Earnings flying high at American Eagle

PITTSBURGH —American Eagle Outfitters reported adjusted fiscal year 2012 earnings for the 53 weeks ended February 2, 2013 of $1.39 per share, a 43% increase from fiscal year 2011 adjusted earnings of 97 cents per share for the 52 weeks ended January 28, 2012.

Robert Hanson, chief executive officer stated, “I’m extremely pleased with our progress in 2012 as the team delivered on our near-term priorities and exceeded our targeted financial metrics. In a competitive and volatile consumer environment, we drove a strong top line on leaner inventories, reduced markdowns and achieved cost leverage. We remain focused on our strategic plan aimed at fortifying our brands and processes and growing our business across North America. Concurrently, we are laying the ground work for transformational global expansion, while continuing to drive strong returns to our shareholders.”

For the fourth quarter the company reported adjusted earnings of 55 cents per share, a 41% increase compared with adjusted EPS of 39 cents for the same period last year.

Total net revenue for the 53 weeks increased 11% to a record $3.48 billion from $3.12 billion for the 52 week period last year. Consolidated comparable sales for the 53 weeks increased 9% over the comparable 53 week period last year. This follows a 4% increase last year.

Total net revenue for the 14 weeks increased 9% to a record $1.12 billion from $1.03 billion for the 13 week period last year. Consolidated comparable sales for the 14 weeks increased 4% over the comparable 14 week period last year. This follows an 11% increase last year.