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Barnes & Noble Education Reports Third Quarter Fiscal Year 2024 Financial Results

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Barnes & Noble Education, Inc. reported strong financial results for the third quarter of fiscal year 2024, with consolidated sales increasing to $456.7 million and gross profit rising to $100.0 million. The company's net loss from continuing operations improved to $(9.9) million, and adjusted EBITDA increased to $20.3 million. Operational highlights include significant revenue growth from BNC First Day programs and a 8.8% increase in total retail segment gross comparable store sales.
Positive
  • Consolidated sales for the third quarter of fiscal year 2024 increased to $456.7 million from $438.1 million in the prior year period.
  • Gross profit for the third quarter reached $100.0 million, up from $97.0 million in the prior year period.
  • Net loss from continuing operations improved to $(9.9) million from $(22.1) million in the prior year period.
  • Adjusted EBITDA from continuing operations increased to $20.3 million from $5.2 million in the prior year period.
  • BNC First Day total revenue grew by $63 million to $184 million, with First Day® Complete revenue reaching $110 million.
  • Total retail segment gross comparable store sales increased by 8.8% to $38.1 million.
  • The company ended the quarter with 1,272 physical and virtual stores, a net decrease of 116 stores compared to the prior year period.
  • The company is maintaining its fiscal year 2024 guidance of approximately $40 million of consolidated non-GAAP Adjusted EBITDA from Continuing Operations.
Negative
  • None.

Insights

The reported increase in gross comparable store sales by 8.8% and the significant growth in First Day® Complete revenue from $67 million to $110 million are positive indicators of Barnes & Noble Education, Inc.'s operational performance. This growth suggests an effective strategy in expanding their BNC First Day programs, which align with the increasing trend towards digital and inclusive access in the education sector. Furthermore, the improvement in the consolidated GAAP net loss from $(22.1) million to $(9.9) million and the increase in consolidated Adjusted EBITDA from $5.2 million to $20.3 million reflect a healthier financial position and operational efficiency gains, primarily driven by a decrease in selling and administrative expenses.

However, the reported increase in interest expense by $3.7 million is a concern as it may indicate higher debt levels or less favorable borrowing terms. Additionally, the net decrease of 116 stores points to a strategic shift in the company's operations, likely focusing on profitability and efficiency over physical footprint. Investors should consider these factors in the context of the company's long-term strategy and the broader trends in retail and digital education.

The retail segment's performance, particularly the 14.1% increase in course material gross comparable store sales, underscores a successful adoption of the company's BNC First Day models, which cater to the evolving needs of students and educational institutions for digital and inclusive access to course materials. This pivot towards digital offerings is in line with industry trends where digital content consumption is rising. However, the 4.6% decrease in general merchandise gross comparable store sales suggests a potential challenge in non-course related segments or a shift in consumer behavior that may need strategic realignment.

The operational highlights also reveal a 39% increase in enrollment for the Spring of 2024, which could be indicative of the company's growing market share and effective customer acquisition strategies within the educational materials sector. The impact of these operational strategies on the stock market could be positive if the trend continues and the company successfully manages its liquidity and strengthens its financial position.

The company's focus on winding down underperforming stores and the reported net decrease of 116 stores reflect a broader economic trend where businesses are optimizing their physical presence in response to changing consumer preferences and the growth of e-commerce. The increase in consolidated non-GAAP Adjusted EBITDA by $15.1 million suggests that the company is improving its operational efficiency, which could lead to better margins and profitability in the long run. However, the significant increase in cash flows used in operating activities from $(21.2) million to $(83.2) million due to changes in working capital, higher accounts receivables and inventory levels could signal liquidity challenges that may impact the company's ability to sustain growth without additional financing or strategic adjustments.

The discussions around strengthening liquidity and financial position, including potential refinancing and equity offerings, indicate proactive management but also raise concerns about the current leverage and cash flow positions. These financial maneuvers will be critical for maintaining the company's solvency and could have a significant impact on the stock price, depending on the terms and investor reception of such measures.

Retail Segment Gross Comparable Store Sales Increased 8.8%

First Day® Complete Revenue Increased to $110 Million from $67 Million

Consolidated GAAP Net Loss from Continuing Operations Improved to $(9.9) Million from $(22.1) Million

Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA (Non-GAAP) from Continuing Operations Increased to $20.3 Million from $5.2 Million

Executes Bank Amendment and Continues Discussions to Strengthen Liquidity and Financial Position

BASKING RIDGE, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Barnes & Noble Education, Inc. (NYSE: BNED), a leading solutions provider for the education industry, today reported sales and earnings for the third quarter ended on January 27, 2024.

Financial Results for the Third Quarter Fiscal Year 2024:

  • Consolidated third quarter GAAP sales of $456.7 million increased by $18.6 million, compared to $438.1 million in the prior year period. The third quarter sales increase is due to higher course material sales, primarily through the Company’s BNC First Day programs.
  • Consolidated third quarter GAAP gross profit of $100.0 million increased by $3.0 million, compared to $97.0 million in the prior year period.
  • Consolidated third quarter selling and administrative expenses of $79.8 million decreased by $12.1 million, compared to the prior year period.
  • Consolidated third quarter GAAP net loss from continuing operations of $(9.9) million improved by $12.2 million, compared to a net loss from continuing operations of $(22.1) million in the prior year period. The decrease in third quarter GAAP net loss from continuing operations was due to a $3.0 million increase in gross profit and a $12.1 million decrease in selling and administrative expenses, partially offset by a $3.7 million increase in interest expense.
  • Consolidated third quarter non-GAAP Adjusted Earnings from Continuing Operations of $(0.7) million increased by $11.3 million, compared to $(12.0) million in the prior year period.
  • Consolidated third quarter non-GAAP Adjusted EBITDA from Continuing Operations of $20.3 million increased by $15.1 million, compared to $5.2 million in the prior year period.

Operational Highlights for the Third Quarter Fiscal Year 2024:

  • BNC First Day total revenue increased by $63 million to $184 million, compared to $121 million during the prior year period.
  • First Day® Complete revenue grew by $43 million to $110 million, compared to $67 million in the prior year period.
  • 160 campus stores are utilizing First Day® Complete in the Spring of 2024 representing enrollment of approximately 805,000 undergraduate and post graduate students*, an increase of approximately 39% compared to Spring of 2023.
  • Total Retail segment gross comparable store sales increased by $38.1 million, or 8.8%, comprised of a 14.1% increase in course material gross comparable store sales, offset by a 4.6% decrease in general merchandise gross comparable store sales. For comparable store sales reporting purposes, logo general merchandise sales fulfilled by Lids and Fanatics are included on a gross basis.
  • Ended the quarter with 1,272 physical and virtual stores, a net decrease of 116 stores, as compared to the prior year period, as the Company continues its focus on winding down under-performing, less profitable stores and satellite locations.

*As reported by National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)

Third Quarter 2024 and Year to Date Results

The Company has two reportable segments: Retail and Wholesale. Additionally, unallocated shared-service costs, which include various corporate level expenses and other governance functions, are not allocated to a specific reporting segment and are presented as “Corporate Services.” All material intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

Our business is highly seasonal. For example, our retail business is seasonal, particularly with respect to textbook sales and rentals, with the major portion of sales and operating profit realized during the second and third fiscal quarters when college students generally purchase and rent textbooks for the upcoming semesters and lowest in the first and fourth fiscal quarters. Our quarterly results also may fluctuate depending on the timing of the start of the various schools’ semesters, the revenue impact of accounting principles with respect to the recognition of revenue associated with our equitable and inclusive access programs, the ability to secure inventory on a timely basis, as well as shifts in our fiscal calendar dates. These shifts in timing may affect the comparability of our results across periods. Additionally, as the concentration of digital product sales increases, revenue will be recognized earlier during the academic term as digital textbook revenue is recognized when the customer accesses the digital content compared to: (i) the rental of physical textbook where revenue is recognized over the rental period, and (ii) a la carte courseware sales where revenue is recognized when the customer takes physical possession of our products, which occurs either at the point of sale for products purchased at physical locations or upon receipt of our products by our customers for products ordered through our websites and virtual bookstores.

