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Macy's (M) Rides on Comprehensive Revitalization Strategy

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Macy's, Inc. (M - Free Report) is embarking on a comprehensive revitalization strategy, focusing on operational modernization, technological integration and enhanced customer engagement. Key initiatives, such as the "First 50 Pilot" program and the "A Bold New Chapter" strategy, are designed to align the company with evolving market dynamics and drive sustainable growth.

By prioritizing efficiency, profitability and innovation, Macy's aims to solidify its leadership in the retail sector and deliver long-term shareholder value. This Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) company has outpaced the industry over the past three months. In the said period, shares of the company have gained 0.7% against the industry’s 3.9% decline.

The positive sentiment surrounding Macy's is reflected in the upward revisions of the Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings per share. Over the past 30 days, analysts have increased earnings estimates for the current fiscal year by 25 cents. The consensus estimate is pegged at $2.79 per share. The estimate for the next fiscal year has also been raised by 23 cents to $2.80 per share.

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The "First 50 Pilot" Initiative and Omnichannel Expansion

The "First 50 Pilot" initiative involves strategically selecting 50 store locations to pilot new retail strategies, including product introductions and visual merchandising enhancements. These stores, chosen for their geographic diversity, provide Macy's with valuable insights into the effectiveness of various approaches across different markets. Early results are promising, with 3.4% growth in comparable sales and increased customer satisfaction in the first quarter of fiscal 2024, suggesting potential for broader implementation.

Macy's is also enhancing its omnichannel presence by revamping its digital platforms and marketing strategies. By integrating online and in-store experiences and focusing on digital marketing, the company aims to improve the customer journey across all touchpoints. These efforts are designed to boost customer loyalty and conversion rates, reinforcing M's position in the competitive retail landscape. Additionally, the introduction of a digital marketplace featuring third-party sellers supports this strategy, catering to changing consumer behaviors and maintaining resilience in consumer spending.

"A Bold New Chapter" Strategy

Fiscal 2024 marks the launch of Macy's "A Bold New Chapter" strategy, aimed at accelerating financial improvement through modernization and technological integration. Key actions include closing 150 underperforming stores and enhancing 350 others, optimizing Macy's real estate portfolio to boost profitability.

By adopting cutting-edge technologies, including artificial intelligence, M plans to streamline its supply chain and optimize inventory management. The focus on efficiency and responsiveness is expected to provide a strong foundation for sustainable growth in the competitive retail environment.

Strategic Asset Monetization

The company’s strategic asset monetization plan aims to generate significant capital through the closure of stores and distribution centers, targeting gains between $250 million and $365 million from fiscal 2024 to 2026. This plan underscores Macy's commitment to enhancing shareholder value and ensuring long-term sustainability and growth. The company has already raised more than $2.4 billion from real estate monetization between fiscal 2015 and 2023, securing financial stability and growth prospects.

Looking Ahead

Macy's ambitious targets for 2025 and beyond include annual low-single-digit growth in comparable sales and mid-single-digit growth in adjusted EBITDA. The company also aims to return to pre-pandemic levels of annual free cash flow, reflecting confidence in robust cash earnings and financial flexibility. By streamlining operations, optimizing its real estate portfolio and leveraging AI for efficiency, M is well-positioned to thrive in an evolving market environment.

Three Other Solid Picks

Some other top-ranked stocks in the retail space are The Gap, Inc. (GPS - Free Report) , Abercrombie & Fitch Co. (ANF - Free Report) and Canada Goose (GOOS - Free Report) .

Gap is a premier international specialty retailer offering a diverse range of clothing, accessories and personal care products. It currently sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Gap’s fiscal 2024 earnings and sales indicates growth of 21.7% and 0.2%, respectively, from the fiscal 2023 reported figures. GPS has a trailing four-quarter average earnings surprise of 202.7%.

Abercrombie is a specialty retailer of premium, high-quality casual apparel. It flaunts a Zacks Rank of 1 at present. ANF delivered a 28.9% earnings surprise in the last reported quarter.

The consensus estimate for Abercrombie’s fiscal 2024 earnings and sales indicates growth of 47.3% and 10.4%, respectively, from the fiscal 2023 reported levels. ANF has a trailing four-quarter average earnings surprise of 210.3%.

Canada Goose is a global outerwear brand. It currently sports a Zacks Rank of 1.

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Canada Goose’s fiscal 2025 earnings indicates growth of 13.7% from the year-ago actual. GOOS has a trailing four-quarter average earnings surprise of 70.9%.

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