AEO-2016-10K
AEO-2016-10K
AEO-2016-10K
PART II
Item 5. Market for the Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities 12
Item 6. Selected Consolidated Financial Data 15
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations 16
Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk 29
Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data 30
Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure 57
Item 9A. Controls and Procedures 57
Item 9B. Other Information 60
PART III
Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance 60
Item 11. Executive Compensation 60
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters 60
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence 60
Item 14. Principal Accounting Fees and Services 60
PART IV
Item 15. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules 60
2
PART I
Item 1. Business.
General
American Eagle Outfitters, Inc., (“AEO Inc.,” the “Company,” “we,” “our”) a Delaware corporation, was founded in 1977. We are a leading specialty
retailer, operating over 1,000 retail stores and online at ae.com and aerie.com in the U.S. and internationally. We offer a broad assortment of
apparel and accessories for men and women under the American Eagle Outfitters brand, and intimates, apparel and personal care products for
women under the Aerie brand. AEO Inc. operates stores in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Hong Kong, China and the United Kingdom. We
also have license agreements with third parties to operate American Eagle Outfitters and Aerie stores throughout Asia, Europe, Latin America and
the Middle East. As of January 30, 2016, we operated 949 American Eagle Outfitters stores and 97 Aerie stand-alone stores. Our licensed store
base has grown to 141 locations in 22 countries and our online business ships to 81 countries worldwide.
Information concerning our segments and certain geographic information is contained in Note 2 of the Consolidated Financial Statements included in
this Form 10-K and is incorporated herein by reference. Additionally, a five-year summary of certain financial and operating information can be found
in Part II, Item 6, Selected Consolidated Financial Data, of this Form 10-K. See also Part II, Item 8, Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.
Brands
American Eagle Outfitters Brand (“AEO Brand”)
The AEO Brand is an optimistic, authentic, energetic American brand. Our passion for denim is at the heart of everything we do, and our bottoms
collection is complemented by a rich assortment of other apparel categories, as well as footwear and accessories. We work to craft high-quality, on-
trend clothing that represents a terrific value in every style. Each season, it is our goal to create an aspirational collection and campaign that
encourages our customers to take what we make, and LIVE YOUR LIFE.
As of January 30, 2016, the AEO Brand operated 949 stores and online at ae.com.
Aerie
Aerie is an intimates brand, offering bras, undies, swim and so much more for every girl. Aerie embodies a youthful spirit, which is fun, relaxed, sexy,
natural, strong and real. We are committed to not retouching our images and our brand DNA is deeply rooted in our Aerie REAL campaign, which
focuses on body positivity and inspiring confidence in our customers. We believe beauty comes from the inside out.
As of January 30, 2016, the Aerie brand operates 97 stand-alone stores and 67 side-by-side stores connected to AEO brand stores. In addition, the
Aerie brand is sold in AEO brand stores and online at aerie.com.
Other brands
On November 2, 2015, AEO Inc. acquired Tailgate Clothing Company, which owns and operates Tailgate, a vintage, sports-inspired apparel brand
with a college town store concept, and Todd Snyder New York, a premium menswear brand. As of January 30, 2016, we operated one Tailgate store
in Iowa City, Iowa. Tailgate and Todd Snyder product is also sold online at TailgateClothing.com and ToddSnyder.com, respectively.
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Business Priori ties & Strategy
We are focused on delivering revenue growth and improved profitability as we execute on our key priorities. Our current priorities include:
· Capitalize on the strength of our brands to achieve growth through continued product innovation and product-focused marketing across both
stores and digital channels to drive customer acquisition.
· Grow the Aerie brand through digital expansion, new customer acquisition and new store growth.
· Grow the digital business through our continued focus on advancing mobile, investing in digital marketing, expanding our product offerings
and improving the desktop experience.
· Pursue international expansion by advancing our digital capabilities and through our blended approach of licensed and Company-owned store
growth.
Real Estate
We ended Fiscal 2015 with 1,188 Company-owned and licensed store locations. Our AEO brand stores average approximately 6,500 gross square
feet and approximately 5,200 on a selling square foot basis. Our Aerie brand stores average approximately 3,900 gross square feet and
approximately 3,000 on a selling square foot basis. The gross square footage of our Company-owned stores remained flat during Fiscal 2015.
Company-Owned Stores
Our Company-owned retail stores are located in shopping malls, lifestyle centers and street locations in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, China, Hong
Kong and the United Kingdom. Stores are located in high-traffic locations in most retail centers in which we operate.
The following table provides the number of our Company-owned stores in operation as of January 30, 2016 and January 31, 2015.
The following table provides the changes in the number of our Company-owned stores for the past five fiscal years:
Beginning of
Fiscal Year Year Opened Closed End of Year
2015 1,056 23 (32) 1,047
2014 1,066 60 (70) 1,056
2013 1,044 64 (42) 1,066
2012 1,069 16 (41) 1,044
2011 1,077 21 (29) 1,069
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Licensed Stores
In addition to our Company-owned stores, our merchandise is sold at stores operated by licensees. Under these agreements, our merchandise is
sold at American Eagle Outfitters and Aerie stores owned and operated by third party operators. Revenue recognized under license agreements
generally consists of royalties earned and recognized upon sale of merchandise by franchise and license partners to retail customers.
As of January 30, 2016, our products are sold at 141 locations operated by licensees in 22 countries. We continue to increase the number of
locations under these types of arrangements as part of our balanced approach to global expansion.
AEO Direct
We sell merchandise through our websites, ae.com and aerie.com, both domestically and internationally. The websites reinforce each particular
brand’s lifestyle, and are designed to complement the in-store experience.
Over the past several years, we have invested in building its technologies and digital capabilities. We focused our investments in three key areas:
making significant advances in mobile technology, investing in digital marketing and improving the desktop experience.
Omni-Channel
In addition to our investments in technology, we have invested in building omni-channel capabilities to better serve customers and gain operational
efficiencies. These upgraded technologies have provided a single view of inventory across channels, connecting physical stores directly to our digital
business, providing our customers with a more convenient and improved shopping experience. Our store-to-door tool enables store customers to
seamlessly make purchases from online inventory. Additionally, we fulfill online orders at stores through our buy online, ship from store tool,
improving online order fulfillment rates. We also offer a reserve online, pick up in store service to our customers. We will continue to optimize these
tools and services to build ongoing improvements to the customer shopping experience.
Merchandise Suppliers
We design our merchandise, which is manufactured by third-party factories. During Fiscal 2015, we purchased substantially all of our merchandise
from non-North American suppliers. For the year, we sourced merchandise through approximately 300 vendors located throughout the world,
primarily in Asia, and did not source more than 10% of our merchandise from any single factory or supplier during the year.
We maintain a quality control department at our distribution centers to inspect incoming merchandise shipments for overall quality of manufacturing.
Periodic inspections are also made by our employees and agents at manufacturing facilities to identify quality issues prior to shipment of
merchandise.
We uphold an extensive factory inspection program to monitor compliance with our Vendor Code of Conduct. New garment factories must pass an
initial inspection in order to do business with us and we continue to review their social compliance performance both through internal audits by our
compliance team and through the use of third-party monitors. We strive to partner with suppliers who respect local laws and share our dedication to
utilize best practices in human rights, labor rights, environmental practices and workplace safety.
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We strive to mai ntain sufficient quantities of inventory in our retail stores and distribution centers to offer customers a full selection of current
merchandise. We emphasize rapid turnover and take markdowns as required to keep merchandise fresh and current.
Regulation
We and our products are subject to regulation by various federal, state, local and foreign regulatory authorities. We are subject to a variety of
customs regulations and international trade arrangements.
Competition
The retail apparel industry is highly competitive both in stores and on-line. We compete with various individual and chain specialty stores, as well as
the casual apparel and footwear departments of department stores and discount retailers, primarily on the basis of quality, fashion, service, selection
and price.
We have registered AMERICAN EAGLE OUTFITTERS ® , AMERICAN EAGLE ® , AEO ® , LIVE YOUR LIFE ® , Aerie ® and the Flying Eagle
Design with the Canadian Intellectual Property Office. In addition, we have acquired rights in AE TM for clothing products and registered AE ® in
connection with certain non-clothing products.
In the U.S. and in other countries around the world, we also have registered, or have applied to register, a number of other marks used in our
business, including our pocket stitch designs.
These registered trademarks are renewable indefinitely, and their registrations are properly maintained in accordance with the laws of the country in
which they are registered. We believe that the recognition associated with these trademarks makes them extremely valuable and, therefore, we
intend to use and renew our trademarks in accordance with our business plans.
Employees
As of January 30, 2016, we had approximately 37,800 employees in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Hong Kong, China and the United Kingdom
of whom approximately 31,300 were part-time and seasonal hourly employees.
Jennifer M. Foyle, age 49, has served as our Global Brand President – Aerie since January 2015. Prior thereto, Ms. Foyle served as Executive
Vice President, Chief Merchandising Officer – Aerie from February 2014 to January 2015 and Senior Vice President, Chief Merchandising Officer –
Aerie from August 2010 to February 2014. Prior to joining us, Ms. Foyle was President of Calypso St. Barth from 2009 to 2010. In addition, she held
various positions at J. Crew Group, Inc., including Chief Merchandising Officer, from 2003 to 2009.
Charles F. Kessler, age 43, has served as our Global Brand President – American Eagle Outfitters since January 2015. Prior thereto, he served as
our Executive Vice President, Chief Merchandising and Design Officer – American Eagle Outfitters from February 2014 to January 2015. Prior to
joining us, Mr. Kessler served as Chief Merchandising Officer at Urban Outfitters, Inc. from October 2011 to November 2013 and as Senior Vice
President, Corporate
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Merchandising at Coach, Inc. from July 2010 to October 2011. Prior to that time, Mr. Kessler held vari ous positions with Abercrombie & Fitch Co.
from 1994 to 2010, including Executive Vice President, Female Merchandising from 2008 to 2010.
Michael R. Rempell, age 42, has served as our Executive Vice President and Chief Operations Officer since June 2012. Prior thereto, he served as
our Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, New York Design Center, from April 2009 to June 2012, as Senior Vice President and
Chief Supply Chain Officer from May 2006 to April 2009, and in various other positions since joining us in February 2000.
Jay L. Schottenstein, age 61, has served as our Executive Chairman, Chief Executive Officer since December 2015. Prior thereto, Mr.
Schottenstein served as our Executive Chairman, Interim Chief Executive Officer from January 2014 to December 2015. He has also served as our
Chairman and its predecessors since March 1992. He served as our Chief Executive Officer from March 1992 until December 2002 and prior to that
time, he served as a Vice President and Director of our predecessors since 1980. He has also served as Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive
Officer of Schottenstein Stores Corporation (“SSC”) since March 1992 and as President since 2001. Prior thereto, Mr. Schottenstein served as Vice
Chairman of SSC from 1986 to 1992. He has been a Director of SSC since 1982. Mr. Schottenstein also served as Chief Executive Officer from
March 2005 to April 2009 and as Chairman of the Board since March 2005 of DSW Inc., a company traded on the New York Stock Exchange. He
has also served as an officer and director of various other entities owned or controlled by members of his family since 1976.
Fiscal Year
Our fiscal year ends on the Saturday nearest to January 31. As used herein, “Fiscal 2016” refers to the 52 week period ending January 28, 2017.
“Fiscal 2015”, “Fiscal 2014” and “Fiscal 2013” refer to the 52-week periods ended January 30, 2016, January 31, 2015 and February 1, 2014,
respectively. “Fiscal 2012” refers to the 53-week period ended February 2, 2013.
Available Information
Our Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K and amendments to those reports are available
under the “Investors” section of our website at www.ae.com. These reports are available as soon as reasonably practicable after such material is
electronically filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”).
Our corporate governance materials, including our corporate governance guidelines, the charters of our audit, compensation, and nominating and
corporate governance committees, and our code of ethics may also be found under the “Investors.” section of our website at www.ae.com. Any
amendments or waivers to our code of ethics will also be available on our website. A copy of the corporate governance materials is also available
upon written request.
Additionally, our investor presentations are available under the “Investors” section of our website at www.ae.com. These presentations are available
as soon as reasonably practicable after they are presented at investor conferences.
Certifications
As required by the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) Corporate Governance Standards Section 303A.12(a), on June 24, 2015, our Chief
Executive Officer submitted to the NYSE a certification that he was not aware of any violation by the Company of NYSE corporate governance listing
standards. Additionally, we filed with this Form 10-K, the Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer certifications required under
Sections 302 and 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
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typically must be ordered well in advance of the selling season. While we endeavor to test many merchandise items before ordering large quantities,
we are still susceptible to changing fashion trends and fluctuations in customer dema nds.
In addition, the cyclical nature of the retail business requires that we carry a significant amount of inventory, especially during our peak selling
seasons. We enter into agreements for the manufacture and purchase of our private label apparel well in advance of the applicable selling season.
As a result, we are vulnerable to changes in consumer demand, pricing shifts and the timing and selection of merchandise purchases. The failure to
enter into agreements for the manufacture and purchase of merchandise in a timely manner could, among other things, lead to a shortage of
inventory and lower sales. Changes in fashion trends, if unsuccessfully identified, forecasted or responded to by us, could, among other things, lead
to lower sales, excess inventories and higher markdowns, which in turn could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and
financial condition.