Results for the 13 and 39 weeks of fiscal 2024 and fiscal 2023 are as follows:

$ in millions

Selected Data (unaudited)

 

13 Weeks

Q3 2024

 

13 Weeks

Q3 2023

 

39 Weeks

Fiscal 2024

 

39 Weeks

Fiscal 2023

Total Sales

$

456.7

 

$

438.1

 

$

1,331.2

 

$

1,301.4

Net Loss

$

(9.9)

 

$

(22.1)

 

$

(35.0)

 

$

(48.3)

Non-GAAP-Continuing Operations (1)

Adjusted EBITDA

 

 

$

 

20.3

$

5.2

$

43.7

$

10.0

Adjusted Earnings

$

(0.7)

 

$

(12.0)

 

$

(16.9)

 

$

(37.5)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Additional Information

Retail Gross Comparable Store Sales Variances (2)

$

38.1

 

$

23.9

 

$

76.3

 

$

45.5

 

(1) These non-GAAP financial measures have been reconciled in the attached schedules to the most directly comparable GAAP measure as required under SEC rules regarding the use of non-GAAP financial measures.

(2) Retail Gross Comparable Store Sales includes sales from physical and virtual stores that have been open for an entire fiscal year period and does not include sales from permanently closed stores for all periods presented. For Retail Gross Comparable Store Sales, sales for logo general merchandise fulfilled by Lids, Fanatics and digital agency sales are included on a gross basis in Retail Gross Comparable Store Sales compared to a net basis as commission revenue in our condensed consolidated financial statements.

Retail Segment Results

Third quarter Retail sales increased by $18.2 million to $439.4 million, compared to $421.2 million in the prior year period. Retail Gross Comparable Store Sales increased 8.8% for the quarter. Gross comparable course material sales increased 14.1% and gross comparable general merchandise decreased 4.6%. The increase in gross comparable course material product sales was due to growth from the Company’s BNC First Day models, which increased by $63 million to $184 million, compared to $121 million in the prior year period.

Third quarter Retail gross profit increased by $0.3 million to $89.2 million, compared to $88.9 million in the prior year period. Retail gross margin as a percentage of sales was 20.3% compared to 21.1% in the prior year period.

Retail Product and other gross margin as a percentage of sales was flat primarily from increased sales of $63.3 million from First Day Complete course material sales, and lower contract costs as a percentage of sales related to our college and university contracts as a result of the shift to digital and First Day models and lower performing school contracts not renewed, were partially offset by lower margin rates for course materials due to higher markdowns, including markdowns related to closed stores, and lower general merchandise sales, primarily from closed stores, a lower average commission rate and an unfavorable sales mix due to the shift to digital course materials.

Retail Rental gross margin as a percentage of sales decreased to 42.1% from 47.6% in the prior year period driven primarily by lower rental margin rates, higher markdowns and unfavorable rental mix, partially offset by lower contract costs as a percentage of sales related to our college and university contracts as a result of the shift to digital and First Day models and lower performing school contracts not renewed.

Third quarter Retail selling and administrative expenses decreased by $11.4 million to $71.4 million from $82.8 million in the prior year period. This decrease was primarily due to cost savings initiatives comprised of a $7.9 million decrease in comparable store payroll expense, new/closed store payroll expense and related operating costs, and a $3.4 million decrease in corporate payroll expense, infrastructure and product development costs.

Third quarter Retail non-GAAP Adjusted EBITDA was $17.9 million, compared to $6.2 million in the prior year period. Non-GAAP Adjusted EBITDA increased by $11.7 million primarily due to lower selling and administrative expenses.

Wholesale Segment Results (Before Intercompany Eliminations)

Wholesale third quarter sales decreased by $1.8 million to $37.2 million from $39.0 million in the prior year period. The decrease is primarily due to lower gross sales of $4.5 million, partially offset by lower returns and allowances of $2.7 million compared to the prior year period.

Wholesale third quarter gross profit was $8.0 million, or 21.5% of sales, compared to $6.7 million, or 17.1% of sales, in the third quarter of 2023. The gross margin rate increased in the third quarter of 2024 primarily due to lower returns and allowances and lower warehouse costs, partially offset by higher markdowns.

Third quarter Wholesale selling and administrative expenses decreased by $0.3 million to $3.3 million, compared to $3.6 million in the prior year period. The decrease was primarily due to cost savings initiatives comprised of lower payroll expense of $0.4 million, partially offset by higher operating expenses of $0.1 million.

Wholesale non-GAAP Adjusted EBITDA for the quarter increased by $1.6 million to $4.7 million from $3.1 million in the prior year. The increase in Wholesale non-GAAP Adjusted EBITDA is due to the higher gross margin and lower selling and administrative expenses in the third quarter of 2024.

Cash Flow, Balance Sheet and Refinancing Discussions

Cash flows used in operating activities from continuing operations during the 39 weeks ended January 27, 2024 were $(83.2) million compared to $(21.2) million during the 39 weeks ended January 28, 2023. This increase in cash flows used in operating activities from continuing operations of $62.0 million was primarily due to changes in working capital, including higher accounts receivables of $81.7 million and higher inventory levels of $88.2 million primarily related to our increased adoption of our BNC First Day equitable and inclusive access sales; higher payments for interest expense of $6.2 million; offset by higher payables of $78.0 million due to delayed payments to vendors for inventory purchases and expenses, as a result of borrowing capacity limitations under our credit facility.

Given the growth of our BNC First Day programs, the timing of cash collection from our school partners may shift to periods subsequent to when the revenue is recognized. When a school adopts our BNC First Day equitable and inclusive access offerings, cash collection from the school generally occurs after the institution's drop/add dates, which is later in the working capital cycle, particularly in our third quarter given the timing of the Spring Term and our quarterly reporting period, as compared to direct-to-student point-of-sale transactions where cash is generally collected during the point-of-sale transaction or within a few days from the credit card processor. As a higher percentage of our sales shift to BNC First Day equitable and inclusive access offerings, we are focused on efforts to better align the timing of our cash outflows to course material vendors with cash inflows collected from schools.

As of January 27, 2024, the Company’s cash and cash equivalents were $8.1 million and total outstanding debt was $254.3 million, as compared to cash and cash equivalents of $9.4 million and total outstanding debt of $283.9 million in the prior year period.

The Company is engaged in advanced and ongoing discussions with third parties to evaluate a range of options to strengthen its liquidity and financial position. The potential options under consideration include among other things, a refinancing, in whole or in part, of the Company’s obligations under the Credit Agreements, as well as a potential equity offering, which would likely be conducted at a substantial discount to the current market price of the Company’s common stock. There can be no assurance that any refinancing, equity offering, or other transaction will occur or, if any transaction occurs, that it will ultimately be consummated, or that the Company’s effort to strengthen its liquidity and financial position will be achieved.

On March 12, 2024, the Company entered into an amendment to its credit agreement to amend certain financial covenants. For more details on the amendment, please refer to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed with the SEC on March 12, 2024.

Fiscal Year 2024 Outlook

The Company is maintaining its fiscal year 2024 guidance of approximately $40 million of consolidated non-GAAP Adjusted EBITDA from Continuing Operations.

Conference Call

The Company will not host an earnings conference call due to the advanced and ongoing discussions with third parties to evaluate a range of options to strengthen its liquidity and financial position.

ABOUT BARNES & NOBLE EDUCATION, INC.

