Form 10-Q SHOE CARNIVAL INC For: Oct 31

UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549

Form 10-Q

[X]		Quarterly report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
		For the quarterly period ended   October 31, 2015
		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:				0-21360
Shoe Carnival, Inc.
		(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

Indiana		35-1736614
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)		(IRS Employer Identification Number)
7500 East Columbia Street Evansville, IN		47715
(Address of principal executive offices)		(Zip code)

 

(812) 867-6471

(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)

NOT APPLICABLE

(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)

 

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.

 

[X]

Yes

[  ]

No

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate website, 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).

 

[X]

Yes

[  ]

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 definitions of "large accelerated filer", "accelerated filer" and "smaller reporting company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

 

[ ] Large accelerated filer [X] Accelerated filer [ ] Non-accelerated filer [ ] Smaller reporting company

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).

 

[   ]

Yes

[X]

No

 

APPLICABLE ONLY TO CORPORATE ISSUERS:

 

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer's classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.

 

Number of Shares of Common Stock, $.01 par value, outstanding at December 7, 2015 were 19,952,300.

 

SHOE CARNIVAL, INC.
INDEX TO FORM 10-Q

				Page
Part I	Financial Information
	Item 1.		Financial Statements (Unaudited)
	Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets			3
	Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income			4
	Condensed Consolidated Statement of Shareholders' Equity			5
	Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows			6
	Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements			7
	Item 2.		Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition       and Results of Operations	12
	Item 3.		Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk	22
	Item 4.		Controls and Procedures	22
Part II	Other Information
	Item 1A.		Risk Factors	23
	Item 2.		Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds	23
	Item 6.		Exhibits	23
	Signature			25

 

 

SHOE CARNIVAL, INC.
PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

ITEM 1.  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

 

SHOE CARNIVAL, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
Unaudited

 

(In thousands, except share data)		October 31, 2015				January 31, 2015				November 1, 2014
Assets
Current Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents		$	49,035			$	61,376			$	29,089
Accounts receivable			2,665				2,928				2,954
Merchandise inventories			318,878				287,877				317,865
Deferred income taxes			1,236				957				794
Other			5,611				5,991				4,742
Total Current Assets			377,425				359,129				355,444
Property and equipment-net			106,374				101,294				101,362
Deferred income taxes			5,655				4,227				8,085
Other noncurrent assets			348				366				384
Total Assets		$	489,802			$	465,016			$	465,275
Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity
Current Liabilities:
Accounts payable		$	75,006			$	67,999			$	70,831
Accrued and other liabilities			18,129				15,123				17,165
Total Current Liabilities			93,135				83,122				87,996
Deferred lease incentives			30,595				29,908				28,383
Accrued rent			11,221				10,505				10,318
Deferred compensation			9,892				9,901				9,616
Other			424				382				250
Total Liabilities			145,267				133,818				136,563
Shareholders' Equity:
Common stock, $.01 par value, 50,000,000 shares authorized, 20,604,178 shares, 20,673,234 shares and 20,673,234 shares issued, respectively			206				207				207
Additional paid-in capital			65,807				67,389				66,771
Retained earnings			291,419				270,686				268,929
Treasury stock, at cost, 576,724 shares, 380,890 shares and 387,268 shares, respectively			(12,897	)			(7,084	)			(7,195	)
Total Shareholders' Equity			344,535				331,198				328,712
Total Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity		$	489,802			$	465,016			$	465,275

 

See notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

SHOE CARNIVAL, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
Unaudited

 

(In thousands, except per share data)		Thirteen Weeks Ended October 31,    2015				Thirteen Weeks Ended November 1,    2014				Thirty-nine Weeks Ended October 31,    2015				Thirty-nine Weeks Ended November 1,     2014
Net sales		$	269,713			$	254,687			$	750,302			$	712,530
Cost of sales (including buying,
distribution and occupancy costs)			188,396				177,922				528,022				503,964
Gross profit			81,317				76,765				222,280				208,566
Selling, general and administrative
expenses			66,144				58,973				182,200				171,301
Operating income			15,173				17,792				40,080				37,265
Interest income			(2	)			(2	)			(36	)			(11	)
Interest expense			42				41				126				124
Income before income taxes			15,133				17,753				39,990				37,152
Income tax expense			5,747				6,936				15,391				14,600
Net income		$	9,386			$	10,817			$	24,599			$	22,552
Net income per share:
Basic		$	0.47			$	0.54			$	1.23			$	1.12
Diluted		$	0.47			$	0.54			$	1.23			$	1.12
Weighted average shares:
Basic			19,444				19,716				19,542				19,844
Diluted			19,452				19,729				19,553				19,859
Cash dividends declared per share		$	0.065			$	0.06			$	0.19			$	0.18

 

See notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

SHOE CARNIVAL, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Unaudited

 

		Common Stock												Additional Paid-In				Retained				Treasury
(In thousands)		Issued				Treasury				Amount				Capital				Earnings				Stock				Total
Balance at January 31, 2015			20,673				(381	)		$	207			$	67,389			$	270,686			$	(7,084	)		$	331,198
Stock option exercises							15								(125	)							280				155
Dividends declared ($0.19 per share)																			(3,866	)							(3,866	)
Stock-based compensation income tax benefit															121												121
Employee stock purchase plan purchases							8								26								153				179
Restricted stock awards			(69	)			212				(1	)			(3,980	)							3,981				0
Shares surrendered by employees to pay taxes on restricted stock							(2	)															(46	)			(46	)
Purchase of common stock for treasury							(429	)															(10,181	)			(10,181	)
Stock-based compensation expense															2,376												2,376
Net income																			24,599								24,599
Balance at October 31, 2015			20,604				(577	)		$	206			$	65,807			$	291,419			$	(12,897	)		$	344,535

 

See notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

SHOE CARNIVAL, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
Unaudited

 

(In thousands)		Thirty-nine Weeks Ended October 31, 2015				Thirty-nine Weeks Ended November 1,   2014
Cash Flows From Operating Activities
Net income		$	24,599			$	22,552
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net
cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization			17,132				14,713
Stock-based compensation			2,595				292
Loss on retirement and impairment of assets			958				698
Deferred income taxes			(1,707	)			(4,245	)
Lease incentives			4,116				5,810
Other			(3,597	)			(383	)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable			55				1,383
Merchandise inventories			(31,001	)			(33,064	)
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities			9,699				9,144
Other			456				1,327
Net cash provided by operating activities			23,305				18,227
Cash Flows From Investing Activities
Purchases of property and equipment			(22,313	)			(27,533	)
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment			0				836
Proceeds from notes receivable			250				250
Net cash used in investing activities			(22,063	)			(26,447	)
Cash Flows From Financing Activities
Proceeds from issuance of stock			335				203
Dividends paid			(3,782	)			(3,631	)
Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation			91				35
Purchase of common stock for treasury			(10,181	)			(7,533	)
Shares surrendered by employees to pay taxes on restricted stock			(46	)			(18	)
Net cash used in financing activities			(13,583	)			(10,944	)
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents			(12,341	)			(19,164	)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period			61,376				48,253
Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Period		$	49,035			$	29,089
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information:
Cash paid during period for interest		$	125			$	124
Cash paid during period for income taxes		$	15,561			$	16,313
Capital expenditures incurred but not yet paid		$	2,494			$	1,918

See notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

SHOE CARNIVAL, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Unaudited

Note 1 - Basis of Presentation

 

In our opinion, the accompanying unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and notes have been prepared in accordance with the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") for interim financial information and contain all normal recurring adjustments necessary to present fairly our financial position and the results of our operations and our cash flows for the periods presented. Certain information and disclosures normally included in the notes to consolidated financial statements have been condensed or omitted according to the rules and regulations of the SEC, although we believe that the disclosures are adequate to make the information presented not misleading. The results of operations for the interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full year. The unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto contained in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 31, 2015.

