Vera Bradley, Inc. - Quarter Report: 2021 July (Form 10-Q)
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
___________________________
FORM 10-Q
___________________________
☒ | QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 |
For the Quarterly Period Ended July 31, 2021
OR
☐ | TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 |
For the Transition Period From to
Commission File Number: 001-34918
___________________________
VERA BRADLEY, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
___________________________
Indiana | 27-2935063 | |||||||
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) | (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.) | |||||||
12420 Stonebridge Road, Roanoke, Indiana | 46783 | |||||||
(Address of principal executive offices) | (Zip Code) |
(877) 708-8372
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
None
(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)
___________________________
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of Each Class | Trading Symbol(s) | Name of each exchange on which registered | ||||||
Common Stock, without par value | VRA | NASDAQ Global Select Market |
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes x No ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes x No ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer | ¨ | Accelerated filer | x | |||||||||||||||||
Non-accelerated filer | ¨ (Do not check if a smaller reporting company) | Smaller reporting company | ☐ | |||||||||||||||||
Emerging growth company | ☐ | |||||||||||||||||||
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ¨ |
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes ☐ No x
The registrant had 34,021,330 shares of its common stock outstanding as of September 1, 2021.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Item 1. | ||||||||
Item 2. | ||||||||
Item 3. | ||||||||
Item 4. | ||||||||
Item 1. | ||||||||
Item 1A. | ||||||||
Item 2. | ||||||||
Item 6. |
2
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This report contains forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties. All statements other than statements of historical or current fact included in this report are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements include references to our current expectations and projections relating to our financial condition, results of operations, plans, objectives, strategies, future performance, and business. You can identify forward-looking statements by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. These statements may include words such as “anticipate,” “estimate,” “expect,” “project,” “plan,” “intend,” “believe,” “may,” “might,” “will,” “should,” “can have,” and “likely” and other words and terms of similar meaning in connection with any discussion of the timing or nature of future operating or financial performance or other events. For example, all statements we make relating to our estimated and projected earnings, revenues, costs, expenditures, cash flows, growth rates, and financial results, our plans and objectives for future operations, growth, initiatives, or strategies, or the expected outcome or impact of pending or threatened litigation are forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those that we expected, including:
•public health pandemics, including the continued outbreak of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) and actions to contain the spread of the virus by governmental or other actors;
•possible inability to successfully implement our long-term strategic plans;
•possible declines in our comparable sales;
•possible inability to maintain and enhance our brands;
•possible failure of our multi-channel distribution model;
•possible adverse changes in general economic conditions and their impact on consumer confidence and consumer spending, including as may be related to the continued outbreak of COVID-19;
•possible inability to predict and respond in a timely manner to changes in consumer demand;
•possible inability to successfully open new stores and/or operate current stores as planned;
•possible loss of key management associates or inability to attract and retain the talent required for our business;
•possible data security or privacy breaches or disruptions in our computer systems or website;
•possible disruptions in our supply chain;
•possible new or increased tariffs on our products that could lead to increased product costs and lower profit margins; and
•possible inability to successfully implement integration strategies related to the Pura Vida business and possible inability to derive expected benefits from or to successfully integrate any future business acquisition.
We derive many of our forward-looking statements from our operating plans and forecasts, which are based upon detailed assumptions. While we believe that our assumptions are reasonable, we caution that it is difficult to predict the impact of known factors, and it is impossible for us to anticipate all factors that could affect our actual results.
For a discussion of the above described risks and uncertainties and other risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in our forward-looking statements, please refer to “Risk Factors” in Item 1A of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 30, 2021, as well as in Item 1A herein.
We caution you that the risks and uncertainties identified by us may not be all of the factors that are important to you. Furthermore, the forward-looking statements included in this report are made only as of the date hereof. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by law.
3
PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Vera Bradley, Inc.
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
(in thousands)
(unaudited)
July 31, 2021 | January 30, 2021 | |||||||||||||
Assets | ||||||||||||||
Current assets: | ||||||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | $ | 75,753 | $ | 64,175 | ||||||||||
Short-term investments | 727 | 1,295 | ||||||||||||
Accounts receivable, net | 29,897 | 27,543 | ||||||||||||
Inventories | 148,048 | 141,416 | ||||||||||||
Income taxes receivable | 6,289 | 7,372 | ||||||||||||
Prepaid expenses and other current assets | 15,627 | 17,882 | ||||||||||||
Total current assets | 276,341 | 259,683 | ||||||||||||
Operating right-of-use assets | 86,617 | 88,730 | ||||||||||||
Property, plant, and equipment, net | 62,350 | 63,952 | ||||||||||||
Intangible assets, net | 45,759 | 47,296 | ||||||||||||
Goodwill | 44,254 | 44,254 | ||||||||||||
Deferred income taxes | 3,294 | 3,530 | ||||||||||||
Other assets | 6,444 | 6,342 | ||||||||||||
Total assets | $ | 525,059 | $ | 513,787 | ||||||||||
Liabilities, Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest, and Shareholders’ Equity | ||||||||||||||
Current liabilities: | ||||||||||||||
Accounts payable | $ | 30,247 | $ | 27,093 | ||||||||||
Accrued employment costs | 15,465 | 13,648 | ||||||||||||
Short-term operating lease liabilities | 20,584 | 22,321 | ||||||||||||
Other accrued liabilities | 17,522 | 14,043 | ||||||||||||
Income taxes payable | — | 321 | ||||||||||||
Total current liabilities | 83,818 | 77,426 | ||||||||||||
Long-term operating lease liabilities | 87,984 | 91,536 | ||||||||||||
Other long-term liabilities | 71 | 109 | ||||||||||||
Total liabilities | 171,873 | 169,071 | ||||||||||||
Commitments and contingencies | ||||||||||||||
Redeemable noncontrolling interest | 30,364 | 29,809 | ||||||||||||
Shareholders’ equity: | ||||||||||||||
Preferred stock; 5,000 shares authorized, no shares issued or outstanding | — | — | ||||||||||||
Common stock, without par value; 200,000 shares authorized, 42,415 and 41,808 shares issued and 34,021 and 33,414 shares outstanding, respectively | — | — | ||||||||||||
Additional paid-in-capital | 106,455 | 105,433 | ||||||||||||
Retained earnings | 323,431 | 316,526 | ||||||||||||
Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income | (4) | 8 | ||||||||||||
Treasury stock | (107,060) | (107,060) | ||||||||||||
Total shareholders’ equity of Vera Bradley, Inc. | 322,822 | 314,907 | ||||||||||||
Total liabilities, redeemable noncontrolling interest, and shareholders’ equity | $ | 525,059 | $ | 513,787 |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
4
Vera Bradley, Inc.
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations
(in thousands, except per share data)
(unaudited)
Thirteen Weeks Ended | Twenty-Six Weeks Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
July 31, 2021 | August 1, 2020 | July 31, 2021 | August 1, 2020 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Net revenues | $ | 147,048 | $ | 131,770 | $ | 256,142 | $ | 201,054 | ||||||||||||||||||
Cost of sales | 66,687 | 52,149 | 116,617 | 87,245 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Gross profit | 80,361 | 79,621 | 139,525 | 113,809 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Selling, general, and administrative expenses | 68,729 | 62,155 | 129,625 | 121,937 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Other income, net | 1,016 | 33 | 789 | 53 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Operating income (loss) | 12,648 | 17,499 | 10,689 | (8,075) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Interest expense, net | 119 | 485 | 209 | 557 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Income (loss) before income taxes | 12,529 | 17,014 | 10,480 | (8,632) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Income tax expense (benefit) | 2,672 | 8,687 | 2,141 | (1,422) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Net income (loss) | 9,857 | 8,327 | 8,339 | (7,210) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Less: Net income attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interest | 807 | 1,111 | 1,434 | 911 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Net income (loss) attributable to Vera Bradley, Inc. | $ | 9,050 | $ | 7,216 | $ | 6,905 | $ | (8,121) | ||||||||||||||||||
Basic weighted-average shares outstanding | 34,001 | 33,403 | 33,795 | 33,367 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Diluted weighted-average shares outstanding | 34,500 | 33,693 | 34,502 | 33,367 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Basic net income (loss) per share available to Vera Bradley, Inc. common shareholders | $ | 0.27 | $ | 0.42 | $ | 0.20 | $ | (0.24) | ||||||||||||||||||
Diluted net income (loss) per share available to Vera Bradley, Inc. common shareholders | $ | 0.26 | $ | 0.42 | $ | 0.20 | $ | (0.24) | ||||||||||||||||||
Reconciliation of net income (loss) available to Vera Bradley, Inc. common shareholders | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net income (loss) attributable to Vera Bradley, Inc. | $ | 9,050 | $ | 7,216 | $ | 6,905 | $ | (8,121) | ||||||||||||||||||
Excess portion of redeemable noncontrolling interest redemption value adjustment | — | 6,800 | — | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Net income (loss) available to Vera Bradley, Inc. common shareholders | $ | 9,050 | $ | 14,016 | $ | 6,905 | $ | (8,121) |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
5
Vera Bradley, Inc.
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income
(in thousands)
(unaudited)
Thirteen Weeks Ended | Twenty-Six Weeks Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
July 31, 2021 | August 1, 2020 | July 31, 2021 | August 1, 2020 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Net income (loss) | $ | 9,857 | $ | 8,327 | $ | 8,339 | $ | (7,210) | ||||||||||||||||||
Unrealized (loss) gain on available-for-sale debt investments | (1) | 14 | (3) | (171) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Cumulative translation adjustment | (3) | 1 | (9) | 11 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Comprehensive income (loss), net of tax | 9,853 | 8,342 | 8,327 | (7,370) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Less: Comprehensive income attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interest | 807 | 1,111 | 1,434 | 911 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Vera Bradley, Inc. | $ | 9,046 | $ | 7,231 | $ | 6,893 | $ | (8,281) |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
6
Vera Bradley, Inc.
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity
(in thousands, except share data)
(unaudited)
Number of Shares | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Common Stock | Treasury Stock | Additional Paid-in Capital | Retained Earnings | Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) | Treasury Stock | Total Shareholders’ Equity of Vera Bradley, Inc. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Balance at January 30, 2021 | 33,414,490 | 8,393,207 | $ | 105,433 | $ | 316,526 | $ | 8 | $ | (107,060) | $ | 314,907 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net loss attributable to Vera Bradley, Inc. | — | — | — | (2,145) | — | — | (2,145) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Translation adjustments | — | — | — | — | (6) | — | (6) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Unrealized loss on available-for-sale debt investments | — | — | — | — | (2) | — | (2) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Restricted shares vested, net of repurchase for taxes | 570,562 | — | (2,171) | — | — | — | (2,171) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Stock-based compensation | — | — | 1,814 | — | — | — | 1,814 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Balance at May 1, 2021 | 33,985,052 | 8,393,207 | $ | 105,076 | $ | 314,381 | $ | — | $ | (107,060) | $ | 312,397 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net income attributable to Vera Bradley, Inc. | — | — | — | 9,050 | — | — | 9,050 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Translation adjustments | — | — | — | — | (3) | — | (3) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Unrealized loss on available-for-sale debt investments | — | — | — | — | (1) | — | (1) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Restricted shares vested, net of repurchase for taxes | 36,278 | — | (179) | — | — | — | (179) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Stock-based compensation | — | — | 1,558 | — | — | — | 1,558 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Balance at July 31, 2021 | 34,021,330 | 8,393,207 | $ | 106,455 | $ | 323,431 | $ | (4) | $ | (107,060) | $ | 322,822 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
7
Vera Bradley, Inc.
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity
(in thousands, except share data)
(continued)
(unaudited)
Number of Shares | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Common Stock | Treasury Stock | Additional Paid-in Capital | Retained Earnings | Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) | Treasury Stock | Total Shareholders’ Equity of Vera Bradley, Inc. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Balance at February 1, 2020 | 33,503,249 | 8,011,372 | $ | 100,357 | $ | 307,414 | $ | 158 | $ | (104,159) | $ | 303,770 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net loss attributable to Vera Bradley, Inc. | — | — | — | (15,337) | — | — | (15,337) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Translation adjustments | — | — | — | — | 10 | — | 10 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Unrealized loss on available-for-sale debt investments | — | — | — | — | (185) | — | (185) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Restricted shares vested, net of repurchase for taxes | 277,687 | — | (537) | — | — | — | (537) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Stock-based compensation | — | — | 59 | — | — | — | 59 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Treasury stock purchased | (381,835) | 381,835 | — | — | — | (2,901) | (2,901) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Redeemable noncontrolling interest redemption value adjustment | — | — | — | (9,305) | — | — | (9,305) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Balance at May 2, 2020 | 33,399,101 | 8,393,207 | $ | 99,879 | $ | 282,772 | $ | (17) | $ | (107,060) | $ | 275,574 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net income attributable to Vera Bradley, Inc. | — | — | — | 7,216 | — | — | 7,216 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Translation adjustments | — | — | — | — | 1 | — | 1 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Unrealized gain on available-for-sale debt investments | — | — | — | — | 14 | — | 14 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Restricted shares vested, net of repurchase for taxes | 10,225 | — | (18) | — | — | — | (18) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Stock-based compensation | — | — | 1,251 | — | — | — | 1,251 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Redeemable noncontrolling interest redemption value adjustment | — | — | — | 9,736 | — | — | 9,736 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Balance at August 1, 2020 | 33,409,326 | 8,393,207 | $ | 101,112 | $ | 299,724 | $ | (2) | $ | (107,060) | $ | 293,774 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
8
Vera Bradley, Inc.
