Urban Outfitters Tops Wall Street’s Targets In Q1

Urban Outfitters Inc. announced a record net income of $54 million, or 54 cents a share, on sales of $927 million for the first quarter ended April 30. Wall Street on average was looking for 16 cents a share on sales of $898 million.

REI Launches Content And Entertainment Arm

REI announced the launch of Co-op Studios, the retailer’s in-house content arm. Across films, podcasts and editorial programs, the studio develops and produces content that explores the power of time spent outside, while complementing the brand’s broader commitments.

Designer Brands Returns To Profitability

Designer Brands Inc., the parent of DSW, returned to profitability for the first time since the onset of COVID-19. Sales improved 45.6 percent against pandemic-depressed year-ago levels and the gross margin rate improved over the rate from the first quarter of 2019. Athleisure comparable sales in the U.S. Retail segment, or DSW, were up 92 percent in the first quarter year-over-year.

Father’s Day Spending To Hit $20.1 Billion, According To NRF

U.S. consumers are expected to spend more than $20.1 billion on gifts and other items for Father’s Day this year, a record high, according to the National Retail Federation’s (NRF) annual survey conducted by Prosper Insight & Analytics. Total spending for the holiday will surpass last year’s record figure of $17 billion.

Stifel Launches Sustainable Lifestyle Brand Index

A new Stifel survey shows consumers believe it’s important for companies to act sustainably and most are willing to pay a premium for brands that demonstrate ethical business practices, environmental care, and social responsibility. Based on this insight, Stifel is also introducing its Sustainable Lifestyle Brands Index, which ranks brands based on consumer perception of corporate sustainability practices.

Hibbett Appoints Board Member

Hibbett Sports Inc. announced the appointment of Linda Hubbard to the company’s Board of Directors. She is president and chief operating officer of Carhartt.

Dick’s SG Lifts FY Outlook On Blowout First Quarter

Dick’s Sporting Goods raised its full-year guidance after reporting sales and earnings for the first quarter ended May 1 came in well ahead of Wall Street’s consensus targets. Consolidated same-store sales for 2021 are now projected to expand in the range of 8.0 percent to 11.0 percent.