordability and resulting in declines in existing home sales, inflation, and a shift in consumer spending toward services.
The housing market continued to be impacted by a number of macroeconomic factors during fiscal 2024, including elevated interest rates and higher home prices putting pressure on housing affordability. This resulted in a decline in existing home sales, inflation, and a continued shift in consumer spending toward services.
All of our significant accounting policies are discussed in “Note 1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” to our audited consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report. Revenue Recognition Description.
All of our significant accounting policies are discussed in Note 1, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” of the notes to our audited consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report. Revenue Recognition Description.
Amounts for fiscal 2022 primarily relate to relocation expenses for our Houston distribution center and changes in the fair value of contingent earn-out liabilities. Liquidity and Capital Resources Liquidity is provided primarily by cash flows from operations and our $800.0 million ABL Facility.
Amounts for both fiscal 2024 and fiscal 2023 relate to changes in the fair value of contingent earn-out liabilities. Liquidity and Capital Resources Liquidity is provided primarily by cash flows from operations and our $800.0 million ABL Facility.
We expect that our selling and store operating expenses will increase in future periods with future growth. Selling and store operating expenses include variable as well as fixed components, which may not directly correlate with net sales. The components of our selling and store operating expenses may not be comparable to the components of similar measures of other retailers.
We expect that our selling and store operating expenses will increase in future periods with future growth. Selling and store operating expenses include variable as well as fixed components, which may not directly correlate with net sales.
As a percentage of net sales, selling and store operating expenses increased by approximately 280 basis points to 28.1% from 25.3% in fiscal 2022. This increase was primarily attributable to deleverage from a decrease in comparable store sales and new stores.
As a percentage of net sales, selling and store operating expenses increased by approximately 250 basis points to 30.6% from 28.1% in fiscal 2023. This increase was primarily attributable to deleverage from a decrease in comparable store sales and the addition of new stores.
For information about the potential impacts that risks, such as declines in economic conditions that affect the residential housing market and consumer spending for hard surface flooring, interest rates, inflation, global supply chain disruptions, and geopolitical instability, among others, may have on our results of operations and overall financial performance for future periods, see “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Overview” and Item 1A., “Risk Factors”.
For information about the potential impacts that risks, such as declines in economic conditions that affect the residential housing market and consumer spending for hard surface flooring, interest rates, inflation, global supply chain disruptions, regulatory and political conditions, trade policy, and geopolitical instability, among others, may have on our results of operations and overall financial performance for future periods, see “Overview” further above and Item 1A, “Risk Factors” in Part I of this Annual Report.
Pre-opening Expenses We account for non-capital operating expenditures incurred prior to opening a new store or relocating an existing store as “pre-opening” expenses in our Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income.
The components of our general and administrative expenses may not be comparable to the components of similar measures of other retailers. Pre-opening Expenses We account for non-capital operating expenditures incurred prior to opening a new store or relocating an existing store as “pre-opening” expenses in our Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income.
The increase in gross profit was primarily driven by the 3.5% increase in net sales and an increase in gross margin to 42.1%, up approximately 160 basis points from 40.5% in fiscal 2022. The increase in gross margin was primarily due to a decline in supply chain costs in 2023.
The increase in gross profit was primarily driven by the 0.9% increase in net sales and an increase in gross margin to 43.3%, up approximately 120 basis points from 42.1% in fiscal 2023. The increase in gross margin was primarily driven by a decrease in supply chain costs.
A 10% change in our inventory valuation and shrinkage reserves at December 28, 2023 would have affected operating income by approximately $0.6 million in fiscal 2023. Inventory valuation and shrinkage reserves typically fluctuate in proportion to changes in inventory balances. Vendor Rebates and Allowances Description.
A 10% change in our inventory valuation and shrink reserves at December 26, 2024 would have affected operating income by approximately $0.7 million in fiscal 2024. Inventory valuation and shrink reserves typically fluctuate in proportion to changes in inventory balances. 36 Table of Contents Vendor Rebates and Allowances Description.
Our Credit Facilities As of December 28, 2023, total Term Loan Facility debt was $202.4 million, and no amounts were outstanding under our ABL Facility.
Our Credit Facilities As of December 26, 2024, total Term Loan Facility debt was $200.3 million, and no amounts were outstanding under our ABL Facility.
Net cash provided by operating activities was $803.6 million for fiscal 2023 and $112.5 million for fiscal 2022.
Net cash provided by operating activities was $603.2 million for fiscal 2024 and $803.6 million for fiscal 2023.
