Q4 2021
- Dollar General, the discount general merchandise retailer, posted a weaker-than expected set of financial results for the fourth quarter of 2021. However, the company hiked the dividend 31% and provided positive guidance which saw the stock gain in post-announcement trade.
- Net sales for the period rose 2.8% to $8.7 billion, primarily thanks to positive sales contributions from new stores. Sales were impacted by store closures as well as by a decline in same-store sales. Same-store sales decreased 1.4% y/y due to lower customer traffic which was partially offset by higher average spending per basket.
- The Gross profit margin fell to 31.2% in Q4 2021 from 32.5% in Q4 2020 as result of higher transportation and distribution costs, increased product prices, and more lower margin sales. These costs were partially offset by price increases and fewer discounts.
- Higher expenses in the form of retail labour and store occupancy costs were offset by lower hurricane-related expenses, a reduction in incentive compensation, and lower incremental costs related to Covid-19. This left expenses flat year-over-year.
- Dollar General reported a net income decrease of 7% to $597.4 million for Q4 2021. Diluted EPS decreased 1.9% to $2.57. The company repurchased $2.5 billion of its common stock for the full year, at an average price of $211.45 per share, and has $2.1 billion in authorized share purchase capacity remaining. The board declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.55 per share.
- Dollar General expects net sales growth of approximately 10% (including 2% from the 53rd week) for fiscal 2022. It also sees same-store sales growing around 2.5%, with diluted EPS growth in a range between 12% and 14% (including 4% from the 53rd week).