Levi Strauss Non-GAAP EPS of $0.48 beats by $0.12, revenue of $1.61B misses by $10M

Levi Strauss has raised its annual profit outlook, thanks to tariff refunds and a bet on robust holiday sales for its premium denim. The company's shares dropped 1.3% after trading up briefly following the earnings release. Levi Strauss received $79 million in refunds during the third quarter for tariffs paid under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act.

It plans to repurpose about $60 million this year on promotions. Comparable sales for its direct-to-consumer business remained flat in the quarter, falling short of expectations as US shoppers faced higher inflation. However, the women's line, featuring baggy jeans and expanded product lines beyond denim, proved to be a strong performer.

CEO Michelle Gass stated the US market remains challenging due to elevated fuel prices. Levi Strauss raised its forecast for annual organic revenue growth to 6%, up from the previous range of 5.5% to 6%. Adjusted earnings for the full year were raised to a forecast of $1.54 to $1.56 per share, from the prior range of $1.46 to $1.52.

The company's net revenue for the quarter ending August 30 grew 4% to $1.61 billion, closely matching estimates of $1.62 billion.