We currently expect the following for capital expenditures in fiscal 2024: • invest approximately $315 million to $365 million to open 30 to 35 warehouse-format stores, relocate stores, and begin construction on stores opening in fiscal 2025; • invest approximately $60 million to $75 million in existing store remodeling projects and our distribution centers; and • invest approximately $25 million to $35 million in information technology infrastructure, e-commerce, and other store support center initiatives. 36 Table of Contents Cash Flow Analysis A summary of our operating, investing, and financing activities are shown in the following table: Fiscal Year Ended in thousands 12/28/2023 12/29/2022 Net cash provided by operating activities $ 803,589 $ 112,450 Net cash used in investing activities (564,966) (455,637) Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities (214,035) 213,537 Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents $ 24,588 $ (129,650) Net Cash Provided By Operating Activities Cash provided by operating activities consists primarily of (i) net income adjusted for non-cash items, including depreciation and amortization, stock-based compensation, deferred income taxes, and changes in the fair values of contingent earn-out liabilities and (ii) changes in working capital.
We currently expect the following for capital expenditures in fiscal 2025: • invest approximately $200 million to $245 million to open 25 warehouse-format stores and begin construction on stores opening after fiscal 2025; • invest approximately $20 million to $25 million in new distribution centers near Seattle and Baltimore; • invest approximately $50 million to $60 million in existing stores and distribution centers; and • invest approximately $60 million to $70 million in information technology infrastructure, e-commerce, and other store support center initiatives. 33 Table of Contents Cash Flow Analysis A summary of our operating, investing, and financing activities is shown in the following table: Fiscal Year Ended in thousands December 26, 2024 December 28, 2023 Net cash provided by operating activities $ 603,155 $ 803,589 Net cash used in investing activities (446,826) (564,966) Net cash used in financing activities (3,042) (214,035) Net increase in cash and cash equivalents $ 153,287 $ 24,588 Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities Cash provided by operating activities consists primarily of (i) net income adjusted for non-cash items, including depreciation and amortization, stock-based compensation, deferred income taxes, and changes in the fair values of contingent earn-out liabilities and (ii) changes in working capital.
Net cash used in investing activities was $565.0 million for fiscal 2023 and $455.6 million for fiscal 2022. The increase in cash used in investing activities was due to an increase in capital expenditures and cash paid for the Salesmaster acquisition.
Net cash used in investing activities was $446.8 million for fiscal 2024 and $565.0 million for fiscal 2023. The decrease in net cash used in investing activities was due to a decrease in capital expenditures and cash paid for an acquisition in fiscal 2023.
(b) Non-cash charges related to stock-based compensation programs, which vary from period to period depending on the timing of awards and forfeitures. (c) Other adjustments include amounts management does not consider indicative of our core operating performance. Amounts for fiscal 2023 relate to changes in the fair value of contingent earn-out liabilities.
(b) Non-cash charges related to stock-based compensation programs, which vary from period to period depending on the timing of awards and forfeitures. (c) Net proceeds received related to the derivative litigation settlement in fiscal 2024. (d) Other adjustments include amounts management does not consider indicative of our core operating performance.
The decrease in the effective tax rate was primarily due to an increase in excess tax benefits related to stock-based compensation awards that was partially offset by limitations on deductions for compensation to certain employees under Internal Revenue Code Section 162(m). 35 Table of Contents Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA For the periods presented, the following table reconciles EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA to net income, the most directly comparable financial measure calculated and presented in accordance with GAAP: Fiscal Year Ended in thousands 12/28/2023 12/29/2022 Net income $ 245,980 $ 298,195 Depreciation and amortization (a) 199,856 153,446 Interest expense, net 9,897 11,138 Income tax expense 65,551 87,427 EBITDA 521,284 550,206 Stock-based compensation expense (b) 27,240 22,233 Other (c) 2,609 4,611 Adjusted EBITDA $ 551,133 $ 577,050 (a) Excludes amortization of deferred financing costs, which is included as part of interest expense, net in the table above.
The effective tax rate decrease was primarily due to a decrease in state income taxes and an increase in excess tax benefits related to stock-based compensation awards that were partially offset by limitations on deductions for compensation to certain employees under Internal Revenue Code Section 162(m). 32 Table of Contents Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA For the periods presented, the following table reconciles EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA to net income, the most directly comparable financial measure calculated and presented in accordance with GAAP: Fiscal Year Ended in thousands December 26, 2024 December 28, 2023 Net income $ 205,872 $ 245,980 Depreciation and amortization (a) 230,293 199,856 Interest expense, net 2,773 9,897 Income tax expense 47,531 65,551 EBITDA 486,469 521,284 Stock-based compensation expense (b) 33,695 27,240 Litigation settlement recovery (c) (6,794) — Other (d) (866) 2,609 Adjusted EBITDA $ 512,504 $ 551,133 (a) Excludes amortization of deferred financing costs, which is included as part of interest expense, net.
