Financials

Movado Lowers Guidance as Q2 Sales Slip

FinancialsSep 06, 2024

Movado Lowers Guidance as Q2 Sales Slip

CEO Efraim Grinberg pointed to a challenging consumer spending environment, particularly in the watch category.

Movado Connect 2.0 watches
A set of Movado Connect 2.0 watches. The company reported declining sales in its recent second quarter results.
Paramus, N.J.—Movado Group posted declining sales in its second-quarter results, lowering its fiscal guidance for the year ahead as consumer spending on watches remains “difficult.”

“While increased marketing investment coupled with our initiatives to enhance retail performance drove improvement in our sales trend from the first quarter, second quarter sales and earnings were below our expectations due to the challenging consumer spending environment compounded by increased expenses to support future growth,” CEO Efraim Grinberg said.

The company previously announced its plan to increase marketing spend to $25 million, which ramped up in the second quarter.  

It recently launched a new Movado campaign called “When I Move You Move,” a nod to the lyrics in Ludacris’ song “Stand Up,” which is featured in the campaign. 

The retailer is hoping the new campaign, featuring famous faces like Ludacris, Julianne Moore, Jessica Alba, Tyrese Haliburton, and Christian McCaffrey, will bolster sales. 

In the second quarter ending July 31, net sales fell about 1 percent year-over-year (less than 1 percent on a constant dollar basis) to $159.3 million. 

Net sales for the first half were down 3 percent to $296 million. 

Movado attributed the decrease to mixed sales at brick-and-mortar stores owned by wholesale customers, as well as those operated by Movado, partially offset by an increase in U.S. online retail. 

“While we are excited by the initiatives that we have put in place, the consumer spending environment in the watch category continues to be difficult in many markets around the world and we believe this will have an impact on our second half results,” said Grinberg. 

On an earnings call Thursday morning, Grinberg noted that its retail partners, especially in the U.S. and Europe, placed orders “cautiously.” 

There were some bright spots in the quarter, said Grinberg, which the retailer plans to capitalize on in the second half of the year. 

Movado brand sales were up 1 percent, noting significant growth in the direct-to-consumer channel as Movado.com sales rose 21 percent. The rise was partially offset by a 6 percent decline in its wholesale channel. 

Grinberg noted the success of its “Movado Bold Quest” collection, which features a design inspired by a vintage Movado watch from the 1970’s.  

“Opening at $595, Bold Quest fills more accessible price points that we had previously vacated,” he said. 

As for its jewelry offerings, Grinberg noted on the call that “jewelry is actually outperforming watches in our fashion brands and seems to be doing very well.”  

“That continues to represent a big opportunity for the company as we grow that business, [which is] particularly strong in markets like Europe and Mexico.” 

The Movado brand will refresh its jewelry assortment, beginning early next year, he said. 

 Related stories will be right here … 

Looking to the U.S., quarterly sales were down less than 1 percent year-over-year while international sales fell 1 percent (less than 1 percent on a constant dollar basis). 

First-half net sales in the U.S. and internationally were down 3 percent year-over-year. 

Second-quarter gross profit was $86.4 million, or 54 percent of net sales, compared with $89.3 million, or 56 percent of net sales, in the previous second quarter. 

The decrease in gross margin percentage in Q2 was attributed to an “unfavorable” change in channel and product mix. 

First-half gross profit was $161.9 million, or 55 percent of net sales, compared with $171.3 million, or 56 percent of net sales, in the previous first half. 

The first-half decrease in gross margin percentage was attributed to an “unfavorable” change in channel and product mix as well as decreased leverage of higher fixed costs on lower sales, partially offset by reduced shipping costs. 

Net income in Q2 was $3.7 million, down 54 percent compared to net income of $8 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2024. 

First-half net income was $6.6 million, down 62 percent compared to net income of $17.2 million in the first six months of last year. 

Movado lowered its guidance for the year ahead, citing a challenging environment. 