Seasonality
Historically, our operations have been seasonal, with a large portion of total net revenue and operating income occurring in the third and fourth fiscal
quarters, reflecting increased demand during the back-to-school and year-end holiday selling seasons, respectively. As a result of this seasonality,
any factors negatively affecting us during the third and fourth fiscal quarters of any year, including adverse weather or unfavorable economic
conditions, could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations for the entire year. Our quarterly results of
operations also may fluctuate based upon such factors as the timing of certain holiday seasons, the number and timing of new store openings, the
acceptability of seasonal merchandise offerings, the timing and level of markdowns, store closings and remodels, competitive factors, weather and
general economic conditions.
Our inability to react to raw material cost, labor and energy cost increases
Increases in our costs, such as raw materials, labor and energy may reduce our overall profitability. Specifically, fluctuations in the cost associated
with the manufacture of merchandise we purchase from our suppliers impacts our cost of sales. We have strategies in place to help mitigate these
costs; however, our overall profitability depends on the success of those strategies. Additionally, increases in other costs, including labor and
energy, could further reduce our profitability if not mitigated.
Our ability to rebalance our store fleet and drive improved performance through new store openings, selective closings
and existing store remodels and expansions
Our inability to drive improved performance will depend in part on our ability to rebalance our store fleet and expand and remodel existing stores on
a timely and profitable basis. During Fiscal 2016, we plan to open approximately 15 to 20 new American Eagle Outfitters stores and approximately
10 new Aerie stores in North America and continue our international expansion. Additionally, we plan to remodel and refurbish 55 to 65 existing
American Eagle Outfitters stores and close approximately 30 to 35 stores during Fiscal 2016. Accomplishing our store rebalancing and expansion
goals will depend upon a number of factors, including the ability to obtain suitable sites for new and expanded stores at acceptable costs, the hiring
and training of qualified personnel, particularly at the store management level, the integration of new stores into existing operations and the
expansion of our buying and inventory capabilities. There can be no assurance that we will be able to achieve our store expansion and rebalancing
goals, manage our growth
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effecti vely, migrate the business from closing stores to other stores or our direct business, successfully integrate the planned new stores into our
operations or operate our new and remodeled stores profitably .
A failure to properly implement our expansion initiatives, or the adverse impact of political or economic risks in these international markets, could
have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition. We have limited prior experience operating internationally, where
we face established competitors. In many of these locations, the real estate, labor and employment, transportation and logistics and other operating
requirements differ dramatically from those in the locations where we have more experience. Consumer demand and behavior, as well as tastes and
purchasing trends, may differ substantially, and as a result, sales of our products may not be successful, or the margins on those sales may not be in
line with those we currently anticipate. Any differences that we encounter as we expand internationally may divert financial, operational and
managerial resources from our existing operations, which could adversely impact our financial condition and results of operations. In addition, we
are increasingly exposed to foreign currency exchange rate risk with respect to our revenue, profits, assets, and liabilities denominated in currencies
other than the U.S. dollar. We may in the future use instruments to hedge certain foreign currency risks; however, these measures may not succeed
in offsetting all of the negative impact of foreign currency rate movements on our business and results of operations.
As we pursue our international expansion initiatives, we are subject to certain laws, including the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, as well as the laws
of the foreign countries in which we operate. Violations of these laws could subject us to sanctions or other penalties that could have an adverse
effect on our reputation, operating results and financial condition.
We have a Vendor Code of Conduct (the “Code”) that provides guidelines for our vendors regarding working conditions, employment practices and
compliance with local laws. A copy of the Code is posted on our website, www.ae.com , and is also included in our vendor manual in English and
multiple other languages. We have a factory compliance program to audit for compliance with the Code. However, there can be no assurance that all
violations can be eliminated in our supply chain. Publicity regarding violation of our Code or other social responsibility standards by any of our
vendor factories could adversely affect our reputation, sales and financial performance.
We believe that there is a risk of terrorist activity on a global basis. Such activity might take the form of a physical act that impedes the flow of
imported goods or the insertion of a harmful or injurious agent to an imported shipment. We have instituted policies and procedures designed to
reduce the chance or impact of such actions. Examples include, but are not limited to, factory audits and self-assessments, including audit protocols
on all critical security issues; the review of security procedures of our other international trading partners, including forwarders, consolidators,
shippers and brokers;
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and the cancellation of agreements with entities who fail to meet our security requirements. In addition, CBP has recognized us as a validated
participant of the Customs - Trade Partnership Aga inst Terrorism program, a voluntary program in which an importer agrees to work with customs to
strengthen overall supply chain security. However, there can be no assurance that terrorist activity can be prevented entirely and we cannot predict
the likelih ood of any such activities or the extent of their adverse impact on our operations.
Our reliance on our ability to implement and sustain information technology systems
We regularly evaluate our information technology systems and are currently implementing modifications and/or upgrades to the information
technology systems that support our business. Modifications include replacing legacy systems with successor systems, making changes to legacy
systems or acquiring new systems with new functionality. We are aware of inherent risks associated with operating, replacing and modifying these
systems, including inaccurate system information and system disruptions. We believe we are taking appropriate action to mitigate the risks through
testing, training, staging implementation and in-sourcing certain processes, as well as securing appropriate commercial contracts with third-party
vendors supplying such replacement and redundancy technologies; however, there is a risk that information technology system disruptions and
inaccurate system information, if not anticipated and/or promptly and appropriately mitigated, could have a material adverse effect on our results of
operations.
Our inability to safeguard against security breaches with respect to our information technology systems
Our business employs systems and websites that allow for the storage and transmission of proprietary or confidential information regarding our
business, customers and employees including credit card information. Security breaches could expose us to a risk of loss or misuse of this
information and potential liability. We may not be able to anticipate or prevent rapidly evolving types of cyber-attacks. Actual or anticipated attacks
may cause us to incur increasing costs including costs to deploy additional personnel and protection technologies, train employees and engage third
party experts and consultants. Advances in computer capabilities, new technological discoveries or other developments may result in the technology
used by us to protect transaction or other data being breached or compromised. Data and security breaches can also occur as a result of non-
technical issues including intentional or inadvertent breach by employees or persons with whom we have commercial relationships that result in the
unauthorized release of personal or confidential information. Any compromise or breach could result in a violation of applicable privacy and other
laws, significant financial exposure and a loss of confidence in our security measures, which could have an adverse effect on our results of
operations and our reputation.
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Fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates could adversely impact our financial condition and results of operations
We have foreign currency exchange rate risk with respect to revenues, expenses, assets and liabilities denominated in currencies other than the
U.S. dollar. We currently do not utilize hedging instruments to mitigate foreign currency exchange risks. Specifically, fluctuations in the value of the
Canadian Dollar, Mexican Peso, Chinese Yuan, Hong Kong Dollar, British Pound and Euro against the U.S. Dollar could have a material adverse
effect on our results of operations, financial condition and cash flows.
The impact of any of the previously discussed factors, some of which are beyond our control, may cause our actual results to differ materially from
expected results in these statements and other forward-looking statements we may make from time-to-time.
Item 2. Properties.
We own two buildings in urban Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania which house our corporate headquarters. These buildings total 186,000 square feet and
150,000 square feet, respectively. We lease one location near our headquarters, which is used primarily for store and corporate support services,
totaling approximately 51,000 square feet. This lease expires in 2022.
In suburban Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, we own a 45,000 square foot building, which houses our data center and additional office space and lease an
additional location of approximately 18,000 square feet, which is used for storage space. This lease expires in 2017.
We rent approximately 142,000 square feet of office space in New York, New York for our designers and sourcing and production teams. The lease
for this space expires in May 2026. We also lease an additional 35,000 square feet of office space in New York, New York, with various terms
expiring through 2016.
We lease 9,200 square feet of office space in San Francisco, California that functions as a technology center for our engineers and digital marketing
team focused on our omni-channel strategy. The lease for this space expires in 2019.
We also lease offices in international locations including 5,800 square feet in Mexico City expiring in 2020, 15,400 square feet in Hong Kong expiring
in 2017 and 11,300 square feet in Shanghai, China expiring in 2017.
We own a distribution facility in Ottawa, Kansas consisting of approximately 1,220,000 total square feet. This facility is used to support new and
existing growth initiatives, including AEO Direct and Aerie.
We opened a new distribution facility in 2014 in Hazleton, Pennsylvania consisting of approximately 1,000,000 total square feet. This is designed to
enable faster, more efficient product deliveries and to support our long-term expansion goals.
We lease a building in Mississauga, Ontario with approximately 294,000 square feet, which houses our Canadian distribution center. The lease
expires in 2018.
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We lease our flagship store in the Times Square area of New York, New York. The 25,000 square foot location has an initial term of 15 years with
three options to renew for five years each. This flagship store opened in November 2009 and the initial lease term expires in 2024.
All of our stores are leased and generally have initial terms of 10 years. Certain leases also include early termination options, which can be
exercised under specific conditions. Most of these leases provide for base rent and require the payment of a percentage of sales as additional
contingent rent when sales reach specified levels. Under our store leases, we are typically responsible for tenant occupancy costs, including
maintenance and common area charges, real estate taxes and certain other expenses. We have generally been successful in negotiating renewals
as leases near expiration.
PART II
Item 5. Market for the Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity
Securities.
Our common stock is traded on the NYSE under the symbol “AEO”. As of March 7, 2016, there were 512 stockholders of record. However, when
including associates who own shares through our employee stock purchase plan, and others holding shares in broker accounts under street name,
we estimate the stockholder base at approximately 65,000. The following table sets forth the range of high and low closing prices of the common
stock as reported on the NYSE during the periods indicated.
During Fiscal 2015 and Fiscal 2014, we paid quarterly dividends as shown in the table above. The payment of future dividends is at the discretion of
our Board of Directors (the “Board”) and is based on future earnings, cash flow, financial condition, capital requirements, changes in U.S. taxation
and other relevant factors. It is anticipated that any future dividends paid will be declared on a quarterly basis.
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Performan ce Graph
The following Performance Graph and related information shall not be deemed “soliciting material” or to be filed with the SEC, nor shall such
information be incorporated by reference into any future filing under the Securities Act of 1933 or Securities Exchange Act of 1934, each as
amended, except to the extent that we specifically incorporate it by reference into such filing.
The following graph compares the changes in the cumulative total return to holders of our common stock with that of the S&P Midcap 400 and the
Dynamic Retail Intellidex. The comparison of the cumulative total returns for each investment assumes that $100 was invested in our common stock
and the respective index on January 29, 2011 and includes reinvestment of all dividends. The plotted points are based on the closing price on the
last trading day of the fiscal year indicated.
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The following table provides information regarding our repurchases of common stock during the three months ended January 30, 2016.
(1) There were 14.6 million shares repurchased as part of our publicly announced share repurchase program during the three months ended
January 30, 2016 and there were 236 shares repurchased for the payment of taxes in connection with the vesting of share-based payments.
(2) Average price paid per share excludes any broker commissions paid.
(3) In January 2013, our Board authorized the repurchase of 20.0 million shares of our common stock. The authorization of the remaining 2.8
million shares that may yet be purchased expires on January 28, 2017.
The following table sets forth additional information as of the end of Fiscal 2015, about shares of our common stock that may be issued upon the
exercise of options and other rights under our existing equity compensation plans and arrangements, divided between plans approved by our
stockholders and plans or arrangements not submitted to our stockholders for approval. The information includes the number of shares covered by
and the weighted average exercise price of, outstanding options and other rights and the number of shares remaining available for future grants
excluding the shares to be issued upon exercise of outstanding options, warrants and other rights.
(1) Equity compensation plans approved by stockholders include the 1999 Stock Incentive Plan, the 2005 Stock Award and Incentive Plan, as
amended (the “2005 Plan”), and the 2014 Stock Award and Incentive Plan (the “2014 Plan”).
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Item 6. Selected Consol idated Financial Data.
The following Selected Consolidated Financial Data should be read in conjunction with “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations,” included under Item 7 below and the Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes thereto, included in Item 8
below. Most of the selected Consolidated Financial Statements data presented below is derived from our Consolidated Financial Statements, if
applicable, which are filed in response to Item 8 below. The selected Consolidated Statement of Operations data for the years ended February 2,
2013 and January 28, 2012 and the selected Consolidated Balance Sheet data as of February 1, 2014, February 2, 2013 and January 28, 2012 are
derived from audited Consolidated Financial Statements not included herein.
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(1) Except for the fiscal year ended February 2, 2013, which includes 53 weeks, a ll fiscal years presented include 52 weeks.
(2) All amounts presented are from continuing operations for all periods presented. Refer to Note 15 to the accompanying Consolidated Financial
Statements for additional information regarding the discontinued operations of 77kids.
(3) The comparable sales increase for Fiscal 2012 ended February 2, 2013 is compared to the corresponding 53 week period in Fiscal 2011.
Additionally, comparable sales for all periods include AEO Direct sales.
(4) Total net revenue per average square foot is calculated using retail store sales for the year divided by the straight average of the beginning
and ending square footage for the year.