The year-over-year growth in capital expenditures was primarily driven by settlements of outstanding construction payables for recently completed stores and increases in new stores under construction.
The year-over-year decline in capital expenditures was driven by the timing of construction payable settlements for recently completed stores and a decrease in new stores under construction.
We estimate that retail sales during fiscal 2023 were approximately 55% from homeowners and 45% from Pros compared to approximately 58% from homeowners and 42% from Pros during fiscal 2022. Gross Profit and Gross Margin Gross profit during fiscal 2023 increased $130.6 million, or 7.6%, compared to fiscal 2022.
We estimate that retail sales during fiscal 2024 were approximately 51% from homeowners and 49% from Pros compared to approximately 55% from homeowners and 45% from Pros during fiscal 2023. Gross Profit and Gross Margin Gross profit during fiscal 2024 increased $69.9 million, or 3.8%, compared to fiscal 2023.
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates The preparation of financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make estimates and assumptions about future events that affect amounts reported in our consolidated financial statements and related notes as well as the related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements.
Recently Adopted and Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements Refer to Note 1, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” of the notes to the consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report for information on the recently adopted and recently issued accounting pronouncements that are applicable to the Company. 35 Table of Contents Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates The preparation of financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make estimates and assumptions about future events that affect amounts reported in our consolidated financial statements and related notes as well as the related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements.
For additional segment information, refer to Note 1, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” of the notes to the consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report. 33 Table of Contents Results of Operations The comparison of the fiscal years ended December 29, 2022 and December 30, 2021 can be found in our annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 29, 2022 (the “2022 Annual Report”) located within Part II, Item 7.
For additional segment information, refer to Note 14, “Segment Reporting” of the notes to the consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report. 30 Table of Contents Results of Operations The comparison of the fiscal years ended December 28, 2023 and December 29, 2022 can be found in our annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 28, 2023 (the “2023 Annual Report”) located within Part II, Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.” Results of operations for prior periods should not be considered indicative of future results.
Selling and Store Operating Expenses Selling and store operating expenses during fiscal 2023 increased $160.8 million, or 14.9%, compared to fiscal 2022. The increase in selling and store operating expenses was primarily due to $154.9 million for new stores and $8.9 million at Spartan, partially offset by a decrease of $3.0 million at our comparable stores.
Selling and Store Operating Expenses Selling and store operating expenses during fiscal 2024 increased $123.1 million, or 9.9%, compared to fiscal 2023. The increase in selling and store operating expenses was primarily driven by $156.7 million for new stores and $5.6 million at Spartan, partially offset by a decrease of $39.2 million at our comparable stores.
Our general and administrative expenses as a percentage of net sales increased by approximately 70 basis points to 5.7% from 5.0% in fiscal 2022. The increase as a percentage of net sales was primarily driven by deleverage from a decrease in comparable store sales. Pre-Opening Expenses Pre-opening expenses during fiscal 2023 increased $6.3 million, or 16.4%, compared to fiscal 2022.
General and Administrative Expenses General and administrative expenses during fiscal 2024 increased $13.5 million, or 5.3%, compared to fiscal 2023. Our general and administrative expenses as a percentage of net sales increased by approximately 30 basis points to 6.0% from 5.7% in fiscal 2023.
The increase in net cash provided by operating activities was primarily driven by a decrease in inventory, an increase in trade accounts payable, an increase in cash earnings after adjusting net income for non-cash items such as depreciation and amortization, and other working capital items.
The decrease in net cash provided by operating activities was primarily driven by the change in inventory and a decline in cash earnings after adjusting net income for non-cash items, which were partially offset by an increase in trade accounts payable, accrued expenses and other current liabilities, and income taxes.
We expect that our general and administrative expenses will increase in future periods with future growth. General and administrative expenses include variable as well as fixed components, which may not directly correlate with net sales. The components of our general and administrative expenses may not be comparable to the components of similar measures of other retailers.
Insurance, legal expenses, information technology costs, consulting, and other miscellaneous operating costs are also included. We expect that our general and administrative expenses will increase in future periods with future growth. General and administrative expenses include fixed as well as variable components, which may not directly correlate with net sales.