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(in thousands)
(unaudited)
Twenty-Six Weeks Ended | ||||||||||||||
July 31, 2021 | August 1, 2020 | |||||||||||||
Cash flows from operating activities | ||||||||||||||
Net income (loss) | $ | 8,339 | $ | (7,210) | ||||||||||
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities: | ||||||||||||||
Depreciation of property, plant, and equipment | 4,514 | 8,380 | ||||||||||||
Amortization of operating right-of-use assets | 10,026 | 10,843 | ||||||||||||
Impairment charges | — | 3,806 | ||||||||||||
Amortization of intangible assets | 1,537 | 4,714 | ||||||||||||
Provision for doubtful accounts | 26 | 1,622 | ||||||||||||
Stock-based compensation | 3,372 | 1,310 | ||||||||||||
Deferred income taxes | 236 | 1,760 | ||||||||||||
Loss on investments | — | 13 | ||||||||||||
Adjustment of earn-out liability | — | 229 | ||||||||||||
Other non-cash gain, net | (45) | (22) | ||||||||||||
Changes in assets and liabilities: | ||||||||||||||
Accounts receivable | (2,380) | (6,631) | ||||||||||||
Inventories | (6,632) | (12,613) | ||||||||||||
Prepaid expenses and other assets | 2,153 | (4,703) | ||||||||||||
Accounts payable | 2,696 | 7,070 | ||||||||||||
Income taxes | 762 | (6,193) | ||||||||||||
Operating lease liabilities, net | (13,202) | (7,726) | ||||||||||||
Accrued and other liabilities | 5,085 | 5,274 | ||||||||||||
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities | 16,487 | (77) | ||||||||||||
Cash flows from investing activities | ||||||||||||||
Purchases of property, plant, and equipment | (2,281) | (4,272) | ||||||||||||
Purchases of investments | — | (851) | ||||||||||||
Proceeds from maturities and sales of investments | 565 | 23,031 | ||||||||||||
Cash received for business acquisition | — | 993 | ||||||||||||
Proceeds from disposal of property, plant, and equipment | 45 | — | ||||||||||||
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities | (1,671) | 18,901 | ||||||||||||
Cash flows from financing activities | ||||||||||||||
Tax withholdings for equity compensation | (2,350) | (555) | ||||||||||||
Repurchase of common stock | — | (3,077) | ||||||||||||
Distributions to redeemable noncontrolling interest | (879) | (875) | ||||||||||||
Borrowings under asset-based revolving credit agreement | — | 60,000 | ||||||||||||
Repayment of borrowings under asset-based revolving credit agreement | — | (30,000) | ||||||||||||
Payment of contingent consideration for business acquisition | — | (18,677) | ||||||||||||
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities | (3,229) | 6,816 | ||||||||||||
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents | (9) | 11 | ||||||||||||
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents | 11,578 | 25,651 | ||||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period | 64,175 | 49,917 | ||||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period | $ | 75,753 | $ | 75,568 |
9
Vera Bradley, Inc.
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(in thousands)
(continued)
(unaudited)
Twenty-Six Weeks Ended | ||||||||||||||
July 31, 2021 | August 1, 2020 | |||||||||||||
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information | ||||||||||||||
Cash paid for income taxes, net | $ | 1,157 | $ | 3,009 | ||||||||||
Supplemental disclosure of non-cash activity | ||||||||||||||
Non-cash operating, investing, and financing activities | ||||||||||||||
Repurchase of common stock | ||||||||||||||
Expenditures incurred but not yet paid as of July 31, 2021 and August 1, 2020 | $ | — | $ | — | ||||||||||
Expenditures incurred but not yet paid as of January 30, 2021 and February 1, 2020 | $ | — | $ | 176 | ||||||||||
Purchases of property, plant, and equipment | ||||||||||||||
Expenditures incurred but not yet paid as of July 31, 2021 and August 1, 2020 | $ | 974 | $ | 618 | ||||||||||
Expenditures incurred but not yet paid as of January 30, 2021 and February 1, 2020 | $ | 343 | $ | 559 | ||||||||||
Refer to Note 3 herein for supplemental cash flow information regarding the Company’s leases.
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
10
Vera Bradley, Inc.
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)
1.Description of the Company and Basis of Presentation
The term “Company” refers to Vera Bradley, Inc. and its wholly and majority owned subsidiaries, except where the context requires otherwise or where otherwise indicated.
Vera Bradley, Inc. operates two unique lifestyle brands – Vera Bradley and Pura Vida. We believe Vera Bradley and Pura Vida are complementary businesses, both with devoted, emotionally-connected, and multi-generational female customer bases; alignment as causal, comfortable, affordable, and fun brands; positioning as “gifting” and socially-connected brands; strong, entrepreneurial cultures; a keen focus on community, charity, and social consciousness; multi-channel distribution strategies; and talented leadership teams aligned and committed to the long-term success of their brands.
Vera Bradley is a leading designer of women’s handbags, luggage and travel items, fashion and home accessories, and unique gifts. Founded in 1982 by friends Barbara Bradley Baekgaard and Patricia R. Miller, the brand’s innovative designs, iconic patterns, and brilliant colors continue to inspire and connect women.
In July 2019, Vera Bradley, Inc. acquired a 75% interest in Creative Genius, Inc., which also operates under the name Pura Vida Bracelets (“Pura Vida”). Pura Vida, based in La Jolla, California, is a rapidly growing, digitally native lifestyle brand that we believe deeply resonates with its loyal consumer following. The Pura Vida brand has a differentiated and expanding offering of bracelets, jewelry, and other lifestyle accessories.
The Company has three reportable segments: Vera Bradley Direct (“VB Direct”), Vera Bradley Indirect (“VB Indirect”), and Pura Vida.
•The VB Direct business consists of sales of Vera Bradley products through Vera Bradley full-line and factory outlet stores in the United States; verabradley.com; the Vera Bradley online outlet site; and typically the Vera Bradley annual outlet sale in Fort Wayne, Indiana. As of July 31, 2021, the Company operated 72 full-line stores and 73 factory outlet stores. In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Company cancelled its calendar year 2021 and 2020 annual outlet sales.
•The VB Indirect business consists of sales of Vera Bradley products to approximately 2,000 specialty retail locations, substantially all of which are located in the United States, as well as department stores, national accounts, third-party e-commerce sites, third-party inventory liquidators, and royalties recognized through licensing agreements related to the Vera Bradley brand.
•The Pura Vida segment represents revenues generated through the Pura Vida websites, www.puravidabracelets.com, www.puravidabracelets.eu, and www.puravidabracelets.ca, and through the distribution of Pura Vida-branded products to wholesale retailers, substantially all of which are located in the United States.
The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). Accordingly, certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”) have been condensed or omitted as permitted by such rules and regulations. These interim condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and notes included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 30, 2021, filed with the SEC.
The interim financial statements reflect all adjustments that are, in the opinion of management, necessary to present fairly the results for the interim periods presented. All such adjustments are of a normal, recurring nature. The results of operations for the thirteen and twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2021, are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full fiscal year. Further, the Company cannot predict the future impact that the COVID-19 pandemic and related matters could have on its future liquidity, operating results, and financial condition, but it could have a significant adverse affect on these metrics.
11
Vera Bradley, Inc.
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)
Principles of Consolidation
The condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company, its wholly owned subsidiaries, and its majority owned subsidiary, Pura Vida. The Company has eliminated intercompany balances and transactions in consolidation.
Fiscal Periods
The Company’s fiscal year ends on the Saturday closest to January 31. References to the fiscal quarters ended July 31, 2021 and August 1, 2020 refer to the thirteen week periods ended on those dates.
Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements
In December 2019, the FASB issued ASU 2019-12, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes. The amendments in this update remove certain exceptions to the general principals in Topic 740, as well as simplify GAAP for certain areas and improve consistency within the topic. This guidance is effective for interim and annual periods beginning on or after December 15, 2020 (fiscal 2022). Early adoption is permitted, with all amendments required to be adopted in the same period. The adoption of this standard in the first quarter of fiscal 2022 did not have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.
2.Revenue from Contracts with Customers
Disaggregation of Revenue
The following presents the Company's net revenues disaggregated by product category for the thirteen and twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2021 and August 1, 2020 (in thousands):
Thirteen Weeks Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
July 31, 2021 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
VB Direct Segment | VB Indirect Segment | Pura Vida Segment | Total | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Product categories | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Bags | $ | 41,250 | $ | 8,883 | $ | 574 | $ | 50,707 | ||||||||||||||||||
Travel | 23,837 | 3,325 | — | 27,162 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Accessories | 18,298 | 2,597 | 30,448 | 51,343 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Home | 9,348 | 718 | — | 10,066 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Apparel/Footwear(6) | 2,494 | 180 | 1,156 | 3,830 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Other | 1,911 | (1) | 1,129 | (2) | 900 | (3) | 3,940 | |||||||||||||||||||
Total net revenues | $ | 97,138 | (4) | $ | 16,832 | (5) | $ | 33,078 | (4) | $ | 147,048 | |||||||||||||||
(1) Primarily includes net revenues from stationery, freight, and gift card breakage. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(2) Primarily includes net revenues from licensing agreements and freight. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(3) Related to freight. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(4) Net revenues were related to product sales recognized at a point in time. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(5) $15.9 million of net revenues related to product sales recognized at a point in time and $0.9 million of net revenues related to sales-based royalties recognized over time. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(6) Includes mask sales. |
12
Vera Bradley, Inc.
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)
Thirteen Weeks Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
August 1, 2020 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
VB Direct Segment | VB Indirect Segment | Pura Vida Segment | Total | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Product categories | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Bags | $ | 29,060 | $ | 7,183 | $ | — | $ | 36,243 | ||||||||||||||||||
Travel | 13,753 | 2,374 | — | 16,127 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Accessories | 13,027 | 2,238 | 31,080 | 46,345 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Home | 7,554 | 422 | — | 7,976 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Apparel/Footwear(6) | 15,901 | 4,680 | 238 | 20,819 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Other | 1,938 | (1) | 833 | (2) | 1,489 | (3) | 4,260 | |||||||||||||||||||
Total net revenues | $ | 81,233 | (4) | $ | 17,730 | (5) | $ | 32,807 | (4) | $ | 131,770 | |||||||||||||||
(1) Primarily includes net revenues from freight, stationery, and gift card breakage. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(2) Primarily includes net revenues from licensing agreements, freight, and merchandising. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(3) Related to freight. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(4) Net revenues were related to product sales recognized at a point in time. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(5) $17.2 million of net revenues related to product sales recognized at a point in time and $0.5 million of net revenues related to sales-based royalties recognized over time. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(6) Includes mask sales. |
Twenty-Six Weeks Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
July 31, 2021 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
VB Direct Segment | VB Indirect Segment | Pura Vida Segment | Total | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Product categories | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Bags | $ | 67,688 | $ | 16,933 | $ | 574 | $ | 85,195 | ||||||||||||||||||
Travel | 39,016 | 5,892 | — | 44,908 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Accessories | 30,159 | 4,824 | 55,959 | 90,942 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Home | 15,886 | 1,455 | — | 17,341 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Apparel/Footwear(6) | 7,855 | 851 | 1,784 | 10,490 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Other | 3,266 | (1) | 2,141 | (2) | 1,859 | (3) | 7,266 | |||||||||||||||||||
Total net revenues | $ | 163,870 | (4) | $ | 32,096 | (5) | $ | 60,176 | (4) | $ | 256,142 | |||||||||||||||
(1) Primarily includes net revenues from stationery, freight, and gift card breakage. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(2) Primarily includes net revenues from licensing agreements and freight. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(3) Related to freight. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(4) Net revenues were related to product sales recognized at a point in time. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(5) $30.4 million of net revenues related to product sales recognized at a point in time and $1.7 million of net revenues related to sales-based royalties recognized over time. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(6) Includes mask sales. |
13
Vera Bradley, Inc.