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
The following discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations are based upon our Consolidated Financial Statements and
should be read in conjunction with those statements and notes thereto.
This report contains various “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and
Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, which represent our expectations or beliefs concerning future events, including
the following:
· the planned opening of approximately 15 to 20 AEO stores and 10 Aerie stores in North America and continued international expansion during
Fiscal 2016;
· the success of our efforts to expand internationally, engage in future franchise/license agreements, and/or growth through acquisitions or joint
ventures;
· the selection of approximately 55 to 65 American Eagle Outfitters stores in the United States and Canada for remodeling and refurbishing
during Fiscal 2016;
· the potential closure of approximately 30 to 35 American Eagle Outfitters and 15 Aerie stores in the United States and Canada during Fiscal
2016;
· the planned opening of approximately 30 new international third party operated American Eagle Outfitters stores during Fiscal 2016;
· the success of our core American Eagle Outfitters and Aerie brands through our omni-channel outlets within North America and
internationally;
· the expected payment of a dividend in future periods;
· the possibility that our credit facilities may not be available for future borrowings;
· the possibility that rising prices of raw materials, labor, energy and other inputs to our manufacturing process, if unmitigated, will have a
significant impact to our profitability; and
· the possibility that we may be required to take additional store impairment charges related to underperforming stores.
We caution that these forward-looking statements, and those described elsewhere in this report, involve material risks and uncertainties and are
subject to change based on factors beyond our control, as discussed within Part I, Item 1A of this Form 10-K. Accordingly, our future performance
and financial results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in any such forward-looking statement.
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Revenue Recognition. We record revenue for store sales upon the purchase of merchandise by customers. Our e-commerce operation records
revenue upon the estimated customer receipt date of the merchandise. Revenue is not recorded on the purchase of gift cards. A current liability is
recorded upon purchase, and revenue is recognized when the gift card is redeemed for merchandise.
We estimate gift card breakage and recognize revenue in proportion to actual gift card redemptions as a component of total net revenue. We
determine an estimated gift card breakage rate by continuously evaluating historical redemption data and the time when there is a remote likelihood
that a gift card will be redeemed.
Revenue is recorded net of estimated and actual sales returns and deductions for coupon redemptions and other promotions. The estimated sales
return reserve is based on projected merchandise returns determined through the use of historical average return percentages. We do not believe
there is a reasonable likelihood that there will be a material change in the future estimates or assumptions we use to calculate our sales return
reserve. However, if the actual rate of sales returns increases significantly, our operating results could be adversely affected.
We recognize royalty revenue generated from our license or franchise agreements based upon a percentage of merchandise sales by the
licensee/franchisee. This revenue is recorded as a component of total net revenue when earned.
Merchandise Inventory. Merchandise inventory is valued at the lower of average cost or market, utilizing the retail method. Average cost includes
merchandise design and sourcing costs and related expenses. We record merchandise receipts at the time which both title and risk of loss for the
merchandise transfers to us.
We review our inventory in order to identify slow-moving merchandise and generally use markdowns to clear merchandise. Additionally, we estimate
a markdown reserve for future planned markdowns related to current inventory. If inventory exceeds customer demand for reasons of style, seasonal
adaptation, changes in customer preference, lack of consumer acceptance of fashion items, competition, or if it is determined that the inventory in
stock will not sell at its currently ticketed price, additional markdowns may be necessary. These markdowns may have a material adverse impact on
earnings, depending on the extent and amount of inventory affected.
We estimate an inventory shrinkage reserve for anticipated losses for the period between the last physical count and the balance sheet date. The
estimate for the shrinkage reserve is calculated based on historical percentages and can be affected by changes in merchandise mix and changes in
actual shrinkage trends. We do not believe there is a reasonable likelihood that there will be a material change in the future estimates or
assumptions we use to calculate our inventory shrinkage reserve. However, if actual physical inventory losses differ significantly from our estimate,
our operating results could be adversely affected.
Asset Impairment. In accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standard Codification (“ASC”) 360, Property,
Plant, and Equipment (“ASC 360”), we evaluate long-lived assets for impairment at the individual store level, which is the lowest level at which
individual cash flows can be identified. Impairment losses are recorded on long-lived assets used in operations when events and circumstances
indicate that the assets might be impaired and the undiscounted cash flows estimated to be generated by those assets are less than the carrying
amounts of the assets. When events such as these occur, the impaired assets are adjusted to their estimated fair value and an impairment loss is
recorded separately as a component of operating income under loss on impairment of assets.
Our impairment loss calculations require management to make assumptions and to apply judgment to estimate future cash flows and asset fair
values, including forecasting useful lives of the assets and selecting the discount rate that reflects the risk inherent in future cash flows. We do not
believe there is a reasonable likelihood that there will be a material change in the estimates or assumptions we use to calculate long-lived asset
impairment losses. However, if actual results are not consistent with our estimates and assumptions, our operating results could be adversely
affected.
Share-Based Payments. We account for share-based payments in accordance with the provisions of ASC 718, Compensation – Stock
Compensation (“ASC 718”). To determine the fair value of our stock option awards, we use the Black-Scholes option pricing model, which requires
management to apply judgment and make assumptions to determine the fair value of our awards. These assumptions include estimating the length
of time employees will retain their vested stock options before exercising them (the “expected term”) and the estimated volatility of the price of our
common stock over the expected term.
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We calculate a weighted-average expected term based on historical experience. E xpected stock price volatility is based on a combination of
historical volatility of our common stock and implied volatility. We choose to use a combination of historical and implied volatility as we believe that
this combination is more representative of future stock price trends than historical volatility alone. Changes in these assumptions can materially
affect the estimate of the fair value of our share-based payments and the related amount recognized in our Consolidated Financial Statements.
Income Taxes. We calculate income taxes in accordance with ASC 740, Income Taxes (“ASC 740”), which requires the use of the asset and
liability method. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized based on the difference between the Consolidated Financial
Statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases as computed pursuant to ASC 740. Deferred tax assets
and liabilities are measured using the tax rates, based on certain judgments regarding enacted tax laws and published guidance, in effect in the
years when those temporary differences are expected to reverse. A valuation allowance is established against the deferred tax assets when it is
more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred taxes may not be realized. Changes in our level and composition of earnings, tax laws or
the deferred tax valuation allowance, as well as the results of tax audits, may materially impact the effective income tax rate.
We evaluate our income tax positions in accordance with ASC 740 which prescribes a comprehensive model for recognizing, measuring, presenting
and disclosing in the financial statements tax positions taken or expected to be taken on a tax return, including a decision whether to file or not to file
in a particular jurisdiction. Under ASC 740, a tax benefit from an uncertain position may be recognized only if it is “more likely than not” that the
position is sustainable based on its technical merits.
The calculation of the deferred tax assets and liabilities, as well as the decision to recognize a tax benefit from an uncertain position and to establish
a valuation allowance require management to make estimates and assumptions. We believe that our assumptions and estimates are reasonable,
although actual results may have a positive or negative material impact on the balances of deferred tax assets and liabilities, valuation allowances or
net income.
Comparable sales — Comparable sales provide a measure of sales growth for stores and channels open at least one year over the comparable prior
year period. In fiscal years following those with 53 weeks, including Fiscal 2013, the prior year period is shifted by one week to compare similar
calendar weeks. A store is included in comparable sales in the thirteenth month of operation. However, stores that have a gross square footage
increase of 25% or greater due to a remodel are removed from the comparable sales base, but are included in total sales. These stores are returned
to the comparable sales base in the thirteenth month following the remodel. Sales from American Eagle Outfitters and Aerie stores, as well as sales
from AEO Direct, are included in total comparable sales. Sales from licensed or franchise stores are not included in comparable sales. Individual
American Eagle Outfitters and Aerie brand comparable sales disclosures represent sales from stores and AEO Direct.
AEO Direct sales are included in the individual American Eagle Outfitters and Aerie brand comparable sales metric for the following reasons:
· Our approach to customer engagement is “omni-channel”, which provides a seamless customer experience through both traditional and non-
traditional channels, including four wall store locations, web, mobile/tablet devices, social networks, email, in-store displays and kiosks; and
· Shopping behavior has continued to evolve across multiple channels that work in tandem to meet customer needs. Management believes that
presenting a brand level performance metric that includes all channels (i.e., stores and AEO Direct) to be the most appropriate, given
customer behavior.
We no longer present AEO Direct separately due to the continued evolution of omni-channel engagement and the reasons discussed above.
Our management considers comparable sales to be an important indicator of our current performance. Comparable sales results are important to
achieve leveraging of our costs, including store payroll, store supplies, rent, etc. Comparable sales also have a direct impact on our total net
revenue, cash and working capital.
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Gross profit — Gross profit measures whether we are optimizing the price and inventory levels of ou r merchandise and achieving an optimal level
of sales. Gross profit is the difference between total net revenue and cost of sales. Cost of sales consists of: merchandise costs, including design,
sourcing, importing and inbound freight costs, as well as mar kdowns, shrinkage and certain promotional costs (collectively “merchandise costs”) and
buying, occupancy and warehousing costs. Design costs consist of: compensation, rent, depreciation, travel, supplies and samples.
Buying, occupancy and warehousing costs consist of: compensation, employee benefit expenses and travel for our buyers and certain senior
merchandising executives; rent and utilities related to our stores, corporate headquarters, distribution centers and other office space; freight from our
distribution centers to the stores; compensation and supplies for our distribution centers, including purchasing, receiving and inspection costs; and
shipping and handling costs related to our e-commerce operation. The inability to obtain acceptable levels of sales, initial markups or any significant
increase in our use of markdowns could have an adverse effect on our gross profit and results of operations.
Operating income – Our management views operating income as a key indicator of our performance. The key drivers of operating income are
comparable sales, gross profit, our ability to control selling, general and administrative expenses, and our level of capital expenditures. Management
also uses earnings before interest and taxes as an indicator of operating results.
Return on invested capital - Our management uses return on invested capital as a key measure to assess our efficiency at allocating capital to
profitable investments. This measure is critical in determining which strategic alternatives to pursue.
Store productivity — Store productivity, including total net revenue per average square foot, sales per productive hour, average unit retail price
(“AUR”), conversion rate, the number of transactions per store, the number of units sold per store and the number of units per transaction, is
evaluated by our management in assessing our operational performance.
Inventory turnover — Our management evaluates inventory turnover as a measure of how productively inventory is bought and sold. Inventory
turnover is important as it can signal slow moving inventory. This can be critical in determining the need to take markdowns on merchandise.
Cash flow and liquidity — Our management evaluates cash flow from operations, investing and financing in determining the sufficiency of our cash
position. Cash flow from operations has historically been sufficient to cover our uses of cash. Our management believes that cash flow from
operations will be sufficient to fund anticipated capital expenditures and working capital requirements.
Our goals are to drive improvements to our gross profit performance, bring greater consistency to our results and deliver profitable growth over the
long term.
Results of Operations
Overview
Our Fiscal 2015 performance was strong, in a challenging retail environment. We executed on our key priorities aimed at achieving sales and
earnings growth. Specifically, we made improvements to the merchandise by refocusing on innovation, quality and more compelling styles. Both
American Eagle and Aerie delivered increases in sales and profitability. We achieved higher average selling prices and fewer markdowns. AEO’s
digital business was particularly strong and the business benefited from the utilization of advances in omni-channel tools. Inventories and expenses
were well managed throughout the year. We ended the year with $260.1 million in cash and no long-term debt. Cash flow from operations for the
year was strong and allowed for the repurchase of 15.6 million shares for $227.1 million.
Total net revenue for the year increased 7% to $3.522 billion, compared to $3.283 billion last year. Total comparable sales increased 7%. By brand,
American Eagle Outfitters’ comparable sales rose 7% and Aerie increased 20%. Consolidated gross margin increased 180 basis points to 37.0%,
compared to 35.2% last year.
Income from continuing operations was $1.09 per diluted share this year, compared to $0.46 per diluted share last year. On an adjusted basis,
income from continuing operations last year was $0.63 per diluted share, which excludes a ($0.17) per diluted share impact from impairment and
restructuring charges.
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The preceding paragraph contains non-GAAP financial measures (“non-GAAP” or “adjusted”), comprised of earnings per share information
excluding non-GAAP items. This financial measure is not based on any standardized methodology prescribed by U.S. generally accepted accounting
principles (“GAAP”) and is not necessarily comparable to similar measures presented by other companies. We believe that this non-GAA P
information is useful as an additional means for investors to evaluate our operating performance, when reviewed in conjunction with our GAAP
financial statements. These amounts are not determined in accordance with GAAP and, therefore, should not be used exclusively in evaluating our
business and operations. The table below reconciles the GAAP financial measure to the non-GAAP financial measure discussed above.
(1) Asset impairment costs of $0.11 per diluted share consist of $25.1 million for the impairment of 48 AEO and 31 Aerie stores.
(2) Restructuring charges of $0.06 per diluted share include $17.8 million of severance and related employee costs and corporate charges.
We ended Fiscal 2015 with $260.1 million in cash and cash equivalents, a decrease of $150.6 million from last year. During the year, we generated
$341.9 million of cash from operations. The cash from operations was offset by $227.1 million of share repurchases, $153.2 of capital expenditures
and $97.2 million for payment of dividends. Merchandise inventory at the end of Fiscal 2015 was $305.2 million, an increase of 9% to last year.
