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Here's Why Stitch Fix (SFIX) Stock is an Investor Favorite

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Stitch Fix, Inc. (SFIX - Free Report) has experienced a substantial rise in its stock price over the past three months, soaring 129.7%. This significant increase surpasses the Zacks Retail-Apparel and Shoes industry’s slight 2.1% growth. 

The company’s strategic initiatives, including AI-driven inventory management, pricing optimization, margin expansion, client engagement and cost efficiency, have enabled it to outperform the broader Retail-Wholesale sector and the S&P 500 Index, which grew 3.9% and 8.2%, respectively, during the same period.

Zacks Investment Research
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Drivers Behind the Stock’s Momentum

Trading above its 50-day and 200-day moving averages, SFIX stock is gradually inching toward its 52-week high of $5.20 hit on Jul 31, 2023. 

Stitch Fix is capitalizing on AI and data analytics to optimize its operations and enhance customer satisfaction. The AI-driven inventory purchasing tool, which now accounts for nearly half of all inventory receipts, has significantly outperformed manual selections and lead to notable efficiency improvements.

SFIX is focused on developing the client experience through more personalized and dynamic interactions. This includes increasing the number of items in each fix, refining discount strategies and improving the onboarding process. Early results are promising, with further improvements planned for the summer of fiscal 2024.

The company’s emphasis on enhancing the client experience and engagement has resulted in higher average order values (“AOV”) and improved retention metrics. The AOV has reached record levels, reflecting strong client satisfaction and loyalty. Additionally, Stitch Fix is dedicated to attracting and retaining high-value clients to sustain revenue growth. By refining its marketing strategies and boosting client engagement, Stitch Fix aims to enhance retention and ensure long-term profitability.

Stitch Fix has made significant strides in increasing its gross margin, showcasing its focus on operational efficiency and cost management. In the third quarter of fiscal 2024, the gross margin rose 280 basis points year over year to 45.5%, driven by robust product margins and improved transportation leverage. This upside is the result of strategic efforts to optimize pricing and inventory management.

A Value Play Stock

From a valuation perspective, the stock presents an attractive opportunity, trading at a discount relative to historical and industry benchmarks. With a forward 12-month price-to-sales ratio of 0.46, below the five-year median of 0.67 and the industry’s average of 1.11, the stock offers compelling value for investors seeking exposure to the sector. The stock currently has a Value Score of B, further validating its appeal.

Investment Guidance

Investors should look at Stitch Fix as a promising investment due to its strategic emphasis on AI-driven inventory and pricing optimization, combined with efficient cost management and robust client engagement. These elements have significantly enhanced the company's performance and boosted market confidence. Moreover, the stock’s positive technical indicators and attractive valuation make it a compelling investment. Stitch Fix currently sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy).

Other Red Hot Picks

Other top-ranked stocks in the retail space are The Gap, Inc. (GPS - Free Report) , Abercrombie & Fitch Co. (ANF - Free Report) and Urban Outfitters Inc. (URBN - Free Report) .

Gap is a premier international specialty retailer, which offers a diverse range of clothing, accessories and personal care products. It currently sports a Zacks Rank of 1. 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 22.4% and 0.2%, respectively, from 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 sports 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 48.9% and 10.4%, respectively, from the fiscal 2023 reported levels. ANF has a trailing four-quarter average earnings surprise of 210.3%.

Urban Outfitters is a lifestyle specialty retailer that offers fashion apparel and accessories, footwear, home décor and gift products. It currently has a Zacks Rank of 2 (Buy). 

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Urban Outfitters’ fiscal 2024 earnings and sales indicates growth of 9.9% and 5.8%, respectively, from the year-ago reported actuals. URBN has a trailing four-quarter average earnings surprise of 16.9%.

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