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)
Twenty-Six Weeks Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
August 1, 2020 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
VB Direct Segment | VB Indirect Segment | Pura Vida Segment | Total | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Product categories | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Bags | $ | 45,551 | $ | 11,783 | $ | — | $ | 57,334 | ||||||||||||||||||
Travel | 23,194 | 4,771 | — | 27,965 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Accessories | 20,274 | 3,560 | 51,619 | 75,453 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Home | 9,903 | 653 | — | 10,556 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Apparel/Footwear(6) | 16,723 | 6,580 | 238 | 23,541 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Other | 2,425 | (1) | 1,612 | (2) | 2,168 | (3) | 6,205 | |||||||||||||||||||
Total net revenues | $ | 118,070 | (4) | $ | 28,959 | (5) | $ | 54,025 | (4) | $ | 201,054 | |||||||||||||||
(1) Primarily includes net revenues from stationery, freight, and gift card breakage. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(2) Primarily includes net revenues from licensing agreements, freight, and merchandising. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(3) Related to freight. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(4) Net revenues were related to product sales recognized at a point in time. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(5) $27.9 million of net revenues related to product sales recognized at a point in time and $1.1 million of net revenues related to sales-based royalties recognized over time. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(6) Includes mask sales. |
Contract Balances
Contract liabilities as of July 31, 2021 and January 30, 2021, were $3.6 million and $4.1 million, respectively. The balance as of July 31, 2021 and January 30, 2021 consisted of unearned revenue related to the monthly bracelet and jewelry clubs of the Pura Vida segment, unredeemed gift cards, Pura Vida loyalty club points, Pura Vida customer deposits and payments collected before shipment, and an immaterial amount of unearned revenue for pre-payments of royalties in certain of the Company’s licensing arrangements. These contract liabilities are recognized within other accrued liabilities on the Company’s Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. Substantially all contract liabilities are recognized within one year. The Company did not have contract assets as of July 31, 2021 and January 30, 2021.
The balance for accounts receivable from contracts with customers, net of allowances, as of July 31, 2021 and January 30, 2021, was $28.7 million and $26.0 million, respectively, which is recognized within accounts receivable, net, on the Company’s Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. The provision for doubtful accounts was $1.1 million as of July 31, 2021 and January 30, 2021. The provision for doubtful accounts is based upon the likelihood of default expected during the life of the receivable.
Performance Obligations
The performance obligations for the VB Direct, VB Indirect, and Pura Vida segments include the promise to transfer distinct goods (or a bundle of distinct goods). The VB Indirect segment also includes the right to access intellectual property (“IP”) related to the Vera Bradley brand.
Remaining Performance Obligations
The Company does not have remaining performance obligations in excess of one year or contracts that it does not have the right to invoice as of July 31, 2021.
3.Leases
In the prior-year, the Company temporarily closed its full-line and factory outlet stores beginning on March 19, 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, for various lengths of time (from several weeks to several months). The stores began to re-open on May 5, 2020, with substantially all stores open by the end of July 2020. All of the Company's stores were open during the first six months of the current-year. As a result of the temporary closures in the prior-year,
14
Vera Bradley, Inc.
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)
certain rent payments were deferred. An immaterial amount of rent abatements were received during the current and prior-year periods.
Discount Rate
The weighted-average discount rate as of July 31, 2021, and August 1, 2020 was 4.7% and 5.0%, respectively. The discount rate is not readily determinable in the lease; therefore, the Company estimated the incremental borrowing rate, at the commencement date of each lease, which is the rate of interest it would have to borrow on a collateralized basis over a similar term with similar payments.
Leases Not Yet Commenced
As of July 31, 2021, the Company had two retail store leases which were executed, but did not have control of the underlying assets; therefore, the lease liability and right-of-use asset are not recorded on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet. These leases contain undiscounted lease payments, which will be included in the determination of the lease liability, totaling approximately $3.9 million and have terms of approximately 10 years commencing in fiscal years 2022 and 2023.
Amounts Recognized in the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
The following lease expense is recorded within cost of sales for the Asia sourcing office and certain equipment leases and within selling, general, and administrative expenses for all other leases, including retail store leases, in the Company's Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations for the thirteen and twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2021 and August 1, 2020 (in thousands):
Thirteen Weeks Ended | Twenty-Six Weeks Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||
July 31, 2021 | August 1, 2020 | July 31, 2021 | August 1, 2020 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Operating lease cost | $ | 6,303 | $ | 6,528 | $ | 12,173 | $ | 13,762 | |||||||||||||||
Variable lease cost | 2,052 | 1,735 | 3,534 | 2,553 | |||||||||||||||||||
Short-term lease cost | 49 | 76 | 242 | 145 | |||||||||||||||||||
Total lease cost | $ | 8,404 | $ | 8,339 | $ | 15,949 | $ | 16,460 |
The weighted-average remaining lease term as of July 31, 2021 and August 1, 2020 was 5.4 years and 5.7 years, respectively.
Supplemental operating cash flow information was as follows (in thousands):
Twenty-Six Weeks Ended | |||||||||||
July 31, 2021 | August 1, 2020 | ||||||||||
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of operating lease liabilities (1) | $ | 18,327 | $ | 11,791 | |||||||
Right-of-use assets increase as a result of new and modified operating lease liabilities, net | $ | 7,961 | $ | 3,271 | |||||||
(1) 2.5 million of lease liabilities were recorded within accounts payable on the Company's Consolidated Balance Sheets as of January 30, 2021, and were paid in the first quarter of fiscal 2022. |
4.Earnings Per Share
Basic earnings per share is computed based on the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per share is computed based on the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding, plus the effect of dilutive potential common shares outstanding during the period using the treasury stock method. Dilutive potential common shares represent outstanding restricted stock units.
15
Vera Bradley, Inc.
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)
On July 16, 2019, as contemplated by the Interest Purchase Agreement, the Company and certain of its subsidiaries and the owners of the remaining twenty-five percent (25%) ownership interest in Pura Vida (the “Sellers”) which was not acquired by the Company (the “Remaining Pura Vida Interest”) entered into a Put/Call Agreement (the “Put/Call Agreement”). Pursuant to the Put/Call Agreement, and subject to the terms and conditions thereof, the Sellers have the right to sell all of the Remaining Pura Vida Interest to the Company, and the Company has the right to purchase all of the Remaining Pura Vida Interests from Sellers, in each case generally at any time following the fifth anniversary of the closing date of the transaction until the tenth anniversary thereof. The purchase price for any Remaining Pura Vida Interest put to, or called by, the Company will be determined based on the arithmetic average of a multiple of adjusted EBITDA of Pura Vida and a multiple of adjusted EBITDA of the Company, as defined in the Put/Call Agreement, over the twelve-month period ending on the last day of the month immediately preceding the month in which an exercise notice is delivered by a relevant party.
As a result of this redemption feature, the Company recorded the noncontrolling interest as redeemable and classified it in temporary equity within its Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets initially at its acquisition-date fair value. The noncontrolling interest is adjusted each reporting period for income (or loss) attributable to the noncontrolling interest. A measurement period adjustment, if any, is then made to adjust the noncontrolling interest to the higher of the redemption value or carrying value each reporting period. These adjustments are recognized through retained earnings and are not reflected in net income (loss) or net income attributable to Vera Bradley, Inc. When calculating earnings per share attributable to Vera Bradley, Inc., the Company adjusts the net income attributable to Vera Bradley, Inc. for the measurement period adjustment to the extent the redemption value exceeds the fair value of the noncontrolling interest on a cumulative basis.
The components of basic and diluted earnings per share were as follows (in thousands, except per share data):
Thirteen Weeks Ended | Twenty-Six Weeks Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
July 31, 2021 | August 1, 2020 | July 31, 2021 | August 1, 2020 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Numerator: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net income (loss) | $ | 9,857 | $ | 8,327 | $ | 8,339 | $ | (7,210) | ||||||||||||||||||
Less: Net income attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interest | 807 | 1,111 | 1,434 | 911 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Net income (loss) attributable to Vera Bradley, Inc. | 9,050 | 7,216 | 6,905 | (8,121) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Plus: Excess portion of redeemable noncontrolling interest redemption value adjustment | — | 6,800 | — | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Net income (loss) available to Vera Bradley, Inc. common shareholders | $ | 9,050 | $ | 14,016 | $ | 6,905 | $ | (8,121) | ||||||||||||||||||
Denominator: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Weighted-average number of common shares (basic) | 34,001 | 33,403 | 33,795 | 33,367 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Dilutive effect of stock-based awards | 499 | 290 | 707 | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Weighted-average number of common shares (diluted) | 34,500 | 33,693 | 34,502 | 33,367 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Net income (loss) per share available to Vera Bradley, Inc. common shareholders: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Basic | $ | 0.27 | $ | 0.42 | $ | 0.20 | $ | (0.24) | ||||||||||||||||||
Diluted | $ | 0.26 | $ | 0.42 | $ | 0.20 | $ | (0.24) |
For the thirteen weeks ended July 31, 2021 and August 1, 2020, and the twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2021, there were an immaterial number of additional shares issuable upon the vesting of restricted stock units that were excluded from the diluted share calculations because they were anti-dilutive. For the twenty-six weeks ended August 1, 2020, all potential common shares were excluded from the diluted share calculation because they were anti-dilutive due to the net loss in the period.
16
Vera Bradley, Inc.
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)
5.Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. Assets and liabilities measured at fair value are classified using the following hierarchy, which is based upon the transparency of inputs to the valuation as of the measurement date:
•Level 1 – Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities;
•Level 2 – Inputs, other than the quoted prices in active markets, that are observable either directly or indirectly;
•Level 3 – Unobservable inputs based on the Company’s own assumptions.
The classification of fair value measurements within the hierarchy is based upon the lowest level of input that is significant to the measurement.
The carrying amounts reflected on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets for cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, other current assets, and accounts payable as of July 31, 2021 and January 30, 2021, approximated their fair values.
The following table details the fair value measurements of the Company's investments as of July 31, 2021 and January 30, 2021 (in thousands):
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
July 31, 2021 | January 30, 2021 | July 31, 2021 | January 30, 2021 | July 31, 2021 | January 30, 2021 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Cash equivalents(1) | $ | 2,132 | $ | 1,565 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Short-term investments: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
U.S. corporate debt securities | — | — | 401 | 627 | — | — | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Non-U.S. corporate debt securities | — | — | 326 | 668 | — | — | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(1) Cash equivalents represent a money market fund that has a maturity of three months or less at the date of purchase. Due to the short maturity, the Company believes the carrying value approximates fair value. |
The Company assesses potential impairments to its long-lived assets, which includes property, plant, and equipment and lease right-of-use assets, on a quarterly basis or whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Store-level assets and right-of-use assets are grouped at the individual store-level for the purpose of the impairment assessment. Recoverability of an asset group is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of an asset group to its estimated undiscounted future cash flows expected to be generated by the asset group. If the carrying amount of the asset group exceeds its estimated undiscounted future cash flows, an impairment charge is recognized as the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset group exceeds the fair value of the asset group. The fair value of the store assets is determined using the discounted future cash flow method of anticipated cash flows through the store’s lease-end date using fair value measurement inputs classified as Level 3. The fair value of right-of-use assets is estimated using market comparative information for similar properties. Level 3 inputs are derived from valuation techniques in which one or more significant inputs or significant value drivers are unobservable. The Company recorded $3.8 million in impairment charges related to store assets including property, plant, and equipment and lease right-of-use assets during the twenty-six weeks ended August 1, 2020. There were no impairment charges for the thirteen weeks ended July 31, 2021 and August 1, 2020 or the twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2021.
Assets recognized or disclosed at fair value on the consolidated financial statements on a nonrecurring basis include items such as property, plant, and equipment, including leasehold improvements, and operating lease assets, as well as assets related to the Pura Vida acquisition including goodwill and intangible assets. These assets are measured at fair value if determined to be impaired.
The discounted cash flow models used to estimate the applicable fair values involve numerous estimates and assumptions that are highly subjective. Changes to these estimates and assumptions could materially impact the fair value estimates. The estimates and assumptions critical to the overall fair value estimates include: (1) estimated future cash flow generated at the store level; (2) discount rates used to derive the present value factors used in determining the fair values; and (3) market rentals at the retail store. These and other estimates and assumptions are impacted by
17
Vera Bradley, Inc.
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)
economic conditions and our expectations and may change in the future based on period-specific facts and circumstances. If economic conditions were to deteriorate, future impairment charges may be required which may be material.
6.Debt
On September 7, 2018, Vera Bradley Designs, Inc. (“VBD”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, entered into an asset-based revolving Credit Agreement (the “Credit Agreement”) among VBD, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as administrative agent, and the lenders from time to time party thereto. The Credit Agreement provides for certain credit facilities to VBD in an aggregate principal amount not to initially exceed the lesser of $75.0 million or the amount of borrowing availability determined in accordance with a borrowing base of certain assets. Any proceeds of the credit facilities will be used to finance general corporate purposes of VBD and its subsidiaries, including but not limited to Vera Bradley International, LLC and Vera Bradley Sales, LLC (collectively, the “Named Subsidiaries”). The Credit Agreement also contains an option for VBD to arrange with lenders to increase the aggregate principal amount by up to $25.0 million.
Amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement bear interest at a per annum rate equal to either (i) for CBFR borrowings (including swingline loans), the CB Floating Rate, where the CB Floating Rate is the prime rate which shall never be less than the adjusted one month LIBOR rate on such day, plus the Applicable Rate, where the Applicable Rate is a percentage spread ranging from -1.00% to -1.50% or (ii) for each eurodollar borrowing, the Adjusted LIBO Rate, where the Adjusted LIBO Rate is the LIBO rate for such interest period multiplied by the statutory reserve rate, for the interest period in effect for such borrowing, plus the Applicable Rate, where the Applicable Rate is a percentage ranging from 1.00% to 1.30%. The applicable CB Floating Rate, Adjusted LIBO Rate, or LIBO Rate shall be determined by the administrative agent. The Credit Agreement also requires VBD to pay a commitment fee for the unused portion of the revolving facility of up to 0.20% per annum.
VBD’s obligations under the Credit Agreement are guaranteed by the Company and the Named Subsidiaries. The obligations of VBD under the Credit Agreement are secured by substantially all of the respective assets of VBD, the Company, and the Named Subsidiaries and are further secured by the equity interests in VBD and the Named Subsidiaries.
The Credit Agreement contains various affirmative and negative covenants, including restrictions on the Company's ability to incur debt or liens; engage in mergers or consolidations; make certain investments, acquisitions, loans, and advances; sell assets; enter into certain swap agreements; pay dividends or make distributions or make other restricted payments; engage in certain transactions with affiliates; and amend, modify, or waive any of its rights related to subordinated indebtedness and certain charter and other organizational, governing, and material agreements. The Company may avoid certain of such restrictions by meeting payment conditions defined in the Credit Agreement.
The Credit Agreement also requires the Loan Parties to maintain a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio of 1.00 during periods when borrowing availability is less than the greater of (A) $7.5 million, and (B) 10% of the lesser of (i) the aggregate revolving commitment, and (ii) the borrowing base. The fixed charge coverage ratio, availability, aggregate revolving commitment, and the borrowing base are further defined in the Credit Agreement.
The Credit Agreement contains customary events of default, including, among other things: (i) the failure to pay any principal, interest, or other fees under the Credit Agreement; (ii) the making of any materially incorrect representation or warranty; (iii) the failure to observe or perform any covenant, condition, or agreement in the Credit Agreement or related agreements; (iv) a cross default with respect to other material indebtedness; (v) bankruptcy and insolvency events; (vi) unsatisfied material final judgments; (vii) Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (“ERISA”) events that could reasonably be expected to have a material adverse effect; and (viii) a change in control (as defined in the Credit Agreement).
Any commitments made under the Credit Agreement mature on September 7, 2023.
As of July 31, 2021 and January 30, 2021, the Company had no borrowings outstanding and availability of $75.0 million under the Credit Agreement.
18
Vera Bradley, Inc.
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)
7.Income Taxes
The provision for income taxes for interim periods is based on an estimate of the annual effective tax rate adjusted to reflect the impact of discrete items. Management judgment is required in projecting ordinary income to estimate the Company’s annual effective tax rate.
The effective tax rate for the thirteen weeks ended July 31, 2021, was 21.3%, compared to 51.1% for the thirteen weeks ended August 1, 2020. The year-over-year effective tax rate decrease was primarily due to the reversal of the impact from the net operating loss (“NOL”) carryback in the prior-year that was estimated in the first quarter as a result of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) that was enacted on March 27, 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The effective tax rate for the twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2021, was 20.4%, compared to 16.5% for the twenty-six weeks ended August 1, 2020. The year-over-year effective tax rate increase was primarily due to the relative impact of permanent and discrete items in the current-year period compared to the prior-year period, primarily as a result of stock-based compensation.
8.Stock-Based Compensation
The Company recognizes stock-based compensation expense, for its awards of restricted stock units, in an amount equal to the fair market value of the underlying stock on the grant date of the respective award.
The Company reserved 3,000,000 shares of common stock for issuance or transfer under the 2020 Equity and Incentive Plan, which allows for grants of restricted stock units, as well as other equity awards. The Company maintains the 2010 Equity and Incentive Plan for awards granted prior to the effectiveness of the 2020 Equity and Incentive Plan.
Awards of Restricted Stock Units
During the thirteen weeks ended July 31, 2021, the Company granted 908 time-based and performance-based restricted stock units with an aggregate fair value of $10.0 thousand to certain employees under the 2020 Equity and Incentive Plan. The Company did not grant restricted stock units in the prior-year period.
During the twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2021, the Company granted 640,915 time-based and performance-based restricted stock units with an aggregate fair value of $6.6 million to certain employees and non-employee directors under the 2020 Equity and Incentive Plan compared to 1,412,024 time-based and performance-based restricted stock units with an aggregate fair value of $5.8 million in the same period of the prior-year under the 2010 Equity and Incentive Plan.
There were no restricted stock units granted under the 2020 Equity and Incentive Plan during the thirteen and twenty-six weeks ended August 1, 2020.
The majority of the time-based restricted stock units vest and settle in shares of the Company’s common stock, on a one-for-one basis, in equal installments on each of the first three anniversaries of the grant date. Restricted stock units issued to non-employee directors vest after a one-year period from the grant date. The Company recognizes the expense relating to these units, net of estimated forfeitures, on a straight-line basis over the vesting period.
Performance-based restricted stock units vest upon the completion of a three-year period of time (cliff vesting), subject to the employee’s continuing employment throughout and the Company’s achievement of annual earnings per share targets, or other Company performance targets, during the three-year performance period. The Company recognizes the expense relating to these units, net of estimated forfeitures, based on the probable outcome of achievement of the financial targets, on a straight-line basis over three years.
19
Vera Bradley, Inc.
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)
The following table sets forth a summary of restricted stock unit activity for the twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2021 (units in thousands):
Time-based Restricted Stock Units | Performance-based Restricted Stock Units | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Number of Units | Weighted- Average Grant Date Fair Value (per unit) | Number of Units | Weighted- Average Grant Date Fair Value (per unit) | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Nonvested units outstanding at January 30, 2021 | 1,049 | $ | 5.73 | 896 | $ | 8.34 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Granted | 358 | 10.24 | 283 | 10.24 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Vested | (534) | 5.96 | (304) | 10.95 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Forfeited | (3) | 7.36 | (2) | 8.03 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Nonvested units outstanding at July 31, 2021 | 870 | $ | 7.43 | 873 | $ | 8.04 |
As of July 31, 2021, there was $8.7 million of total unrecognized compensation cost, net of estimated forfeitures, related to nonvested restricted stock units. That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.8 years, subject to meeting performance conditions.
9.Commitments and Contingencies
The Company is subject to various claims and contingencies arising in the normal course of business, including those relating to product liability, legal claims, employee benefits, environmental issues, and other matters. Management believes that at this time it is not probable that any of these claims will have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows. However, the outcomes of legal proceedings and claims brought against the Company are subject to uncertainty, and future developments could cause these actions or claims, individually or in aggregate, to have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows of a particular reporting period.
In August of 2019, Vesi Incorporated (“Vesi”) filed suit against the Company in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Ohio related to the Company’s licensing business and alleging breach of fiduciary duty, unfair competition, defamation, and tortious interference with prospective business relationships. The complaint seeks damages in an amount not less than $10.0 million for punitive damages, attorney fees, prejudgment interest, and any other additional relief. The Company has denied any liability and intends to vigorously defend itself in the case. In November 2019, the Company filed a counterclaim against the principals of Vesi as personal guarantors for monies owed to the Company by Vesi. The cases are currently in discovery. At this time, we are not able to estimate a possible loss or range of loss that may result from this matter or to determine whether such loss, if any, would have a material adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations due to the fact that the Company is vigorously defending itself and management believes that the Company has a number of meritorious legal defenses.
In April of 2020, Chidimma Igboakaeze filed suit seeking class certification for all current and former hourly-paid employees who worked for the Company within the state of California during the four years preceding the filing until final judgement. The complaint alleged various violations of the California Labor Code related to wages, overtime, meal and rest breaks, non-compliant wage statements and records and other similar allegations related to employment. The Plaintiff also filed a Private Attorney General Act claim with the state of California regarding the same allegations. This case was settled in the first quarter of fiscal 2022 for an immaterial amount.
20
Vera Bradley, Inc.
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)
10.Common Stock
On November 29, 2018, the Company's board of directors approved a share repurchase plan (the “2018 Share Repurchase Program”) authorizing up to $50.0 million of repurchases of shares of the Company's common stock. On December 3, 2020, the 2018 Share Repurchase Program was extended through December 11, 2021. On March 20, 2020, the Company temporarily suspended the share repurchase program to conserve cash as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The board of directors authorized the resumption of the share repurchase program beginning on March 11, 2021.
The Company purchased no shares during the twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2021. There was $32.9 million remaining available to repurchase shares of the Company's common stock under the 2018 Share Repurchase Program as of July 31, 2021.
As of July 31, 2021, the Company held as treasury shares 8,393,207 shares of its common stock at an average price of $12.76 per share, excluding commissions, for an aggregate carrying amount of $107.1 million. The Company’s treasury shares may be issued under the 2010 Equity and Incentive Plan (with respect to outstanding awards under that plan), under the 2020 Equity and Incentive Plan, or for other corporate purposes.
11.Cloud Computing Arrangements
The Company capitalizes implementation costs associated with its Cloud Computing Arrangements (“CCA”) consistent with costs capitalized for internal-use software. The CCA costs are amortized over the term of the related hosting agreement, taking into consideration renewal options, if any. The renewal period is included in the amortization period if determined that the option is reasonably certain to be exercised. The amortization expense is recorded within selling, general, and administrative expenses in the Company's Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations, which is within the same line item as the related hosting fees. The balance of the unamortized CCA implementation costs totaled $8.5 million and $8.1 million as of July 31, 2021 and January 30, 2021, respectively. Of this total, $2.7 million and $2.4 million was recorded within prepaid expenses and other current assets and $5.8 million and $5.7 million was recorded within other assets on the Company's Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of July 31, 2021 and January 30, 2021, respectively. The CCA implementation costs are recorded within operating activities in the Company's Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.
12.Acquisition of Pura Vida
On July 16, 2019, the Company completed its acquisition of a seventy-five percent (75%) ownership interest in Creative Genius, Inc. or “Pura Vida” (the “Transaction”) in exchange for total cash consideration of approximately $75.0 million. The Company received a working capital reimbursement of $1.0 million during the first quarter of fiscal 2021.
In accordance with the Interest Purchase Agreement, the Company also agreed to a contingent payment of up to $22.5 million payable during the first quarter of calendar year 2020 based on calendar year 2019 adjusted EBITDA of Pura Vida, as defined in the Interest Purchase Agreement. This contingent payment was made during the first quarter of fiscal 2021 totaling $18.7 million.
21
Vera Bradley, Inc.
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)
13.Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest
Redeemable noncontrolling interest represents the remaining twenty-five percent (25%) interest in Pura Vida not acquired by the Company. Refer to Notes 1 and 4 herein for additional information.
Changes in redeemable noncontrolling interest for the thirteen and twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2021, were as follows (in thousands):
Balance at January 30, 2021 | $ | 29,809 | ||||||
Net income attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interest | 627 | |||||||
Distributions to redeemable noncontrolling interest | (129) | |||||||
Balance at May 1, 2021 | $ | 30,307 | ||||||
Net income attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interest | 807 | |||||||
Distributions to redeemable noncontrolling interest | (750) | |||||||
Balance at July 31, 2021 | $ | 30,364 |
Changes in redeemable noncontrolling interest for the thirteen and twenty-six weeks ended August 1, 2020, were as follows (in thousands):
Balance at February 1, 2020 | $ | 30,049 | ||||||
Net loss attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interest | (200) | |||||||
Distributions to redeemable noncontrolling interest | (296) | |||||||
Adjustment to redemption value | 9,305 | |||||||
Balance at May 2, 2020 | $ | 38,858 | ||||||
Net income attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interest | 1,111 | |||||||
Distributions to redeemable noncontrolling interest | (579) | |||||||
Adjustment to redemption value | (9,736) | |||||||
Balance at August 1, 2020 | $ | 29,654 |
22
Vera Bradley, Inc.
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)
14.Intangible Assets and Goodwill
The following tables detail the carrying value of the Company's intangible assets other than goodwill related to the acquisition of a majority interest in Pura Vida.