The following table shows, for the periods indicated, the percentage relationship to total net revenue of the listed items included in our Consolidated
Statements of Operations.
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American Eagle Outfitters brand comparable sales increased 7%, or $189.8 million, and Aerie brand increased 20%, or $34.6 million. AEO Brand
men’s comparable sales increased in the low-single digits and AEO Brand women’s comparable sales increased in the high-single digits.
For the year, store transactions decreased in the low single digits while units per transaction increased in the low single digits and AUR increased in
the high single digits.
Gross Profit
Gross profit increased 13% to $1.303 billion from $1.155 billion last year. On a consolidated basis, gross profit as a percent to total net revenue
increased by 180 basis points to 37.0% from 35.2% last year.
The improvement in the gross margin was primarily due to 270 basis points of markdown improvement and 30 basis points of buying, occupancy
and warehousing (“BOW”) cost leverage. This was partially offset by 120 basis points of product cost deleverage as a result of higher incentive
costs.
There was $21.0 million of share-based payment expense, consisting of both time and performance-based awards, included in gross profit this year.
This is compared to $8.2 million of share-based payment expense included in gross profit last year.
Our gross profit may not be comparable to that of other retailers, as some retailers include all costs related to their distribution network, as well as
design costs in cost of sales. Other retailers may exclude a portion of these costs from cost of sales, including them in a line item such as selling,
general and administrative expenses. Refer to Note 2 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for a description of our accounting policy regarding
cost of sales, including certain buying, occupancy and warehousing expenses.
There was $14.0 million of share-based payment expense, consisting of time and performance-based awards, included in selling, general and
administrative expenses this year compared to $7.9 million last year.
Restructuring Charges
For Fiscal 2014, restructuring charges were $17.8 million, or 0.6% as a rate to total net revenue. This amount consists of corporate overhead
reductions, including severance and related items, and office space consolidation. There were no restructuring charges in Fiscal 2015.
The restructuring charges were aimed at strengthening our corporate assets. Corporate overhead expenses eliminated redundancies at the home
office. These changes are aimed at driving efficiencies and aligning investments in areas that help fuel the business.
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Depreciation and Amortization Expense
Depreciation and amortization expense increased to $148.2 million from $141.2 million last year, driven by omni-channel and IT investments, new
factory and mainline AEO Brand stores, and the new fulfillment center. As a rate to total net revenue, depreciation and amortization decreased to
4.2% from 4.3% last year as a result of the higher total net revenue.
Refer to Note 14 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information regarding our accounting for income taxes.
Refer to Note 15 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information regarding the discontinued operations of 77kids.
Net Income
Net income increased to $218.1 million in this year from $80.3 million in last year. As a percent to total net revenue, net income was 6.2% and 2.4%
for Fiscal 2015 and Fiscal 2014, respectively. Net income per diluted share was $1.11, compared to $0.42 last year. The change in net income was
attributable to the factors noted above.
For the year, store transactions decreased in the mid-single-digits while units per transaction increased in the low-single digits and AUR remained
flat.
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Gross Profit
Gross profit increased 4% to $1.155 billion in Fiscal 2014 from $1.114 billion in Fiscal 2013. On a consolidated basis, gross profit as a percent to
total net revenue increased by 150 basis points to 35.2% from 33.7% in Fiscal 2013. Included in gross profit in Fiscal 2013 were $24.1 million of pre-
tax charges related to fabric and product liabilities and the discontinuation of the AE Performance line and $4.5 million of corporate and store asset
write-offs.
Reduced markdowns and favorable product costs provided a combined 280 basis points of improvement in Fiscal 2014. BOW costs deleveraged
130 basis points from higher delivery costs and deleverage of rent on negative comparable sales.
There was $8.2 million of share-based payment expense, consisting of both time and performance-based awards, included in gross profit in Fiscal
2014. This is compared to a net benefit of $6.9 million of share-based payment expense included in gross profit in Fiscal 2013.
Our gross profit may not be comparable to that of other retailers, as some retailers include all costs related to their distribution network, as well as
design costs in cost of sales. Other retailers may exclude a portion of these costs from cost of sales, including them in a line item such as selling,
general and administrative expenses. Refer to Note 2 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for a description of our accounting policy regarding
cost of sales, including certain buying, occupancy and warehousing expenses.
There was $7.9 million of share-based payment expense, consisting of time and performance-based awards, included in selling, general and
administrative expenses in Fiscal 2014 compared to $0.3 million in Fiscal 2013.
Restructuring Charges
Restructuring charges were $17.8 million, or 0.6% as a rate to total net revenue, for Fiscal 2014. This amount consists of corporate overhead
reductions, including severance and related items, and office space consolidation. There were no restructuring charges in Fiscal 2013.
The restructuring charges are aimed at strengthening our corporate assets. Corporate overhead expenses eliminated redundancies at the home
office. These changes are aimed at driving efficiencies and aligning investments in areas that help fuel the business.
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Other Income, Net
Other income was $3.7 million in Fiscal 2014, compared to income of $1.0 million in Fiscal 2013, primarily as a result of foreign currency fluctuations.
Refer to Note 14 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information regarding our accounting for income taxes.
In Fiscal 2014, we became primarily liable for 21 store leases as the third party purchaser did not fulfill its obligations. We incurred $13.7 million in
pre-tax expense to terminate store leases. Loss from Discontinued Operations, net of tax, was $8.5 million for Fiscal 2014.
Refer to Note 15 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information regarding the discontinued operations of 77kids.
Net Income
Net income decreased to $80.3 million in Fiscal 2014 from $83.0 million in Fiscal 2013. As a percent to total net revenue, net income was 2.4% and
2.5% for Fiscal 2014 and Fiscal 2013, respectively. Net income per diluted share was $0.42, compared to $0.43 in Fiscal 2013. The change in net
income was attributable to the factors noted above.
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Financial Instruments
Valuation techniques used to measure fair value under ASC 820 must maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable
inputs. In addition, ASC 820 establishes this three-tier fair value hierarchy, which prioritizes the inputs used in measuring fair value. These tiers
include:
· Level 1 — Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
· Level 2 — Inputs other than Level 1 that are observable, either directly or indirectly, such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities;
quoted prices in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data for
substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities.
· Level 3 — Unobservable inputs (i.e., projections, estimates, interpretations, etc.) that are supported by little or no market activity and that are
significant to the fair value of the assets or liabilities.
As of January 30, 2016 and January 31, 2015, we held certain assets that are required to be measured at fair value on a recurring basis. These
include cash equivalents and investments.
In accordance with ASC 820, the following tables represent the fair value hierarchy for our financial assets (cash equivalents and investments)
measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of January 30, 2016:
In the event we hold Level 3 investments, a discounted cash flow model is used to value those investments. There were no Level 3 investments at
January 30, 2016.
Our growth strategy includes fortifying our brands and further international expansion or acquisitions. We periodically consider and evaluate these
options to support future growth. In the event we do pursue such options, we could require additional equity or debt financing. There can be no
assurance that we would be successful in closing any potential transaction, or that any endeavor we undertake would increase our profitability.
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The $109.3 million decrease in our working capital and corresponding decrease in the current ratio as of January 30, 2016 compared to January 31,
2015, related primarily to our use of cash for investing and financing activities, offset by net income, net of non-cash adjustments. Investing and
financing activities primarily include capital expenditures, share repurchases, and the payment of dividends. In Fiscal 2015, we repurchased 15.6
million shares for $227.1 million and paid $0.50 per shar e of dividends for a total of $97.2 million.
Cash returned to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases was $324.3 million and $97.2 million in Fiscal 2015 and Fiscal 2014,
respectively.
ASC 718 requires that cash flows resulting from the benefits of tax deductions in excess of recognized compensation cost for share-based payments
be classified as financing cash flows. Accordingly, for Fiscal 2015, Fiscal 2014 and Fiscal 2013, the excess tax benefits from share-based payments
of $0.7 million, $0.7 million and $8.8 million, respectively, are classified as financing cash flows.
For Fiscal 2016, we expect capital expenditures to be approximately $160 to $170 million related to the continued support of our expansion efforts,
stores, information technology upgrades to support growth and investments in e-commerce.
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Credit Facilities
In Fiscal 2014, we entered into a Credit Agreement (“Credit Agreement”) for five-year, syndicated, asset-based revolving credit facilities (the “Credit
Facilities”). The Credit Agreement provides senior secured revolving credit for loans and letters of credit up to $400 million, subject to customary
borrowing base limitations. The Credit Facilities provide increased financial flexibility and take advantage of a favorable credit environment.
All obligations under the Credit Facilities are unconditionally guaranteed by certain subsidiaries. The obligations under the Credit Agreement are
secured by a first-priority security interest in certain working capital assets of the borrowers and guarantors, consisting primarily of cash, receivables,
inventory and certain other assets and have been further secured by first-priority mortgages on certain real property.
As of January 30, 2016, we were in compliance with the terms of the Credit Agreement and had $8.0 million outstanding in stand-by letters of credit.
No loans were outstanding under the Credit Agreement as of January 30, 2016.
Additionally, we have borrowing agreements with two separate financial institutions under which we may borrow an aggregate of $130 million USD
for the purposes of trade letter of credit issuances. The availability of any future borrowings under the trade letter of credit facilities is subject to
acceptance by the respective financial institutions.
As of January 30, 2016, we had outstanding trade letters of credit of $0.4 million.
Stock Repurchases
During Fiscal 2015, as part of our publicly announced share repurchase program, we repurchased 15.6 million shares for approximately $227.1
million, at a weighted average price of $14.57 per share. During Fiscal 2014, there were no share repurchases as a part of our publicly announced
repurchase programs. During Fiscal 2013, as part of our publicly announced share repurchase program, we repurchased 1.6 million shares for
approximately $33.1 million, at a weighted average price of $20.66 per share. As of January 30, 2016, we had 2.8 million shares remaining
authorized for repurchase under the program authorized by our Board in January 2013. The program authorized 20.0 million shares under a share
repurchase program which expires on January 28, 2017. Subsequent to the fourth quarter of Fiscal 2015, our Board authorized 25.0 million shares
under a new share repurchase program which expires on January 30, 2021.
During Fiscal 2015, Fiscal 2014 and Fiscal 2013, we repurchased approximately 0.3 million, 0.5 million and 1.1 million shares, respectively, from
certain employees at market prices totaling $5.2 million, $7.5 million and $23.4 million, respectively. These shares were repurchased for the
payment of taxes, not in excess of the minimum statutory withholding requirements, in connection with the vesting of share-based payments, as
permitted under the 2005 Stock Award and Incentive Plan, as amended.
Dividends
A $0.125 per share dividend was paid for each quarter of Fiscal 2015, resulting in a dividend yield of 3.4% for the trailing twelve months ended
January 30, 2016. During Fiscal 2014, a $0.125 per share dividend was paid for each quarter, resulting in a dividend yield of 3.6% for the trailing
twelve months ended January 31, 2015. Subsequent to the fourth quarter of Fiscal 2015, our Board declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.125 per
share, payable on April 22, 2016 to stockholders of record at the close of business on April 8, 2016. The payment of future dividends is at the
discretion of our Board and is based on future earnings, cash flow, financial condition, capital requirements, changes in U.S. taxation and other
relevant factors. It is anticipated that any future dividends paid will be declared on a quarterly basis.
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Obligations and Commitments
Disclosure about Contractual Obligations
The following table summarizes our significant contractual obligations as of January 30, 2016:
(1) Operating lease obligations consist primarily of future minimum lease commitments related to store operating leases (Refer to Note 10 to the
Consolidated Financial Statements). Operating lease obligations do not include common area maintenance, insurance or tax payments for
which we are also obligated.
(2) The amount of unrecognized tax benefits as of January 30, 2016 was $7.0 million, including approximately $1.3 million of accrued interest and
penalties. Unrecognized tax benefits are positions taken or expected to be taken on an income tax return that may result in additional
payments to tax authorities. We anticipate $2.5 million of unrecognized tax benefits will be realized within one year. The remaining balance of
unrecognized tax benefits of $4.6 million is included in the “More than 5 Years” column as we are not able to reasonably estimate the timing of
the potential future payouts.
(3) Purchase obligations primarily include binding commitments to purchase merchandise inventory, as well as other legally binding
commitments, made in the normal course of business that are enforceable and specify all significant terms. Included in the above purchase
obligations are inventory commitments guaranteed by outstanding letters of credit, as shown in the table below.
(1) Trade letters of credit represent commitments, guaranteed by a bank, to pay vendors for merchandise, as well as other commitments, upon
presentation of documents demonstrating that the merchandise has shipped.
(2) Standby letters of credit represent commitments, guaranteed by a bank, to pay landlords or vendors to the extent previously agreed criteria
are not met.
Impact of Inflation
Historically, increases in the price of raw materials used in the manufacture of merchandise we purchase from suppliers has negatively impacted our
cost of sales. Future increases in these costs, in addition to increases in the price of labor, energy and other inputs to the manufacture of our
merchandise, could negatively impact our business and the industry in the future.
