GES-2014.05.03-10Q
Table of Contents

 
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q 

x          QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
For the quarterly period ended May 3, 2014
OR 
o                   TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from             to           
Commission file number: 1-11893
GUESS?, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Delaware
95-3679695
(State or other jurisdiction of
(I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization)
Identification No.)
 
 
1444 South Alameda Street
 
Los Angeles, California
90021
(Address of principal executive offices)
(Zip Code)
(213) 765-3100
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.  Yes x  No o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).  Yes x  No o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer or a smaller reporting company.  See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer x
Accelerated filer o
 
 
Non-accelerated filer o
Smaller reporting company o
(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
 
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).  Yes o  No x
As of June 4, 2014 the registrant had 85,247,759 shares of Common Stock, $.01 par value per share, outstanding.
 


Table of Contents

GUESS?, INC.
FORM 10-Q
TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

i

Table of Contents

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
ITEM 1. Financial Statements.
GUESS?, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(in thousands, except share data) 
 
May 3,
2014
 
Feb 1,
2014
 
(unaudited)
 
 
ASSETS
 

 
 

Current assets:
 

 
 

Cash and cash equivalents
$
472,463

 
$
502,945

Short-term investments
5,075

 
5,123

Accounts receivable, net
217,541

 
276,565

Inventories
373,423

 
350,899

Other current assets
89,342

 
80,554

Total current assets
1,157,844

 
1,216,086

Property and equipment, net
322,936

 
324,606

Goodwill
39,538

 
38,992

Other intangible assets, net
13,141

 
13,143

Long-term deferred tax assets
58,678

 
54,973

Other assets
121,614

 
116,631

 
$
1,713,751

 
$
1,764,431

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
 

 
 

Current liabilities:
 

 
 

Current portion of capital lease obligations and borrowings
$
1,829

 
$
4,160

Accounts payable
164,895

 
191,532

Accrued expenses
153,126

 
174,333

Total current liabilities
319,850

 
370,025

Capital lease obligations and other long-term debt
6,912

 
7,580

Deferred rent and lease incentives
90,734

 
90,492

Other long-term liabilities
116,913

 
120,518

 
534,409

 
588,615

Redeemable noncontrolling interests
5,807

 
5,830

 
 
 
 
Commitments and contingencies (Note 12)


 


 
 
 
 
Stockholders’ equity:
 

 
 

Preferred stock, $.01 par value. Authorized 10,000,000 shares; no shares issued and outstanding

 

Common stock, $.01 par value. Authorized 150,000,000 shares; issued 139,524,414 and 139,245,729 shares, outstanding 85,251,515 and 84,962,345 shares, at May 3, 2014 and February 1, 2014, respectively
853

 
850

Paid-in capital
443,652

 
439,742

Retained earnings
1,226,067

 
1,247,180

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
6,533

 
(13,801
)
Treasury stock, 54,272,899 and 54,283,384 shares at May 3, 2014 and February 1, 2014, respectively
(519,357
)
 
(519,457
)
Guess?, Inc. stockholders’ equity
1,157,748

 
1,154,514

Nonredeemable noncontrolling interests
15,787

 
15,472

Total stockholders’ equity
1,173,535

 
1,169,986

 
$
1,713,751

 
$
1,764,431

 
See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

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Table of Contents

GUESS?, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (LOSS)
(in thousands, except per share data)
(unaudited)
 
Three Months Ended
 
May 3,
2014
 
May 4,
2013
Product sales
$
496,928

 
$
518,664

Net royalties
25,613

 
30,250

Net revenue
522,541

 
548,914

Cost of product sales
346,310

 
351,488

Gross profit
176,231

 
197,426

Selling, general and administrative expenses
178,208

 
183,764

Restructuring charges

 
2,337

Earnings (loss) from operations
(1,977
)
 
11,325

Other income (expense):
 

 
 

Interest expense
(525
)
 
(549
)
Interest income
405

 
334

Other income (expense), net
(1,119
)
 
5,457

 
(1,239
)
 
5,242

 
 
 
 