Income Tax Expense The provision for income taxes was $65.6 million in fiscal 2023 compared to $87.4 million in fiscal 2022. The effective tax rate was 21.0% for fiscal 2023 compared to 22.7% for fiscal 2022.
Income Tax Expense Income tax expense was $47.5 million in fiscal 2024 compared to $65.6 million in fiscal 2023. The effective tax rate was 18.8% for fiscal 2024 compared to 21.0% for fiscal 2023.
Definitions and calculations of EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA differ among companies in the retail industry, and therefore EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA disclosed by us may not be comparable to the metrics disclosed by other companies. 32 Table of Contents Other Key Financial Definitions Net Sales Net sales reflect our sales of merchandise, less discounts and estimated returns and include our in-store sales and e-commerce sales.
Definitions and calculations of EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA differ among companies in the retail industry, and therefore EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA disclosed by us may not be comparable to the metrics disclosed by other companies.
A store is included in the comparable store sales calculation on the first day of the thirteenth full fiscal month following a store’s opening, which is when we believe comparability has been achieved. Changes in our comparable store sales between two periods are based on net sales for stores that were in operation during both of the two periods.
Comparable store sales refer to period-over-period comparisons of our net sales at the time of sale among the comparable store base. A store is included in the comparable store sales calculation on the first day of the thirteenth full fiscal month following a store’s opening, which is when we believe comparability has been achieved.
We believe these factors directly contributed to a slowdown in demand for flooring resulting in year-over-year declines in our comparable store sales and net income.
We believe these factors directly contributed to a slowdown in demand for flooring resulting in year-over-year declines in our comparable store sales and net income. These factors, coupled with rising construction costs, have made it difficult to achieve new store initial sales and profitability targets compared with those opened in prior years.
Unrestricted liquidity as of December 28, 2023 was $752.8 million, consisting of $34.4 million in cash and cash equivalents and $718.4 million immediately available for borrowing under the ABL Facility without violating any covenants thereunder. Our liquidity is generally not seasonal, and our uses of cash are primarily tied to when we open stores and make other capital expenditures.
Unrestricted liquidity as of December 26, 2024 was $905.7 million, consisting of $187.7 million in cash and cash equivalents and $718.0 million immediately available for borrowing under the ABL Facility without violating any covenants thereunder. Our liquidity is generally not seasonal.
The comparable store sales decline during the period of 7.1%, or $289.7 million, was primarily due to the 7.2% decrease in comparable customer transactions, which we believe was largely driven by declines in existing home sales. Non-comparable store sales of $439.1 million during the same period were primarily driven by new stores and revenue from Spartan.
The comparable store sales decline during the period of 7.1%, or $299.1 million, was due to a 4.7% decrease in comparable transactions and a 2.5% decrease in comparable average ticket. We believe the decrease in comparable transactions was largely driven by the impact of lower existing home sales.
Before we open new stores, we incur pre-opening expenses, which are defined below. While net sales at new stores are generally lower than net sales at our stores that have been open for more than one year, our new stores have historically been profitable in their first year.
Before we open new stores, we incur pre-opening expenses, which are defined below under the heading “Other Key Financial Definitions.” Net sales at new stores are generally lower than net sales at our stores that have been open for more than one year. Our ability to open new, profitable stores is important to our long-term sales and profit growth goals.
General and Administrative Expenses General and administrative expenses consist primarily of costs incurred outside of our stores and include administrative personnel wages in our store support center and regional functions, bonuses and benefits, supplies, depreciation and amortization, and store support center expenses. Insurance, legal expenses, information technology costs, consulting, and other miscellaneous operating costs are also included.
The components of our selling and store operating expenses may not be comparable to the components of similar measures of other retailers. 29 Table of Contents General and Administrative Expenses General and administrative expenses consist primarily of costs incurred outside of our stores and include administrative personnel wages in our store support center and regional functions, bonuses and benefits, supplies, depreciation and amortization, and store support center expenses.
The retail and commercial sectors in which we operate are cyclical, and consequently our sales are affected by general economic conditions.
Revenue is recognized when we satisfy the performance obligations in contracts with our customers, which is typically when the customer obtains control of the underlying inventory. The retail and commercial sectors in which we operate are cyclical, and consequently our sales are affected by general economic conditions.
Gross profit and gross margin are also important indicators of our ability to grow profits and leverage our expenses on a growing sales base. Management uses gross profit and gross margin, among other measures, to make decisions related to product, pricing, supplier, and distribution strategies as well as other areas affecting the products we offer to our customers.
