The Sportsman's Guide, Inc. expects to report total sales of $71 to $72 million and earnings per share of $0.70 to $0.72 for its fourth quarter ended December 31, 2003. This would compare to fourth quarter 2002 results of $66.3 million in sales and earnings of $0.53 per share. Earnings at that anticipated level will be above the consensus First Call® estimate, which is $0.63 per share.
Internet-related sales as a percentage of total sales for the quarter were approximately 36 percent, compared to just under 30 percent for the same period one year ago. For the year, the Company expects sales in the range of $194 to $195 million and earnings per share of $1.14 to $1.16. Consensus First Call® estimates were for sales of $194.5 million and for earnings of $1.07 per share.
Gregory R. Binkley, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, stated, “There is no question that 2003 looks to be the most successful year in our 27 year history. In addition to the anticipated record sales and earnings, we expect to end the year with no bank debt, a cash balance in excess of $31 million and inventory levels some 8% lower than last year.”