Barnes & Noble Education, Inc. (NYSE: BNED) is a leading solutions provider for the education industry, driving affordability, access and achievement at hundreds of academic institutions nationwide and ensuring millions of students are equipped for success in the classroom and beyond. Through its family of brands, BNED offers campus retail services and academic solutions, wholesale capabilities and more. BNED is a company serving all who work to elevate their lives through education, supporting students, faculty and institutions as they make tomorrow a better, more inclusive and smarter world. For more information, visit www.bned.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains certain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and information relating to us and our business that are based on the beliefs of our management as well as assumptions made by and information currently available to our management. When used in this communication, the words “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “plan,” “will,” “forecasts,” “projections,” and similar expressions, as they relate to us or our management, identify forward-looking statements. Moreover, we operate in a very competitive and rapidly changing environment. New risks emerge from time to time. It is not possible for our management to predict all risks, nor can we assess the impact of all factors on our business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements we may make. In light of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, the future events and trends discussed in this press release may not occur and actual results could differ materially and adversely from those anticipated or implied in the forward-looking statements. Such statements reflect our current views with respect to future events, the outcome of which is subject to certain risks, including, among others: the amount of our indebtedness and ability to comply with covenants applicable to current and /or any future debt financing; our ability to satisfy future capital and liquidity requirements; our ability to continue as a going concern: our ability to access the credit and capital markets at the times and in the amounts needed and on acceptable terms; our ability to maintain adequate liquidity levels to support ongoing inventory purchases and related vendor payments in a timely manner; our ability to attract and retain employees; the pace of equitable access adoption in the marketplace is slower than anticipated and our ability to successfully convert the majority of our institutions to our BNC First Day® equitable and inclusive access course material models or successfully compete with third parties that provide similar equitable and inclusive access solutions; the United States Department of Education has recently proposed regulatory changes that, if adopted as proposed, could impact equitable and inclusive access models across the higher education industry; the strategic objectives, successful integration, anticipated synergies, and/or other expected potential benefits of various strategic and restructuring initiatives, may not be fully realized or may take longer than expected; dependency on strategic service provider relationships, such as with VitalSource Technologies, Inc. and the Fanatics Retail Group Fulfillment, LLC, Inc. (“Fanatics”) and Fanatics Lids College, Inc. D/B/A "Lids" (“Lids”) (collectively referred to herein as the “F/L Relationship”), and the potential for adverse operational and financial changes to these strategic service provider relationships, may adversely impact our business; non-renewal of managed bookstore, physical and/or online store contracts and higher-than-anticipated store closings; decisions by colleges and universities to outsource their physical and/or online bookstore operations or change the operation of their bookstores; general competitive conditions, including actions our competitors and content providers may take to grow their businesses; the risk of changes in price or in formats of course materials by publishers, which could negatively impact revenues and margin; changes to purchase or rental terms, payment terms, return policies, the discount or margin on products or other terms with our suppliers; product shortages, including decreases in the used textbook inventory supply associated with the implementation of publishers’ digital offerings and direct to student textbook consignment rental programs; work stoppages or increases in labor costs; possible increases in shipping rates or interruptions in shipping services; a decline in college enrollment or decreased funding available for students; decreased consumer demand for our products, low growth or declining sales; the general economic environment and consumer spending patterns; trends and challenges to our business and in the locations in which we have stores; risks associated with operation or performance of MBS Textbook Exchange, LLC’s point-of-sales systems that are sold to college bookstore customers; technological changes, including the adoption of artificial intelligence technologies for educational content; risks associated with counterfeit and piracy of digital and print materials; risks associated with the potential loss of control over personal information; risks associated with the potential misappropriation of our intellectual property; disruptions to our information technology systems, infrastructure, data, supplier systems, and customer ordering and payment systems due to computer malware, viruses, hacking and phishing attacks, resulting in harm to our business and results of operations; disruption of or interference with third party service providers and our own proprietary technology; risks associated with the impact that public health crises, epidemics, and pandemics, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, have on the overall demand for BNED products and services, our operations, the operations of our suppliers, service providers, and campus partners, and the effectiveness of our response to these risks; lingering impacts that public health crises may have on the ability of our suppliers to manufacture or source products, particularly from outside of the United States; changes in applicable domestic and international laws, rules or regulations, including, without limitation, U.S. tax reform, changes in tax rates, laws and regulations, as well as related guidance; changes in and enactment of applicable laws, rules or regulations or changes in enforcement practices including, without limitation, with regard to consumer data privacy rights, which may restrict or prohibit our use of consumer personal information for texts, emails, interest based online advertising, or similar marketing and sales activities; adverse results from litigation, governmental investigations, tax-related proceedings, or audits; changes in accounting standards; and the other risks and uncertainties detailed in the section titled “Risk Factors” in Part I - Item 1A in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended April 29, 2023. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results or outcomes may vary materially from those described as anticipated, believed, estimated, expected, intended or planned. Subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements attributable to us or persons acting on our behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements in this paragraph. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise after the date of this press release.

EXPLANATORY NOTE

On May 31, 2023, we completed the sale of these assets related to our DSS Segment. The results of operations related to the DSS Segment are included in the condensed consolidated statements of operations as "Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax." The cash flows of the DSS Segment are also presented separately in our condensed consolidated statements of cash flows.

We have two reportable segments: Retail and Wholesale as follows:

  • The Retail Segment operates 1,272 college, university, and K-12 school bookstores, comprised of 717 physical bookstores and 555 virtual bookstores. Our bookstores typically operate under agreements with the college, university, or K-12 schools to be the official bookstore and the exclusive seller of course materials and supplies, including physical and digital products. The majority of the physical campus bookstores have school-branded e-commerce websites which we operate independently or along with our merchant service providers, and which offer students access to affordable course materials and affinity products, including emblematic apparel and gifts. The Retail Segment offers our BNC First Day® equitable and inclusive access programs, consisting of First Day Complete and First Day, which provide faculty required course materials on or before the first day of class at a discounted rate, as compared to the total retail price for the same course materials if purchased separately. The BNC First Day discounted price is offered as a course fee or included in tuition. Additionally, the Retail Segment offers a suite of digital content and services to colleges and universities, including a variety of open educational resource-based courseware.

  • The Wholesale Segment is comprised of our wholesale textbook business and is one of the largest textbook wholesalers in the country. The Wholesale Segment centrally sources, sells, and distributes new and used textbooks to approximately 2,900 physical bookstores (including our Retail Segment's 717 physical bookstores) and sources and distributes new and used textbooks to our 555 virtual bookstores. Additionally, the Wholesale Segment sells hardware and a software suite of applications that provides inventory management and point-of-sale solutions to approximately 325 college bookstores.

Corporate Services represents unallocated shared-service costs which include corporate level expenses and other governance functions, including executive functions, such as accounting, legal, treasury, information technology, and human resources.

All material intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

BARNES & NOBLE EDUCATION, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations

(In thousands, except per share data)

(Unaudited)

 

 

13 weeks ended

 

39 weeks ended

 

January 27, 2024

 

January 28, 2023

 

January 27, 2024

 

January 28, 2023

Sales:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Product sales and other

$

415,375

 

 

$

393,745

 

 

$

1,237,723

 

 

$

1,204,806

 

Rental income

 

41,298

 

 

 

44,309

 

 

 

93,490

 

 

 

96,555

 

Total sales

 

456,673

 

 

 

438,054

 

 

 

1,331,213

 

 

 

1,301,361

 

Cost of sales (exclusive of depreciation and amortization expense):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Product and other cost of sales

 

332,728

 

 

 

317,833

 

 

 

991,695

 

 

 

957,788

 

Rental cost of sales

 

23,909

 

 

 

23,210

 

 

 

52,606

 

 

 

52,416

 

Total cost of sales

 

356,637

 

 

 

341,043

 

 

 

1,044,301

 

 

 

1,010,204

 

Gross profit

 

100,036

 

 

 

97,011

 

 

 

286,912

 

 

 

291,157

 

Selling and administrative expenses

 

79,756

 

 

 

91,841

 

 

 

243,193

 

 

 

281,136

 

Depreciation and amortization expense

 

10,148

 

 

 

10,112

 

 

 

30,576

 

 

 

31,264

 

Impairment loss (non-cash) (a)

 

5,798

 

 

 

6,008

 

 

 

5,798

 

 

 

6,008

 

Restructuring and other charges (a)

 

3,413

 

 

 

4,127

 

 

 

12,320

 

 

 

4,762

 

Operating income (loss)

 

921

 

 

 

(15,077

)

 

 

(4,975

)

 

 

(32,013

)

Interest expense, net (b)

 

10,620

 

 

 

6,918

 

 

 

29,538

 

 

 

15,672

 

Loss from continuing operations before income taxes

 

(9,699

)

 

 

(21,995

)

 

 

(34,513

)

 

 

(47,685

)

Income tax expense

 

229

 

 

 

139

 

 

 

532

 

 

 

603

 

Loss from continuing operations

$

(9,928

)

 

$

(22,134

)

 

$

(35,045

)

 

$

(48,288

)

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax of $0, $128, $20, and $297, respectively

$

289

 

 

$

(2,915

)

 

$

(802

)

 

$

(7,324

)

Net Loss

$

(9,639

)

 

$

(25,049

)

 

$

(35,847

)

 

$

(55,612

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Loss per share of common stock:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic and Diluted:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Continuing operations

$

(0.19

)

 

$

(0.42

)

 

$

(0.66

)

 

$

(0.92

)

Discontinued operations

$

0.01

 

 

$

(0.06

)

 

$

(0.02

)

 

$

(0.14

)

Total Basic and Diluted Earnings per share

$

(0.18

)

 

$

(0.48

)

 

$

(0.68

)

 

$

(1.06

)

Weighted average common shares outstanding - Basic and Diluted

 

53,153

 

 

 

52,602

 

 

 

52,862

 

 

 

52,404

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(a) For additional information, see the Notes in the Non-GAAP disclosure information of this Press Release.

