Columbia Sportswear returns to growth in fourth quarter

a skier wears outfits from Columbia Sportswear
Columbia Sportswear reported uplifts in both its top and bottom lines in the fourth quarter. (Source: Columbia Sportswear/Facebook)

Columbia Sportswear reported uplifts in both its top and bottom lines in the fourth quarter, with management expecting the momentum to continue into the new fiscal year.

The company’s net sales for the quarter ended December 31 rose 3 per cent to $1.096 billion. It recorded sales declines in all of the prior three quarters.

The retailer posted operating income of $137.3 million, an increase of 21 per cent, and exited the quarter with $815.5 million of cash.

“I’m encouraged that sales returned to growth in the fourth quarter, and we expect continued growth in 2025 across most brands and regions,” said chairman, president and CEO Tim Boyle.

“During the year, we made substantial progress on our inventory reduction efforts, achieved cost savings through our Profit Improvement Program, and returned meaningful cash to shareholders through share buybacks and dividends,” he added.

For the full FY24, Columbia Sportswear saw a 3 per cent drop in net sales and a 13 per cent decrease in operating income.

The company expects its net sales to grow 1-3 per cent in FY25.

You have 7 articles remaining. Unlock 15 free articles a month, it’s free.