Earnings (loss) before income tax expense (benefit)
(3,216
)
 
16,567

Income tax expense (benefit)
(1,029
)
 
5,467

Net earnings (loss)
(2,187
)
 
11,100

Net earnings (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests
(86
)
 
1,184

Net earnings (loss) attributable to Guess?, Inc.
$
(2,101
)
 
$
9,916

 
 
 
 
Net earnings (loss) per common share attributable to common stockholders (Note 2):
 

 
 

Basic
$
(0.03
)
 
$
0.12

Diluted
$
(0.03
)
 
$
0.12

 
 
 
 
Weighted average common shares outstanding attributable to common stockholders (Note 2):
 

 
 

Basic
84,499

 
84,582

Diluted
84,499

 
84,778

 
 
 
 
Dividends declared per common share
$
0.225

 
$
0.200


See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.


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GUESS?, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
(in thousands)
(unaudited)
 
Three Months Ended
 
May 3,
2014
 
May 4,
2013
Net earnings (loss)
$
(2,187
)
 
$
11,100

Other comprehensive income (loss) (“OCI”):
 

 
 

Foreign currency translation adjustment
 
 
 
Gains (losses) arising during the period
22,250

 
(24,414
)
Derivative financial instruments designated as cash flow hedges
 

 
 

Gains (losses) arising during the period
(2,679
)
 
4,670

Less income tax effect
621

 
(582
)
 Reclassification to net earnings (loss) for (gains) losses realized
525

 
(458
)
Less income tax effect
(21
)
 
70

Marketable securities
 

 
 

Gains (losses) arising during the period
(26
)
 
99

Less income tax effect
10

 
(40
)
 Reclassification to net loss for gains realized
(87
)
 

Less income tax effect
33

 

Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan (“SERP”)
 

 
 

Actuarial loss amortization
234

 
277

Prior service (credit) cost amortization
(58
)
 
155

Less income tax effect
(67
)
 
(165
)
Total comprehensive income (loss)
18,548

 
(9,288
)
Less comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests:
 

 
 

Net earnings (loss)
(86
)
 
1,184

Foreign currency translation adjustment
401

 
352

Amounts attributable to noncontrolling interests
315

 
1,536

Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Guess?, Inc.
$
18,233

 
$
(10,824
)

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.


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GUESS?, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(in thousands)
(unaudited)
 
Three Months Ended
 
May 3,
2014
 
May 4,
2013
Cash flows from operating activities:
 

 
 

Net earnings (loss)
$
(2,187
)
 
$
11,100

Adjustments to reconcile net earnings (loss) to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:
 

 
 

Depreciation and amortization of property and equipment
20,759

 
21,910

Amortization of intangible assets
637

 
598

Share-based compensation expense
3,457

 
2,248

Unrealized forward contract (gains) losses
2,160

 
(2,409
)
Net loss on disposition of property and equipment and long-term assets
910

 
1,348

Other items, net
744

 
(1,092
)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
 

 
 

Accounts receivable
63,851

 
56,840

Inventories
(18,119
)
 
(12,443
)
Prepaid expenses and other assets
(9,411
)
 
(9,292
)
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
(60,103
)
 
(33,241
)
Deferred rent and lease incentives
(40
)
 
(1,330
)
Other long-term liabilities
(2,891
)
 
(2,500
)
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities
(233
)
 
31,737

Cash flows from investing activities:
 

 
 

Purchases of property and equipment
(17,254
)
 
(17,272
)
Changes in other assets
(43
)
 
7,133

Proceeds from sale of investment
598

 

Acquisition of businesses, net of cash acquired

 
(653
)
Net cash settlement of forward contracts
(407
)
 
661

Net cash used in investing activities
(17,106
)
 
(10,131
)
Cash flows from financing activities:
 

 
 

Proceeds from short-term borrowings

 
152

Repayment of borrowings and capital lease obligations
(3,661
)
 
(480
)
Dividends paid
(19,198
)
 
(17,129
)
Issuance of common stock, net of nonvested award repurchases
646

 
1,704

Excess tax benefits from share-based compensation
95

 
2

Purchase of treasury stock

 
(22,099
)
Net cash used in financing activities
(22,118
)
 
