The chart below shows how ULTA performed 10 days before and after its earnings report, based on data from the past quarters. Typically, ULTA sees a +0.81% change in stock price 10 days leading up to the earnings, and a +0.33% change 10 days following the report. On the earnings day itself, the stock moves by -0.48%. This data can give you a slight idea of what to expect for the next quarter's release.
Positive
Business Model Strength: Keisha Seelman highlighted the strength of Ulta Beauty's business model, emphasizing its unmatched breadth of assortment and strong financial foundation with stable operating cash flow.
Brand Launch and Expansion: The company achieved significant milestones in 2024, including the launch of 40 new brands and the expansion of its store footprint with 60 new stores and 100 new Ulta Beauty at Target locations.
Loyalty Program Success: Ulta Beauty's loyalty program saw a record high of 44.6 million members, indicating strong customer engagement and brand loyalty.
Beauty Category Growth Outlook: The company is optimistic about the beauty category's resilience, expecting continued growth driven by the connection between beauty and wellness, increased digital usage, and a strong innovation pipeline.
Strategic Growth Priorities: Ulta Beauty's 'Unleashed' plan focuses on three main priorities: driving core business growth, scaling new accretive businesses, and realigning the foundation for future growth, showcasing a strategic approach to enhance performance.
In-Store Experience Enhancement: The company is committed to improving in-store experiences and guest presentations, with plans to enhance assortment and streamline operations to better serve customers.
Cost Optimization Strategy: Ulta Beauty's financial discipline is evident, with a focus on cost optimization, targeting $200 million to $250 million in savings over the next three years, building on previous savings of $550 million since 2019.
Negative
Market Share Decline: The company lost market share in the beauty category for the first time in 2024, indicating a decline in competitive positioning.
Execution Challenges in Expansion: Execution challenges have arisen from the expansion of product assortment and fulfillment options, leading to a weaker in-store presentation and guest experience.
Profitability Pressures Ahead: Despite a strong financial foundation, the company anticipates profitability pressures in 2025 due to necessary investments and inflationary costs.
Operating Profit Decline: Operating profit decreased in the low double-digit range as the company implements its Ulta Beauty Unleashed plan, indicating a transition period with potential financial strain.
Gross Margin Deleverage Impact: The company expects gross margin to deleverage primarily due to increased store occupancy and supply chain costs, which could impact overall profitability.
Promotional Activity Impact: The promotional environment is expected to remain rational, but any deterioration in consumer demand could necessitate increased promotional activity, potentially affecting margins.
Transitional Year Uncertainty: The company is planning for a transitional year in 2025, which may extend into 2026, indicating uncertainty in achieving growth targets in the near term.
Earnings call transcript: Ulta Beauty Q4 2025 beats EPS estimates, stock rises
ULTA.O
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