 

Note 2 - Net Income Per Share

The following tables set forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share as shown on the face of the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income:

 

		Thirteen-Weeks Ended
		October 31, 2015												November 1, 2014
		(In thousands, except per share data)
Basic Earnings per Share:			Net Income				Shares				Per Share Amount				Net Income				Shares				Per Share Amount
Net income		$	9,386											$	10,817
Amount allocated to participating securities			(187	)											(202	)
Net income available for basic common shares and basic earnings per share		$	9,199				19,444			$	0.47			$	10,615				19,716			$	0.54
Diluted Earnings per Share:
Net income		$	9,386											$	10,817
Amount allocated to participating securities			(187	)											(202	)
Adjustment for dilutive potential common shares			0				8								0				13
Net income available for diluted common shares and diluted earnings per share		$	9,199				19,452			$	0.47			$	10,615				19,729			$	0.54

 

 

		Thirty-nine Weeks Ended
		October 31, 2015												November 1, 2014
		(In thousands, except per share data)
Basic Earnings per Share:			Net Income				Shares				Per Share Amount				Net Income				Shares				Per Share Amount
Net income		$	24,599											$	22,552
Amount allocated to participating securities			(479	)											(405	)
Net income available for basic common shares and basic earnings per share		$	24,120				19,542			$	1.23			$	22,147				19,844			$	1.12
Diluted Earnings per Share:
Net income		$	24,599											$	22,552
Amount allocated to participating securities			(479	)											(405	)
Adjustment for dilutive potential common shares			0				11								0				15
Net income available for diluted common shares and diluted earnings per share		$	24,120				19,553			$	1.23			$	22,147				19,859			$	1.12

 

 

Our basic and diluted earnings per share are computed using the two-class method. The two-class method is an earnings allocation that determines net income per share for each class of common stock and participating securities according to their participation rights in dividends and undistributed earnings or losses. Non-vested restricted stock awards that include non-forfeitable rights to dividends are considered participating securities. During periods of undistributed losses, however, no effect is given to our participating securities since they do not share in the losses. Per share amounts are computed by dividing net income available to common shareholders by the weighted average shares outstanding during each period. No options to purchase shares of common stock were excluded in the computation of diluted shares for the periods presented.

 

Note 3 - Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements

 

In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued guidance on the recognition of revenue for all contracts with customers designed to improve comparability and enhance financial statement disclosures. The underlying principle of this comprehensive model is that revenue is recognized to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the payment to which the company expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. In August 2015, the FASB subsequently issued guidance which approved a one year deferral of the guidance for annual reporting periods (including interim reporting periods within those periods) beginning after December 15, 2017. Early adoption is permitted as of the original effective date for annual reporting periods (including interim reporting periods within those periods) beginning after December 15, 2016. We are evaluating the impact of this guidance on our consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

 

In April 2015, the FASB issued guidance simplifying the presentation of debt issuance costs, which requires that debt issuance costs related to a recognized debt liability be presented in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of that debt liability, consistent with debt discounts. This guidance is effective for annual reporting periods (including interim reporting periods within those periods) beginning after December 15, 2015. Early adoption is permitted. We adopted the guidance in the first quarter of 2015. This adoption did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

 

In April 2015, the FASB issued guidance on accounting for fees paid in a cloud computing arrangement, which provides guidance to assist entities in determining whether a cloud computing arrangement contains a software

license. The guidance states that if a cloud computing arrangement includes a software license, then the customer should account for the software license element of the arrangement consistent with the acquisition of other software licenses. If a cloud computing arrangement does not include a software license, the customer should account for the arrangement as a service contract. This guidance is effective for annual reporting periods (including interim reporting periods within those periods) beginning after December 15, 2015. Early adoption is permitted. We are evaluating the impact of this guidance on our consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

 

In July 2015, the FASB issued guidance on simplifying the measurement of inventory, which is intended to narrow down the alternative methods available for valuing inventory. The new guidance does not apply to inventory currently measured using the last-in-first-out (“LIFO”) or the retail inventory valuation methods. Under the new guidance, inventory valued using other methods, including the first-in-first-out (“FIFO”) method, must be valued at the lower of cost or net realizable value. This guidance is effective for annual reporting periods (including interim reporting periods within those periods) beginning after December 15, 2016. Early adoption is permitted. We do not believe the guidance will have a material impact on our consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

 

In November 2015, the FASB issued guidance which simplifies the classification of deferred taxes by requiring an entity to classify deferred tax liabilities and assets as noncurrent within a classified statement of financial position. This guidance is effective for annual reporting periods (including interim reporting periods within those periods) beginning after December 15, 2016. Early adoption is permitted. We are evaluating the impact of this guidance on our consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

 

Note 4 - Fair Value Measurements

 

The accounting standards related to fair value measurements define fair value and provide a consistent framework for measuring fair value under the authoritative literature. Valuation techniques are based on observable and unobservable inputs. Observable inputs reflect readily obtainable data from independent sources, while unobservable inputs reflect market assumptions. This guidance only applies when other standards require or permit the fair value measurement of assets and liabilities. The guidance does not expand the use of fair value measurements. A fair value hierarchy was established, which prioritizes the inputs used in measuring fair value into three broad levels.

 

·

Level 1 – Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities;

·

Level 2 – Observable market-based inputs or unobservable inputs that are corroborated by market data; and

·

Level 3 – Significant unobservable inputs that are not corroborated by market data. Generally, these fair value measures are model-based valuation techniques such as discounted cash flows, and are based on the best information available, including our own data. Fair values of our long-lived assets are estimated using an income-based approach and are classified within Level 3 of the valuation hierarchy.

 

The following table presents assets that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis at October 31, 2015,
January 31, 2015 and November 1, 2014. We have no material liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring or non-recurring basis.