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Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
We have market risk exposure related to interest rates and foreign currency exchange rates. Market risk is measured as the potential negative
impact on earnings, cash flows or fair values resulting from a hypothetical change in interest rates or foreign currency exchange rates over the next
year.
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Item 8. Financial Statemen ts and Supplementary Data.
Index to Consolidated Financial Statements
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Report of Independent Regist ered Public Accounting Firm
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. as of January 30, 2016 and January 31, 2015,
and the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income, stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in
the period ended January 30, 2016. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to
express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards
require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material
misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit
also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial
statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of American Eagle
Outfitters, Inc. at January 30, 2016 and January 31, 2015, and the consolidated results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years
in the period ended January 30, 2016, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), American Eagle
Outfitters, Inc.’s internal control over financial reporting as of January 30, 2016, based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated
Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (2013 framework) and our report dated March 10,
2016 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
March 10, 2016
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AMERICAN EAGLE OUTFITTERS, INC.
Consolidated Balance Sheets
32
AMERICAN EAGLE O UTFITTERS, INC.
Consolidated Statements of Operations
33
AMERICAN EAGLE OUTFITTERS, INC.
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income
34
AMERICAN EAGLE OUTFITTERS, INC.
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity
Accumulated
Shares Other
Outstanding Common Contributed Retained Treasury Comprehensive Stockholders'
(In thousands, except per share amounts) (1) Stock Capital Earnings Stock (2) Income (Loss) Equity
Balance at February 2, 2013 192,604 $ 2,496 $ 627,065 $ 1,553,058 $ (990,729 ) $ 29,297 $ 1,221,187
Stock awards — — 1,184 — — — 1,184
Repurchase of common stock as part of publicly announced programs (1,600 ) — — — (33,051 ) — (33,051 )
Repurchase of common stock from employees (1,059 ) — — — (23,385 ) — (23,385 )
Reissuance of treasury stock 3,204 — (56,706 ) 6,090 55,831 — 5,215
Net income — — — 82,983 — — 82,983
Other comprehensive loss — — — — — (17,140 ) (17,140 )
Cash dividends and dividend equivalents ($0.375 per share) — — 1,465 (72,280 ) — — (70,815 )
Balance at February 1, 2014 193,149 $ 2,496 $ 573,008 $ 1,569,851 $ (991,334 ) $ 12,157 $ 1,166,178
Stock awards — — 12,372 — — — 12,372
Repurchase of common stock as part of publicly announced programs — — — — — — —
Repurchase of common stock from employees (517 ) — — — (7,464 ) — (7,464 )
Reissuance of treasury stock 1,884 — (17,988 ) (7,503 ) 33,232 — 7,741
Net income — — — 80,322 — — 80,322
Other comprehensive loss — — — — — (22,101 ) (22,101 )
Cash dividends and dividend equivalents ($0.50 per share) — — 2,283 (99,585 ) — — (97,302 )
Balance at January 31, 2015 194,516 $ 2,496 $ 569,675 $ 1,543,085 $ (965,566 ) $ (9,944 ) $ 1,139,746
Stock awards — — 31,937 — — — 31,937
Repurchase of common stock as part of publicly announced programs (15,563 ) — — — (227,071 ) — (227,071 )
Repurchase of common stock from employees (324 ) — — — (5,163 ) — (5,163 )
Reissuance of treasury stock 1,506 — (13,237 ) (2,332 ) 26,461 — 10,892
Net income — — — 218,138 — — 218,138
Other comprehensive loss — — — — — (19,924 ) (19,924 )
Cash dividends and dividend equivalents ($0.50 per share) — — 2,445 (99,624 ) — — (97,179 )
Balance at January 30, 2016 180,135 $ 2,496 $ 590,820 $ 1,659,267 $ (1,171,339 ) $ (29,868 ) $ 1,051,376
(1) 600,000 authorized, 249,566 issued and 180,135 outstanding, $0.01 par value common stock at January 30, 2016; 600,000 authorized,
249,566 issued and 194,516 outstanding, $0.01 par value common stock at January 31, 2015; 600,000 authorized, 249,566 issued and
193,149 outstanding, $0.01 par value common stock at February 1, 2014. The Company has 5,000 authorized, with none issued or
outstanding, $0.01 par value preferred stock at January 30, 2016, January 31, 2015 and February 1, 2014.
(2) 69,431 shares, 55,050 shares, and 56,417 shares at January 30, 2016, January 31, 2015 and February 1, 2014, respectively. During Fiscal
2015, Fiscal 2014, and Fiscal 2013, 1,506 shares, 1,884 shares, and 3,204 shares, respectively, were reissued from treasury stock for the
issuance of share-based payments.
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AMERICAN EAGLE OUTFITTERS, INC.
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
36
AMERICAN EAGLE OUTFITTERS, INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
For the Year Ended January 30, 2016
1. Business Operations
American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. (the “Company”), a Delaware corporation, operates under the American Eagle Outfitters® (“AEO”) and Aerie® by
American Eagle Outfitters® (“Aerie”) brands. The Company operated 77kids by American Eagle Outfitters® (“77kids”) until its exit in Fiscal 2012.
Founded in 1977, American Eagle Outfitters is a leading apparel and accessories retailer that operates more than 1,000 retail stores in the U.S. and
internationally, online at ae.com and aerie.com and international store locations managed by third-party operators. Through its brands, the Company
offers high quality, on-trend clothing, accessories and personal care products at affordable prices. The Company’s online business, AEO Direct,
ships to 81 countries worldwide.
On November 2, 2015, AEO Inc. acquired Tailgate Clothing Company (“Tailgate”), which owns and operates Tailgate, a vintage, sports-inspired
apparel brand with a college town store concept, and Todd Snyder New York, a premium menswear brand. As of January 30, 2016, the Company
operated one Tailgate store in Iowa City, Iowa. Tailgate and Todd Snyder product is also sold online at TailgateClothing.com and ToddSnyder.com,
respectively.
Merchandise Mix
The following table sets forth the approximate consolidated percentage of total net revenue from continuing operations attributable to each
merchandise group for each of the periods indicated:
The Company exited its 77kids brand in Fiscal 2012. These Consolidated Financial Statements reflect the results of 77kids as discontinued
operations for all periods presented.
Fiscal Year
Our fiscal year ends on the Saturday nearest to January 31. As used herein, “Fiscal 2016” refers to the 52 week period ending January 28, 2017.
“Fiscal 2015”, “Fiscal 2014” and “Fiscal 2013” refer to the 52-week periods ended January 30, 2016, January 31, 2015 and February 1, 2014,
respectively. “Fiscal 2012” refers to the 53-week period ended February 2, 2013.
Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”)
requires the Company’s management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of
contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting
period. Actual results could differ from those
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estimates. On an ongoing basis, ou r management reviews its estimates based on currently available information. Changes in facts and
circumstances may result in revised estimates.
In November 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-17, Balance Sheet Classification of Deferred Taxes (“ASU 2015-17”), which requires entities to
present deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities as noncurrent in a classified balance sheet. The ASU may be applied prospectively or
retrospectively. The Company adopted the ASU on January 30, 2016, applied retrospectively.
In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, Leases (“ASU 2016–02”) which replaces the existing guidance in ASC 840, Leases . The
new standard establishes a right-of-use (ROU) model that requires a lessee to record a ROU asset and a lease liability on the balance sheet for all
leases with terms longer than 12 months. Leases will be classified as either finance or operating, with classification affecting the pattern of expense
recognition in the income statement. The guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within
those fiscal years and requires retrospective application. The Company will adopt in Fiscal 2019 and is currently evaluating the impact of ASU 2016-
02 to its Consolidated Financial Statements .
As of January 30, 2016 and January 31, 2015, the Company held no short-term investments.
Refer to Note 3 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for information regarding cash and cash equivalents and investments.
Merchandise Inventory
Merchandise inventory is valued at the lower of average cost or market, utilizing the retail method. Average cost includes merchandise design and
sourcing costs and related expenses. The Company records merchandise receipts at the time which both title and risk of loss for the merchandise
transfers to the Company.
The Company reviews its inventory levels to identify slow-moving merchandise and generally uses markdowns to clear merchandise. Additionally,
the Company estimates a markdown reserve for future planned permanent markdowns related to current inventory. Markdowns may occur when
inventory exceeds customer demand for reasons of style, seasonal adaptation, changes in customer preference, lack of consumer acceptance of
fashion items, competition, or if it is
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determined that the inventory in stock will not sell at its currently ticketed price. Such mark downs may have a material adverse impact on earnings,
depending on the extent and amount of inventory affected. The Company also estimates a shrinkage reserve for the period between the last physical
count and the balance sheet date. The estimate for the s hrinkage reserve, based on historical results, can be affected by changes in merchandise
mix and changes in actual shrinkage trends.
Buildings 25 years
Leasehold improvements Lesser of 10 years or the term of the lease
Fixtures and equipment 5 years
In accordance with ASC 360, Property, Plant, and Equipment , the Company’s management evaluates the value of leasehold improvements and
store fixtures associated with retail stores, which have been open for a period of time sufficient to reach maturity. The Company evaluates long-lived
assets for impairment at the individual store level, which is the lowest level at which individual cash flows can be identified. Impairment losses are
recorded on long-lived assets used in operations when events and circumstances indicate that the assets might be impaired and the undiscounted
cash flows estimated to be generated by those assets are less than the carrying amounts of the assets. When events such as these occur, the
impaired assets are adjusted to their estimated fair value and an impairment loss is recorded separately as a component of operating income under
loss on impairment of assets. During Fiscal 2015, the Company recorded no asset impairment charges.
During Fiscal 2014, the Company recorded pre-tax asset impairment charges of $33.5 million that includes $25.1 million for the impairment of 79
retail stores recorded as a loss on impairment of assets in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. Based on the Company’s evaluation of
current and future projected performance, it was determined that these stores would not be able to generate sufficient cash flow over the expected
remaining lease term to recover the carrying value of the respective stores’ assets. Additionally, the Company recorded $8.4 million of impairment
charges related to corporate assets.
During Fiscal 2013, the Company recorded asset impairment charges of $44.5 million consisting of $25.2 million for the impairment of 69 retail
stores and $19.3 million for the Company’s Warrendale, Pennsylvania Distribution Center, recorded as a loss on impairment of assets in the
Consolidated Statements of Operations. The retail store impairments were recorded based on the results of the Company’s evaluation of stores that
considered performance during the holiday selling season and a significant portfolio review in the fourth quarter of Fiscal 2013 that considered
current and future performance projections and strategic real estate initiatives. The Company determined that these stores would not be able to
generate sufficient cash flow over the expected remaining lease term to recover the carrying value of the respective stores assets.
When the Company closes, remodels or relocates a store prior to the end of its lease term, the remaining net book value of the assets related to the
store is recorded as a write-off of assets within depreciation and amortization expense.
Refer to Note 7 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information regarding property and equipment.
Goodwill
The Company’s goodwill is primarily related to the acquisition of its importing operations, Canadian, Hong Kong and China businesses and the
recent acquisition of Tailgate. In accordance with ASC 350, Intangibles- Goodwill and Other (“ASC 350”), the Company evaluates goodwill for
possible impairment on at least an annual basis and last performed an annual impairment test as of January 30, 2016. As a result of the Company’s
annual goodwill impairment test, the Company concluded that its goodwill was not impaired.
Refer to Note 17 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information on the acquisition of Tailgate.
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Intangible Assets
Intangible assets are recorded on the basis of cost with amortization computed utilizing the straight-line method over the assets’ estimated useful
lives. The Company’s intangible assets, which primarily include trademark assets, are amortized over 15 to 25 years.
The Company evaluates intangible assets for impairment in accordance with ASC 350 when events or circumstances indicate that the carrying value
of the asset may not be recoverable. Such an evaluation includes the estimation of undiscounted future cash flows to be generated by those assets.
If the sum of the estimated future undiscounted cash flows are less than the carrying amounts of the assets, then the assets are impaired and are
adjusted to their estimated fair value. No intangible asset impairment charges were recorded for all periods presented.
Refer to Note 8 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information regarding intangible assets.
Self-Insurance Liability
The Company is self-insured for certain losses related to employee medical benefits and worker’s compensation. Costs for self-insurance claims
filed and claims incurred but not reported are accrued based on known claims and historical experience. Management believes that it has
adequately reserved for its self-insurance liability, which is capped through the use of stop loss contracts with insurance companies. However, any
significant variation of future claims from historical trends could cause actual results to differ from the accrued liability.
Once a customer is approved to receive the AEO Visa Card or the AEO Credit Card and the card is activated, the customer is eligible to participate
in the credit card rewards program. Customers who make purchases at AEO and Aerie earn discounts in the form of savings certificates when
certain purchase levels are reached. Also, AEO Visa Card customers who make purchases at other retailers where the card is accepted earn
additional discounts. Savings certificates are valid for 90 days from issuance.