(37,850
)
Effect of exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents
8,975

 
(6,340
)
Net change in cash and cash equivalents
(30,482
)
 
(22,584
)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
502,945

 
329,021

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
$
472,463

 
$
306,437

 
 
 
 
Supplemental cash flow data:
 

 
 

Interest paid
$
229

 
$
237

Income taxes paid
$
17,434

 
$
11,045

 
See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

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GUESS?, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
May 3, 2014
(unaudited) 
(1)
Basis of Presentation
In the opinion of management, the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements of Guess?, Inc. and its subsidiaries (the “Company”) contain all adjustments, consisting of normal recurring adjustments, considered necessary for a fair presentation of the condensed consolidated balance sheets as of May 3, 2014 and February 1, 2014, and the condensed consolidated statements of income (loss), comprehensive income (loss) and cash flows for the three months ended May 3, 2014 and May 4, 2013. The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) for interim financial information and the instructions to Rule 10-01 of Regulation S-X of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). Accordingly, they have been condensed and do not include all of the information and footnotes required by GAAP for complete financial statements. The results of operations for the three months ended May 3, 2014 are not necessarily indicative of the results of operations to be expected for the full fiscal year. These financial statements should be read in conjunction with the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended February 1, 2014.
The three months ended May 3, 2014 had the same number of days as the three months ended May 4, 2013. All references herein to “fiscal 2015”, “fiscal 2014” and “fiscal 2013” represent the results of the 52-week fiscal year ending January 31, 2015, the 52-week fiscal year ended February 1, 2014 and the 53-week fiscal year ended February 2, 2013, respectively. 
New Accounting Guidance
In July 2013, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued authoritative guidance which requires that an unrecognized tax benefit be presented in the financial statements as a reduction to a deferred tax asset for a net operating loss carryforward, a similar loss or a tax credit carryforward, if specific criteria are met. The Company adopted this guidance effective February 2, 2014. The adoption of this guidance did not have a material impact on the Company’s condensed consolidated financial statements.
In April 2014, the FASB issued authoritative guidance which raises the threshold for disposals to qualify as discontinued operations. Under this new guidance, a discontinued operation is (1) a component of an entity or group of components that have been disposed of or are classified as held for sale and represent a strategic shift that has or will have a major effect on an entity’s operations and financial results, or (2) an acquired business that is classified as held for sale on the acquisition date. This guidance also requires expanded or new disclosures for discontinued operations, individually material disposals that do not meet the definition of a discontinued operation, an entity’s continuing involvement with a discontinued operation following disposal and retained equity method investments in a discontinued operation. This guidance is effective for fiscal periods beginning after December 15, 2014. The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
In May 2014, the FASB issued a comprehensive new revenue recognition standard which will supersede previous existing revenue recognition guidance. The standard creates a five-step model for revenue recognition that requires companies to exercise judgment when considering contract terms and relevant facts and circumstances. The five-step model includes (1) identifying the contract, (2) identifying the separate performance obligations in the contract, (3) determining the transaction price, (4) allocating the transaction price to the separate performance obligations and (5) recognizing revenue when each performance obligation has been satisfied. The standard also requires expanded disclosures surrounding revenue recognition. The standard is effective for fiscal periods beginning after December 15, 2016 and allows for either full retrospective or modified retrospective adoption. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of the adoption of this standard on its consolidated financial statements.