 

		Fair Value Measurements
(In thousands)		Level 1				Level 2				Level 3				Total
As of October 31, 2015:
Cash equivalents – money market account		$	5,384			$	0			$	0			$	5,384
As of January 31, 2015:
Cash equivalents – money market account		$	5,279			$	0			$	0			$	5,279
As of November 1, 2014:
Cash equivalents – money market account		$	5,277			$	0			$	0			$	5,277

The fair values of cash, receivables, accounts payable, accrued expenses and other current liabilities approximate their carrying values because of their short-term nature.  From time to time, we measure certain assets at fair value on a non-recurring basis, specifically long-lived assets evaluated for impairment.  These are typically store specific assets, which are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that recoverability of their carrying value is questionable.  If the expected future cash flows related to a store’s assets are less than their carrying value, an impairment loss would be recognized for the difference between estimated fair value and carrying value and recorded in selling, general and administrative expenses. We estimate the fair value of store assets using an income-based approach considering the cash flows expected over the remaining lease term for each location. These projections are primarily based on management’s estimates of store-level sales, gross margins, direct expenses, exercise of future lease renewal options and resulting cash flows and, by their nature, include judgments about how current initiatives will impact future performance. External factors, such as the local environment in which the store resides, including strip-mall traffic and competition, are evaluated in terms of their effect on sales trends. Changes in sales and operating income assumptions or unfavorable changes in external factors can significantly impact the estimated future cash flows. An increase or decrease in the projected cash flow can significantly decrease or increase the fair value of these assets, which would have an effect on the impairment recorded.

 

During the thirteen weeks ended October 31, 2015, long-lived assets held and used with a gross carrying amount of $573,000 were written down to their fair value of $412,000, resulting in an impairment charge of $161,000, which was included in earnings for the period. Subsequent to this impairment, these long-lived assets had a remaining unamortized basis of $69,000. During the thirty-nine weeks ended October 31, 2015, long-lived assets held and used with a gross carrying amount of $1.1 million were written down to their fair value of $891,000, resulting in an impairment charge of $212,000, which was included in earnings for the period. Subsequent to this impairment, these long-lived assets had a remaining unamortized basis of $211,000. During the fifty-two weeks ended January 31, 2015, long-lived assets held and used with a gross carrying amount of $4.3 million were written down to their fair value of $3.3 million, resulting in an impairment charge of $1.0 million, which was included in earnings for the period. Subsequent to this impairment, these long-lived assets had a remaining unamortized basis of $1.2 million. During the thirteen weeks ended November 1, 2014, long-lived assets held and used with a gross carrying amount of $2.1 million were written down to their fair value of $1.6 million, resulting in an impairment charge of $510,000, which was included in earnings for the period. Subsequent to this impairment, these long-lived assets had a remaining unamortized basis of $551,000. During the thirty-nine weeks ended November 1, 2014, long-lived assets held and used with a gross carrying amount of $3.1 million were written down to their fair value of $2.4 million, resulting in an impairment charge of $657,000, which was included in earnings for the period. Subsequent to this impairment, these long-lived assets had a remaining unamortized basis of $717,000.

 

Note 5 - Stock-Based Compensation

 

Stock-based compensation includes stock options, cash-settled stock appreciation rights (SARs) and restricted stock awards. Additionally, we recognize stock-based compensation expense for the discount on shares sold to employees through our employee stock purchase plan. For the thirteen and thirty-nine weeks ended October 31, 2015, stock-based compensation expense for the employee stock purchase plan was $9,000 before the income tax benefit of

$3,000 and $32,000 before the income tax benefit of $12,000, respectively. For the thirteen and thirty-nine weeks ended November 1, 2014, stock-based compensation expense for the employee stock purchase plan was $8,000 before the income tax benefit of $3,000 and $28,000 before the income tax benefit of $11,000, respectively.

 

The following table summarizes the share transactions for our restricted stock awards:

 

				Number of Shares				Weighted- Average Grant Date Fair Value
	Restricted stock at January 31, 2015				705,576			$	21.49
	Granted				212,503				24.43
	Vested				(4,750	)			22.30
	Forfeited				(69,056	)			21.98
	Restricted stock at October 31, 2015				844,273			$	22.18

 

The weighted-average grant date fair value of stock awards granted during the thirty-nine week periods ended October 31, 2015 and November 1, 2014 was $24.43 and $25.55, respectively. The total fair value at grant date of previously non-vested stock awards that vested during the first nine months of fiscal 2015 was $106,000. The total fair value at grant date of previously non-vested stock awards that vested during the first nine months of fiscal 2014 was $54,000.

 

The following section summarizes information regarding stock-based compensation expense recognized for restricted stock awards:

 

(In thousands)		Thirteen Weeks Ended October 31,    2015				Thirteen Weeks Ended November 1,    2014				Thirty-nine Weeks Ended October 31,   2015				Thirty-nine Weeks Ended November 1,    2014
Stock-based compensation expense before the recognized income tax benefit		$	810			$	(1,555	)		$	2,344			$	259
Income tax benefit		$	308			$	(608	)		$	902			$	102

 

During the third quarter of fiscal 2014, we recognized a $1.6 million reduction in expense, which was comprised of stock-based compensation expense of $732,000 offset by an expense reversal of $2.3 million. The reduction in expense was attributable to our reversal of cumulative prior period expense for performance-based awards, which management deemed as not probable of vesting prior to their expiration.

 

As of October 31, 2015, approximately $9.7 million of unrecognized compensation expense remained related to both our performance-based and service-based restricted stock awards. The cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of approximately 2.8 years. This incorporates our current assumptions with respect to the estimated requisite service period required to achieve the designated performance conditions for performance-based stock awards.

 

The following table summarizes the SARs activity:

 

				Number of Shares					Weighted- Average Exercise Price				Weighted- Average Remaining Contractual Term (Years)
Outstanding at January 31, 2015				40,375				$	17.17
Granted				156,175					24.26
Forfeited				(2,625	)				24.26
Exercised				(40,375	)				17.17
Outstanding at October 31, 2015				153,550				$	24.26				4.38

 

SARs were granted during the first quarter of fiscal 2015 to certain non-executive employees, such that one-third of the shares underlying the SARs will vest and become fully exercisable on each of the first three anniversaries of the date of the grant and were assigned a five-year term from the date of grant, after which any unexercised SARs will expire. These SARs granted during the first quarter of fiscal 2015 were issued with a defined maximum gain of $10.00 over the exercise price of $24.26. The SARs exercised in the first quarter of fiscal 2015 were the remaining outstanding SARs granted in the first quarter of fiscal 2012.

 

The fair value of these liability awards are remeasured, using a trinomial lattice model, at each reporting period until the date of settlement. Increases or decreases in stock-based compensation expense are recognized over the vesting period, or immediately for vested awards. The weighted-average fair value of outstanding, non-vested SAR awards was $3.70 as of October 31, 2015.

 

The following table summarizes information regarding stock-based compensation expense recognized for SARs:

 

(In thousands)		Thirteen Weeks Ended October 31,    2015				Thirteen Weeks Ended November 1,    2014				Thirty-nine Weeks Ended October 31,   2015				Thirty-nine Weeks Ended November 1, 2014
Stock-based compensation expense before the recognized income tax benefit		$	24			$	26			$	219			$	5
Income tax benefit		$	9			$	10			$	84			$	2

 

As of October 31, 2015, approximately $358,000 in unrecognized compensation expense remained related to non-vested SARs. This expense is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of approximately 1.42 years.