July 31, 2021 | |||||||||||||||||
in thousands | Gross Basis | Accumulated Amortization(1) | Carrying Amount | ||||||||||||||
Definite-lived intangible assets | |||||||||||||||||
Customer Relationships | $ | 24,208 | $ | (15,583) | $ | 8,625 | |||||||||||
Non-competition Agreements | 788 | (322) | 466 | ||||||||||||||
Total definite-lived intangible assets | 24,996 | (15,905) | 9,091 | ||||||||||||||
Indefinite-lived intangible asset | |||||||||||||||||
Pura Vida Brand | 36,668 | — | 36,668 | ||||||||||||||
Total intangible assets, excluding goodwill | $ | 61,664 | $ | (15,905) | $ | 45,759 | |||||||||||
(1) Amortization expense is recorded within the Pura Vida segment. |
January 30, 2021 | |||||||||||||||||
in thousands | Gross Basis | Accumulated Amortization(1) | Carrying Amount | ||||||||||||||
Definite-lived intangible assets | |||||||||||||||||
Customer Relationships | $ | 24,208 | $ | (14,125) | $ | 10,083 | |||||||||||
Non-competition Agreements | 788 | (243) | 545 | ||||||||||||||
Total definite-lived intangible assets | 24,996 | (14,368) | 10,628 | ||||||||||||||
Indefinite-lived intangible asset | |||||||||||||||||
Pura Vida Brand | 36,668 | — | 36,668 | ||||||||||||||
Total intangible assets, excluding goodwill | $ | 61,664 | $ | (14,368) | $ | 47,296 | |||||||||||
(1) Amortization expense is recorded within the Pura Vida segment. |
Amortization expense is recorded within selling, general, and administrative expenses in the Company's Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations. The future amortization expense for intangible assets is as follows (in thousands):
Amortization Expense | ||||||||
Fiscal 2022 (remaining six months) | $ | 1,536 | ||||||
Fiscal 2023 | 3,073 | |||||||
Fiscal 2024 | 3,073 | |||||||
Fiscal 2025 | 1,409 | |||||||
Total | $ | 9,091 |
The total amount of the goodwill as of July 31, 2021 and January 30, 2021, of $44.3 million was recorded within the Pura Vida segment upon acquisition. Goodwill is deductible for tax purposes, limited to the Company's 75% majority
23
Vera Bradley, Inc.
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)
ownership interest. There were no changes to goodwill for the thirteen and twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2021 and August 1, 2020.
The Company performs its annual impairment test during the second quarter of each fiscal year. There was no impairment charge recorded as a result of that test for fiscal 2022. Future impacts of COVID-19, including but not limited to the duration and magnitude of the pandemic, may have an impact on the triggering event assessment or future fair value estimate of goodwill, brand intangible asset, and definite-lived intangible assets, which could lead to material impairment charges. Refer to Note 5 herein for additional information regarding the fair value measurement.
15.Segment Reporting
The Company has three operating segments, which are also its reportable segments: Vera Bradley Direct (“VB Direct”), Vera Bradley Indirect (“VB Indirect”), and Pura Vida. These operating segments are components of the Company for which separate financial information is available and for which operating results are evaluated on a regular basis by the chief operating decision maker in deciding how to allocate resources and in assessing the performance of the segments.
The VB Direct segment includes Vera Bradley full-line and factory outlet stores; the Vera Bradley website, verabradley.com; the Vera Bradley online outlet site; and typically the Vera Bradley annual outlet sale. Revenues generated from this segment are driven through the sale of Vera Bradley-branded products from Vera Bradley to end consumers.
The VB Indirect segment represents revenues generated through the distribution of Vera Bradley-branded products to specialty retailers representing approximately 2,000 locations, substantially all of which are located in the United States; key accounts, which include department stores, national accounts, third-party e-commerce sites, and third-party inventory liquidators; and royalties recognized through licensing agreements related to the Vera Bradley brand.
The Pura Vida segment represents revenues generated through the Pura Vida websites, www.puravidabracelets.com, www.puravidabracelets.eu, and www.puravidabracelets.ca, and through the distribution of Pura Vida-branded products to wholesale retailers, substantially all of which are located in the United States.
Corporate costs represent the Company’s administrative expenses, which include, but are not limited to: human resources, legal, finance, information technology, design, product development, merchandising, corporate-level marketing and advertising, and various other corporate-level-activity-related expenses not directly attributable to a reportable segment. All intercompany-related activities are eliminated in consolidation and are excluded from the segment reporting.
24
Vera Bradley, Inc.
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)
Company management evaluates segment operating results based on several indicators. The primary or key performance indicators for each segment are net revenues and operating income. Net revenues and operating income information for the Company’s reportable segments during the thirteen and twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2021 and August 1, 2020, respectively, consisted of the following (in thousands):
Thirteen Weeks Ended | Twenty-Six Weeks Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
July 31, 2021 | August 1, 2020 | July 31, 2021 | August 1, 2020 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Segment net revenues: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
VB Direct | $ | 97,138 | $ | 81,233 | $ | 163,870 | $ | 118,070 | ||||||||||||||||||
VB Indirect | 16,832 | 17,730 | 32,096 | 28,959 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Pura Vida | 33,078 | 32,807 | 60,176 | 54,025 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Total | $ | 147,048 | $ | 131,770 | $ | 256,142 | $ | 201,054 | ||||||||||||||||||
Segment operating income: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
VB Direct | $ | 23,168 | $ | 22,822 | $ | 34,028 | $ | 11,857 | ||||||||||||||||||
VB Indirect | 5,601 | 6,477 | 10,062 | 9,233 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Pura Vida | 3,226 | 4,445 | 5,734 | 3,644 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Total | $ | 31,995 | $ | 33,744 | $ | 49,824 | $ | 24,734 | ||||||||||||||||||
Reconciliation: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Segment operating income | $ | 31,995 | $ | 33,744 | $ | 49,824 | $ | 24,734 | ||||||||||||||||||
Less: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Unallocated corporate expenses | (19,347) | (16,245) | (39,135) | (32,809) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Operating income (loss) | $ | 12,648 | $ | 17,499 | $ | 10,689 | $ | (8,075) |
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ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The following discussion summarizes the significant factors affecting the condensed consolidated operating results, financial condition, liquidity, and cash flows of the Company as of and for the thirteen and twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2021 and August 1, 2020. The following discussion should be read in conjunction with our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 30, 2021, and our unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements and the related notes included in Item 1 of this Quarterly Report. The results of operations for the thirteen and twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2021, are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full fiscal year.
The COVID-19 Pandemic
During the first and second quarters of the prior-year, the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in global travel restrictions, quarantines, and certain factory closures or reduced operations, as well as mall closures and reduced mall operating hours. Although the Vera Bradley and Pura Vida e-commerce operations remained open during this time, the aforementioned items had a material adverse impact on overall consumer demand, traffic, and sales during the period. We took various actions to navigate the pandemic which included, but was not limited to, temporarily closing all Vera Bradley store locations on March 19, 2020; temporarily furloughing 80% of our workforce during the middle of the first quarter; temporarily reducing base compensation for certain associates; preserving cash by drawing on our Credit Agreement, which was repaid during the fourth quarter of the prior-year; and managing inventory, rent, and other expenses. During the second quarter of the prior-year, we brought back substantially all associates from furlough and began to reinstate portions of the base compensation reductions.
On May 5, 2020, we began to re-open our Vera Bradley retail stores in a phased approach, with 58 out of 82 full-line stores and 64 out of 65 factory stores open as of the end of June 2020. All factory stores and all but three full line stores were opened as of the end of the second quarter of the prior-year, although with reduced hours, lower staffing levels, and greatly enhanced safety protocols.
Our retail stores remained open during the thirteen and twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2021; however, guidance and mandates from governments and public health officials may necessitate closures to some, or all, of our retail stores which we cannot predict. We have also experienced certain global supply chain disruptions due in part to the COVID-19 pandemic further discussed in Supply Chain Disruptions below.
We cannot predict the future impact that the COVID-19 pandemic could have on our future liquidity, operating results, and financial condition, but it could have a significant adverse affect on these metrics.
Supply Chain Disruptions
Throughout the second quarter for the Vera Bradley brand, we faced supply chain disruptions that caused delivery delays. We have experienced, on average, delays of 30 days before a full assortment of goods was available for each of our product launches. We are working diligently to mitigate the situation, but expect shipping delays and freight expense increases to continue for the near future. We have also been impacted by higher tariffs from previously duty-free countries, where we source products, as a result of the Generalized System of Preferences ("GSP") duty-free status expiring at the end of calendar year 2020. While we anticipate the GSP duty-free status will be reinstated and retro-actively applied, we cannot guarantee that will be the case and cannot predict the timing. These matters could have a material adverse effect on our liquidity, operating results, and financial condition.
Executive Summary
Below is a summary of our strategic progress and financial results for the second quarter of fiscal 2022:
Strategic Progress
At Vera Bradley, we:
•Launched our Recycled Cotton Collection, Cotton ReImagined, and reiterated our commitment to updating 100% of our fabrics to more sustainable alternatives by 2025;
•Had another exciting quarter of product collaborations, including our first-ever Classic Accessories outdoor collection and additional Harry Potter and Disney partnerships;
•Increased our customer count. We believe our customer journey-centered activations and customer-level personalized messaging are meaningfully engaging new customers and aiding in the reactivation of lapsed customers;
26
•Drove brand awareness with more social media engagement and quality media placements, with year-over-year media impressions up over 200%; and
•Continued to engage customers in various ways, including: fully implementing AfterPay, allowing customers to pay for their purchases in installments; adding product distribution on Target+ Marketplace; and continuing to boost our ThredUp partnership.
At Pura Vida, we:
•Substantially completed our Project Novus ERP integration, which unified our technology platform company-wide;
•Continued to innovate on new products, launched our backpack and hat collections, and collaborated with Disney on a launch of Disney-themed jewelry and hair accessories;
•Expanded our wholesale distribution, adding over 250 new accounts to date this year; and
•Rolled out Pura Vida shop-in-shops in 23 Vera Bradley full-line locations, featuring a full assortment of jewelry items.
Financial Summary (all comparisons are to the second quarter of fiscal 2021)
•Net revenues increased 11.6% to $147.0 million.
•Vera Bradley Direct (“VB Direct”) segment sales increased 19.6% to $97.1 million.
•Vera Bradley Indirect segment (“VB Indirect”) sales decreased 5.1% to $16.8 million.
•Pura Vida segment sales increased 0.8% to $33.1 million.
•Gross profit was $80.4 million, or 54.6% of net revenue.
•Operating income was $12.6 million and net income attributable to Vera Bradley, Inc. was $9.1 million.
•Capital expenditures for the thirteen weeks totaled $1.8 million.
•Cash and cash equivalents and investments were $76.5 million at July 31, 2021.
How We Assess the Performance of Our Business
In assessing the performance of our business, we consider a variety of performance and financial measures.
Net Revenues
Net revenues reflect sales of our merchandise and revenue from distribution and shipping and handling fees, less returns and discounts. Revenues for the VB Direct segment reflect sales through Vera Bradley full-line and factory outlet stores; verabradley.com; our Vera Bradley online outlet site; and typically our Vera Bradley annual outlet sale in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Revenues for the VB Indirect segment reflect sales of Vera Bradley-branded products to specialty retail partners; department stores; national accounts; third-party e-commerce sites; third-party inventory liquidators; and royalties recognized through licensing agreements related to the Vera Bradley brand. Revenues for the Pura Vida segment reflect revenues generated through the Pura Vida websites, www.puravidabracelets.com, www.puravidabracelets.eu, and www.puravidabracelets.ca and through the distribution of Pura Vida-branded products to wholesale retailers.
Comparable Sales
Typically, comparable sales are calculated based upon our stores that have been open for at least 12 full fiscal months and net revenues from our Vera Bradley e-commerce operations. Pura Vida e-commerce operations are included within the Company's comparable sales beginning with the fiscal 2021 third quarter. Pura Vida e-commerce operations include sales from the subscription club. Comparable store sales are calculated based solely upon stores that have been open for at least 12 full fiscal months. Remodeled stores are included in both comparable sales and comparable store sales unless the store was closed for more than one week of the current or comparable prior period, in which case the non-comparable temporary closure periods are not included, or the remodel resulted in a significant change in square footage. Some of our competitors and other retailers calculate comparable or “same store” sales differently than we do. As a result, data in this report regarding our comparable sales and comparable store sales may not be comparable to similar data made available by other companies. Non-comparable sales include sales from stores not included in comparable sales or comparable store sales.
As a result of the temporary closure of all Vera Bradley stores due to COVID-19 during portions of the first and second quarters of the prior-year, the Company's comparable store sales and comparable sales calculations are not meaningful and therefore are not provided.