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(2)
Earnings (Loss) Per Share
Basic earnings (loss) per share represents net earnings (loss) attributable to common stockholders divided by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted earnings (loss) per share represents net earnings (loss) attributable to common stockholders divided by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding, inclusive of the dilutive impact of common equivalent shares outstanding during the period. However, nonvested restricted stock awards (referred to as participating securities) are excluded from the dilutive impact of common equivalent shares outstanding in accordance with authoritative guidance under the two-class method since the nonvested restricted stockholders are entitled to participate in dividends declared on common stock as if the shares were fully vested and hence are deemed to be participating securities. Under the two-class method, earnings attributable to nonvested restricted stockholders are excluded from net earnings attributable to common stockholders for purposes of calculating basic and diluted earnings per common share. However, net losses are not allocated to nonvested restricted stockholders since they are not contractually obligated to share in the losses of the Company.
The computation of basic and diluted net earnings (loss) per common share attributable to common stockholders is as follows (in thousands, except per share data):
 
Three Months Ended
 
May 3, 2014
 
May 4, 2013
Net earnings (loss) attributable to Guess?, Inc.
$
(2,101
)
 
$
9,916

Less net earnings attributable to nonvested restricted stockholders
147

 
89

Net earnings (loss) attributable to common stockholders
$
(2,248
)
 
$
9,827

 
 
 
 
Weighted average common shares used in basic computations
84,499

 
84,582

Effect of dilutive securities:
 

 
 

Stock options and restricted stock units

 
196

Weighted average common shares used in diluted computations
84,499

 
84,778

 
 
 
 
Net earnings (loss) per common share attributable to common stockholders:
 

 
 

Basic
$
(0.03
)
 
$
0.12

Diluted
$
(0.03
)
 
$
0.12

For the three months ended May 3, 2014, there were 232,196 potentially dilutive shares that were not included in the computation of diluted weighted average common shares and common share equivalents outstanding because their effect would have been anti-dilutive given the Company’s net loss.
For the three months ended May 3, 2014 and May 4, 2013, equity awards granted for 1,213,896 and 1,353,455, respectively, of the Company’s common shares were outstanding but were excluded from the computation of diluted weighted average common shares and common share equivalents outstanding because the assumed proceeds, as calculated under the treasury method, resulted in these awards being anti-dilutive. For the three months ended May 3, 2014, the Company also excluded 259,700 nonvested stock units which are subject to the achievement of performance-based vesting conditions from the computation of diluted weighted average common shares and common share equivalents outstanding because the performance condition had not yet been achieved as of May 3, 2014. There were no nonvested stock options or units in the comparable prior-year period which remained subject to a performance condition as of May 4, 2013.
On March 14, 2011, the Company’s Board of Directors authorized a program to repurchase, from time-to-time and as market and business conditions warrant, up to $250 million of the Company’s common stock (the “2011 Share Repurchase Program”). On June 26, 2012, the Company’s Board of Directors authorized a new program to repurchase, from time-to-time and as market and business conditions warrant, up to $500 million of the Company’s common stock (the “2012 Share Repurchase Program”). The 2012 Share Repurchase Program was in addition to the 2011 Share Repurchase Program. Repurchases under programs may be made on the open market or in privately negotiated transactions, pursuant to Rule 10b5-1 trading plans or other available means. There is no minimum or maximum number of shares to be repurchased under programs and programs may be

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discontinued at any time, without prior notice. There were no share repurchases under the 2012 Share Repurchase Program during the three months ended May 3, 2014. During the three months ended May 4, 2013, the Company repurchased 882,551 shares under the 2011 and 2012 Share Repurchase Programs at an aggregate cost of $22.1 million. At May 3, 2014, the Company had remaining authority under the 2012 Share Repurchase Program to purchase $495.8 million of its common stock and no remaining authority to purchase shares under the 2011 Share Repurchase Program.
(3)
Stockholders Equity and Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests
A reconciliation of the total carrying amount of total stockholders’ equity, Guess?, Inc. stockholders’ equity and stockholders’ equity attributable to nonredeemable and redeemable noncontrolling interests for the fiscal year ended February 1, 2014 and three months ended May 3, 2014 is as follows (in thousands):
 
Stockholders’ Equity
 
 
 
Guess?, Inc.
Stockholders’
Equity
 
Nonredeemable
Noncontrolling
Interests
 
Total
 
Redeemable
Noncontrolling
Interests
Balance at February 2, 2013
$
1,086,992

 
$
13,876

 
$
1,100,868

 
$
3,144

Net earnings
153,434

 
4,277

 
157,711

 

Foreign currency translation adjustment
(17,621
)
 