 

ITEM 2.

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Factors That May Affect Future Results

This quarterly report on Form 10-Q contains forward-looking statements, within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, that involve a number of risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause our actual results, performance, achievements or industry results to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. These factors include, but are not limited to: general economic conditions in the areas of the continental United States and Puerto Rico in which our stores are located; the effects and duration of economic downturns and unemployment rates; changes in the overall retail environment and more specifically in the apparel and footwear retail sectors; our ability to generate increased sales at our stores; the potential impact of national and international security concerns on the retail environment; changes in our relationships with key suppliers; the impact of competition and pricing; our

ability to successfully manage and execute our marketing initiatives and maintain positive brand perception and recognition; changes in weather patterns, consumer buying trends and our ability to identify and respond to emerging fashion trends; the impact of disruptions in our distribution or information technology operations; the effectiveness of our inventory management; the impact of hurricanes or other natural disasters on our stores, as well as on consumer confidence and purchasing in general; risks associated with the seasonality of the retail industry; the impact of unauthorized disclosure or misuse of personal and confidential information about our customers, vendors and employees; our ability to manage our third-party vendor relationships; our ability to successfully execute our growth strategy, including the availability of desirable store locations at acceptable lease terms, our ability to open new stores in a timely and profitable manner, including our entry into major new markets, and the availability of sufficient funds to implement our growth plans; higher than anticipated costs or impairment charges associated with the closing of underperforming stores; our ability to successfully grow our e-commerce sales; the inability of manufacturers to deliver products in a timely manner; changes in the political and economic environments in China, Brazil, Europe and East Asia, where the primary manufacturers of footwear are located; the impact of regulatory changes in the United States and the countries where our manufacturers are located; the continued favorable trade relations between the United States and China and the other countries which are the major manufacturers of footwear; the resolution of litigation or regulatory proceedings in which we are or may become involved; and our ability to meet our labor needs while controlling costs. For a more detailed discussion of certain risk factors see the "Risk Factors" section of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 31, 2015.

 

General

 

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations is intended to provide information to assist the reader in better understanding and evaluating our financial condition and results of operations. We encourage you to read this in conjunction with our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and the notes to those statements included in PART I, ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, as well as our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 31, 2015 as filed with the SEC.

 

Overview of Our Business

Shoe Carnival, Inc. is one of the nation’s largest family footwear retailers, providing the convenience of shopping at any of our over 400 store locations or online at shoecarnival.com. Our stores combine competitive pricing with a highly promotional, in-store marketing effort that encourages customer participation and injects fun and surprise into every shopping experience. We believe this highly promotional atmosphere results in various competitive advantages, including increased multiple unit sales; the building of a loyal, repeat customer base; the creation of word-of-mouth advertising; and enhanced sell-through of in-season goods. The same customer experience is reflected in our e-commerce site through special promotions and limited time sales, along with relevant fashion stories featured on our home page.

 

Our objective is to be the destination retailer-of-choice for a wide range of consumers seeking value priced, current season name brand and private label footwear.  Our product assortment includes dress and casual shoes, sandals, boots and a wide assortment of athletic shoes for the entire family in four general categories - women’s, men’s, children’s and athletics.  Our average store carries approximately 28,200 pairs of shoes and our new small market stores are expected to carry less than half that number of pairs. In addition to footwear, our stores carry selected accessory items such as socks, belts, shoe care items, handbags, jewelry, scarves and wallets. Our e-commerce site offers customers an opportunity to choose from a large selection of products in all of the same categories of footwear with a depth of sizes and colors that may not be available in some of our smaller stores, and introduces our concept to consumers who are new to Shoe Carnival, in both existing and new markets.

 

Critical Accounting Policies

 

It is necessary for us to include certain judgments in our reported financial results.  These judgments involve estimates based in part on our historical experience and incorporate the impact of the current general economic climate and company-specific circumstances.  However, because future events and economic conditions are

inherently uncertain, our actual results could differ materially from these estimates.  The accounting policies that require the more significant judgments are included below.

 

Merchandise Inventories – Our merchandise inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market (LCM) as of the balance sheet date and consist primarily of dress, casual and athletic footwear for women, men and children. The cost of our merchandise is determined using the first-in, first-out valuation method (FIFO). For determining market value, we estimate the future demand and related sale price of merchandise in our inventory. The stated value of merchandise inventories contained on our consolidated balance sheets also includes freight, certain capitalized overhead costs and reserves.

 

We review our inventory at the end of each quarter to determine if it is properly stated at LCM. Factors considered include, among others, recent sale prices, the length of time merchandise has been held in inventory, quantities of the various styles held in inventory, seasonality of the merchandise, expected consideration to be received from our vendors and current and expected future sales trends. We reduce the value of our inventory to its estimated net realizable value where cost exceeds the estimated future selling price. Merchandise inventories as of October 31, 2015, January 31, 2015 and November 1, 2014, totaled $318.9 million, $287.9 million and $317.9 million, respectively, representing approximately 65%, 62% and 68% of total assets. Given the significance of inventories to our consolidated financial statements, the determination of net realizable value is considered to be a critical accounting estimate. Material changes in the factors noted above could have a significant impact on the actual net realizable value of our inventory and our reported operating results.

 

Valuation of Long-Lived Assets – Long-lived assets, such as property and equipment subject to depreciation, are evaluated for impairment on a periodic basis if events or circumstances indicate the carrying value may not be recoverable. This evaluation includes performing an analysis of the estimated undiscounted future cash flows of the long-lived assets. Assets are grouped and the evaluation performed at the lowest level for which there are identifiable cash flows, which is generally at a store level.

 

If the estimated future cash flows for a store are determined to be less than the carrying value of the store’s assets, an impairment loss is recorded for the difference between estimated fair value and carrying value. We estimate the fair value of our long-lived assets using store specific cash flow assumptions discounted by a rate commensurate with the risk involved with such assets while incorporating marketplace assumptions. Our assumptions and estimates used in the evaluation of impairment, including current and future economic trends for stores, are subject to a high degree of judgment. Assets subject to impairment are adjusted to estimated fair value and, if applicable, an impairment loss is recorded in selling, general and administrative expenses. Our long-lived assets as of October 31, 2015, January 31, 2015 and November 1, 2014, totaled $106.4 million, $101.3 million and $101.4 million, respectively, representing approximately 22% of total assets. From our evaluations performed during the first nine months of fiscal 2015 and fiscal 2014, we recorded impairments of long-lived assets of $212,000 and $657,000, respectively. If actual operating results or market conditions differ from those anticipated, the carrying value of certain of our assets may prove unrecoverable and we may incur additional impairment charges in the future.

 

We operate nine stores in Puerto Rico with combined net book value of long-lived assets of $5.5 million. Puerto Rico is experiencing an economic crisis characterized by a deep recession and defaults on its public sector debt. Our estimate of undiscounted cash flows indicates that the carrying amounts of long-lived assets are expected to be recovered. Our estimate of cash flows might change in future periods pending further developments in the economic environment in Puerto Rico.