27
Typically, measuring the change in year-over-year comparable sales allows us and our investors to evaluate how our store base and e-commerce operations are performing. Various factors affect our comparable sales, including:
•Overall economic trends;
•Consumer preferences and fashion trends;
•Competition;
•The timing of our releases of new patterns and collections;
•Changes in our product mix;
•Pricing and level of promotions;
•Amount of store, mall, and e-commerce traffic;
•The level of customer service that we provide in stores and to our on-line customers;
•Our ability to source and distribute products efficiently;
•The number of stores we open and close in any period; and
•The timing and success of promotional and marketing efforts.
Gross Profit
Gross profit is equal to our net revenues less our cost of sales. Cost of sales includes the direct cost of purchased merchandise, distribution center costs, operations overhead, duty, and all inbound freight costs incurred. The components of our reported cost of sales may not be comparable to those of other retail and wholesale companies.
Gross profit can be impacted by changes in volume; fluctuations in sales price; operational efficiencies, such as leveraging of fixed costs; promotional activities, including free shipping; commodity prices, such as for cotton; tariffs; and labor costs.
Selling, General, and Administrative Expenses (“SG&A”)
SG&A expenses include selling; advertising, marketing, and product development; and administrative expenses. Selling expenses include:
•VB Direct business expenses, such as store expenses, employee compensation, and store occupancy and supply costs;
•VB Indirect business expenses consisting primarily of employee compensation and other expenses associated with sales to Indirect retailers; and
•Pura Vida business expenses primarily related to employee compensation.
Advertising, marketing, and product development expenses include employee compensation, media costs, creative production expenses, marketing agency fees, new product design costs, public relations expenses, and market research expenses. A portion of our advertising expenses may be reimbursed by Indirect retailers, and such amount is classified as other income. Administrative expenses include employee compensation for corporate functions, corporate headquarters occupancy costs, consulting and software expenses, and charitable donations.
Other Income, Net
Other income, net primarily includes certain legal settlements and sales tax credits received for timely filings.
Operating Income (Loss)
Operating income (loss) is equal to gross profit less SG&A expenses plus other income, net. Operating income (loss) excludes interest income, interest expense, and income taxes.
Net Income (Loss)
Net income (loss) is equal to operating income (loss) plus interest income less interest expense and income taxes.
Net Income Attributable to Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest
Net income attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interest represents the operating results of Pura Vida that are not attributable to Vera Bradley, Inc.
28
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Vera Bradley, Inc.
Net income (loss) attributable to Vera Bradley, Inc. is equal to net income (loss) less net income attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interest.
Pura Vida Acquisition
On July 16, 2019, the Company completed its acquisition of a seventy-five percent (75%) ownership interest in Creative Genius, Inc. or “Pura Vida” (the “Transaction”) in exchange for total cash consideration of approximately $75.0 million. The Company received a working capital reimbursement of $1.0 million during the first quarter of fiscal 2021.
In accordance with the Interest Purchase Agreement, the Company also agreed to a contingent payment of up to $22.5 million payable during the first quarter of calendar year 2020 based on calendar year 2019 adjusted EBITDA of Pura Vida, as defined in the Interest Purchase Agreement. This contingent payment was made during the first quarter of fiscal 2021 totaling $18.7 million. The Company’s existing available cash, cash equivalents, and investments funded the purchase price due at the closing of the Transaction and subsequent to the closing.
Impairment Charges
Property, plant, and equipment and lease right-of-use assets (the "asset group" for store-related assets) are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the asset group may not be recoverable. The reviews are conducted at the lowest identifiable level of cash flows. If the estimated undiscounted future cash flows related to the asset group are less than the carrying value, we recognize a loss equal to the difference between the carrying value and the fair value, as further defined in Note 5 to the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements herein. Impairment charges of $3.8 million were recognized during the twenty-six weeks ended August 1, 2020 for property, plant, and equipment assets and lease right-of-use assets related to underperforming stores and are included in SG&A expenses in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and in impairment charges in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. The impairment charges are included in the VB Direct segment. There were no impairment charges recorded during the thirteen and twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2021 and the thirteen weeks ended August 1, 2020. We are unable to predict the extent of the impact that the COVID-19 pandemic will have on our operations, the economy, or other factors; therefore, it is possible additional impairments could be identified in future periods, and such amounts could be material.
Results of Operations
The following tables summarize key components of our condensed consolidated results of operations for the periods indicated, both in dollars and as a percentage of our net revenues ($ in thousands):
29
Thirteen Weeks Ended | Twenty-Six Weeks Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
July 31, 2021 | August 1, 2020 | July 31, 2021 | August 1, 2020 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Statement of Operations Data: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net revenues | $ | 147,048 | $ | 131,770 | $ | 256,142 | $ | 201,054 | ||||||||||||||||||
Cost of sales | 66,687 | 52,149 | 116,617 | 87,245 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Gross profit | 80,361 | 79,621 | 139,525 | 113,809 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Selling, general, and administrative expenses | 68,729 | 62,155 | 129,625 | 121,937 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Other income, net | 1,016 | 33 | 789 | 53 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Operating income (loss) | 12,648 | 17,499 | 10,689 | (8,075) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Interest expense, net | 119 | 485 | 209 | 557 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Income (loss) before income taxes | 12,529 | 17,014 | 10,480 | (8,632) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Income tax expense (benefit) | 2,672 | 8,687 | 2,141 | (1,422) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Net income (loss) | 9,857 | 8,327 | 8,339 | (7,210) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Less: Net income attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interest | 807 | 1,111 | 1,434 | 911 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Net income (loss) attributable to Vera Bradley, Inc. | $ | 9,050 | $ | 7,216 | $ | 6,905 | $ | (8,121) | ||||||||||||||||||
Percentage of Net Revenues: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net revenues | 100.0 | % | 100.0 | % | 100.0 | % | 100.0 | % | ||||||||||||||||||
Cost of sales | 45.4 | % | 39.6 | % | 45.5 | % | 43.4 | % | ||||||||||||||||||
Gross profit | 54.6 | % | 60.4 | % | 54.5 | % | 56.6 | % | ||||||||||||||||||
Selling, general, and administrative expenses | 46.7 | % | 47.2 | % | 50.6 | % | 60.6 | % | ||||||||||||||||||
Other income, net | 0.7 | % | — | % | 0.3 | % | — | % | ||||||||||||||||||
Operating income (loss) | 8.6 | % | 13.3 | % | 4.2 | % | (4.0) | % | ||||||||||||||||||
Interest expense, net | 0.1 | % | 0.4 | % | 0.1 | % | 0.3 | % | ||||||||||||||||||
Income (loss) before income taxes | 8.5 | % | 12.9 | % | 4.1 | % | (4.3) | % | ||||||||||||||||||
Income tax expense (benefit) | 1.8 | % | 6.6 | % | 0.8 | % | (0.7) | % | ||||||||||||||||||
Net income (loss) | 6.7 | % | 6.3 | % | 3.3 | % | (3.6) | % | ||||||||||||||||||
Less: Net income attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interest | 0.5 | % | 0.8 | % | 0.6 | % | 0.5 | % | ||||||||||||||||||
Net income (loss) attributable to Vera Bradley, Inc. | 6.2 | % | 5.5 | % | 2.7 | % | (4.0) | % |
The following tables present net revenues and operating income by operating segment, both in dollars and as a percentage of associated net revenues, and store data for the periods indicated ($ in thousands, except as otherwise indicated):
Thirteen Weeks Ended | Twenty-Six Weeks Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
July 31, 2021 | August 1, 2020 | July 31, 2021 | August 1, 2020 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Net Revenues by Segment: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
VB Direct | $ | 97,138 | $ | 81,233 | $ | 163,870 | $ | 118,070 | ||||||||||||||||||
VB Indirect | 16,832 | 17,730 | 32,096 | 28,959 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Pura Vida | 33,078 | 32,807 | 60,176 | 54,025 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Total | $ | 147,048 | $ | 131,770 | $ | 256,142 | $ | 201,054 | ||||||||||||||||||
Percentage of Net Revenues by Segment: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
VB Direct | 66.1 | % | 61.6 | % | 64.0 | % | 58.7 | % | ||||||||||||||||||
VB Indirect | 11.4 | % | 13.5 | % | 12.5 | % | 14.4 | % | ||||||||||||||||||
Pura Vida | 22.5 | % | 24.9 | % | 23.5 | % | 26.9 | % | ||||||||||||||||||
Total | 100.0 | % | 100.0 | % | 100.0 | % | 100.0 | % |
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Thirteen Weeks Ended | Twenty-Six Weeks Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
July 31, 2021 | August 1, 2020 | July 31, 2021 | August 1, 2020 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Operating Income (Loss) by Segment: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
VB Direct | $ | 23,168 | $ | 22,822 | $ | 34,028 | $ | 11,857 | ||||||||||||||||||
VB Indirect | 5,601 | 6,477 | 10,062 | 9,233 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Pura Vida | 3,226 | 4,445 | 5,734 | 3,644 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Less: Corporate unallocated | (19,347) | (16,245) | (39,135) | (32,809) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Total | $ | 12,648 | $ | 17,499 | $ | 10,689 | $ | (8,075) | ||||||||||||||||||
Operating Income (Loss) as a Percentage of Net Revenues by Segment: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
VB Direct | 23.9 | % | 28.1 | % | 20.8 | % | 10.0 | % | ||||||||||||||||||
VB Indirect | 33.3 | % | 36.5 | % | 31.3 | % | 31.9 | % | ||||||||||||||||||
Pura Vida | 9.8 | % | 13.5 | % | 9.5 | % | 6.7 | % | ||||||||||||||||||
Vera Bradley Store Data (1)(2): | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total stores opened during period | 3 | 4 | 4 | 4 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Total stores closed during period | (1) | (1) | (3) | (6) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Total stores open at end of period | 145 | 149 | 145 | 149 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Total gross square footage at end of period (all stores) | 393,592 | 389,144 | 393,592 | 389,144 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Average net revenues per gross square foot (3) | $ | 187 | NM | $ | 303 | NM |
(1)Includes Vera Bradley full-line and factory outlet stores.
(2)As a result of the temporary closure of Vera Bradley stores due to COVID-19 during a portion of the prior-year first and second quarters, the Company's comparable store sales and comparable sales calculations were not meaningful and therefore were not provided.
(3)Dollars not in thousands. Average net revenues per gross square foot are calculated by dividing total net revenues for our stores that have been open at least 12 full fiscal months as of the end of the period by total gross square footage for those stores. Remodeled stores are included in average net revenues per gross square foot unless the store was closed for a portion of the period. As a result of the temporary closure of Vera Bradley stores due to COVID-19 during a portion of the prior-year first and second quarters, the Company's prior-year average net revenues per square foot were not meaningful and therefore were not provided.
Thirteen Weeks Ended July 31, 2021, Compared to Thirteen Weeks Ended August 1, 2020
Net Revenues
For the thirteen weeks ended July 31, 2021, net revenues increased $15.2 million, or 11.6%, to $147.0 million, from $131.8 million in the comparable prior-year period.
VB Direct. For the thirteen weeks ended July 31, 2021, net revenues in the VB Direct segment increased $15.9 million, or 19.6%, to $97.1 million, from $81.2 million in the comparable prior-year period. The increase primarily resulted from higher store sales in the current-year since in the prior-year the Company’s stores were temporarily closed during a portion of the quarter, as a result of COVID-19, and began to re-open on May 5, 2020. This increase was partially offset by a decline in mask sales compared to the prior-year. We also opened six Vera Bradley factory outlet stores over the past 12 months.
VB Indirect. For the thirteen weeks ended July 31, 2021, net revenues in the VB Indirect segment decreased $0.9 million, or 5.1%, to $16.8 million, from $17.7 million in the comparable prior-year period. The decrease was primarily due to a reduction in orders primarily related to mask sales, partially offset by a rebound in specialty and key account orders in other product categories that were negatively impacted by COVID-19 in the prior year.
Pura Vida. For the thirteen weeks ended July 31, 2021, net revenues in the Pura Vida segment increased $0.3 million, or 0.8%, to $33.1 million, from $32.8 million in the comparable prior-year period. Our marketing effectiveness for the e-commerce channel was negatively impacted by the Apple iOS 14.5 update in the current-year resulting in a decline in e-commerce sales. This update impacted Facebook and Instagram, which have been our primary marketing vehicles.
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Gross Profit
For the thirteen weeks ended July 31, 2021, gross profit increased $0.8 million, or 0.9%, to $80.4 million, from $79.6 million in the comparable prior-year period. As a percentage of net revenues, gross profit decreased to 54.6% for the thirteen weeks ended July 31, 2021, from 60.4% in the comparable prior-year period. The decrease as a percentage of net revenues was primarily due to a decrease in higher-margin mask sales in the current-year period compared to the prior-year and an increase in shipping and duty costs.