Management uses gross profit and gross margin, among other measures, to make decisions related to product, pricing, supplier, and distribution strategies as well as other areas affecting the products we offer to our customers. 28 Table of Contents Operating Income, EBITDA, and Adjusted EBITDA Operating income, EBITDA, and Adjusted EBITDA are key metrics used by management and our Board to assess our financial performance and enterprise value.
In certain cases, we arrange and pay for freight to deliver products to customers and bill the customer for the estimated freight cost, which is also included in net sales. Revenue is recognized when we satisfy the performance obligations in contracts with our customers, which is typically when the customer obtains control of the underlying inventory.
Other Key Financial Definitions Net Sales Net sales reflect our sales of merchandise, less discounts and estimated returns, and include our in-store sales, connected customer sales, and commercial sales. In certain cases, we arrange and pay for freight to deliver products to customers and bill the customer for the estimated freight cost, which is also included in net sales.
The amount available to be borrowed under our ABL Facility is reduced by the cumulative amount of any outstanding letters of credit.
We do not currently provide cash collateral for outstanding letters of credit. We have negotiated a letter of credit sublimit as part of our ABL Facility. The amount available to be borrowed under our ABL Facility is reduced by the cumulative amount of any outstanding letters of credit. Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements.
Our warehouse-format stores, which average approximately 78,000 square feet, carry on average approximately 4,500 flooring and decorative and installation accessory SKUs, approximately 1.0 million square feet of flooring products, and $3.0 million of inventory at cost as of December 28, 2023.
We appeal to a variety of customers, including Pros and homeowners, which are comprised of DIY and BIY customers. Our warehouse-format stores, which average approximately 77,000 square feet, carry on average approximately 4,400 SKUs, approximately 1.0 million square feet of flooring products, and $2.7 million of inventory at cost as of December 26, 2024.
Interest Expense, Net Net interest expense during fiscal 2023 decreased $1.2 million, or 11.1%, compared to fiscal 2022 due to a decrease in average amounts outstanding under our ABL Facility, higher interest income from our interest cap derivative contracts, and an increase in interest capitalized, partially offset by interest rate increases on outstanding debt.
Interest Expense, Net Net interest expense during fiscal 2024 decreased $7.1 million, or 72.0%, compared to fiscal 2023 primarily due to a decrease in average amounts outstanding under our ABL Facility and higher interest income as a result of higher cash balances.
In particular, the ongoing trade dispute between the U.S. and China has resulted in the U.S. imposing tariffs of 25% on many products from China. While exclusions from tariffs were granted for certain products from China, nearly all of these exclusions have expired. In fiscal 2023, approximately 25% of the products we sold were produced in China.
While exclusions from the previous 25% tariff were granted for certain products from China that we sell, nearly all of those exclusions have expired. In fiscal 2024, approximately 18% of the products we sold were produced in China.
Our ability to open new, profitable stores is important to our long-term sales and profit growth goals. 31 Table of Contents Gross Profit and Gross Margin Our gross profit is variable in nature and generally follows changes in net sales.
Gross Profit and Gross Margin Our gross profit is variable in nature and generally follows changes in net sales.
Net cash used in financing activities was $214.0 million for fiscal 2023 compared to net cash provided by financing activities of $213.5 million for fiscal 2022. The increase in net cash used in financing activities was primarily driven by net ABL Facility repayments and an increase in tax payments related to the vesting or exercise of stock-based compensation awards.
Net cash used in financing activities was $3.0 million for fiscal 2024 and $214.0 million for fiscal 2023. The decrease in net cash used in financing activities was primarily driven by a decrease in net ABL Facility repayments.
While our efforts have mitigated a substantial portion of the overall effect of increased tariffs, the enacted tariffs have increased our inventory costs and associated cost of sales for the remaining products still sourced from China. 38 Table of Contents Recently Adopted and Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements Refer to Note 1, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” of the notes to the consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report for information on the recently adopted and recently issued accounting pronouncements that are applicable to the Company.
While our efforts have mitigated a substantial portion of the overall effect of increased tariffs to date, the enacted tariffs have increased our inventory costs and associated cost of sales for the remaining products still sourced from China and may impact sales of products sourced from China or other countries if new or higher tariffs are imposed.
The increase primarily resulted from an increase in the number of future stores that we were preparing to open and delays in getting our stores open compared to the prior year.
Pre-Opening Expenses Pre-opening expenses during fiscal 2024 decreased $1.4 million, or 3.1%, compared to fiscal 2023. The decrease in pre-opening expenses primarily resulted from a decrease in the number of stores that we opened compared to the prior year.