 

Insurance Reserves – We self-insure a significant portion of our workers’ compensation, general liability and employee health care costs and also maintain insurance in each area of risk protecting us from individual and aggregate losses over specified dollar values. We review the liability reserved for our self-insured portions on a quarterly basis, taking into consideration a number of factors, including historical claims experience, severity factors, statistical trends and, in certain instances, valuation assistance provided by independent third parties. Our self-insurance reserves include estimates of both claims filed, carried at their expected ultimate settlement value, and claims incurred but not yet reported. Our self-insurance reserves totaled $2.9 million at October 31, 2015, January 31, 2015 and November 1, 2014. While we believe that the recorded amounts are adequate, there can be no

assurance that changes to management’s estimates will not occur due to limitations inherent in the estimating process. If actual results are not consistent with our estimates or assumptions, we may be exposed to future losses or gains that could be material.

 

Income Taxes – As part of the process of preparing our consolidated financial statements, we are required to estimate our current and future income taxes for each tax jurisdiction in which we operate. Significant judgment is required in determining our annual tax expense and evaluating our tax positions. As a part of this process, deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized based on the difference between the consolidated financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax basis. Our temporary timing differences relate primarily to inventory, depreciation, accrued expenses, deferred lease incentives and stock-based compensation. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using the tax rates enacted and expected to be in effect in the years when those temporary differences are expected to reverse. Deferred tax assets are reduced, if necessary, by a valuation allowance to the extent future realization of those tax benefits are uncertain.

 

We are also required to make many subjective assumptions and judgments regarding our income tax exposures when accounting for uncertain tax positions associated with our income tax filings. We must presume that taxing authorities will examine all uncertain tax positions and that they have full knowledge of all relevant information. However, interpretations of guidance surrounding income tax laws and regulations are often complex, ambiguous and frequently change over time and a number of years may elapse before a particular issue is resolved. As such, changes in our subjective assumptions and judgments can materially affect amounts recognized in our consolidated financial statements. Although we believe we have adequately provided for all uncertain tax positions, tax authorities could assess tax liabilities greater or less than our accrued positions for open tax periods.

 

Results of Operations Summary Information

			Number of Stores								Store Square Footage
			Beginning						End of		Net		End		Comparable
Quarter Ended			Of  Period		Opened		Closed		Period		Change		of Period		Store Sales
May 2, 2015			400		7		6		401		15,000		4,434,000		3.0%
August 1, 2015			401		5		6		400		(9,000)		4,425,000		0.5%
October 31, 2015			400		6		2		404		40,000		4,465,000		6.0%
Year-to-date 2015			400		18		14		404		46,000		4,465,000		3.3%
May 3, 2014			376		7		1		382		63,000		4,210,000		(1.7)%
August 2, 2014			382		16		0		398		184,000		4,394,000		(2.1)%
November 1, 2014			398		7		1		404		71,000		4,465,000		2.3%
Year-to-date 2014			376		30		2		404		318,000		4,465,000		(0.4)%

 

Comparable store sales for the periods indicated include stores that have been open for 13 full months prior to the beginning of the period, including those stores that have been relocated or remodeled, and e-commerce sales. Stores opened or closed during the periods indicated are not included in comparable store sales. We include e-commerce sales in our comparable store sales as a result of our multi-channel retailer strategy. We view the e-commerce sales as an extension of our physical stores.

 

 

 

 

 

The following table sets forth our results of operations expressed as a percentage of net sales for the periods indicated:

 

		Thirteen Weeks Ended October 31,   2015				Thirteen    Weeks Ended November 1, 2014				Thirty-nine Weeks Ended October 31,   2015				Thirty-nine   Weeks Ended November 1, 2014
Net sales			100.0	%			100.0	%			100.0	%			100.0	%
Cost of sales (including buying,
distribution and occupancy costs)			69.9				69.9				70.4				70.7
Gross profit			30.1				30.1				29.6				29.3
Selling, general and
administrative expenses			24.5				23.1				24.3				24.1
Operating income			5.6				7.0				5.3				5.2
Interest (income) expense, net			0.0				0.0				0.0				0.0
Income before income taxes			5.6				7.0				5.3				5.2
Income tax expense			2.1				2.7				2.0				2.0
Net income			3.5	%			4.3	%			3.3	%			3.2	%

 

 

Executive Summary for Third Quarter Ended October 31, 2015

 

We believe our financial performance during the quarter demonstrated the success of our key initiatives. Some highlights of the quarter and a discussion of these key initiatives are as follows:

  

·

Net sales increased $15.0 million for the third quarter of fiscal 2015 compared to the same period last year primarily as a result of store growth and a 6.0% increase in comparable store sales. Although overall store traffic was down during the quarter, we still experienced increases in our conversion rates, average unit retail, average sales per transactions and units per transactions. We believe this favorable growth was primarily due to the strength of our inventory selection, which resulted in broad based comparable store sales increases in all of our major categories. This was especially true in fashion boots and adult athletics, which all posted double-digit increases in comparable store sales for the quarter. Additionally, we benefited from a calendar shift that moved many of our early back-to-school dates and tax-free holidays into August this year from July last year. This shifted approximately $7.0 million in sales from the second quarter last year into the third quarter this year.

 

·

During the quarter we increased membership in our Shoe Perks customer loyalty program by an additional 847,000 members. We believe our Shoe Perks program affords us tremendous opportunity to communicate, build relationships and engage with our most loyal shoppers, which we believe will result in long-term sales gains.

 

·

As of the end of the third quarter, both our Shoes 2U and ship-from-store programs had been implemented on a chain wide basis (with limited exceptions). We launched our Shoes 2U program in the first half of fiscal 2015, which enables shipment of product from another store to a customer’s home if they are unable to find the size, color or style of a shoe in the store in which they are shopping. We launched our ship-from-store program in 2014. This program allows fulfillment of our e-commerce orders in house, utilizing the inventory in our brick and mortar stores.

 

·

During the third quarter of fiscal 2015 we made significant progress on the re-launch of our mobile app, which is planned for early December 2015. This re-launch represents a complete redesign and will introduce e-commerce functionality directly from the app. Product offerings on the app will correspond to our online assortment and customers will also be able to scan UPC codes to find sizes that may not be available in our stores.

 

·

We opened our first small-market concept store in October 2015 and our second small-market concept store in early November 2015. We believe there is opportunity to expand into new and fill-in existing markets over the next several years with smaller stores which are approximately 5,000 square feet. This will provide consumers and local communities with a convenient shopping experience that builds upon our strong track record of delivering moderately priced branded footwear for the entire family.