It now expects fiscal 2025 net sales to be between $665 million and $675 million, down from its prior guidance of $700 million and $710 million. 

Second-half sales are expected to be flat to slightly positive year-over-year. 

Gross profit is expected to be 54 percent of net sales, down from its previous expectation of 55 percent. 

Operating income is forecast to be in a range of $23 million to $26 million, as compared to its previous expectation of $32 million to $35 million. 

“As we begin to plan for next fiscal year, we are committed to reducing our operating expenses to improve profitability. At the same time, we expect the combination of our upcoming marketing initiatives, along with compelling innovation, to drive excitement for our brands and business,” said Grinberg. 

The Latest

Selena Gomez, Benny Blanco, Engagement Ring
TrendsDec 13, 2024
Selena Gomez Said ‘Forever Begins Now’ to Marquise Diamond Engagement Ring

Estimates on the size and value of the solitaire diamond, which is mounted on a diamond pavé-set yellow gold band, vary.

Martin Katz tanzanite drop earrings
TrendsDec 13, 2024
Piece of the Week: Martin Katz’s Tanzanite Drops

These half-moon tanzanite earrings totaling 25 carats are part of a special trunk show taking place this weekend in Dallas.

My Next Question webinar graphic
Recorded WebinarsDec 13, 2024
Watch: The Highs and Lows of 2024

The National Jeweler editors recap the top news, the best jewels, and their favorite stories of the year.

ja nj btyb.jpg
Brought to you by
Advocacy and Excellence: How Jewelers of America Is Committed to Elevating Our Industry

For over a century, Jewelers of America has been the voice of the industry and valuable resource to jewelers across the country.

Tom Brady’s Rolex Daytona Paul Newman “John Player Special”
AuctionsDec 12, 2024
Tom Brady’s Watches Top $4M at Sotheby’s Auction

The highest-grossing lot of the sale was the retired QB’s Rolex Paul Newman Daytona “John Player Special.”

Weekly QuizDec 12, 2024
This Week’s Quiz
Test your jewelry news knowledge by answering these questions.
Take the Quiz
Grizzly emerald mining
SourcingDec 12, 2024
Grizzly Emerald Auction Garners $22.4M

Recent expansion initiatives at the Zambian emerald mine have shown strong production numbers, said Grizzly founder Abdoulaye Ndiaye.

Carrie Forman
MajorsDec 12, 2024
Mark Henry Appoints New Director of Sales

Carrie Forman joins the brand to guide it into the next phase of growth with major and independent retailers in the U.S. and abroad.

undefined.png
Brought to you by
Protecting Your Sparkle: Why Screening Has Become Essential

While no reputable jeweler would knowingly sell lab-grown stones as natural, it's a growing possibility.

Models wearing jewelry by 2024 Shining Light Award winners
SourcingDec 12, 2024
De Beers Announces 2024 ‘Shining Light’ Award Winners

The competition awarded 12 designers, each from a country where De Beers recovers diamonds, with business support and tuition assistance.

Woman wearing a snake ring and bracelet
CollectionsDec 12, 2024
The Jared Atelier x Vera Wang Collection Emphasizes Elegance

The high jewelry collection features 14 one-of-a-kind pieces, with serpent and ribbon motifs winding their way through the collection.

Stock image of a gavel
CrimeDec 11, 2024
Former Tiffany & Co. Factory Supervisor Sentenced for Stealing Precious Metals

A federal judge gave Benjamin Preacher 59 days in jail, plus 10 months of home confinement and two years of supervised release.

Grader looking into microscope at IGI lab
GradingDec 11, 2024
IGI Set to Go Public Next Week

In a CNBC interview, CEO Tehmasp Printer discussed the IPO in India and what declining lab-grown diamond prices mean for the company.

Heuer Monaco Ref. 1133B
AuctionsDec 11, 2024
Sotheby’s Important Watches Sale Fetches $16.6M

The offering included vintage Rolexes, timepieces worn in “Titanic,” Steve McQueen's watch, and a special Citizen pocket watch.

