J Jill has posted lower sales and profit for the first quarter and has withdrawn its full-year guidance amid macroeconomic uncertainty.

The womenswear retailer saw net sales decrease 4.9 per cent to $153.6 million in the quarter ended May 3.

Total company comparable sales, which also include direct-to-consumer sales, dropped 5.7 per cent.

Gross margin fell from 72.9 per cent last year to 71.8 per cent. Operating income slid 32 per cent to $19.1 million and net income declined 30 per cent to $11.7 million.

The company closed three stores during the period. Store count at the end of the quarter was 249, compared to 244 a year earlier.

J Jill has withdrawn its prior guidance for FY25, citing increased uncertainty regarding the macroeconomic environment, as well as the recent leadership transition.

The company is also temporarily suspending its practice of providing forward guidance.

“The fundamentals of this business are solid with a lean operating model, strengthening omnichannel capabilities, and a team committed to excellence,” said Mary Ellen Coyne, who became CEO at the beginning of last month.

“This foundation will serve us well as we navigate a challenging macro environment while establishing our plans for the future,” she added.