Genesco Inc. reports strong Q4, with ‘exceptional’ performance at Journeys
The parent company of Journeys, Johnston & Murphy and Schuh ended its fiscal year on an upbeat note, notching its sixth consecutive quarter of positive comparable sales growth.
Genesco reported better-than-expected fourth-quarter earnings and sales, driven by its teen-oriented banner, Journeys.
“Journeys once again led the way with double-digit comp growth on top of double digits last year, fueled by an exceptional holiday performance,” stated Mimi E. Vaughn, board chair, president and CEO, Genesco.
Genesco’s net income rose to $47.6 million, or $4.44 per diluted share, for the quarter ended Jan.31, from $34.4 million, or $3.13 per diluted share, in the year-ago period. Earnings, adjusted for one-time gains and costs, were $3.74 per share. Analysts had expected earnings per share of $3.73.
Net sales rose 7% to $799.9 million, topping estimates of $777.75 million. Total comparable sales increased 9%, led by a 12% increase at the Journeys Group. Comp sales increased 2% at Johnston & Murphy, and rose 3% at Schuh.
“We are very pleased to close out fiscal 2026 with another quarter of strong performance, highlighted by our sixth consecutive quarter of positive comparable sales growth, demonstrating the sustainability of our momentum, combined with a meaningful increase in profitability,” said Vaughn. “Our strategic initiatives around product elevation and customer experience continue to resonate with teens, driving market share gains and positioning Journeys as the clear destination for style-led footwear.”
For the fiscal year 2026, net sales rose 5% to $2.4 billion, Net earnings for the year were $13.3 million, compared to a net loss of $18.9 million in the prior year.
Looking ahead, the company said it expects another year of comparable sales growth in its current fiscal year, driven by its strategic growth plan, ongoing strength at Journeys and improved acceleration at Johnston & Murphy as its product and marketing strategies gain more traction.
“These results will be partially offset by Schuh as we reset the promotional posture and apply the learnings from Journeys' successful transformation,” Vaughn said.
Genesco ended the quarter with 1,236 stores (including 965 Journeys locations), down from 1,278 stores at the end of the prior year.