Points earned under the credit card rewards program on purchases at AEO and Aerie are accounted for by analogy to ASC 605-25, Revenue
Recognition, Multiple Element Arrangements (“ASC 605-25”). The Company believes that points earned under its point and loyalty programs
represent deliverables in a multiple element arrangement rather than a rebate or refund of cash. Accordingly, the portion of the sales revenue
attributed to the award points is deferred and recognized when the award is redeemed or when the points expire. Additionally, credit card reward
points earned on non-AEO or Aerie purchases are accounted for in accordance with ASC 605-25. As the points are earned, a current liability is
recorded for the estimated cost of the award, and the impact of adjustments is recorded in cost of sales.
The Company offers its customers the AEREWARDS ® loyalty program (the “Program”). Under the Program, customers accumulate points based
on purchase activity and earn rewards by reaching certain point thresholds during three-month earning periods. Rewards earned during these
periods are valid through the stated expiration date, which is approximately
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one month from the mailing date of the reward. These rewards can be redeemed for a discount on a purchase of merchandise. Rewards not
redeemed during the on e-month redemption period are forfeited. The Company determined that rewards earned using the Program should be
accounted for in accordance with ASC 605-25. Accordingly, the portion of the sales revenue attributed to the award credits is deferred and rec
ognized when the awards are redeemed or expire.
Income Taxes
The Company calculates income taxes in accordance with ASC 740, Income Taxes (“ASC 740”), which requires the use of the asset and liability
method. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized based on the difference between the Consolidated Financial Statement
carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases as computed pursuant to ASC 740. Deferred tax assets and
liabilities are measured using the tax rates, based on certain judgments regarding enacted tax laws and published guidance, in effect in the years
when those temporary differences are expected to reverse. A valuation allowance is established against the deferred tax assets when it is more
likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred taxes may not be realized. Changes in the Company’s level and composition of earnings, tax
laws or the deferred tax valuation allowance, as well as the results of tax audits, may materially impact the Company’s effective income tax rate.
The Company evaluates its income tax positions in accordance with ASC 740 which prescribes a comprehensive model for recognizing, measuring,
presenting and disclosing in the financial statements tax positions taken or expected to be taken on a tax return, including a decision whether to file
or not to file in a particular jurisdiction. Under ASC 740, a tax benefit from an uncertain position may be recognized only if it is “more likely than not”
that the position is sustainable based on its technical merits.
The calculation of the deferred tax assets and liabilities, as well as the decision to recognize a tax benefit from an uncertain position and to establish
a valuation allowance require management to make estimates and assumptions. The Company believes that its assumptions and estimates are
reasonable, although actual results may have a positive or negative material impact on the balances of deferred tax assets and liabilities, valuation
allowances or net income.
Revenue Recognition
Revenue is recorded for store sales upon the purchase of merchandise by customers. The Company’s e-commerce operation records revenue upon
the estimated customer receipt date of the merchandise. Shipping and handling revenues are included in total net revenue. Sales tax collected from
customers is excluded from revenue and is included as part of accrued income and other taxes on the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheets.
Revenue is recorded net of estimated and actual sales returns and deductions for coupon redemptions and other promotions. The Company records
the impact of adjustments to its sales return reserve quarterly within total net revenue and cost of sales. The sales return reserve reflects an estimate
of sales returns based on projected merchandise returns determined through the use of historical average return percentages.
Revenue is not recorded on the purchase of gift cards. A current liability is recorded upon purchase, and revenue is recognized when the gift card is
redeemed for merchandise. Additionally, the Company recognizes revenue on unredeemed gift cards based on an estimate of the amounts that will
not be redeemed (“gift card breakage”), determined through historical redemption trends. Gift card breakage revenue is recognized in proportion to
actual gift card redemptions as a component of total net revenue. For further information on the Company’s gift card program, refer to the Gift Cards
caption below.
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The Company recognizes royalty revenue generated from its license or franchise agreements based upon a percentage of merchandise sales by the
licensee/franchisee. This revenue is recorded as a component of total net revenue when earned.
Design costs are related to the Company's Design Center operations and include compensation and employee benefit expenses, including salaries,
incentives, travel, supplies and samples for our design teams, as well as rent and depreciation for the Company’s Design Center. These costs are
included in cost of sales as the respective inventory is sold.
Buying, occupancy and warehousing costs consist of compensation, employee benefit expenses and travel for the Company’s buyers and certain
senior merchandising executives; rent and utilities related to the Company’s stores, corporate headquarters, distribution centers and other office
space; freight from the Company’s distribution centers to the stores; compensation and supplies for the Company’s distribution centers, including
purchasing, receiving and inspection costs; and shipping and handling costs related to our e-commerce operation. Gross profit is the difference
between total net revenue and cost of sales.
Advertising Costs
Certain advertising costs, including direct mail, in-store photographs and other promotional costs are expensed when the marketing campaign
commences. As of January 30, 2016 and January 31, 2015, the Company had prepaid advertising expense of $6.1 million and $6.6 million,
respectively. All other advertising costs are expensed as incurred. The Company recognized $104.1 million, $94.2 million and $87.0 million in
advertising expense during Fiscal 2015, Fiscal 2014 and Fiscal 2013, respectively.
Gift Cards
The value of a gift card is recorded as a current liability upon purchase and revenue is recognized when the gift card is redeemed for
merchandise. The Company estimates gift card breakage and recognizes revenue in proportion to actual gift card redemptions as a component of
total net revenue. The Company determines an estimated gift card breakage rate by continuously evaluating historical redemption data and the time
when there is a remote likelihood that a gift card will be redeemed. The Company recorded gift card breakage of $8.2 million, $7.0 million and $7.3
million during Fiscal 2015, Fiscal 2014 and Fiscal 2013, respectively.
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Legal Proceedings and Claims
The Company is subject to certain legal proceedings and claims arising out of the conduct of its business. In accordance with ASC 450,
Contingencies (“ASC 450”), the Company records a reserve for estimated losses when the loss is probable and the amount can be reasonably
estimated. If a range of possible loss exists and no anticipated loss within the range is more likely than any other anticipated loss, the Company
records the accrual at the low end of the range, in accordance with ASC 450. As the Company believes that it has provided adequate reserves, it
anticipates that the ultimate outcome of any matter currently pending against the Company will not materially affect the consolidated financial
position, results of operations or consolidated cash flows of the Company.
Segment Information
In accordance with ASC 280, Segment Reporting (“ASC 280”), the Company has identified three operating segments (American Eagle Outfitters®
Brand retail stores, Aerie® by American Eagle Outfitters® retail stores and AEO Direct) that reflect the Company’s operational structure as well as
the business’s internal view of analyzing results and allocating resources. All of the operating segments have been aggregated and are presented as
one reportable segment, as permitted by ASC 280.
(1) Amounts represent sales from American Eagle Outfitters and Aerie international retail stores, AEO Direct sales that are billed to and/or
shipped to foreign countries and international franchise revenue.
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3. Cash and Cash Equivalents
The following table summarizes the fair market value of our cash and marketable securities, which are recorded on the Consolidated Balance
Sheets:
Proceeds from the sale of available-for-sale securities were $10.0 million and $162.8 million for Fiscal 2014 and Fiscal 2013, respectively.
Financial Instruments
Valuation techniques used to measure fair value under ASC 820 must maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable
inputs. In addition, ASC 820 establishes this three-tier fair value hierarchy, which prioritizes the inputs used in measuring fair value. These tiers
include:
· Level 1 — Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
· Level 2 — Inputs other than Level 1 that are observable, either directly or indirectly, such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities;
quoted prices in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data for
substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities.
· Level 3 — Unobservable inputs (i.e., projections, estimates, interpretations, etc.) that are supported by little or no market activity and that are
significant to the fair value of the assets or liabilities.
As of January 30, 2016 and January 31, 2015, the Company held certain assets that are required to be measured at fair value on a recurring basis.
These include cash equivalents and investments.
In accordance with ASC 820, the following tables represent the fair value hierarchy for the Company’s financial assets (cash equivalents and
investments) measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of January 30, 2016 and January 31, 2015:
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Fair Value Measurements at January 31, 2015
Quoted Market
Prices in Active
Markets for Significant
Identical Significant Other Unobservable
Assets Observable Inputs Inputs
(In thousands) Carrying Amount (Level 1) (Level 2) (Level 3)
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash $ 370,692 $ 370,692 $ — $ —
Money-market 40,005 40,005 — —
Total cash and cash equivalents $ 410,697 $ 410,697 $ — $ —
Percent to total 100.0% 100.0% — —
In the event the Company holds Level 3 investments, a discounted cash flow model is used to value those investments. There were no Level 3
investments at January 30, 2016 or January 31, 2015.
Non-Financial Assets
The Company’s non-financial assets, which include goodwill, intangible assets and property and equipment, are not required to be measured at fair
value on a recurring basis. However, if certain triggering events occur, or if an annual impairment test is required and the Company is required to
evaluate the non-financial instrument for impairment, a resulting asset impairment would require that the non-financial asset be recorded at the
estimated fair value. As a result of the Company’s annual goodwill impairment test performed as of January 30, 2016, the Company concluded that
its goodwill was not impaired.
Certain long-lived assets were measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis using Level 3 inputs as defined in ASC 820. During Fiscal 2014 and
Fiscal 2013, certain long-lived assets related to the Company’s retail stores and corporate assets were determined to be unable to recover their
respective carrying values and were written down to their fair value, resulting in a loss of $33.5 million and 44.5 million, respectively, which is
recorded as a loss on impairment of assets within the Consolidated Statements of Operations. The fair value of the impaired assets after the
recorded loss is an immaterial amount.
The fair value of the Company’s stores were determined by estimating the amount and timing of net future cash flows and discounting them using a
risk-adjusted rate of interest. The Company estimates future cash flows based on its experience and knowledge of the market in which the store is
located.
Equity awards to purchase approximately 13.000, 2.3 million and 1.7 million shares of common stock during the Fiscal 2015, Fiscal 2014 and Fiscal
2013, respectively, were outstanding, but were not included in the computation of weighted average diluted common share amounts as the effect of
doing so would have been anti-dilutive.
Additionally, for Fiscal 2015, approximately 0.7 million of performance-based restricted stock awards were not included in the computation of
weighted average diluted common share amounts because the number of shares ultimately issued is contingent on the Company’s performance
compared to pre-established performance goals. For Fiscal 2014, approximately 1.9 million of performance-based restricted stock awards were not
included in the computation of weighted
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average diluted common share amounts because the number of shares ultimately issued is contingent on the Company’s performance compared to
pre-established performance goals.
Refer to Note 12 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information regarding share-based compensation.
6. Accounts Receivable
Accounts receivable are comprised of the following:
Additionally, during Fiscal 2015, Fiscal 2014 and Fiscal 2013, the Company recorded $4.8 million, $6.4 million and $14.6 million, respectively,
related to asset write-offs within depreciation and amortization expense.
8. Intangible Assets
Intangible assets include costs to acquire and register the Company’s trademark assets. During Fiscal 2015, the Company added $5.7 million net
intangible assets from the Tailgate acquisition. The following table represents intangible assets as of January 30, 2016 and January 31, 2015:
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Amortization expense is summarized as follows:
The table below summarizes the estimated future amortization expense for intangible assets existing as of January 30, 2016 for the next five Fiscal
Years:
Future
(In thousands) Amortization
2016 $ 3,603
2017 $ 3,595
2018 $ 3,584
2019 $ 3,584
2020 $ 2,911
Refer to Note 17 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information on the acquisition of Tailgate.
All obligations under the Credit Facilities are unconditionally guaranteed by certain subsidiaries. The obligations under the Credit Agreement are
secured by a first-priority security interest in certain working capital assets of the borrowers and guarantors, consisting primarily of cash, receivables,
inventory and certain other assets, and will be further secured by first-priority mortgages on certain real property.
As of January 30, 2016, the Company was in compliance with the terms of the Credit Agreement and had $8.0 million outstanding in stand-by letters
of credit. No loans were outstanding under the Credit Agreement on January 30, 2016.
Additionally, the Company has borrowing agreements with two separate financial institutions under which it may borrow an aggregate of
$130.0 million USD for the purposes of trade letter of credit issuances. The availability of any future borrowings under the trade letter of credit
facilities is subject to acceptance by the respective financial institutions.
As of January 30, 2016, the Company had outstanding trade letters of credit of $0.4 million.
10. Leases
The Company leases all store premises, some of its office space and certain information technology and office equipment. The store leases
generally have initial terms of 10 years and are classified as operating leases. Most of these store leases provide for base rentals and the payment
of a percentage of sales as additional contingent rent when sales exceed specified levels. Additionally, most leases contain construction allowances
and/or rent holidays. In recognizing landlord incentives and minimum rent expense, the Company amortizes the items on a straight-line basis over
the lease term (including the pre-opening build-out period).
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A summary of fixed minimum and contingent rent expense for all operating leases follows:
In addition, the Company is typically responsible under its store, office and distribution center leases for tenant occupancy costs, including
maintenance costs, common area charges, real estate taxes and certain other expenses.
