Catalog sales contribute to Body Central Q1 net loss

Jacksonville, Fla. – Body Central swung to a net loss of $9.3 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2014 from net income of $2.7 million a year earlier. Net revenues decreased 26.6% to $59.7 million, compared to $81.4 million for the first quarter of 2013, and same-store sales fell 26.8%.



Body Central attributed part of the net loss to the unprofitability of its catalog business, which has become less important to customers as the company’s direct sales business transitions to e-commerce. The retailer will evaluate the merits of its catalog business for the remainder of the fiscal year. Body Central also cited sales challenges in tops and dresses.



“We continue to monitor inventory levels closely while refining assortments and messaging that can stimulate traffic and sales,” said Brian Woolf, CEO Body Central. “We remain focused that taking these steps will improve the customer experience in both our stores and e-commerce businesses, and ultimately improve our financial performance."