(b) The increase in interest expense is primarily due to higher borrowings, higher interest rates and increased amortization of deferred financing costs.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

13 weeks ended

 

39 weeks ended

 

January 27, 2024

 

January 28, 2023

 

January 27, 2024

 

January 28, 2023

Percentage of sales:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sales:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Product sales and other

91.0

%

 

89.9

%

 

93.0

%

 

92.6

%

Rental income

9.0

%

 

10.1

%

 

7.0

%

 

7.4

%

Total sales

100.0

%

 

100.0

%

 

100.0

%

 

100.0

%

Cost of sales (exclusive of depreciation and amortization expense):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Product and other cost of sales (a)

80.1

%

 

80.7

%

 

80.1

%

 

79.5

%

Rental cost of sales (a)

57.9

%

 

52.4

%

 

56.3

%

 

54.3

%

Total cost of sales

78.1

%

 

77.9

%

 

78.4

%

 

77.6

%

Gross profit

21.9

%

 

22.1

%

 

21.6

%

 

22.4

%

Selling and administrative expenses

17.5

%

 

21.0

%

 

18.3

%

 

21.6

%

Depreciation and amortization expense

2.2

%

 

2.3

%

 

2.3

%

 

2.4

%

Impairment loss (non-cash)

1.3

%

 

1.4

%

 

0.4

%

 

0.5

%

Restructuring and other charges

0.7

%

 

0.9

%

 

0.9

%

 

0.4

%

Operating income (loss)

0.2

%

 

(3.5

)%

 

(0.3

)%

 

(2.5

)%

Interest expense, net

2.3

%

 

1.6

%

 

2.2

%

 

1.2

%

Loss from continuing operations before income taxes

(2.1

)%

 

(5.1

)%

 

(2.5

)%

 

(3.7

)%

Income tax expense

0.1

%

 

%

 

%

 

%

Loss from continuing operations

(2.2

)%

 

(5.1

)%

 

(2.5

)%

 

(3.7

)%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(a) Represents the percentage these costs bear to the related sales, instead of total sales.

BARNES & NOBLE EDUCATION, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets

(In thousands, except per share data)

(Unaudited)

 

 

January 27, 2024

 

January 28, 2023

ASSETS

 

 

 

Current assets:

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents

$

8,123

 

 

$

9,423

 

Receivables, net

 

315,126

 

 

 

276,924

 

Merchandise inventories, net

 

341,544

 

 

 

408,924

 

Textbook rental inventories

 

44,521

 

 

 

35,468

 

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

 

54,337

 

 

 

53,316

 

Assets held for sale, current

 

 

 

 

29,619

 

Total current assets

 

763,651

 

 

 

813,674

 

Property and equipment, net

 

57,273

 

 

 

72,075

 

Operating lease right-of-use assets

 

220,238

 

 

 

259,470

 

Intangible assets, net

 

97,947

 

 

 

114,269

 

Other noncurrent assets

 

12,488

 

 

 

19,875

 

Total assets

$

1,151,597

 

 

$

1,279,363

 

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

 

 

 

Current liabilities:

 

 

 

Accounts payable

$

343,100

 

 

$

355,200

 

Accrued liabilities

 

156,874

 

 

 

132,943

 

Current operating lease liabilities

 

125,545

 

 

 

116,051

 

Short-term borrowings

 

224,067

 

 

 

 

Liabilities held for sale

 

 

 

 

5,384

 

Total current liabilities

 

849,586

 

 

 

609,578

 

Long-term deferred taxes, net

 

2,010

 

 

 

1,601

 

Long-term operating lease liabilities

 

155,226

 

 

 

188,466

 

Other long-term liabilities

 

17,451

 

 

 

19,375

 

Long-term borrowings

 

30,191

 

 

 

283,857

 

Total liabilities

 

1,054,464

 

 

 

1,102,877

 

Commitments and contingencies

 

 

 

 

 

Stockholders' equity:

 

 

 

Preferred stock, $0.01 par value; authorized, 5,000 shares; issued and outstanding, none

 

 

 

 

 

Common stock, $0.01 par value; authorized, 200,000 shares; issued, 55,840 and 55,140 shares, respectively; outstanding, 53,156 and 52,604 shares, respectively

 

558

 

 

 

551

 

Additional paid-in-capital

 

748,330

 

 

 

745,417

 

Accumulated deficit

 

(629,203

)

 

 

(547,106

)

Treasury stock, at cost

 

(22,552

)

 

 

(22,376

)

Total stockholders' equity

 

97,133

 

 

 

176,486

 

Total liabilities and stockholders' equity

$

1,151,597

 

 

$

1,279,363

 

 

 

 

 

BARNES & NOBLE EDUCATION, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flow (Unaudited)

(In thousands, except per share data)

 

 

 

39 weeks ended

 

 

January 27, 2024

 

January 28, 2023

Cash flows from operating activities:

 

 

 

 

Net loss

 

$

(35,847

)

 

$

(55,612

)

Less: Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax

 

 

(802

)

 

 

(7,324

)

Loss from continuing operations

 

 

(35,045

)

 

 

(48,288

)

Adjustments to reconcile net loss from continuing operations to net cash flows from operating activities from continuing operations:

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization expense

 

 

30,576

 

 

 

31,264

 

Content amortization expense

 

 

 

 

 

26

 

Amortization of deferred financing costs

 

 

8,380

 

 

 

2,058

 

Impairment loss (non-cash) (a)

 

 

5,798

 

 

 

6,008

 

Deferred taxes

 

 

171

 

 

 

171

 

Stock-based compensation expense

 

 

2,568

 

 

 

4,275

 

Non-cash interest expense (paid-in-kind)

 

 

1,750

 

 

 

 

Changes in operating lease right-of-use assets and liabilities

 

 

19,553

 

 

 

13,196

 

Changes in other long-term assets and liabilities, net

 

 

(2,961

)

 

 

396

 

Changes in other operating assets and liabilities, net:

 

 

 

 

Receivables, net

 

 

(222,614

)

 

 

(140,922

)

Merchandise inventories

 

 

(18,565

)

 

 

(115,070

)

Textbook rental inventories

 

 

(14,172

)

 

 

(5,856

)

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

 

 

2,436

 

 

 

14,637

 

Accounts payable and accrued liabilities

 

 

138,904

 

 

 

216,857

 

Changes in other operating assets and liabilities, net

 

 

(114,011

)

 

 

(30,354

)

Net cash flows used in operating activities from continuing operations (a)

 

 

(83,221

)

 

 

(21,248

)

Net cash flows used in operating activities from discontinued operations

 

 

(3,650

)

 

 

(1,349

)

Net cash flow used in operating activities

 

$

(86,871

)

 

$

(22,597

)

Cash flows from investing activities:

 

 

 

 

Purchases of property and equipment

 

$

(11,459

)

 

$

(21,700

)

Changes in other noncurrent assets and other

 

 

78

 

 

 

572

 

Net cash flows used in investing activities from continuing operations

 

 

(11,381

)

 

 

(21,128

)

Net cash flows provided by (used in) investing activities from discontinued operations

 

 

21,395

 

 

 

(5,198

)

Net cash flow provided by (used in) investing activities

 

$

10,014

 

 

$

(26,326

)

Cash flows from financing activities:

 

 

 

 

Proceeds from borrowings

 

$

454,459

 

 

$

512,000

 

Repayments of borrowings

 

 

(384,545

)

 

 

(452,100

)

Payment of deferred financing costs

 

 

(9,845

)

 

 

(2,614

)

Purchase of treasury shares

 

 

(176

)

 

 

(864

)

Net cash flows provided by financing activities from continuing operations

 

 

59,893

 

 

 

56,422

 

Net cash flows provided by financing activities from discontinued operations

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net cash flows provided by financing activities

 

$

59,893

 

 

$

56,422

 

Net (decrease) increase in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash

 

$

(16,964

)

 

$

7,499

 

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of period

 

 

31,988

 

 

 

21,036

 

Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash at end of period

 

 

15,024

 

 

 

28,535

 

Less: Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash of discontinued operations at end of period

 

 

 

 

 

(802

)

Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash of continuing operations at end of period

 

$

15,024

 

 

$

27,733

 

 

 

 

 

 

(a)

The increase in Net cash flows used in operating activities from continuing operations is due to higher accounts receivables and higher inventory levels primarily related to our increased adoption of our BNC First Day equitable and inclusive access sales; and higher payables due to delayed payments to vendors for inventory purchases and expenses, as a result of borrowing capacity limitations under our credit facility.