The table below summarizes future minimum lease obligations, consisting of fixed minimum rent, under operating leases in effect at January 30,
2016:
Accumulated
Before Tax Other
Tax Benefit Comprehensive
(In thousands) Amount (Expense) Income
Balance at February 2, 2013 $ 29,297 — $ 29,297
Foreign currency translation loss (1) (17,140) — (17,140)
Balance at February 1, 2014 $ 12,157 — $ 12,157
Foreign currency translation loss (1) (22,101) — (22,101)
Balance at January 31, 2015 $ (9,944) — $ (9,944)
Foreign currency translation loss (1) (14,535) — (14,535)
Loss on long-term intra-entity foreign currency transactions (8,805) 3,416 (5,389 )
Balance at January 30, 2016 $ (33,284) $ 3,416 $ (29,868)
(1) Foreign currency translation adjustments are not adjusted for income taxes as they relate to permanent investments in our subsidiaries .
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ASC 718 requires recognition of compensation cost under a non-substantive vesting period approach for awards containi ng provisions that
accelerate or continue vesting upon retirement. Accordingly, for awards with such provisions, the Company recognizes compensation expense over
the period from the grant date to the date retirement eligibility is achieved, if that is expe cted to occur during the nominal vesting
period. Additionally, for awards granted to retirement eligible employees, the full compensation cost of an award must be recognized immediately
upon grant.
At January 30, 2016, the Company had awards outstanding under three share-based compensation plans, which are described below.
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any individual may not exceed 9.0 million shares. The 1999 Pl an allowed the Compensation Committee to determine which employees and
consultants received awards and the terms and conditions of these awards. The 1999 Plan provided for a grant of 1,875 stock options quarterly (not
to be adjusted for stock splits) to ea ch director who is not an officer or employee of the Company starting in August 2003. The Company ceased
making these quarterly stock option grants in June 2005. Under this plan, 33.2 million non-qualified stock options and 6.7 million shares of restricted
stock were granted to employees and certain non-employees (without considering cancellations to date of awards for 9.7 million shares).
Approximately 33% of the options granted were to vest over eight years after the date of grant but were accelerated as the Company met annual
performance goals. Approximately 34% of the options granted under the 1999 Plan vest over three years, 23% vest over five years and the
remaining grants vest over one year. All options expire after 10 years. Performance-based restric ted stock was earned if the Company met
established performance goals. The 1999 Plan terminated on June 15, 2005 with all rights of the awardees and all unexpired awards continuing in
force and operation after the termination.
A summary of the Company’s stock option activity under all plans for Fiscal 2015 follows:
(1) Options exercised during Fiscal 2015 ranged in price from $8.09 to $16.49.
(2) Options exercisable represent “in-the-money” vested options based upon the weighted average exercise price of vested options compared to
the Company’s stock price at January 30, 2016.
The weighted-average grant date fair value of stock options granted during Fiscal 2014 and Fiscal 2013 was $3.99 and $4.17, respectively. The
aggregate intrinsic value of options exercised during Fiscal 2015, Fiscal 2014 and Fiscal 2013 was $0.4 million, $1.3 million and $3.9 million,
respectively. Cash received from the exercise of stock options and the actual tax benefit realized from share-based payments was $7.3 million and
($0.5) million, respectively, for Fiscal 2015. Cash received from the exercise of stock options and the actual tax benefit realized from share-based
payments was $7.3 million and $(0.5) million, respectively, for Fiscal 2014. Cash received from the exercise of stock options and the actual tax
benefit realized from share-based payments was $6.2 million and $8.7 million, respectively, for Fiscal 2013.
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The fair value of stock options was estimated at the date of grant using a Black-Scholes option pricing mode l with the following weighted-average
assumptions:
(1) Based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant with a term consistent with the expected life of our stock options.
(2) Based on a combination of historical volatility of the Company’s common stock and implied volatility.
(3) Represents the period of time options are expected to be outstanding. The weighted average expected option terms were determined based
on historical experience.
(4) Based on historical experience.
As of January 30, 2016, there was $0.2 million of unrecognized compensation expense related to nonvested stock option awards that is expected to
be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.2 years.
Performance-based restricted stock awards include performance-based restricted stock units. These awards cliff vest at the end of a three year
period based upon the Company’s achievement of pre-established goals throughout the term of the award. Performance-based restricted stock
units receive dividend equivalents in the form of additional performance-based restricted stock units, which are subject to the same restrictions and
forfeiture provisions as the original award.
The grant date fair value of all restricted stock awards is based on the closing market price of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant.
A summary of the activity of the Company’s restricted stock is presented in the following tables:
As of January 30, 2016, there was $14.3 million of unrecognized compensation expense related to nonvested time-based restricted stock unit
awards that is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.7 years. Based on current probable performance, there is $9.4 million
of unrecognized compensation expense related to performance-based restricted stock unit awards which will be recognized as achievement of
performance goals is probable over a one to three year period.
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As of January 30, 2016, the Company had 6.0 million shares available for all equity grants.
The Employee Stock Purchase Plan is a non-qualified plan that covers all full-time employees and part-time employees who are at least 18 years old
and have completed 60 days of service. Contributions are determined by the employee, with the Company matching 15% of the investment up to a
maximum investment of $100 per pay period. These contributions are used to purchase shares of Company stock in the open market.
The significant components of the Company’s deferred tax assets and liabilities were as follows:
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The net decrease in deferred tax assets and liabilities was primarily due to an increase in the deferred tax assets for compensation and benefits
offset by an increase in the deferred tax liability for property and equipment basis differences. Additionally , there was a decrease to the valuation
allowance related to foreign deferred tax assets.
As of January 30, 2016, the Company had deferred tax assets related to state and foreign net operating loss carryovers of $1.7 million and $5.2
million, respectively that could be utilized to reduce future years’ tax liabilities. A portion of these net operating loss carryovers begin expiring in the
year 2018 and some have an indefinite carryforward period. Management believes it is more likely than not that a portion of the state and foreign
net operating loss carryovers will not reduce future years’ tax liabilities in certain jurisdictions. As such a valuation allowance of $5.0 million has been
recorded on the deferred tax assets related to the cumulative state and foreign net operating loss carryovers. We also provided for a valuation
allowance of approximately $2.7 million related to other foreign deferred tax assets.
The Company has foreign tax credit carryovers in the amount of $20.6 million and $19.3 million as of January 30, 2016 and January 31, 2015,
respectively. The foreign tax credit carryovers begin to expire in Fiscal 2020 to the extent not utilized. No valuation allowance has been recorded on
the foreign tax credit carryovers as the Company believes it is more likely than not that the foreign tax credits will be utilized prior to expiration.
The Company has state income tax credit carryforwards of $6.9 million (net of federal tax) and $7.6 million (net of federal tax) as of January 30, 2016
and January 31, 2015, respectively. These income tax credits can be utilized to offset future state income taxes and have a carryforward period of
10 to16 years. They will begin to expire in Fiscal 2022.
Significant components of the provision for income taxes from continuing operations were as follows:
As a result of additional tax deductions related to share-based payments, tax benefits have been recognized as contributed capital for Fiscal 2015,
Fiscal 2014 and Fiscal 2013 in the amounts of $(0.5) million, $(0.5) million and $8.7 million, respectively.
U.S. income taxes have not been provided on the undistributed earnings of the Company’s foreign subsidiaries, as the Company intends to
indefinitely reinvest the undistributed foreign earnings outside of the United States. As of January 30, 2016, the unremitted earnings of the
Company’s foreign subsidiaries were approximately $23.4 million (USD). Upon distribution of the earnings in the form of dividends or otherwise, the
Company would be subject to income and withholding taxes offset by foreign tax credits. Determination of the amount of unrecognized deferred U.S.
income tax liability on these unremitted earnings is not practicable because of the complexities associated with this hypothetical calculation.
53
T he following table summarizes the activity related to our unrecognized tax benefits:
As of January 30, 2016, the gross amount of unrecognized tax benefits was $5.7 million, of which $4.6 million would affect the effective income tax
rate if recognized. The gross amount of unrecognized tax benefits as of January 31, 2015 was $12.6 million, of which $9.1 million would affect the
effective income tax rate if recognized.
Unrecognized tax benefits decreased by $6.9 million during Fiscal 2015, decreased $2.0 million during Fiscal 2014 and decreased by $2.6 million
during Fiscal 2013. The unrecognized tax benefit changes were primarily related to federal and state income tax settlements and other changes in
income tax reserves. Over the next twelve months the Company believes it is reasonably possible the unrecognized tax benefits could decrease by
as much as $2.8 million as the result of federal and state tax settlements, statute of limitations lapses, and other changes to the reserves.
The Company records accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense. Accrued interest and penalties
related to unrecognized tax benefits included in the Consolidated Balance Sheet were $1.3 million and $1.6 million as of January 30, 2016 and
January 31, 2015, respectively. An immaterial amount of interest and penalties were recognized in the provision for income taxes during Fiscal
2015, Fiscal 2014 and Fiscal 2013.
The Company and its subsidiaries file income tax returns in the U.S. federal jurisdiction and various state and foreign jurisdictions. The Internal
Revenue Service (“IRS”) examination of the Company’s U.S. federal income tax return for the tax year ended February 1, 2014 was completed
during Fiscal 2015. Accordingly, all years prior to the tax year ended January 31, 2015 are no longer subject to U.S. federal income tax
examinations by tax authorities. Additionally, the Company is participating in the IRS’s Compliance Assurance Process (CAP) for the tax years
ended January 31, 2015 and January 30, 2016. The Company does not anticipate that any adjustments will result in a material change to its financial
position, results of operations or cash flows. With respect to state and local jurisdictions and countries outside of the United States, with limited
exceptions, generally, the Company and its subsidiaries are no longer subject to income tax audits for tax years before 2009. Although the outcome
of tax audits is always uncertain, the Company believes that adequate amounts of tax, interest and penalties have been provided for any
adjustments that are expected to result from these years.
A reconciliation between the statutory federal income tax rate and the effective income tax rate from continuing operations follows:
54
15. Discontinued Operations
In Fiscal 2012, the Company exited the 77kids business. In connection with the exit of the 77kids business, the Company became secondarily liable
for obligations under lease agreements for 21 store leases assumed by the third party purchaser. In Fiscal 2014, the third party purchaser did not
fulfill its obligations under the leases, resulting in the Company becoming primarily liable. The Company was required to make rental and lease
termination payments and received reimbursement from the $11.5 million stand-by letter of credit provided by the third party purchaser. The cash
outflow for the remaining lease termination costs was paid in Fiscal 2015.
In accordance with ASC 460, Guarantees (“ASC 460”), as the Company became primarily liable under the leases upon the third party purchaser’s
default, the estimated remaining amounts to terminate the lease agreements were accrued in our Consolidated Financial Statements related to these
guarantees.
January 30,
(In thousands) 2016
Accrued liability as of January 31, 2015 $ 14,636
Add: Costs incurred —
Less: Cash payments (6,805)
Less: Adjustments (1) (7,831)
Accrued liability as of January 30, 2016 $ —
(1) Adjustments resulting from favorably settling lease termination obligations during Fiscal 2015.
The tables below present the significant components of 77kids’ results included in Loss from Discontinued Operations on the Consolidated
Statements of Operations for the years ended January 30, 2016, January 31, 2015 and February 1, 2014.
55
Costs associated with restructuring activities are recorded when incurred. A summary of costs recognized within Restructuring Charges on the
Consolidated Income Statement for Fiscal 2014 are included in the table as follows.
January 30,
(In thousands) 2016
Accrued liability as of January 31, 2015 $ 12,456
Add: Costs incurred, excluding non-cash charges —
Less: Cash payments (10,015)
Accrued liability as of January 30, 2016 $ 2,441
17. Acquisitions
During Fiscal 2015, the Company completed the acquisition of Tailgate, which owns and operates Tailgate, a vintage, sports-inspired apparel brand
with a college town store concept, and Todd Snyder New York, a premium menswear brand, for total consideration of $13.5 million, of which $10.4
million was paid in cash.
The total purchase price was allocated to the net tangible and intangible assets acquired based on their estimated fair values. Such estimated fair
values require management to make estimates and judgments, especially with respect to intangible assets. The Company’s valuation of intangible
assets, including deferred income taxes, is subject to finalization in Fiscal 2016.
The preliminary allocation of the purchase price to the fair value of assets acquired is as follows:
(In thousands)
Merchandise inventory $ 4,078
Intangible assets and goodwill 10,121
Other current assets 4,231
Other liabilities (4,974)
Total purchase price $ 13,456
Results of operations of Tailgate have been included in our Consolidated Statements of Operations since the November 1, 2015 acquisition
date. Pro forma results of the acquired business have not been presented as the results were not material to our Consolidated Financial Statements
for all years presented and would not have been material had the acquisition occurred at the beginning of Fiscal 2015.
56
18. Quarterly Financial Information — Unaudited
The sum of the quarterly EPS amounts may not equal the full year amount as the computations of the weighted average shares outstanding for each
quarter and the full year are calculated independently.