 

Results of Operations for the Third Quarter Ended October 31, 2015

 

Net Sales

 

Net sales increased $15.0 million to $269.7 million during the third quarter of fiscal 2015, a 5.9% increase over the prior year's third quarter net sales of $254.7 million. Of the $15.0 million increase in net sales, $7.3 million was attributable to sales generated by the 26 new stores we opened since the beginning of the third quarter of fiscal 2014 and $14.2 million was attributable to the 6.0% increase in our comparable store sales. Our increase included double-digit comparable store sales increases in both adult athletics and our fashion boot categories. Additionally, we benefited from a combination of higher conversion rates, average unit retail, average sales per transactions and units per transactions, which were offset by a low single-digit decline in traffic. We also experienced a calendar shift that moved many of our early back-to-school dates and tax-free holidays into August this year from July last year. This shifted approximately $7.0 million in sales from the second quarter last year into the third quarter this year. The increase in sales was partially offset by a loss in sales of $6.5 million from the 20 stores closed since the beginning of the third quarter of fiscal 2014.

 

Gross Profit

Gross profit increased $4.6 million to $81.3 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2015. The gross profit margin of 30.1% remained unchanged compared to the prior year. The merchandise margin decreased 0.7% primarily due to a combination of the shift in back-to-school dates and tax-free holidays and expenses related to our multi-channel sales initiatives. Buying, distribution and occupancy costs decreased 0.7% as a percentage of sales during the third quarter of fiscal 2015 compared to the same period last year due to leveraging expenses against a higher sales base.

 

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

Selling, general and administrative expenses increased $7.2 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2015 to $66.1 million, or 24.5% as a percentage of sales, an increase from 23.1% as a percentage of sales in the third quarter of fiscal 2014. Significant changes in expenses between the comparative periods included the following:

 

·

We incurred an additional $636,000 in incremental expense during the third quarter of fiscal 2015 compared to the third quarter of last year related to the operation of our 26 new stores, net of expense reductions for the 20 stores that have closed since the beginning of the third quarter of fiscal 2014.

 

·

We experienced an increase in self-insured health care costs of $760,000 in the third quarter of fiscal 2015 when compared to the same period last year. Costs related to our self-insured health care programs are subject to a significant degree of volatility.

 

·

Incentive compensation increased $693,000 in the third quarter of fiscal 2015 compared to the same period last year. This increase was primarily attributable to higher financial performance against the defined metrics associated with our performance-based compensation in the third quarter of fiscal 2015.

 

·

Equity compensation increased $2.4 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2015 compared to the same period last year. This was mainly attributable to a $2.3 million reversal of cumulative prior period expense recorded in the third quarter of fiscal 2014 for certain performance-based restricted stock grants that were deemed by management as not probable to vest prior to their expiration. The reversal of expense recorded in the third quarter of fiscal 2014 did not recur in 2015.

 

·

Advertising expense increased $3.1 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2015 compared to the same period last year. This increase was primarily attributable to a shift in the back-to-school dates and tax-free holidays, which resulted in a sales and expense shift out of the last week of the second quarter last year and into the first week of the third quarter this year.

 

Pre-opening costs included in selling, general and administrative expenses were $500,000, or 0.2% as a percentage of sales, in the third quarter of fiscal 2015, compared to $321,000, or 0.1% as a percentage of sales, in the third quarter of last year. This increase primarily related to additional advertising expense for new market promotion in the third quarter of 2015. Pre-opening costs, such as advertising, payroll and supplies, incurred prior to the opening

of a new store are charged to expense in the period in which they are incurred. The total amount of pre-opening expense incurred will vary by store depending on the specific market and the promotional activities involved.

 

Store closing costs and non-cash impairment charges included in selling, general and administrative expenses were $611,000, or 0.2% as a percentage of sales, in the third quarter of fiscal 2015. Store closing costs and non-cash impairment charges of long-lived assets were $634,000, or 0.2% as a percentage of sales, in the third quarter last year. We closed two stores in the third quarter of fiscal 2015 and one store was closed in the third quarter of fiscal 2014.

 

Income Taxes

Our provision for income tax expense is based on the current estimate of our annual effective tax rate and is adjusted as necessary for quarterly events. The effective income tax rate for the third quarter of fiscal 2015 was 38.0% compared to 39.1% for the same period in fiscal 2014. The decrease in the effective income tax rate between periods was primarily due to a reduction in permanent items between years and benefit gained from certain tax credits available to us in 2015.

 

Results of Operations for Nine Month Period Ended October 31, 2015

 

Net Sales

 

Net sales increased $37.8 million to $750.3 million for the nine-month period ended October 31, 2015, a 5.3% increase over net sales of $712.5 million during the same period in the prior year. Of the $37.8 million increase in net sales, approximately $29.9 million was attributable to sales generated by the 49 new stores we opened since the beginning of fiscal 2014 and $22.5 million was attributable to the 3.3% increase in our comparable store sales. Our increase included a double-digit comparable store sales increase in our fashion boot categories and a mid-single digit comparable store sales increase in adult athletics. Additionally, we benefited from a combination of higher conversion rates and average sales per transaction, which were offset by a low single-digit decline in traffic. This increase was partially offset by a loss of sales of $14.6 million from the 21 stores closed since the beginning of fiscal 2014.

 

Gross Profit

Gross profit increased $13.7 million to $222.3 million in the first nine months of fiscal 2015. The gross profit margin for the first nine months of fiscal 2015 increased to 29.6% from 29.3% compared to the prior year. The merchandise margin increased 0.1%. Buying, distribution and occupancy costs decreased 0.2% as a percentage of sales, compared to the same period last year.

 

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

Selling, general and administrative expenses increased $10.9 million in the first nine months of fiscal 2015 to $182.2 million, or 24.3% as a percentage of sales, an increase from 24.1% in the first nine months of fiscal 2014. Significant changes in expense between the comparative periods included the following:

 

·

We incurred an additional $4.5 million in incremental expense during the first nine months of fiscal 2015, compared to the same period last year, related to the operation of our 49 new stores, net of expense reductions for the 21 stores that have closed since the beginning of fiscal 2014.

 

·

We experienced an increase in self-insured health care costs of $1.2 million in the first nine months of fiscal 2015 when compared to the same period last year. Costs related to our self-insured health care programs are subject to a significant degree of volatility.

 

·

Incentive compensation, inclusive of stock-based compensation, increased $4.1 million in the first nine months of fiscal 2015 compared to the same period last year. Of this increase, $1.8 million was attributable to higher

financial performance against the defined metrics associated with our performance-based cash compensation. The remaining increase of $2.3 million was mainly attributable to our reversal of cumulative prior period expense recorded in the third quarter of fiscal 2014 for certain performance-based restricted stock grants that were deemed not probable to vest prior to their expiration. The reversal of expense recorded in fiscal 2014 did not recur in 2015.

 

In the first nine months of fiscal 2015, pre-opening costs included in selling, general and administrative expenses were $1.1 million, or 0.2% as a percentage of sales, compared to $1.9 million, or 0.3% as a percentage of sales, in the same period last year. This decrease was primarily due to opening 18 stores during the first nine months of fiscal 2015 compared to 30 stores in the comparable period last year. Pre-opening costs, such as advertising, payroll and supplies, incurred prior to the opening of a new store are charged to expense in the period in which they are incurred. The total amount of pre-opening expense incurred will vary by store depending on the specific market and the promotional activities involved.