Given the growth of our BNC First Day programs, the timing of cash collection from our school partners may shift to periods subsequent to when the revenue is recognized. When a school adopts our BNC First Day equitable and inclusive access offerings, cash collection from the school generally occurs after the institution's drop/add dates, which is later in the working capital cycle, particularly in our third quarter given the timing of the Spring Term and our quarterly reporting period, as compared to direct-to-student point-of-sale transactions where cash is generally collected during the point-of-sale transaction or within a few days from the credit card processor. As a higher percentage of our sales shift to BNC First Day equitable and inclusive access offerings, we are focused on efforts to better align the timing of our cash outflows to course material vendors with cash inflows collected from schools.

BARNES & NOBLE EDUCATION, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Debt and Interest Expense Information (Unaudited)

(In thousands)

 

Debt

 

 

 

 

As of

 

Maturity Date

 

January 27, 2024

 

January 28, 2023

Credit Facility

December 28, 2024

 

$

224,067

 

 

$

255,600

 

Term Loan

April 7, 2025

 

 

31,750

 

 

 

30,000

 

sub-total

 

 

 

255,817

 

 

 

285,600

 

Less: Deferred financing costs, Term Loan

 

 

 

(1,559

)

 

 

(1,743

)

Total debt

 

 

$

254,258

 

 

$

283,857

 

Balance Sheet classification:

 

 

 

 

 

Short-term borrowings

 

 

$

224,067

 

 

$

 

Long-term borrowings

 

 

 

30,191

 

 

 

283,857

 

Total debt

 

 

$

254,258

 

 

$

283,857

 

Interest Expense

 

 

 

13 weeks ended

 

39 weeks ended

 

 

January 27, 2024

 

January 28, 2023

 

January 27, 2024

 

January 28, 2023

Interest Incurred

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Credit Facility

 

$

5,747

 

 

$

5,215

 

 

$

18,286

 

 

$

11,910

 

Term Loan

 

 

907

 

 

 

853

 

 

 

3,074

 

 

 

2,213

 

Total Interest Incurred

 

$

6,654

 

 

$

6,068

 

 

$

21,360

 

 

$

14,123

 

Amortization of Deferred Financing Costs

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Credit Facility

 

$

3,662

 

 

$

396

 

 

$

7,456

 

 

$

1,187

 

Term Loan

 

 

312

 

 

 

462

 

 

 

924

 

 

 

871

 

Total Amortization of Deferred Financing Costs

 

$

3,974

 

 

$

858

 

 

$

8,380

 

 

$

2,058

 

Interest Income, net of expense

 

$

(8

)

 

$

(8

)

 

$

(202

)

 

$

(509

)

Total Interest Expense

 

$

10,620

 

 

$

6,918

 

 

$

29,538

 

 

$

15,672

 

Cash interest paid during the 39 weeks ended January 27, 2024 and January 28, 2023 was $19.6 million and $13.4 million, respectively.

BARNES & NOBLE EDUCATION, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Segment Information - Continuing Operations (In thousands, except percentages) (Unaudited)

 

Segment Information (a) - Continuing Operations

13 weeks ended

 

39 weeks ended

 

January 27, 2024

 

January 28, 2023

 

January 27, 2024

 

January 28, 2023

Sales:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Retail (b)

$

439,446

 

 

$

421,259

 

 

$

1,284,242

 

 

$

1,256,376

 

Wholesale

 

37,167

 

 

 

38,958

 

 

 

96,931

 

 

 

97,161

 

Eliminations

 

(19,940

)

 

 

(22,163

)

 

 

(49,960

)

 

 

(52,176

)

Total Sales

$

456,673

 

 

$

438,054

 

 

$

1,331,213

 

 

$

1,301,361

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gross Profit

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Retail (c)

$

89,243

 

 

$

88,926

 

 

$

265,063

 

 

$

272,447

 

Wholesale

 

7,996

 

 

 

6,668

 

 

 

19,880

 

 

 

19,022

 

Eliminations

 

2,797

 

 

 

1,417

 

 

 

1,969

 

 

 

(286

)

Total Gross Profit

$

100,036

 

 

$

97,011

 

 

$

286,912

 

 

$

291,183

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Selling and Administrative Expenses

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Retail

$

71,393

 

 

$

82,753

 

 

$

217,748

 

 

$

251,843

 

Wholesale

 

3,271

 

 

 

3,563

 

 

 

10,151

 

 

 

11,561

 

Corporate Services

 

5,092

 

 

 

5,572

 

 

 

15,297

 

 

 

17,861

 

Eliminations

 

 

 

 

(47

)

 

 

(3

)

 

 

(129

)

Total Selling and Administrative Expenses

$

79,756

 

 

$

91,841

 

 

$

243,193

 

 

$

281,136

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Segment Adjusted EBITDA (Non-GAAP) (d)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Retail

$

17,850

 

 

$

6,173

 

 

$

47,315

 

 

$

20,604

 

Wholesale

 

4,725

 

 

 

3,105

 

 

 

9,729

 

 

 

7,461

 

Corporate Services

 

(5,092

)

 

 

(5,572

)

 

 

(15,297

)

 

 

(17,861

)

Eliminations

 

2,797

 

 

 

1,464

 

 

 

1,972

 

 

 

(157

)

Total Segment Adjusted EBITDA (Non-GAAP)

$

20,280

 

 

$

5,170

 

 

$

43,719

 

 

$

10,047

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Percentage of Segment Sales

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gross Profit

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Retail (c)

 

20.3

%

 

 

21.1

%

 

 

20.6

%

 

 

21.7

%

Wholesale

 

21.5

%

 

 

17.1

%

 

 

20.5

%

 

 

19.6

%

Eliminations

 

(14.0

)%

 

 

(6.4

)%

 

 

(3.9

)%

 

 

0.5

%

Total Gross Profit

 

21.9

%

 

 

22.1

%

 

 

21.6

%

 

 

22.4

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Selling and Administrative Expenses

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Retail

 

16.2

%

 

 

19.6

%

 

 

17.0

%

 

 

20.0

%

Wholesale

 

8.8

%

 

 

9.1

%

 

 

10.5

%

 

 

11.9

%

Total Selling and Administrative Expenses

 

17.5

%

 

 

21.0

%

 

 

18.3

%

 

 

21.6

%

(a)

See Explanatory Note in this Press Release for Segment descriptions.

(b)

Logo general merchandise sales for the Retail Segment are recognized on a net basis as commission revenue in the condensed consolidated financial statements. For Retail Gross Comparable Store Sales details, see the Sales Information disclosure of this Press Release.

(c)

For the 39 weeks ended January 27, 2024 and January 28, 2023, the Retail Segment gross margin excludes $0 and $26 respectively, of amortization expense (non-cash) related to content development costs.

(d)

For additional information, including a reconciliation to the most comparable financial measures presented in accordance with GAAP, see "Non-GAAP Information" and "Use of Non-GAAP Financial Information" in the Non-GAAP disclosure information of this Press Release.

BARNES & NOBLE EDUCATION, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Segment Information - Discontinued Operations (Unaudited)

(In thousands, except percentages)

During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2023, assets related to our Digital Student Solutions ("DSS") Segment met the criteria for classification as Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations and is no longer a reportable segment. Certain assets and liabilities associated with the DSS Segment are presented in our condensed consolidated balance sheets as "Assets Held for Sale" and "Liabilities Held for Sale". The results of operations related to the DSS Segment are included in the condensed consolidated statements of operations as "Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax." The cash flows of the DSS Segment are also presented separately in our condensed consolidated statements of cash flows.

