Last week, Lululemon, the Vancouver based athleisure company, released their Q4 2023 results. The yearly revenue increased by 18.5% to $9.6 billion, accompanied by an 81% increase in Lululemon’s net income to $1.5 billion. This surge in net income can be attributed mainly to a notable decrease in the 2023 impairment charge. In the preceding year, Lululemon faced an impairment charge of $407 million, whereas this year’s charge stands at $74 million. 2022’s impairment charge primarily comprises of the impairment of its investment in the home-workout product-range: “Mirror.”
The Americas segment, making up 79% of total sales, experienced a modest revenue increase of nearly 12%. In contrast, the international segment, representing the remaining 21% of sales, witnessed a robust 54% revenue surge. During the earnings call, management articulated their aspiration for the international segment to contribute 50% of sales in the future. They acknowledged a deceleration in the demand growth rate for their products in the Americas’ market. Consequently, they adjusted their annual sales growth projection to around the mid-teens. This adjustment led to a 15% decline in Lululemon’s share price on the day.
Lululemon is investing for growth, primarily targeting the expansion of its brand visibility and bolstering its presence in international markets, particularly in China, where demand for its products has been substantial. To enhance brand recognition, the company is focusing on sponsoring athletes and teams. Notably, they are backing the Canadian national team for the 2024 Summer Olympics. Lululemon intends to address underrepresented markets by opening around 10 stores in the US and 30 stores in other parts of the world.
Lululemon contends with lots of competition in the athleisure sector, including major players like Nike, as well as various niche athleisure brands. Lululemon is a luxury brand within this competitive landscape. Amidst heightened global economic uncertainty, consumers tend to slow down their spending on luxury goods.
Lululemon is held in the Lunar BCI Worldwide Flexible Fund. It is also held by Lunar Capital’s Offshore Portfolio clients.
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