Francesca's Q1 Profit Decreases; Comps. Down 2%; Maintains FY15 Outlook

(RTTNews) - Francesca's Holdings Corp. (FRAN) reported that its first-quarter net income decreased to $7.2 million or $0.17 per share from $8.6 million or $0.20 per share, last year.

On average, 15 analysts polled by Thomson Reuters expected the company to report profit per share of $0.18 for the quarter. Analysts' estimates typically exclude special items.

Net sales increased 11% to $95.0 million from $85.4 million in the prior year period. The company noted that this increase was driven by 76 new boutiques opened since the prior year quarter. Comparable sales decreased 2% due to lower boutique transaction count. Analysts expected revenue of $95.23 million for the quarter.

For the second quarter, the company expects net sales to be in the range of $104.0 million to $107.0 million; assuming a mid to low single digit decrease in comparable sales. Earnings per share are expected to be in the range of $0.20 to $0.23. Analysts expect the company to report second-quarter earnings per share of $0.27 on revenue of $109.75 million.

For the full year ending January 30, 2016, Francesca's Holdings maintained previous financial guidance. The company expects net sales to be in the range of $412.0 million and $424.0 million; assuming a flat to low single digit decrease in comparable sales. Earnings per share are expected to be in the range of $0.81 to $0.90. Analysts expect the company to report fiscal year earnings per share of $0.89 on revenue of $427.41 million.