 

Store closing costs and non-cash impairment charges included in selling, general and administrative expenses were $1.8 million, or 0.2% as a percentage of sales, in the first nine months of fiscal 2015. Store closing costs and non-cash impairment charges of long-lived assets were $861,000, or 0.1% as a percentage of sales, in the first nine months of last year. We closed 14 stores in the first nine months of fiscal 2015 and two stores were closed in the first nine months of fiscal 2014.

 

Income Taxes

Our provision for income tax expense is based on the current estimate of our annual effective tax rate and is adjusted as necessary for quarterly events. The effective income tax rate for the first nine months of fiscal 2015 was 38.5% compared to 39.3% for the same period in fiscal 2014. The decrease in the effective income tax rate between periods was primarily due to a reduction in permanent items between years, benefit gained from certain tax credits available to us in 2015 and changes in jurisdictional tax rates. The annual effective income tax rate for fiscal 2015 is expected to be slightly lower than last fiscal year at approximately 38.5%.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

We anticipate that our existing cash and cash flows from operations will be sufficient to fund our planned store expansion along with other capital expenditures, working capital needs, potential dividend payments, potential share repurchases, and various other commitments and obligations, as they arise, for at least the next 12 months.

 

Cash Flow - Operating Activities

 

Our net cash provided by operating activities was $23.3 million in the first nine months of fiscal 2015 compared to net cash provided by operating activities of $18.2 million in the first nine months of fiscal 2014. These amounts reflect our income from operations adjusted for non-cash items and working capital changes. Working capital increased to $284.3 million at October 31, 2015, from $267.4 million at November 1, 2014. The current ratio was 4.1 as of October 31, 2015 compared to 4.0 at November 1, 2014.

 

Cash Flow - Investing Activities

 

Our cash outflows for investing activities are primarily for capital expenditures. During the first nine months of fiscal 2015, we expended $22.3 million for the purchase of property and equipment, of which $15.0 million was for new stores, remodeling and relocations. During the first nine months of fiscal 2014, we expended $27.5 million for the purchase of property and equipment, of which $22.3 million was for new stores, remodeling and relocations. The remaining capital expenditures in both periods were for continued investments in technology and normal asset replacement activities.

 

Cash Flow - Financing Activities

 

Cash outflows for financing activities have represented cash dividend payments and share repurchases. Shares of our common stock can be either acquired as part of our publicly announced repurchase program or withheld by us in connection with employee payroll tax withholding upon the vesting of restricted stock awards. During the first nine months of fiscal 2015, net cash used in financing activities was $13.6 million compared to net cash used in financing activities of $10.9 million during the first nine months of fiscal 2014. The increase in cash used in financing activities was primarily attributable to the $10.2 million of common stock repurchased under our share repurchase program during the first nine months of fiscal 2015, compared to $7.5 million repurchased in the first nine months of fiscal 2014.

 

Capital Expenditures

 

Capital expenditures for fiscal 2015, including actual expenditures during the first nine months, are expected to be between $27 million and $28 million. Approximately $9 million of our total capital expenditures are expected to be used for new stores and $9 million are expected to be used for store relocations and remodels. Lease incentives to be received from landlords during fiscal 2015, including actual amounts received during the first nine months, are expected to be approximately $6 to $7 million. The remaining capital expenditures are expected to be incurred for various other store improvements, continued investments in technology and normal asset replacement activities. The actual amount of cash required for capital expenditures for store operations depends in part on the number of new stores opened and relocated, the amount of lease incentives, if any, received from landlords and the number of stores remodeled.

 

Store Openings and Closings

 

We utilize a formalized review process in our evaluation of potential new store sites as well as for decisions surrounding leases on existing store locations. Our approach is both qualitative as well as quantitative in nature. We have continued to enhance this process, and during fiscal 2014, we incorporated additional real estate specific software tools for portfolio analysis. With the incorporation of these additional tools, we believe our process will be enhanced in regards to identifying possible locations for future expansion and identifying potential store closings and relocations that will improve the long-term financial performance of our portfolio.

 

In fiscal 2015, we anticipate opening 20 new stores, including two small-market concept stores. We opened 18 stores during the first nine months of fiscal 2015, including one small-market concept store. Pre-opening expenses, including rent, freight, advertising, salaries and supplies, are expected to total approximately $2.0 million for fiscal 2015, or an average of $101,000 per store. During fiscal 2014, we opened 31 new stores and expended $3.7 million on pre-opening expenses, or an average of $118,000 per store. The opening of new stores is dependent upon, among other things, the availability of desirable locations, the negotiation of acceptable lease terms and general economic and business conditions affecting consumer spending in areas we target for expansion.

 

We closed 14 stores during the first nine months of fiscal 2015 and closed two stores during the first nine months of fiscal 2014. Currently, we have one additional store closing scheduled for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2015. The timing and actual amount of expense recorded in closing a store can vary significantly depending in part on the period in which management commits to a closing plan, the remaining basis in the fixed assets to be disposed of at closing and the cost incurred in terminating the lease. We will continue to review our annual store growth rate based on our view of the internal and external opportunities and challenges in the marketplace.

 

Dividends

 

On September 9, 2015, our Board of Directors approved the payment of our second quarter cash dividend to our shareholders.  The dividend of $0.065 per share was paid on October 19, 2015 to shareholders of record as of the close of business on October 5, 2015.

 

The declaration and payment of any future dividends are at the discretion of the Board of Directors and will depend on our results of operations, financial condition, business conditions and other factors deemed relevant by our Board of Directors.

 

Credit Facility

 

Our unsecured credit agreement provides for up to $50.0 million in cash advances and commercial and standby letters of credit with borrowing limits based on eligible inventory. It contains covenants which stipulate: (1) Total Shareholders’ Equity, adjusted for the effect of any share repurchases, will not fall below that of the prior fiscal year-end; (2) the ratio of funded debt plus rent to EBITDA plus rent will not exceed 2.5 to 1.0; and (3) cash dividends for a fiscal year will not exceed 30% of consolidated net income for the immediately preceding fiscal year, and in no event may the total distributions in any fiscal year exceed 25% of the prior year’s ending net worth. We were in compliance with these covenants as of October 31, 2015. Should a default condition be reported, the lenders may preclude additional borrowings and call all loans and accrued interest at their discretion. There were no borrowings outstanding under the credit facility and letters of credit outstanding were $1.5 million at October 31, 2015. As of October 31, 2015, $48.5 million was available to us for additional borrowings under the credit facility.

 

Share Repurchase Program

 

On December 11, 2014, our Board of Directors authorized a new share repurchase program for up to $25 million of our outstanding common stock, effective January 1, 2015. The purchases may be made in the open market or through privately negotiated transactions, from time-to-time through December 31, 2015, and in accordance with applicable laws, rules and regulations. The program may be amended, suspended or discontinued at any time and does not commit us to repurchase shares of our common stock. We intend to fund share repurchases under this program from cash on hand and any shares acquired will be available for stock-based compensation awards and other corporate purposes. The actual number and value of the shares to be purchased will depend on the performance of our stock price and other market conditions. As of October 31, 2015, approximately 429,000 shares had been repurchased at an aggregate cost of $10.2 million. The amount that remained available under the share repurchase authorization at October 31, 2015 was $14.8 million. From November 1, 2015 through December 7, 2015, we repurchased approximately 75,000 shares pursuant to our share repurchase program at a cost of $1.7 million. As a result, as of December 7, 2015, the amount that remained available under this program was approximately $13.1 million.

