PriceSmart Reports Strong Sales Growth in First Quarter 2025

PriceSmart Announces First Quarter Fiscal 2025 Results

PriceSmart, Inc. (NASDAQ: PSMT), the leader in membership shopping warehouses in Latin America and the Caribbean, has showcased robust growth in its latest financial report. The company's net merchandise sales have surged, and both earnings and operating income demonstrate a positive trend.

Financial Overview of the First Quarter

For the fiscal first quarter ending on November 30, 2024, PriceSmart reported total revenues that increased by 7.8% year-over-year, reaching approximately $1.26 billion. This is a notable rise from $1.17 billion in the preceding year. Furthermore, net merchandise sales also grew by an impressive 7.8%, amounting to $1.22 billion compared to $1.14 billion in the same quarter last year.

Analyzing on a constant currency basis, net merchandise sales experienced an 8.2% increase despite the adverse impact of foreign exchange fluctuations that negatively affected sales by $4.7 million, or about 0.4%. PriceSmart's ability to navigate through these currency challenges reflects its solid operational strategy.

Performance Metrics

Looking into the specifics, comparable net merchandise sales from the 52 clubs open longer than 13.5 months increased by 5.7% for the 13-week period ending December 1, 2024. Excluding foreign currency effects, this figure climbs to a 6.1% increase. This consistent growth underscores PriceSmart's strength in driving sales across its established locations, with a total of 54 clubs operating as of the report date—up from 53 clubs the previous year.

Profitability metrics are equally noteworthy. Operating income for the first quarter reached $58.3 million, a slight increase from $58.2 million the previous year. However, net income saw a minor decrease of 1.6%, amounting to $37.4 million or $1.21 per diluted share, down from $38 million or $1.24 per diluted share from the first quarter of fiscal 2024.

Positive Outlook Ahead

PriceSmart's adjusted EBITDA also indicated positive momentum, reported at $79.1 million compared to $77.8 million a year prior. This suggests that the company is effectively managing its costs while also driving revenue growth.

The management team is optimistic, stating that they remain focused on expanding their footprint in the region and enhancing membership value to drive further growth. They are also planning new openings, with set expectations to launch additional warehouse clubs in Costa Rica and Guatemala in the coming months.

Conference Call Details

PriceSmart's management will hold a conference call to discuss these financial results. Stakeholders interested in participating can join the call at 12:00 p.m. Eastern time, with options to dial in for domestic and international listeners. A digital replay will be available shortly after the call concludes.

About PriceSmart

Based in San Diego, PriceSmart operates warehouse clubs across Latin America and the Caribbean, providing a wide variety of quality goods at competitive prices. With 54 clubs currently operational, the company remains focused on delivering value and convenience to its members.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key financial results for PriceSmart's first quarter of fiscal 2025?

PriceSmart reported total revenues of $1.26 billion, with net merchandise sales rising by 7.8% to $1.22 billion.

How did comparable net merchandise sales perform?

Comparable net merchandise sales increased by 5.7% for the 13-week period ending December 1, 2024.

What was the earnings per share for PriceSmart in this quarter?

Net income per diluted share was reported at $1.21, a slight decrease from $1.24 in the prior year.

What is PriceSmart's plan for future expansion?

The company plans to open new warehouse clubs in Costa Rica and Guatemala, with openings expected in spring and summer 2025.

How does PriceSmart manage its currency exchange risks?

The company monitors foreign exchange rates closely, accounting for the impacts in their financial reports, and has strategies in place to mitigate adverse effects.

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