On May 31, 2023, we completed the sale of these assets related to our DSS Segment for cash proceeds of $20,000, net of certain transaction fees, severance costs, escrow, and other considerations. During the 39 weeks ended January 27, 2024, we recorded a Gain on Sale of Business of $3,545 in Loss from Discontinued Operations, Net, related to the sale. Net cash proceeds from the sale were used for debt repayment and to provide additional funds for working capital needs under our Credit Facility. The following table summarizes the operating results of the discontinued operations for the periods indicated:

Segment Information - Discontinued Operations

13 weeks ended

 

39 weeks ended

 

January 27, 2024

 

January 28, 2023

 

January 27, 2024

 

January 28, 2023

Total sales

$

 

 

$

9,010

 

 

$

2,784

 

 

$

26,659

 

Cost of sales (a)

 

 

 

 

1,811

 

 

 

76

 

 

 

5,283

 

Gross profit (a)

 

 

 

 

7,199

 

 

 

2,708

 

 

 

21,376

 

Selling and administrative expenses

 

177

 

 

 

7,632

 

 

 

3,101

 

 

 

23,909

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

 

 

 

506

 

 

 

3

 

 

 

2,646

 

Gain on sale of business

 

(477

)

 

 

 

 

 

(3,545

)

 

 

 

Impairment loss (non-cash) (b)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

610

 

 

 

 

Restructuring costs (c)

 

11

 

 

 

1,848

 

 

 

3,308

 

 

 

1,848

 

Transaction costs

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

13

 

 

 

 

Operating income (loss)

 

289

 

 

 

(2,787

)

 

 

(782

)

 

 

(7,027

)

Income tax expense

 

 

 

 

128

 

 

 

20

 

 

 

297

 

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax

$

289

 

 

$

(2,915

)

 

$

(802

)

 

$

(7,324

)

 

13 weeks ended

 

39 weeks ended

Adjusted EBITDA (non-GAAP) - Discontinued Operations

January 27, 2024

 

January 28, 2023

 

January 27, 2024

 

January 28, 2023

Income (loss) from discontinued operations

$

289

 

 

$

(2,915

)

 

$

(802

)

 

$

(7,324

)

Add:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization expense

 

 

 

 

506

 

 

 

3

 

 

 

2,646

 

Income tax expense

 

 

 

 

128

 

 

 

20

 

 

 

297

 

Content amortization (non-cash)

 

 

 

 

1,686

 

 

 

 

 

 

4,855

 

Gain on sale of business

 

(477

)

 

 

 

 

 

(3,545

)

 

 

 

Impairment loss (non-cash) (b)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

610

 

 

 

 

Restructuring costs (c)

 

11

 

 

 

1,848

 

 

 

3,308

 

 

 

1,848

 

Transaction costs

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

13

 

 

 

 

Adjusted EBITDA (Non-GAAP) - Discontinued Operations

$

(177

)

 

$

1,253

 

 

$

(393

)

 

$

2,322

 

(a)

Cost of sales and Gross margin for the DSS Segment includes amortization expense (non-cash) related to content development costs of $0 for both the 13 and 39 weeks ended January 27, 2024 and $1,686 and $4,855 for the 13 and 39 weeks ended January 28, 2023, respectively.

(b)

During the 39 weeks ended January 27, 2024, we recognized an impairment loss (non-cash) of $610 (both pre-tax and after-tax), comprised of $119 and $491 of property and equipment and operating lease right-of-use assets, respectively, on the condensed consolidated statement of operations as part of discontinued operations.

(c)

During the 39 weeks ended January 27, 2024, we recognized restructuring and other charges of $3,308 comprised of severance and other employee termination costs.

BARNES & NOBLE EDUCATION, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Sales Information

(Unaudited)

 

Total Sales

The components of the sales variances for the 13 and 39 week periods are as follows:

Dollars in millions

 

13 weeks ended

 

39 weeks ended

 

 

January 27, 2024

 

January 27, 2024

Retail Sales (a)

 

 

 

 

New stores (b)

 

$

10.1

 

 

$

31.0

 

Closed stores (b)

 

 

(25.0

)

 

 

(62.0

)

Comparable stores (a)

 

 

37.3

 

 

 

61.9

 

Textbook rental deferral

 

 

(4.4

)

 

 

(4.1

)

Service revenue (c)

 

 

0.7

 

 

 

0.3

 

Other (d)

 

 

(0.5

)

 

 

0.8

 

Retail Sales subtotal:

 

$

18.2

 

 

$

27.9

 

Wholesale Sales:

 

$

(1.8

)

 

$

(0.2

)

Eliminations (e)

 

$

2.2

 

 

$

2.2

 

Total sales variance

 

$

18.6

 

 

$

29.9

 

(a)

 

Logo general merchandise sales for the Retail Segment are recognized on a net basis as commission revenue in the condensed consolidated financial statements. For Retail Gross Comparable Store Sales details, see below.

(b)

 

The following is a store count summary for physical stores and virtual stores:

 

13 weeks ended

 

39 weeks ended

 

January 27, 2024

 

January 28, 2023

 

January 27, 2024

 

January 28, 2023

Number of Stores:

Physical

 

Virtual

 

Total

 

Physical

 

Virtual

 

Total

 

Physical

 

Virtual

 

Total

 

Physical

 

Virtual

 

Total

Beginning of period

717

 

554

 

1,271

 

793

 

606

 

1,399

 

774

 

592

 

1,366

 

805

 

622

 

1,427

Stores opened

6

 

4

 

10

 

 

4

 

4

 

19

 

22

 

41

 

34

 

28

 

62

Stores closed

6

 

3

 

9

 

8

 

7

 

15

 

76

 

59

 

135

 

54

 

47

 

101

End of period

717

 

555

 

1,272

 

785

 

603

 

1,388

 

717

 

555

 

1,272

 

785

 

603

 

1,388

(c)

 

Service revenue includes brand partnership marketing, shipping and handling, and revenue from other programs.

(d)

 

Other includes inventory liquidation sales to third parties, marketplace sales and certain accounting adjusting items related to return reserves, and other deferred items.

(e)

 

Eliminates Wholesale sales and service fees to Retail and Retail commissions earned from Wholesale.

Retail Gross Comparable Store Sales

Retail Gross Comparable Store Sales variances by category for the 13 and 39 week periods are as follows:

Dollars in millions

13 weeks ended

 

39 weeks ended

 

January 27, 2024

 

January 28, 2023

 

January 27, 2024

 

January 28, 2023

Textbooks (Course Materials)

$

43.8

 

 

14.1

%

 

$

21.3

 

7.4

%

 

$

78.3

 

 

8.8

%

 

$

2.9

 

0.3

%

General Merchandise

 

(5.7

)

 

(4.6

)%

 

 

2.6

 

2.3

%

 

 

(2.0

)

 

(0.4

)%

 

 

42.6

 

11.3

%

Total Retail Gross Comparable Store Sales

$

38.1

 

 

8.8

%

 

$

23.9

 

5.9

%

 

$

76.3

 

 

5.7

%

 

$

45.5

 

3.6

%

To supplement the Total Sales table presented above, the Company uses Retail Gross Comparable Store Sales as a key performance indicator. Retail Gross Comparable Store Sales includes sales from physical and virtual stores that have been open for an entire fiscal year period and does not include sales from permanently closed stores for all periods presented. For Retail Gross Comparable Store Sales, sales for logo general merchandise fulfilled by Lids, Fanatics and digital agency sales are included on a gross basis in Retail Gross Comparable Store Sales compared to a net basis as commission revenue in our condensed consolidated financial statements.

We believe the current Retail Gross Comparable Store Sales calculation method reflects management’s view that such comparable store sales are an important measure of the growth in sales when evaluating how established stores have performed over time. We present this metric as additional useful information about the Company’s operational and financial performance and to allow greater transparency with respect to important metrics used by management for operating and financial decision-making. Retail Gross Comparable Store Sales are also referred to as "same-store" sales by others within the retail industry and the method of calculating comparable store sales varies across the retail industry. As a result, our calculation of comparable store sales is not necessarily comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other companies and is intended only as supplemental information and is not a substitute for net sales presented in accordance with GAAP.