 

Seasonality and Quarterly Results

Our quarterly results of operations have fluctuated, and are expected to continue to fluctuate in the future, primarily as a result of seasonal variances and the timing of sales and costs associated with opening new stores. Non-capital expenditures, such as advertising and payroll, incurred prior to the opening of a new store are charged to expense as incurred. Therefore, our results of operations may be adversely affected in any quarter in which we incur pre-opening expenses related to the opening of new stores.

 

We have three distinct peak selling periods: Easter, back-to-school and Christmas. To prepare for our peak shopping seasons, we must order and keep in stock significantly more merchandise than we would carry during other parts of the year. Any unanticipated decrease in demand for our products during these peak shopping seasons could require us to sell excess inventory at a substantial markdown, which could reduce our net sales and gross margins and negatively affect our profitability. Our operating results depend significantly upon the sales generated during these periods.

 

 

 

ITEM  3.  QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

We are exposed to market risk in that the interest payable under our credit facility is based on variable interest rates and therefore is affected by changes in market rates. We do not use interest rate derivative instruments to manage exposure to changes in market interest rates. We had no borrowings under our credit facility during the first nine months of fiscal 2015 or fiscal 2014.

 

ITEM 4.  CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded, based on their evaluation as of October 31, 2015, that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports filed or submitted by us under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC's rules and forms, and include controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in such reports is accumulated and communicated to our management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

There has been no significant change in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended October 31, 2015 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

SHOE CARNIVAL, INC.
PART II - OTHER INFORMATION

ITEM 1A.   RISK FACTORS

 

You should carefully consider the risks and uncertainties we describe both in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and in the "Risk Factors" section of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 31, 2015 before deciding to invest in, or retain, shares of our common stock. If any of these risks or uncertainties actually occur, we may not be able to conduct our business as currently planned and our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows could be materially and adversely affected. There have been no material changes to the risk factors set forth in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 31, 2015.

 

ITEM 2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

												Total Number				Approximate
												Of Shares				Dollar Value
												Purchased				of Shares
												as Part				that May Yet
				Total Number				Average				of Publicly				Be Purchased
				of Shares				Price Paid				Announced				Under
Period				Purchased				per Share				Programs(1)				Programs
August 2, 2015 to August 29, 2015					0			$	0.00				0			$	25,000,000
August 30, 2015 to October 3, 2015					269,071			$	24.11				269,071			$	18,513,000
October 4, 2015 to October 31, 2015					160,370			$	18.45				160,370			$	14,819,000
					429,441								429,441

 

(1)

On December 11, 2014, our Board of Directors authorized a $25 million share repurchase program, effective January 1, 2015, which is to terminate upon the earlier of the repurchase of the maximum amount or December 31, 2015. From November 1, 2015 through December 7, 2015, we repurchased approximately 75,000 shares pursuant to our share repurchase program at a cost of $1.7 million. As a result, as of December 7, 2015, the amount that remained available under this program was approximately $13.1 million.

 

ITEM 6.   EXHIBITS

			Incorporated by Reference To
Exhibit No.		Description	Form	Exhibit	Filing Date	Filed Herewith
3-A		Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation of Registrant	8-K	3-A	06/14/2013
3-B		By-laws of Registrant, as amended to date	8-K	3-B	06/14/2013

 

EXHIBITS - Continued
Exhibit No.			Incorporated by Reference To
		Description	Form	Exhibit	Filing Date	Filed Herewith
31.1		Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002				X
31.2		Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002				X
32.1		Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002				X
32.2		Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002				X
101		The following materials from Shoe Carnival, Inc.'s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended October 31, 2015, formatted in XBRL (Extensible Business Reporting Language): (1) Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets, (2) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income, (3) Condensed Consolidated Statement of Shareholders' Equity, (4) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, and (5) Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.				X

 

SHOE CARNIVAL, INC.
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.

 

 

 

Date:  December 8, 2015

SHOE CARNIVAL, INC. (Registrant)

 

 

By:   /s/ W. Kerry Jackson W. Kerry Jackson Senior Executive Vice President Chief Operating and Financial Officer and Treasurer (Duly Authorized Officer and Principal Financial Officer)

 

 

Exhibit 31.1

Exhibit 31.1

 

SHOE CARNIVAL, INC.
CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO RULE 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) OF THE SECURITIES
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934, AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO SECTION 302 OF THE
SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

I, Clifton E. Sifford, certify that:

1.	I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of Shoe Carnival, Inc.;
2.	Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;
3.	Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;
4.	The registrant's other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:
	(a)	Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;
	(b)	Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;
	(c)	Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and
	(d)	Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant's fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control over financial reporting; and
5.	The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):
	(a)	All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and
	(b)	Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.

 

Date:  December 8, 2015

By:  /s/ Clifton E. Sifford Clifton E. Sifford President and Chief Executive Officer

 

Exhibit 31.2

 

SHOE CARNIVAL, INC.
CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO RULE 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) OF THE SECURITIES
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934, AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO SECTION 302 OF THE
SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

I, W. Kerry Jackson, certify that:

1.	I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of Shoe Carnival, Inc.;
2.	Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;
3.	Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;
4.	The registrant's other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:
	(a)	Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;
	(b)	Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;
	(c)	Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and
	(d)	Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant's fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control over financial reporting; and
5.	The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):
	(a)	All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and
	(b)	Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.

 

Date:  December 8, 2015

By:  /s/ W. Kerry Jackson W. Kerry Jackson Senior Executive Vice President Chief Operating and Financial Officer and Treasurer

Exhibit 32.1

 

CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO 18 U.S.C.
SECTION 1350,
AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO SECTION
906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

In connection with the Quarterly Report of Shoe Carnival, Inc. (the "Company") on Form 10-Q for the period ending October 31, 2015, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the "Report"), I, Clifton E. Sifford, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:

 

1.	The Report fully complies with the requirements of section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and
2.	The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.

 

 

Date:  December 8, 2015

By:  /s/ Clifton E. Sifford Clifton E. Sifford President and Chief Executive Officer

 

 

 

 

Exhibit 32.2

 

CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO 18 U.S.C.
SECTION 1350,
AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO SECTION
906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

In connection with the Quarterly Report of Shoe Carnival, Inc. (the "Company") on Form 10-Q for the period ending October 31, 2015, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the "Report"), I W. Kerry Jackson, Senior Executive Vice President, Chief Operating and Financial Officer and Treasurer of the Company, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:

 

1.	The Report fully complies with the requirements of section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and
2.	The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.

 

 

Date:  December 8, 2015

By:  /s/ W. Kerry Jackson W. Kerry Jackson Senior Executive Vice President Chief Operating and Financial Officer and Treasurer

 

 

 

 

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