Selling, General, and Administrative Expenses
For the thirteen weeks ended July 31, 2021, SG&A expenses increased $6.5 million, or 10.6%, to $68.7 million, from $62.2 million in the comparable prior-year period. As a percentage of net revenues, SG&A expenses decreased to 46.7% for the thirteen weeks ended July 31, 2021, from 47.2% in the comparable prior-year period. SG&A expenses related to Vera Bradley and corporate unallocated were $53.1 million compared to $46.4 million in the comparable prior-year period. SG&A expenses related to Pura Vida were $15.6 million compared to $15.8 million in the prior-year. The increase in consolidated SG&A expenses for the thirteen weeks ended July 31, 2021 was primarily due to Vera Bradley initiatives to reduce expenses in light of COVID-19 including the temporary furlough of certain associates; temporarily reducing the base compensation for all other salaried associates; certain expense reductions associated with the CARES Act retention credit; and reducing other non-payroll expenses including marketing that occurred in the prior-year period but did not recur in the current-year period.
The aforementioned increases in SG&A expenses were partially offset by a reduction in depreciation expense primarily as a result of legacy software depreciation from the prior-year and a $1.5 million reduction of intangible asset amortization associated with the Pura Vida acquisition.
SG&A expenses as a percentage of net revenues decreased primarily due to the aforementioned items, as well as SG&A expense leverage associated with increased sales.
Other Income, Net
For the thirteen weeks ended July 31, 2021, net other income increased to $1.0 million compared to $33.0 thousand in the comparable prior-year period. The increase in net other income was primarily due to a legal settlement in the current-year period.
Operating Income
For the thirteen weeks ended July 31, 2021, operating income decreased $4.9 million to $12.6 million in the current-year period, from $17.5 million in the comparable prior-year period. As a percentage of net revenues, operating income was 8.6% and 13.3% for the thirteen weeks ended July 31, 2021 and August 1, 2020, respectively. Operating income decreased due to the factors described in the captions above.
VB Direct. For the thirteen weeks ended July 31, 2021, operating income in the VB Direct segment increased $0.4 million, to $23.2 million from $22.8 million in the comparable prior-year period. As a percentage of VB Direct segment net revenues, operating income in the VB Direct segment was 23.9% and 28.1% for the thirteen weeks ended July 31, 2021 and August 1, 2020, respectively. The decrease in operating income as a percentage of VB Direct segment net revenues was primarily due to a decrease in gross margin as a percentage of net revenues as described above and COVID-19-related expense savings from the prior-year period that did not recur. This decrease was partially offset by SG&A expense leverage associated with increased sales.
VB Indirect. For the thirteen weeks ended July 31, 2021, operating income in the VB Indirect segment decreased $0.9 million, or 13.5%, to $5.6 million from $6.5 million in the comparable prior-year period. As a percentage of VB Indirect segment net revenues, operating income in the VB Indirect segment was 33.3% and 36.5% for the thirteen weeks ended July 31, 2021 and August 1, 2020, respectively. The decrease in operating income as a percentage of VB Indirect segment net revenues was primarily due to a decrease in gross margin as a percentage of net revenues as described above, partially offset by a decrease in the bad debt provision compared to the prior-year period.
Pura Vida. For the thirteen weeks ended July 31, 2021, operating income in the Pura Vida segment decreased $1.2 million to $3.2 million from $4.4 million in the comparable prior-year period. As a percentage of Pura Vida segment net revenues, operating income in the Pura Vida segment was 9.8% and 13.5% for the thirteen weeks ended July 31, 2021 and August 1, 2020, respectively. The decrease in operating income as a percentage of Pura Vida net revenues was primarily due to a decrease in gross margin as a percentage of net revenues partly due to channel mix changes as a result of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on wholesale sales in the prior-year period, partially offset by a decrease in the intangible asset amortization expense compared to the prior-year period.
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Corporate Unallocated. For the thirteen weeks ended July 31, 2021, unallocated expenses increased $3.1 million, or 19.1%, to $19.3 million from $16.2 million in the comparable prior-year period. The increase in unallocated expenses was primarily due to prior-year period initiatives to reduce expenses in light of COVID-19 that did not recur in the current-year including the temporary furlough of certain associates; temporarily reducing the base compensation for all other salaried associates; and reducing other non-payroll expenses including marketing. These increases in SG&A expense were partially offset by a decrease in depreciation expense, as described above.
Income Tax Expense
The effective tax rate for the thirteen weeks ended July 31, 2021, was 21.3%, compared to 51.1% for the thirteen weeks ended August 1, 2020. The year-over year effective tax rate decrease was primarily due to the reversal of the impact from the net operating loss (“NOL”) carryback in the prior-year that was estimated in the first quarter as a result of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) that was enacted on March 27, 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Net Income
For the thirteen weeks ended July 31, 2021, net income increased $1.6 million to $9.9 million from $8.3 million in the comparable prior-year period due to the factors described in the captions above.
Net Income Attributable to Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest
For the thirteen weeks ended July 31, 2021, net income attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interest was $0.8 million compared to $1.1 million in the prior-year period. This represents the allocation of the Pura Vida net income to the noncontrolling interest. The reduction in net income was due to the factors described above in the Pura Vida operating segment.
Net Income Attributable to Vera Bradley, Inc.
For the thirteen weeks ended July 31, 2021, net income attributable to Vera Bradley, Inc. increased $1.9 million to $9.1 million from $7.2 million in the comparable prior-year period due to the factors described in the captions above.
Twenty-Six Weeks Ended July 31, 2021, Compared to Twenty-Six Weeks Ended August 1, 2020
Net Revenues
For the twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2021, net revenues increased $55.0 million, or 27.4%, to $256.1 million, from $201.1 million in the comparable prior-year period.
VB Direct. For the twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2021, net revenues in the VB Direct segment increased $45.8 million, or 38.8%, to $163.9 million, from $118.1 million in the comparable prior-year period. The increase primarily resulted from higher store sales in the current-year since in the prior-year the Company’s stores temporarily closed, as a result of COVID-19, beginning on March 19, 2020. The stores began to re-open on May 5, 2020 of the prior-year. The increase was partially offset by a decline in mask sales compared to the prior-year period. We also opened six Vera Bradley factory outlet stores over the past 12 months.
VB Indirect. For the twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2021, net revenues in the VB Indirect segment increased $3.1 million, or 10.8%, to $32.1 million, from $29.0 million in the comparable prior-year period. The increase was primarily due to an increase in orders from specialty and certain key accounts, largely related to the impacts of COVID-19 in the prior-year period, partially offset by a decline in mask sales in the current-year period.
Pura Vida. For the twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2021, net revenues in the Pura Vida segment increased $6.2 million, or 11.4%, to $60.2 million, from $54.0 million in the comparable prior-year period. Pura Vida wholesale sales increased over the prior-year period, which was impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Our marketing effectiveness for the e-commerce channel was negatively impacted by the Apple iOS 14.5 update in the current-year resulting in a decline in e-commerce sales. This update impacted Facebook and Instagram, which have been our primary marketing vehicles.
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Gross Profit
For the twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2021, gross profit increased $25.7 million, or 22.6%, to $139.5 million, from $113.8 million in the comparable prior-year period. As a percentage of net revenues, gross profit decreased to 54.5% for the twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2021, from 56.6% in the comparable prior-year period. The decrease as a percentage of net revenues was primarily due to a decline in higher-margin mask sales in the current-year period compared to the prior-year and an increase in shipping and duty costs. The prior-year period also included charges for the cancellation of certain purchase orders due to COVID-19 which totaled $1.3 million and negatively impacted gross margin as a percentage of net revenues by 0.7%.
Selling, General, and Administrative Expenses
For the twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2021, SG&A expenses increased $7.7 million, or 6.3%, to $129.6 million, from $121.9 million in the comparable prior-year period. As a percentage of net revenues, SG&A expenses decreased to 50.6% for the twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2021, from 60.6% in the comparable prior-year period. SG&A expenses related to Vera Bradley and corporate unallocated were $101.2 million compared to $93.5 million in the comparable prior-year period. SG&A expenses related to Pura Vida were consistent at $28.4 million for the current and prior-year periods. The increase in consolidated SG&A expenses for the twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2021 was primarily due to:
•Vera Bradley initiatives to reduce expenses in light of COVID-19 including the temporary furlough of certain associates; temporarily reducing the base compensation for all other salaried associates; certain expense reductions associated with the CARES Act retention credit; and reducing other non-payroll expenses including marketing that occurred in the prior-year period but did not recur in the current-year period;
•An increase in incentive compensation expense due to Company performance estimates compared to the prior-year period; and
•Amortization expense of certain cloud computing costs associated with Project Novus technology enhancements.
The aforementioned increases in SG&A expenses were partially offset by:
•$3.8 million of Vera Bradley store impairment charges in the prior-year period that did not recur in the current-year period;
•A reduction in depreciation expense primarily as a result of legacy software depreciation from the prior-year; and
•A $3.2 million reduction of intangible asset amortization associated with the Pura Vida acquisition.
SG&A expenses as a percentage of net revenues decreased primarily due to the aforementioned items, as well as SG&A expense leverage associated with increased sales.
Other Income, Net
For the twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2021, net other income increased $0.7 million to $0.8 million compared to net other income of $0.1 million in the comparable prior-year period. The increase in net other income was primarily due to legal settlements in the current-year period.
Operating Income (Loss)
For the twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2021, operating income increased $18.8 million to $10.7 million in the current-year period, from an operating loss of $(8.1) million in the comparable prior-year period. As a percentage of net revenues, operating income was 4.2% and operating loss was (4.0)% for the twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2021 and August 1, 2020, respectively. Operating income increased due to the factors described in the captions above.
VB Direct. For the twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2021, operating income in the VB Direct segment increased $22.1 million, to $34.0 million from $11.9 million in the comparable prior-year period. As a percentage of VB Direct segment net revenues, operating income in the VB Direct segment was 20.8% and 10.0% for the twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2021 and August 1, 2020, respectively. The increase in operating income as a percentage of VB Direct segment net revenues was primarily due to SG&A expense leverage associated with increased sales and a decrease in SG&A expense primarily as a result of store impairment charges in the prior-year period and a reduction in depreciation expense in the current-year, partially offset by a decrease in gross margin as a percentage of net revenues as described above and COVID-19-related expense savings from the prior-year period that did not recur.
VB Indirect. For the twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2021, operating income in the VB Indirect segment increased $0.9 million, or 9.0%, to $10.1 million from $9.2 million in the comparable prior-year period. As a percentage of VB Indirect segment net revenues, operating income in the VB Indirect segment was 31.3% and 31.9% for the twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2021 and August 1, 2020, respectively. The decrease in operating income as a percentage of VB Indirect segment net revenues was primarily due to a decrease in gross margin as a percentage of net revenues, partially offset by SG&A expense leverage associated with increased sales and a decrease in the bad debt provision compared to the prior-year period.
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Pura Vida. For the twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2021, operating income in the Pura Vida segment increased $2.1 million to $5.7 million from $3.6 million in the comparable prior-year period. As a percentage of Pura Vida segment net revenues, operating income in the Pura Vida segment was 9.5% and 6.7% for the twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2021 and August 1, 2020, respectively. The increase in operating income as a percentage of Pura Vida net revenues was primarily due to SG&A expense leverage associated with increased sales and a decrease in the intangible asset amortization expense compared to the prior-year period, partially offset by a decrease in gross margin as a percentage of net revenues partly due to channel mix changes as a result of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on wholesale sales in the prior-year period.
Corporate Unallocated. For the twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2021, unallocated expenses increased $6.3 million, or 19.3%, to $39.1 million from $32.8 million in the comparable prior-year period. The increase in unallocated expenses was primarily due to prior-year period initiatives to reduce expenses in light of COVID-19 that did not recur in the current-year including the temporary furlough of certain associates; temporarily reducing the base compensation for all other salaried associates; and reducing other non-payroll expenses including marketing, as well as an increase in incentive compensation expense due to Company performance estimates and amortization expense associated with certain cloud computing costs for Project Novus technology enhancements. These increases in SG&A expense were partially offset by a decrease in depreciation expense, as described above.
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
The effective tax rate for the twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2021, was 20.4%, compared to 16.5% for the twenty-six weeks ended August 1, 2020. The year-over year effective tax rate increase was primarily due to the relative impact of permanent and discrete items in the current-year period compared to the prior-year period, primarily as a result of stock-based compensation.
Net Income (Loss)
For the twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2021, net income increased $15.5 million to $8.3 million from a net loss of $(7.2) million in the comparable prior-year period due to the factors described in the captions above.
Net Income Attributable to Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest
For the twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2021, net income attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interest was $1.4 million compared to $0.9 million in the prior-year period. This represents the allocation of the Pura Vida net income to the noncontrolling interest. The increase in net income was due to the factors described above in the Pura Vida operating segment.
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Vera Bradley, Inc.