Stephanie Gottlieb, Anna Harman, Stephanie Gottlieb x Studs Collection
CollectionsDec 11, 2024
Stephanie Gottlieb Brings Natural Diamonds to Studs

The 13-piece “Stephanie Gottlieb x Studs” collection is the piercing studio’s first fine jewelry offering to feature the gemstone.

Exterior of Sauer’s Madison Avenue Store
IndependentsDec 10, 2024
Sauer Opens First U.S. Store

The Brazilian jewelry brand made a home on New York City’s Madison Avenue with exclusive pieces only available at the location.

Person at keyboard holding credit card
SurveysDec 10, 2024
Jewelry Among Top Sellers on Cyber Monday, Says Adobe

An Adobe Analytics report explored the rise in mobile shopping, the popularity of Buy Now Pay Later options, and peak shopping hours.

American Gem Trade Association and University of Arizona
Events & AwardsDec 10, 2024
AGTA Launches Scholarship for University of Arizona Geosciences Students

The inaugural Dick Greenwood Memorial Scholarship in Gems Science will cover the fall 2025 and spring 2026 semesters.

JA New York Show Entrance
Events & AwardsDec 10, 2024
JA New York To Debut 2 New Pavilions at Spring 2025 Show

A Piazza Italia pavilion will feature Italian designers and manufacturers while “MJSA Showcase” brings over a piece of the MJSA Expo.

Ray Griffiths and Ray Griffiths: The Works
CollectionsDec 09, 2024
Ray Griffiths’ First Coffee Table Book Spans 5 Decades of Design

“Ray Griffiths: The Works” tells the story of the master jeweler’s career, which started with an apprenticeship in Australia at age 15.

Grant Mobley and Thomas Davis
MajorsDec 09, 2024
Thomas Davis, Grant Mobley Join WJA Foundation Board

Davis is the director of business development at Select Jewelry Inc., and Mobley is the jewelry and watch editor at the Natural Diamond Council.

Treiber & Straub store Brookfield, Wisconsin
IndependentsDec 06, 2024
After 44 Years in Business, This Wisconsin Independent Is Closing

Mike Straub and John Treiber opened Treiber & Straub in 1980 with the goal of bringing Milwaukeeans the best jewelry brands.

Pantone Color of the Year Mocha Mousse
TrendsDec 06, 2024
Pantone’s Color of the Year Is a Delicious Mousse

The color for 2025, “Mocha Mousse,” embodies thoughtful indulgences and everyday pleasures.

Cocoerow Fine Jewelry’s Kokoro Ant Pendant
CollectionsDec 06, 2024
Piece of the Week: Cocoerow Fine Jewelry’s ‘Kokoro’ Pendant

The Yoruba word for ant, “Kokoro” embodies the strength of womanhood in ant society while highlighting responsible sourcing.

Gold rings
FinancialsDec 05, 2024
Signet Jewelers’ Q3 Sales Slide Amid Slow Engagement Ring Sales, Tech Issues

The jewelry retailer addressed the lab-grown diamond “disruption,” the price of gold, and its holiday weekend performance.

Hand holding shopping bags
SurveysDec 05, 2024
Consumer Confidence Rises Again in November

A more positive view of the current labor market boosted the Conference Board’s index last month.

Michael S. Krzemnicki
Events & AwardsDec 05, 2024
Michael S. Krzemnicki to Receive 2024 Bonanno Award

The director of the Swiss Gemmological Institute (SSEF) will be honored for his impact on gemology and dedication to advancing the science.

1.png
Supplier BulletinDec 05, 2024
Join Us For Color's Premier Show: 2025 AGTA GemFair Tucson

Sponsored by 2025 AGTA GemFair Tucson

×

This site uses cookies to give you the best online experience. By continuing to use & browse this site, we assume you agree to our Privacy Policy