BNC First Day Sales

The following table summarizes our BNC First Day sales for the 13 and 39 weeks ended January 27, 2024 and January 28, 2023:

Dollars in millions

13 weeks ended

 

39 weeks ended

 

January 27, 2024

 

January 28, 2023

 

Var $

 

Var %

 

January 27, 2024

 

January 28, 2023

 

Var $

 

Var %

First Day Complete Sales

$

109.5

 

$

66.9

 

$

42.6

 

64

%

 

$

271.5

 

$

173.4

 

$

98.1

 

57

%

First Day Sales

 

74.5

 

 

53.8

 

$

20.7

 

38

%

 

 

173.6

 

 

135.7

 

$

37.9

 

28

%

Total BNC First Day Sales

$

184.0

 

$

120.7

 

$

63.3

 

52

%

 

$

445.1

 

$

309.1

 

$

136.0

 

44

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

First Day Complete

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Spring 2023

 

Spring 2022

 

Var #

 

Var %

Number of campus stores

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

160

 

 

116

 

 

44

 

38

%

Estimated enrollment (a)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

805,000

 

 

580,000

 

 

225,000

 

39

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(a) Total undergraduate and graduate student enrollment as reported by National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BARNES & NOBLE EDUCATION, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Non-GAAP Information (a)

(In thousands) (Unaudited)

 

Consolidated Adjusted Earnings (non-GAAP) (a) - Continuing Operations

13 weeks ended

 

39 weeks ended

 

January 27, 2024

 

January 28, 2023

 

January 27, 2024

 

January 28, 2023

Net loss from continuing operations

$

(9,928

)

 

$

(22,134

)

 

$

(35,045

)

 

$

(48,288

)

Reconciling items (below)

 

9,211

 

 

 

10,135

 

 

 

18,118

 

 

 

10,796

 

Adjusted Earnings (non-GAAP)

$

(717

)

 

$

(11,999

)

 

$

(16,927

)

 

$

(37,492

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reconciling items

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Impairment loss (non-cash) (b)

$

5,798

 

 

$

6,008

 

 

$

5,798

 

 

$

6,008

 

Content amortization (non-cash) (c)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

26

 

Restructuring and other charges (d)

 

3,413

 

 

 

4,127

 

 

 

12,320

 

 

 

4,762

 

Reconciling items (e)

$

9,211

 

 

$

10,135

 

 

$

18,118

 

 

$

10,796

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA (non-GAAP) (a)

13 weeks ended

 

39 weeks ended

 

January 27, 2024

 

January 28, 2023

 

January 27, 2024

 

January 28, 2023

Net loss from continuing operations

 

(9,928

)

 

 

(22,134

)

 

 

(35,045

)

 

 

(48,288

)

Add:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization expense

 

10,148

 

 

 

10,112

 

 

 

30,576

 

 

 

31,264

 

Interest expense, net

 

10,620

 

 

 

6,918

 

 

 

29,538

 

 

 

15,672

 

Income tax expense

 

229

 

 

 

139

 

 

 

532

 

 

 

603

 

Impairment loss (non-cash) (b)

 

5,798

 

 

 

6,008

 

 

 

5,798

 

 

 

6,008

 

Content amortization (non-cash) (c)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

26

 

Restructuring and other charges (d)

 

3,413

 

 

 

4,127

 

 

 

12,320

 

 

 

4,762

 

Adjusted EBITDA (Non-GAAP) - Continuing Operations

$

20,280

 

 

$

5,170

 

 

$

43,719

 

 

$

10,047

 

Adjusted EBITDA (Non-GAAP) - Discontinued Operations

$

(177

)

 

$

1,253

 

 

$

(393

)

 

$

2,322

 

Adjusted EBITDA (Non-GAAP) - Total

$

20,103

 

 

$

6,423

 

 

$

43,326

 

 

$

12,369

 

Adjusted EBITDA by Segment (non-GAAP) (a) - Continuing Operations

The following is Adjusted EBITDA by Segment for Continuing Operations for the 13 and 39 week periods:

 

 

13 weeks ended January 27, 2024

 

 

Retail

 

Wholesale

 

Corporate Services (f)

 

Eliminations

 

Total

Net income (loss) from continuing operations

 

$

3,235

 

$

3,404

 

$

(19,364

)

 

$

2,797

 

$

(9,928

)

Add:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization expense

 

 

8,817

 

 

1,321

 

 

10

 

 

 

 

 

10,148

 

Interest expense, net

 

 

 

 

 

 

10,620

 

 

 

 

 

10,620

 

Income tax expense

 

 

 

 

 

 

229

 

 

 

 

 

229

 

Impairment loss (non-cash) (b)

 

 

5,798

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5,798

 

Content amortization (non-cash) (c)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Restructuring and other charges (d)

 

 

 

 

 

 

3,413

 

 

 

 

 

3,413

 

Adjusted EBITDA (non-GAAP)

 

$

17,850

 

$

4,725

 

$

(5,092

)

 

$

2,797

 

$

20,280

 

 

 

13 weeks ended January 28, 2023

 

 

Retail

 

Wholesale

 

Corporate Services (f)

 

Eliminations

 

Total

Net (loss) income from continuing operations

 

$

(10,036

)

 

$

817

 

$

(14,379

)

 

$

1,464

 

$

(22,134

)

Add:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization expense

 

 

8,749

 

 

 

1,357

 

 

6

 

 

 

 

 

10,112

 

Interest expense, net

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6,918

 

 

 

 

 

6,918

 

Income tax expense

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

139

 

 

 

 

 

139

 

Impairment loss (non-cash) (b)

 

 

6,008

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6,008

 

Content amortization (non-cash) (c)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Restructuring and other charges (d)

 

 

1,452

 

 

 

931

 

 

1,744

 

 

 

 

 

4,127

 

Adjusted EBITDA (non-GAAP)

 

$

6,173

 

 

$

3,105

 

$

(5,572

)

 

$

1,464

 

$

5,170

 

 

 

39 weeks ended January 27, 2024

 

 

Retail

 

Wholesale

 

Corporate Services (f)

 

Eliminations

 

Total

Net income (loss) from continuing operations

 

$

14,268

 

$

5,351

 

$

(56,636

)

 

$

1,972

 

$

(35,045

)

Add:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization expense

 

 

26,694

 

 

3,852

 

 

30

 

 

 

 

 

30,576

 

Interest expense, net

 

 

 

 

 

 

29,538

 

 

 

 

 

29,538

 

Income tax expense

 

 

 

 

 

 

532

 

 

 

 

 

532

 

Impairment loss (non-cash) (b)

 

 

5,798

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5,798

 

Content amortization (non-cash) (c)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Restructuring and other charges (d)

 

 

555

 

 

526

 

 

11,239

 

 

 

 

 

12,320

 

Adjusted EBITDA (non-GAAP)

 

$

47,315

 

$

9,729

 

$

(15,297

)

 

$

1,972

 

$

43,719

 

 

 

39 weeks ended January 28, 2023

 

 

Retail

 

Wholesale

 

Corporate Services (f)

 

Eliminations

 

Total

Net (loss) income from continuing operations

 

$

(14,029

)

 

$

2,454

 

$

(36,556

)

 

$

(157

)

 

$

(48,288

)

Add:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization expense

 

 

27,147

 

 

 

4,076

 

 

41

 

 

 

 

 

 

31,264

 

Interest expense, net

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

15,672

 

 

 

 

 

 

15,672

 

Income tax expense

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

603

 

 

 

 

 

 

603

 

Impairment loss (non-cash) (b)

 

 

6,008

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6,008

 

Content amortization (non-cash) (c)

 

 

26

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

26

 

Restructuring and other charges (d)

 

 

1,452

 

 

 

931

 

 

2,379

 

 

 

 

 

 

4,762

 

Adjusted EBITDA (non-GAAP)

 

$

20,604

 

 

$

7,461

 

$

(17,861

)

 

$

(157

)

 

$

10,047

 

(a)

 

For additional information, see "Use of Non-GAAP Financial Information" in the Non-GAAP disclosure information of this Press Release.