For the twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2021, net income attributable to Vera Bradley, Inc. increased $15.0 million to $6.9 million from a net loss of $(8.1) million in the comparable prior-year period due to the factors described in the captions above.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
General
Our primary sources of liquidity are cash on hand and cash equivalents, investments, and cash flow from operations. We also have access to additional liquidity, if needed, through borrowings under our $75.0 million asset-based revolving credit agreement (the “Credit Agreement”). There was no debt outstanding as of July 31, 2021. Historically, our primary cash needs have been for merchandise inventories; payroll; store rent; capital expenditures associated with operational equipment, buildings, information technology, and opening new stores; and share repurchases. The most significant components of our working capital are cash and cash equivalents, merchandise inventories, accounts receivable, accounts payable, and other current liabilities.
We believe that cash on hand and cash equivalents, investments, cash flows from operating activities, and the availability of borrowings under our Credit Agreement or other financing arrangements will be sufficient to meet working capital requirements and anticipated capital expenditures, and other strategic uses of cash, if any, for the foreseeable future.
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Cash Flow Analysis
A summary of operating, investing, and financing activities is shown in the following table (in thousands):
Twenty-Six Weeks Ended | ||||||||||||||
July 31, 2021 | August 1, 2020 | |||||||||||||
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities | $ | 16,487 | $ | (77) | ||||||||||
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities | (1,671) | 18,901 | ||||||||||||
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities | (3,229) | 6,816 |
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities consists primarily of net income adjusted for non-cash items, including depreciation, amortization, impairment charges, deferred taxes, and stock-based compensation; and the effect of changes in assets and liabilities.
Net cash provided by operating activities for the twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2021 was $16.5 million compared to cash used in operating activities of $0.1 million for the twenty-six weeks ended August 1, 2020. The increase in cash provided by operating activities was primarily related to the change in assets and liabilities and an increase in the net income adjusted for non-cash items. Changes in assets and liabilities resulting in a source of cash were primarily related to an increase in trade accounts receivable collections, mostly due to the impact of COVID-19 on the prior-year period, as well as a decrease in inventory receipts compared to the prior-year. Changes in assets and liabilities resulting in a use of cash were primarily related to the timing of payments, including rent payments which were impacted by payment deferrals in the prior-year. There was also a change in the income tax receivable due to the loss in the prior-year period.
Net Cash (Used in) Provided by Investing Activities
Investing activities consist primarily of investments and capital expenditures related to new store openings, buildings, operational equipment, and information technology investments.
Net cash used in investing activities was $1.7 million for the twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2021 compared to cash provided by investing activities of $18.9 million for the twenty-six weeks ended August 1, 2020. The increase in cash used in investing activities was primarily a result of proceeds from investment activity in the prior-year period that did not recur in the current-year period.
Capital expenditures for fiscal 2022 are expected to be approximately $8.0 million to $10.0 million.
Net Cash (Used in) Provided by Financing Activities
Net cash used in financing activities was $3.2 million for the twenty-six weeks ended July 31, 2021 compared to cash provided by financing activities of $6.8 million for the twenty-six weeks ended August 1, 2020. The increase in cash used in financing activities was primarily due to financing activities that occurred in the prior-year period but did not recur in the current-year period including net borrowings of $30.0 million under our Credit Agreement, partially offset by $18.7 million for a contingent consideration payment associated with the July 2019 acquisition of Pura Vida and $3.1 million in common stock repurchases.
On September 7, 2018, VBD, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, entered into an asset based revolving Credit Agreement (the “Credit Agreement”) among VBD, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as administrative agent, and the lenders from time to time party thereto. The Credit Agreement provides for certain credit facilities to VBD in an aggregate principal amount not to initially exceed the lesser of $75.0 million or the amount of borrowing availability determined in accordance with a borrowing base of certain assets. Any proceeds of the credit facilities will be used to finance general corporate purposes of VBD and its subsidiaries, including but not limited to Vera Bradley International, LLC and Vera Bradley Sales, LLC (collectively, the “Named Subsidiaries”). The Credit Agreement also contains an option for VBD to arrange with lenders to increase the aggregate principal amount by up to $25.0 million.
Amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement bear interest at a per annum rate equal to either (i) for CBFR borrowings (including swingline loans), the CB Floating Rate, where the CB Floating Rate is the prime rate which shall never be less than the adjusted one month LIBOR rate on such day, plus the Applicable Rate, where the Applicable Rate is a percentage spread ranging from -1.00% to -1.50% or (ii) for each eurodollar borrowing, the Adjusted LIBO Rate, where the Adjusted LIBO Rate is the LIBO rate for such interest period multiplied by the statutory reserve rate, for the interest period in effect for such borrowing, plus the Applicable Rate, where the Applicable Rate is a percentage ranging from 1.00% to 1.30%. The applicable
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CB Floating Rate, Adjusted LIBO Rate, or LIBO Rate shall be determined by the administrative agent. The Credit Agreement also requires VBD to pay a commitment fee for the unused portion of the revolving facility of up to 0.20% per annum.
VBD’s obligations under the Credit Agreement are guaranteed by the Company and the Named Subsidiaries. The obligations of VBD under the Credit Agreement are secured by substantially all of the respective assets of VBD, the Company, and the Named Subsidiaries and are further secured by the equity interests in VBD and the Named Subsidiaries.
The Credit Agreement contains various affirmative and negative covenants, including restrictions on the Company's ability to incur debt or liens; engage in mergers or consolidations; make certain investments, acquisitions, loans, and advances; sell assets; enter into certain swap agreements; pay dividends or make distributions or make other restricted payments; engage in certain transactions with affiliates; and amend, modify, or waive any of its rights related to subordinated indebtedness and certain charter and other organizational, governing, and material agreements. The Company may avoid certain of such restrictions by meeting payment conditions defined in the Credit Agreement. The Company was in compliance with these covenants as of July 31, 2021.
The Credit Agreement also requires the Loan Parties to maintain a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio of 1.00 to 1.00 during periods when borrowing availability is less than the greater of (A) $7.5 million, and (B) 10% of the lesser of (i) the aggregate revolving commitment, and (ii) the borrowing base. The fixed charge coverage ratio, availability, aggregate revolving commitment, and the borrowing base are further defined in the Credit Agreement.
The Credit Agreement contains customary events of default, including, among other things: (i) the failure to pay any principal, interest, or other fees under the Credit Agreement; (ii) the making of any materially incorrect representation or warranty; (iii) the failure to observe or perform any covenant, condition, or agreement in the Credit Agreement or related agreements; (iv) a cross default with respect to other material indebtedness; (v) bankruptcy and insolvency events; (vi) unsatisfied material final judgments; (vii) Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (“ERISA”) events that could reasonably be expected to have a material adverse effect; and (viii) a change in control (as defined in the Credit Agreement).
Any commitments made under the Credit Agreement mature on September 7, 2023.
As of July 31, 2021 and January 30, 2021, the Company had no borrowings outstanding and availability of $75.0 million under the Credit Agreement.
Off-Balance-Sheet Arrangements
We do not have any off-balance-sheet financing or unconsolidated special-purpose entities.
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues, and expenses, as well as the related disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements. A summary of the Company’s significant accounting policies is included in Note 2 to the Company’s consolidated financial statements in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 30, 2021.
Certain accounting policies and estimates of the Company are considered critical, as these policies and estimates are the most important to the depiction of the Company’s consolidated financial statements and require significant, difficult, or complex judgments, often about the effect of matters that are inherently uncertain. Such policies are summarized in the “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 30, 2021. There were no significant changes to any of the critical accounting policies and estimates described in the Annual Report as of July 31, 2021.
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements
Refer to Note 1 “Description of the Company and Basis of Presentation” within Item 1 “Financial Statements” of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for a discussion of recently issued accounting pronouncements.
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ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
As of July 31, 2021, there was no material change in the market risks described in “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risks” in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 30, 2021.
ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
At the end of the period covered by this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, the Company carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of the Company’s Disclosure Committee and management, including the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures pursuant to Rule 13a-15 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Based on that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of July 31, 2021.
There has been no change in our internal control over financial reporting during the most recent fiscal quarter that has materially affected, or that is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
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PART II. OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
In August of 2019, Vesi Incorporated (“Vesi”) filed suit against the Company in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Ohio related to the Company’s licensing business and alleging breach of fiduciary duty, unfair competition, defamation, and tortious interference with prospective business relationships. The complaint seeks damages in an amount not less than $10.0 million for punitive damages, attorney fees, prejudgment interest, and any other additional relief. The Company has denied any liability and intends to vigorously defend itself in the case. In November 2019, the Company filed a counterclaim against the principals of Vesi as personal guarantors for monies owed to the Company by Vesi. The cases are currently in discovery. At this time, we are not able to estimate a possible loss or range of loss that may result from this matter or to determine whether such loss, if any, would have a material adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations due to the fact that the Company is vigorously defending itself and management believes that the Company has a number of meritorious legal defenses.
In April of 2020, Chidimma Igboakaeze filed suit seeking class certification for all current and former hourly-paid employees who worked for the Company within the state of California during the four years preceding the filing until final judgement. The complaint alleged various violations of the California Labor Code related to wages, overtime, meal and rest breaks, non-compliant wage statements and records and other similar allegations related to employment. The Plaintiff also filed a Private Attorney General Act claim with the state of California regarding the same allegations. This case was settled in the first quarter of fiscal 2022 for an immaterial amount.
The Company is subject to other legal proceedings from time to time in the ordinary course of business, but does not believe any of these such claims would have a material adverse impact on the Company at this time.
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
Except as follows, there have been no material changes to the risk factors previously set forth in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 30, 2021.
Losses or disruptions associated with our distribution systems could have a material adverse effect on our business and operations.
Our operating results depend on the orderly operation of our receiving and distribution functions, which also depends on our vendors' adherence to our shipping and receiving schedules. We may not anticipate all of the changing demands that our operating activities may impose on our receiving and distribution functions. There may also be events that are beyond our control that could cause delays in these functions, including but not limited to, public health pandemics such as COVID-19 and other catastrophic events, changing macroeconomic trends, and general disruptions or delays in shipping and receiving.
In addition, we rely on the flow of our goods through worldwide ports on a consistent basis. Disruption at the ports could create significant risks to our business, particularly if the occurrence is during a peak import time. For example, COVID-19 has resulted in a shortage of shipping containers, the lack of available shipping vessels, capacity constraints, and a general shipping backlog. If we experience significant delays in our receipt of product, we may experience an increase in freight costs, unanticipated inventory shortages, and missed sales opportunities which could adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows.
Our results of operations could suffer if we are unable to attract and retain retail and distribution center employees required for our business.
We must attract, motivate, and retain a sufficient number of qualified retail and distribution center employees. Historically, competition for talent in these positions has been intense and turnover is generally high, both of which have been amplified by the COVID-19 pandemic. If we are unable to attract and retain such employees with the necessary skills and experience, we may not achieve our objectives and our financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows could be adversely impacted.
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ITEM 2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS
On November 29, 2018, the Company's board of directors approved a share repurchase plan (the “2018 Share Repurchase Program”) authorizing up to $50.0 million of repurchases of shares of the Company's common stock. On December 3, 2020, the 2018 Share Repurchase Program was extended through December 11, 2021. On March 20, 2020, the Company temporarily suspended the share repurchase program to conserve cash as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The board of directors authorized the resumption of the share repurchase program beginning on March 11, 2021.
There was no activity under the program during the thirteen weeks ended July 31, 2021.
Period | Total Number of Shares Purchased | Average Price Paid per Share | Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs | Maximum Approximate Dollar Value of Shares that May Yet be Purchased Under the Plans or Program | |||||||||||||||||||
May 2, 2021 - May 29, 2021 | — | $ | — | — | $ | 32,939,607 | |||||||||||||||||
May 30, 2021 - July 3, 2021 | — | — | — | 32,939,607 | |||||||||||||||||||
July 4, 2021 - July 31, 2021 | — | — | — | 32,939,607 | |||||||||||||||||||
— | $ | — | — |
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ITEM 6. EXHIBITS
a. Exhibits
Exhibit No. | Description | ||||||||||||||||
101.INS | Inline XBRL Instance Document (the instance document does not appear in the Interactive Data File because its XBRL tags are embedded within the Inline XBRL document) | ||||||||||||||||
101.SCH | Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document | ||||||||||||||||
101.CAL | Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document | ||||||||||||||||
101.LAB | Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document | ||||||||||||||||
101.PRE | Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document | ||||||||||||||||
101.DEF | Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document | ||||||||||||||||
104 | Cover Page Interactive Data File (formatted as inline XBRL and contained in Exhibit 101) | ||||||||||||||||
* | Furnished, not filed. | ||||||||||||||||
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SIGNATURE
Pursuant to the requirements 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.
Vera Bradley, Inc. (Registrant) | ||||||||
Date: September 8, 2021 | /s/ John Enwright | |||||||
John Enwright | ||||||||
Chief Financial Officer |
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