Francesca's was a big holiday shopping destination

Francesca’s says its fourth quarter financial results show that the retailer's growth initiatives are bearing fruit, as the company posted a big jump in same-store sales over the holidays.

For the fourth quarter and fiscal year ended Jan. 30, same-store sales at Francesca's increased 11%. Net sales increased 25% to $134.6 million from $107.6 million in the prior year quarter.Net income totaled $14.7 million, or 35 cents diluted earnings per share, compared to $6.0 million, or 14 centsdiluted earnings per share, in the comparable prior year period.

“Our fourth quarter results exceeded our expectations across key metrics, illustrating that our near term initiatives are working well," said Michael W. Barnes, chairman, president, and CEO. "We are particularly pleased with the sequential improvement in our apparel sales, which grew 35% during the fourth quarter, as well as with the performance in our non-apparel sales, which increased 19%. As we look ahead to fiscal 2016, we remain confident that we are well-positioned to deliver healthy sales and earnings growth for the year. Overall, I continue to believe that the Francesca’s brand has enormous untapped potential and we remain focused on maximizing this opportunity by enhancing our brand awareness and driving our top-line through the successful execution of our Vision 2020 plan. We are confident that the steps we are taking will drive consistent, long-term, profitable growth for Francesca’s. I would like to take this opportunity to thank and congratulate each of our associates for their hard work in delivering an outstanding performance during fiscal 2015.”

The retailer said it opened three boutiques and closed six underperforming boutiques during the quarter bringing its total boutique count to 616 as of Jan. 30.

Francesca's also announced that it has named a new CFO; Kelly M. Dilts, who will assume her position with the company in April.Dilts currently serves as the senior VP of finance and investor relations at Tailored Brands, Inc., (formerly Men’s Wearhouse, Inc.).

“As a key member of Francesca's executive management team, Kelly will be bringing over 20 years of specialty retail industry specific finance and accounting experience," Barnes said. "Additionally, her background in corporate infrastructure development will be significant in supporting our growth and Vision 2020 Long Term Strategic Plan. I am very excited about welcoming Kelly to Francesca’s and look forward to partnering with her to continue driving consistent, long-term, profitable growth for our company.”