Fiscal 2015
Quarters Ended
May 2, August 1, October 31, January 30,
(In thousands, except per share amounts) 2015 2015 2015 2016
Total net revenue $ 699,520 $ 797,428 $ 919,072 $ 1,105,828
Gross profit $ 262,212 $ 285,039 $ 367,532 $ 387,951
Income from continuing operations 29,055 33,265 69,265 81,706
Gain from discontinued operations, net of tax — — 4,847 —
Net income $ 29,055 $ 33,265 $ 74,112 $ 81,706
Fiscal 2014
Quarters Ended
May 3, August 2, November 1, January 31,
(In thousands, except per share amounts) 2014 2014 2014 2015
Total net revenue $ 646,129 $ 710,595 $ 854,290 $ 1,071,853
Gross profit $ 225,845 $ 237,547 $ 315,472 $ 375,810
Income from continuing operations 3,866 5,813 9,035 70,073
Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax — — — (8,465)
Net income $ 3,866 $ 5,813 $ 9,035 $ 61,608
Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure.
None.
57
such information is accumulated and communicated to the management of American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. (the “Management”), including our
Principal Exec utive Officer and our Principal Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. In designing
and evaluating the disclosure controls and procedures, Management recognized that any controls and procedures, no matte r how well designed
and operated, can provide only reasonable assurance of achieving the desired control objectives.
In connection with the preparation of this Annual Report on Form 10-K as of January 30, 2016, an evaluation was performed under the supervision
and with the participation of our Management, including the Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the
design and operation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Exchange Act). Based upon that
evaluation, our Principal Executive Officer and our Principal Financial Officer have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were
effective at the reasonable assurance level as of the end of the period covered by this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
All internal control systems, no matter how well designed, have inherent limitations. Therefore, even those systems determined to be effective can
provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation.
Our Management assessed the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of January 30, 2016. In making this assessment, our
Management used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) in Internal Control —
Integrated Framework (2013). Based on this assessment, our Management concluded that we maintained effective internal control over financial
reporting as of January 30, 2016.
The SEC’s general guidance permits the exclusion of an assessment of the effectiveness of a registrant’s internal controls over financial reporting for
an acquired business during the first year following such acquisition, if among other circumstances and factors there is not adequate time between
the acquisition date and the date of assessment. As previously discussed in Note 17 to the Consolidated Financial Statements, we completed the
acquisition of Tailgate Clothing Company (“Tailgate”), on November 1, 2015. The acquired businesses constituted approximately 1% of total assets
as of January 30, 2016 and less than 1% of revenues and pre-tax income for the fiscal year then ended. Our Management’s assessment and
conclusion on the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as of January 30, 2016 excluded an assessment of the internal control
over financial reporting of the assets and business acquired for Tailgate.
Our independent registered public accounting firm that audited the financial statements included in this Annual Report issued an attestation report on
our internal control over financial reporting.
58
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
We have audited American Eagle Outfitters, Inc.’s internal control over financial reporting as of January 30, 2016, based on criteria established in
Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (2013 framework) (the
COSO criteria). American Eagle Outfitters Inc.’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting, and for
its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting included in the accompanying Management’s Annual Report on
Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the company’s internal control over financial reporting based
on our audit.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards
require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was
maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a
material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and
performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our
opinion.
A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial
reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A
company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in
reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that
transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles,
and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the
company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the
company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any
evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that
the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
As indicated in the accompanying Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting, management’s assessment of and
conclusion on the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting did not include the internal controls of Tailgate Clothing Company
(“Tailgate”), which is included in the January 30, 2016 consolidated financial statements of American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. and constituted
approximately 1% of total assets as of January 30, 2016 and less than 1% of revenues and pre-tax income for the fiscal year then ended. Our audit
of internal control over financial reporting of American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. also did not include an evaluation of the internal control over financial
reporting of Tailgate.
In our opinion, American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of January 30,
2016, based on the COSO criteria.
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated
balance sheets of American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. as of January 30, 2016 and January 31, 2015 and the related consolidated statements of
operations, comprehensive income, stockholders’ equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended January 30, 2016 of
American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. and our report dated March 10, 2016 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
March 10, 2016
59
Item 9B. Other Information.
Not applicable.
PART III
Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance.
The information appearing under the captions “Proposal One: Election of Directors,” “Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance,”
“Corporate Governance Information,” and “Board Committees” in our Proxy Statement relating to our 2016 Annual Meeting of Stockholders is
incorporated herein by reference. See also Part I, Item 1 under the caption “Executive Officers of the Registrant.”
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters.
The information appearing under the captions “Security Ownership of Principal Stockholders and Management” in our Proxy Statement relating to
our 2016 Annual Meeting of Stockholders is incorporated herein by reference.
Item 13. Certain Rela tionships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence.
The information appearing under the caption “Certain Relationships and Related Transactions” and “Board Committees” in our Proxy Statement
relating to our 2016 Annual Meeting of Stockholders is incorporated herein by reference.
PART IV
Item 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules.
(a) (1) The following consolidated financial statements are included in Item 8:
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of January 30, 2016 and January 31, 2015
Consolidated Statements of Operations for the fiscal years ended January 30, 2016, January 31, 2015 and February 1, 2014
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the fiscal years ended January 30, 2016, January 31, 2015 and February 1,
2014
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity for the fiscal years ended January 30, 2016, January 31, 2015 and February 1, 2014
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the fiscal years ended January 30, 2016, January 31, 2015 and February 1, 2014
60
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(a) (2) Financial statement schedules have been omitted because either they are not required or are not applicable or because the information
required to be set forth therein is not material.
(a) (3) Exhibits
Exhibit
Number Description
61
Exhibit
Number Description
32.1** Certification of Principal Executive Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted Pursuant to
Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
32.2** Certification of Principal Financial Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-
Oxley Act of 2002
101* Interactive Data File
(1) Previously filed as Exhibit 3.1 to the Form 10-Q dated August 4, 2007, filed September 6, 2007 and incorporated herein by reference.
(2) Previously filed as Exhibit 3.1 to the Form 8-K dated November 20, 2007, filed November 26, 2007 and incorporated herein by reference.
(3) Previously filed as Exhibit 10.7 to Registration Statement on Form S-1 (file no. 33-75294), filed February 14, 1994, as amended, and
incorporated herein by reference.
(4) Previously filed as Exhibit 4(a) to Registration Statement on Form S-8 (file no. 33-33278), filed April 5, 1996 and incorporated herein by
reference.
(5) Previously filed as Exhibit 10.5 to the Form 10-K dated February 3, 2007, filed April 4, 2007 and incorporated herein by reference.
(6) Previously filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Form 8-K dated December 17, 2008, filed December 23, 2008 and incorporated herein by reference.
(7) Previously filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Form 8-K dated December 30, 2005, filed January 5, 2006 and incorporated herein by reference.
(8) Previously filed as Appendix A to the Definitive Proxy Statement for the 2009 Annual Meeting of Stockholders held on June 16, 2009, filed
May 4, 2009 and incorporated herein by reference.
(9) Previously filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Form 8-K dated April 21, 2010, filed April 26, 2010 and incorporated herein by reference.
(10) Previously filed as Exhibit 10.25 to the Form 10-K dated January 29, 2011, filed on March 11, 2011 and incorporated herein by reference.
(11) Previously filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Form 8-K dated May 24, 2012, filed June 1, 2012 and incorporated herein by reference.
(12) Previously filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Form 8-K dated July 25, 2012, filed July 27, 2012 and incorporated herein by reference.
(13) Previously filed as Exhibit 10.23 to the Form 10-K dated February 1, 2014, filed on March 13, 2014 and incorporated herein by reference.
(14) Previously filed as Exhibit 10.26 to the Form 10-K dated February 1, 2014, filed on March 13, 2014 and incorporated herein by reference.
(15) Previously filed as Appendix A to the Definitive Proxy Statement for the 2014 Annual Meeting of Stockholders held on May 29, 2014, filed April
14, 2014 and incorporated herein by reference.
(16) Previously filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Form 8-K dated December 2, 2014, filed December 4, 2014 and incorporated herein by reference.
(17) Previously filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Form 8-K dated July 23, 2014, filed July 25, 2014 and incorporated herein by reference.
(18) Previously filed as Exhibit 10.24 to the Form 10-K dated January 28, 2012, filed on March 15, 2012 and incorporated herein by reference.
(19) Previously filed as Exhibit 10.25 to the Form 10-K dated January 28, 2012, filed on March 15, 2012 and incorporated herein by reference.
(20) Previously filed as Exhibit 10.26 to the Form 10-K dated January 28, 2012, filed on March 15, 2012 and incorporated herein by reference.
(21) Previously filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Form 10-Q dated May 2, 2015, filed on May 27, 2015 and incorporated herein by reference.
62
(b) Exhibits
The exhibits to this report have been filed herewith.
63
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be
signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed by the following persons in the capacities
indicated on March 10, 2016.
Signature Title
/s/ Jay L. Schottenstein Chief Executive Officer, Chairman of the Board of Directors
Jay L. Schottenstein and Director
(Principal Executive Officer)
/s/ Mary M. Boland Chief Financial Officer and
Mary M. Boland Chief Administrative Officer
(Principal Financial Officer)
/s/ Scott M. Hurd Senior Vice President, Chief Accounting Officer
Scott M. Hurd (Principal Accounting Officer)
* Director
Michael G. Jesselson
* Director
Thomas R. Ketteler
* Director
Cary D. McMillan
* Director
Janice E. Page
* Director
David M. Sable
* Director
Noel J. Spiegel
64
Exhibit 21
Subsidiaries
American Eagle Outfitters, Inc., a Delaware Corporation, has the following wholly owned subsidiaries:
AEO Hong Kong Hold Co. LLC, a Delaware Limited Liability Company
American Eagle Mexico Imports, S. de R.L. de C.V., a Mexican Limited Liability Company
American Eagle Mexico Retail, S. de R.L. de C.V., a Mexican Limited Liability Company
American Eagle Mexico Services, S. de R.L. de C.V., a Mexican Limited Liability Company
American Eagle Outfitters Canada Corporation, a Canadian (Nova Scotia) Unlimited Liability Company
American Eagle Outfitters (China) Commercial Enterprise Co., Ltd., a Peoples Republic of China Foreign Investment Commercial Enterprise
American Eagle Outfitters Holland Hold Co B.V., a Netherlands Limited Liability Company
American Eagle Outfitters Hong Kong Limited, a Hong Kong Limited Liability Company
We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement and in the related prospectus (Form S-3, Registration No. 333-68875) of
American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. and in the Registration Statements (Forms S-8) of American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. as follows:
· 1999 Stock Incentive Plan (Registration Nos. 333-34748 and 333-75188),
· Employee Stock Purchase Plan (Registration No. 333-03278),
· 1994 Restricted Stock Plan (Registration No. 33-79358),
· 1994 Stock Option Plan (Registration Nos. 333-44759, 33-79358, and 333-12661),
· Stock Fund of American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. Profit Sharing and 401(k) Plan (Registration No. 33-84796),
· 2005 Stock Award and Incentive Plan (Registration Nos. 333-126278 and 333-161661), and
· 2014 Stock Award and Incentive Plan (Registration No. 333-197050)
of our reports dated March 10, 2016, with respect to the consolidated financial statements of American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. and the effectiveness of
internal control over financial reporting of American Eagle Outfitters, Inc., included in this Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended January 30,
2016.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
March 10, 2016
Exhibit 24
Power of Attorney
Each director and/or officer of American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. (the “Corporation”) whose signature appears below hereby appoints Charles P.
Sandel or Mary M. Boland as his or her attorneys or either of them individually as his or her attorney, to sign, in his or her name and behalf and in
any and all capacities stated below, and to cause to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “Commission”), the Corporation’s
Annual Report on Form 10-K (the “Form 10-K”) for the year ended January 30, 2016, and likewise to sign and file with the Commission any and all
amendments to the Form 10-K, and the Corporation hereby appoints such persons as its attorneys-in-fact and each of them as its attorney-in-fact
with like authority to sign and file the Form 10-K and any amendments thereto granting to each such attorney-in-fact full power of substitution and
revocation, and hereby ratifying all that any such attorney-in-fact or his substitute may do by virtue hereof.
Signature Title
CERTIFICATIONS
2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to
make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered
by this report;
3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material
respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;
4. The registrant’s other certifying officer(s) and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as
defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f)
and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:
a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our
supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others
within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;
b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under
our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for
external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;
c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about
the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and
d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s
most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably
likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and
5. The registrant’s other certifying officer(s) and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial
reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):
a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are
reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and
b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s
internal control over financial reporting.
CERTIFICATIONS
2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to
make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered
by this report;
3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material
respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;
4. The registrant’s other certifying officer(s) and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as
defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f)
and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:
a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our
supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others
within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;
b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under
our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for
external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;
c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about
the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and
d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s
most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably
likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and
5. The registrant’s other certifying officer(s) and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial
reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):
a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are
reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and
b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s
internal control over financial reporting.
In connection with the Annual Report of American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. (the “Company”) on Form 10-K for the period ended January 30, 2016
as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), I, Jay L. Schottenstein, Principal Executive Officer of the
Company, certify to the best of my knowledge, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act
of 2002, that:
1. The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and
2. The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the
Company.
In connection with the Annual Report of American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. (the “Company”) on Form 10-K for the period ended January 30, 2016
as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), I, Mary M. Boland, Principal Financial Officer of the
Company, certify to the best of my knowledge, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act
of 2002, that:
1. The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and
2. The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the
Company.