(b)

 

 

During the 13 weeks ended January 27, 2024, we evaluated certain of our store-level long-lived assets in the Retail segment for impairment. Based on the results of the impairment tests, we recognized an impairment loss (non-cash) of $5,798 (both pre-tax and after-tax) comprised of $364, $2,726, and $2,708 of property and equipment, operating lease right-of-use assets, and amortizable intangibles, respectively.
During the 13 weeks ended January 28, 2023, we evaluated certain of our store-level long-lived assets in the Retail segment for impairment. Based on the results of the impairment tests, we recognized an impairment loss (non-cash) of $6,008 (both pre-tax and after-tax) comprised of $708, $1,697, $3,599 and $4 of property and equipment, operating lease right-of-use assets, amortizable intangibles, and other noncurrent assets, respectively.

(c)

 

Represents amortization of content development costs (non-cash) recorded in cost of goods sold in the condensed consolidated financial statements.

(d)

 

Restructuring and other charges are comprised primarily of severance and other employee termination and benefit costs associated with the elimination of various positions as part of cost reduction objectives, and professional service costs for restructuring, process improvements.

(e)

There is no pro forma income effect of the non-GAAP items.

(f)

Interest expense is reflected in Corporate Services as it is primarily related to our Credit Agreement and Term Loan Agreement which fund our operating and financing needs across the organization. Income taxes are reflected in Corporate Services as we record our income tax provision on a consolidated basis.

Free Cash Flow (non-GAAP) (a) - Continuing Operations

 

13 weeks ended

 

39 weeks ended

 

January 27, 2024

 

January 28, 2023

 

January 27, 2024

 

January 28, 2023

Net cash flows used in operating activities from continuing operations (b)

$

(36,061

)

 

$

(31,321

)

 

$

(83,221

)

 

$

(21,248

)

Less:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Capital expenditures (c)

 

3,263

 

 

 

4,877

 

 

 

11,459

 

 

 

21,700

 

Cash interest paid

 

5,668

 

 

 

6,105

 

 

 

19,640

 

 

 

13,406

 

Cash taxes (refund) paid

 

(118

)

 

 

1

 

 

 

270

 

 

 

(15,582

)

Free Cash Flow (non-GAAP)

$

(44,874

)

 

$

(42,304

)

 

$

(114,590

)

 

$

(40,772

)

(a)

 

For additional information, see "Use of Non-GAAP Financial Information" in the Non-GAAP disclosure information of this Press Release.

(b)

 

The increase in Net cash flows used in operating activities from continuing operations is due to higher accounts receivables and higher inventory levels primarily related to our increased adoption of our BNC First Day equitable and inclusive access sales; higher payments for interest expense; and higher payables due to delayed payments to vendors for inventory purchases and expenses, as a result of borrowing capacity limitations under our credit facility.
Given the growth of our BNC First Day programs, the timing of cash collection from our school partners may shift to periods subsequent to when the revenue is recognized. When a school adopts our BNC First Day equitable and inclusive access offerings, cash collection from the school generally occurs after the institution's drop/add dates, which is later in the working capital cycle, particularly in our third quarter given the timing of the Spring Term and our quarterly reporting period, as compared to direct-to-student point-of-sale transactions where cash is generally collected during the point-of-sale transaction or within a few days from the credit card processor. As a higher percentage of our sales shift to BNC First Day equitable and inclusive access offerings, we are focused on efforts to better align the timing of our cash outflows to course material vendors with cash inflows collected from schools.

(c)

 

 

Purchases of property and equipment are also referred to as capital expenditures. Our investing activities consist principally of capital expenditures for contractual capital investments associated with renewing existing contracts, new store construction, and enhancements to internal systems and our website. The following table provides the components of total purchases of property and equipment:

Capital Expenditures

13 weeks ended

 

39 weeks ended

- Continuing Operations

January 27, 2024

 

January 28, 2023

 

January 27, 2024

 

January 28, 2023

Physical store capital expenditures

$

1,158

 

$

1,700

 

$

5,106

 

$

12,248

Product and system development

 

1,588

 

 

2,691

 

 

5,048

 

 

7,866

Other

 

517

 

 

486

 

 

1,305

 

 

1,586

Total capital expenditures

$

3,263

 

$

4,877

 

$

11,459

 

$

21,700

Use of Non-GAAP Financial Information - Adjusted Earnings, Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA by Segment, and Free Cash Flow

To supplement the Company’s condensed consolidated financial statements presented in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”), in the Press Release attached hereto as Exhibit 99.1, the Company uses the financial measures of Adjusted Earnings, Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA by Segment and Free Cash Flow, which are non-GAAP financial measures under Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") regulations. We define Adjusted Earnings as net income (loss) from continuing operations adjusted for certain reconciling items that are subtracted from or added to net income (loss) from continuing operations. We define Adjusted EBITDA as net income (loss) from continuing operations plus (1) depreciation and amortization; (2) interest expense and (3) income taxes, (4) as adjusted for items that are subtracted from or added to net income (loss) from continuing operations. We define Free Cash Flow as Cash Flows from Operating Activities from continuing operations less capital expenditures, cash interest and cash taxes.

The non-GAAP measures included in the Press Release have been reconciled to the most comparable financial measures presented in accordance with GAAP, attached hereto as Exhibit 99.1, as follows: the reconciliation of Adjusted Earnings to net income (loss) from continuing operations; the reconciliation of consolidated Adjusted EBITDA to consolidated net income (loss) from continuing operations; and the reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA by Segment to net income (loss) from continuing operations by segment. All of the items included in the reconciliations are either (i) non-cash items or (ii) items that management does not consider in assessing our on-going operating performance.

These non-GAAP financial measures are not intended as substitutes for and should not be considered superior to measures of financial performance prepared in accordance with GAAP. In addition, the Company's use of these non-GAAP financial measures may be different from similarly named measures used by other companies, limiting their usefulness for comparison purposes.

We review these non-GAAP financial measures as internal measures to evaluate our performance at a consolidated level and at a segment level and manage our operations. We believe that these measures are useful performance measures which are used by us to facilitate a comparison of our on-going operating performance on a consistent basis from period-to-period. We believe that these non-GAAP financial measures provide for a more complete understanding of factors and trends affecting our business than measures under GAAP can provide alone, as they exclude certain items that management believes do not reflect the ordinary performance of our operations in a particular period. Our Board of Directors and management also use Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA by Segment, at a consolidated level and at a segment level, as one of the primary methods for planning and forecasting expected performance, for evaluating on a quarterly and annual basis actual results against such expectations, and as a measure for performance incentive plans. Management also uses Adjusted EBITDA by Segment to determine segment capital allocations. We believe that the inclusion of Adjusted Earnings, Adjusted EBITDA, and Adjusted EBITDA by Segment results provides investors useful and important information regarding our operating results, in a manner that is consistent with management’s evaluation of business performance. We believe that Free Cash Flow provides useful additional information concerning cash flow available to meet future debt service obligations and working capital requirements and assists investors in their understanding of our operating profitability and liquidity as we manage the business to maximize margin and cash flow.

The Company urges investors to carefully review the GAAP financial information included as part of the Company’s Form 10-K dated April 29, 2023 filed with the SEC on July 31, 2023, which includes consolidated financial statements for each of the three years for the period ended April 29, 2023, April 30, 2022, and May 1, 2021 (Fiscal 2023, Fiscal 2022, and Fiscal 2021, respectively) and the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended July 29, 2023 filed with the SEC on September 6, 2023 and the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended October 28, 2023 filed with the SEC on December 6, 2023.

Investor Contact:

Hunter Blankenbaker

Vice President

Corporate Communications & Investor Relations

908-991-2776

hblankenbaker@bned.com

Source: Barnes & Noble Education

FAQ

What were the consolidated sales for the third quarter of fiscal year 2024?

The consolidated sales for the third quarter of fiscal year 2024 were $456.7 million.

What was the net loss from continuing operations in the third quarter?

The net loss from continuing operations in the third quarter improved to $(9.9) million from $(22.1) million in the prior year period.

How much did the adjusted EBITDA increase by in the third quarter?

The adjusted EBITDA from continuing operations increased to $20.3 million from $5.2 million in the prior year period.

What was the total revenue growth from BNC First Day programs?

BNC First Day total revenue grew by $63 million to $184 million.

How many physical and virtual stores did the company end the quarter with?

The company ended the quarter with 1,272 physical and virtual stores.

What is the company's fiscal year 2024 guidance for consolidated non-GAAP Adjusted EBITDA from Continuing Operations?

The company is maintaining its fiscal year 2024 guidance of approximately $40 million.

Barnes & Noble Education, Inc

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