Kohl’s (KSS) Raised Profit Guidance as Comparable Sales Fell Again. How Much is From Tariff Refunds?

Kohl's Corporation (NYSE:KSS) has raised its profit guidance for the fiscal second quarter. However, the improvement is largely attributed to $150 million in tariff refunds received during the period. These refunds have not only reduced merchandise costs and boosted gross profit but have also provided financial flexibility for investments in pricing, inventory, marketing and staffing.

The refunds contributed to a 98% increase in the midpoint of the company's adjusted diluted EPS forecast, from $1.80-$2.40 to the previously projected $1.00-$1.60. While gross margins expanded by 305 basis points year over year, nearly 98% of this growth was due to the tariff benefit. Despite this, comparable sales remain negative, with a 0.9% decline and negative comparable sales for 18 consecutive quarters.

The company's CEO, Michael Bender, noted that low- and middle-income customers are facing financial pressures, which could limit discretionary spending and potentially impact the effectiveness of planned pricing investments.