(804
)
 
(18,425
)
 
(104
)
Gain on derivative financial instruments designated as cash flow hedges, net of income tax of ($237)
1,669

 

 
1,669

 

Loss on marketable securities, net of income tax of $4
(7
)
 

 
(7
)
 

SERP plan amendment, prior service cost amortization and actuarial valuation gain (loss) and related amortization, net of income tax of ($2,963)
4,619

 

 
4,619

 

Issuance of common stock under stock compensation plans, net of tax effect
2,404

 

 
2,404

 

Issuance of stock under Employee Stock Purchase Plan
980

 

 
980

 

Share-based compensation
13,949

 

 
13,949

 

Dividends
(68,215
)
 

 
(68,215
)
 

Share repurchases
(22,099
)
 

 
(22,099
)
 

Noncontrolling interest capital contribution

 

 

 
1,199

Noncontrolling interest capital distribution

 
(1,877
)
 
(1,877
)
 

Redeemable noncontrolling interest redemption value adjustment
(1,591
)
 

 
(1,591
)
 
1,591

Balance at February 1, 2014
$
1,154,514

 
$
15,472

 
$
1,169,986

 
$
5,830

Net loss
(2,101
)
 
(86
)
 
(2,187
)
 

Foreign currency translation adjustment
21,849

 
401

 
22,250

 
232

Loss on derivative financial instruments designated as cash flow hedges, net of income tax of $600
(1,554
)
 

 
(1,554
)
 

Loss on marketable securities, net of income tax of $43
(70
)
 

 
(70
)
 

SERP prior service credit and actuarial valuation amortization, net of income tax of ($67)
109

 

 
109

 

Issuance of common stock under stock compensation plans, net of tax effect
316

 

 
316

 

Issuance of stock under Employee Stock Purchase Plan
248

 

 
248

 

Share-based compensation
3,457

 

 
3,457

 

Dividends
(19,275
)
 

 
(19,275
)
 

Redeemable noncontrolling interest redemption value adjustment
255

 

 
255

 
(255
)
Balance at May 3, 2014
$
1,157,748

 
$
15,787

 
$
1,173,535

 
$
5,807


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Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
The changes in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of related income taxes, for the three months ended May 3, 2014 and May 4, 2013 are as follows (in thousands):
 
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment
 
Derivative Financial Instruments Designated as Cash Flow Hedges
 
Marketable Securities
 
SERP
 
Total
Balance at February 1, 2014
$
(7,003
)
 
$
(113
)
 
$
103

 
$
(6,788
)
 
$
(13,801
)
Gains (losses) arising during the period
21,849

 
(2,058
)
 
(16
)
 

 
19,775

Reclassification to net loss for (gains) losses realized

 
504

 
(54
)
 
109

 
559

Net other comprehensive income (loss)
21,849

 
(1,554
)
 
(70
)
 
109

 
20,334

Balance at May 3, 2014
$
14,846

 
$
(1,667
)
 
$
33

 
$
(6,679
)
 
$
6,533

 
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment
 
Derivative Financial Instruments Designated as Cash Flow Hedges
 
Marketable Securities
 
SERP
 
Total
Balance at February 2, 2013
$
10,618

 
$
(1,782
)
 
$
110

 
$
(11,407
)
 
$
(2,461
)
Gains (losses) arising during the period
(24,766
)
 
4,088

 
59

 

 
(20,619
)
Reclassification to net earnings for (gains) losses realized

 
(388
)
 

 
267

 
(121
)
Net other comprehensive income (loss)
(24,766
)
 
3,700

 
59

 
267

 
(20,740
)
Balance at May 4, 2013
$
(14,148
)
 
$
1,918

 
$
169

 
$
(11,140
)
 
$
(23,201
)
Details on reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) to net earnings (loss) during the three months ended May 3, 2014 and May 4, 2013 are as follows (in thousands):
 
Three Months Ended
 
Location of
(Gain) Loss
Reclassified from
Accumulated OCI
into Earnings (Loss)
 
May 3, 2014
 
May 4, 2013
 
Derivative financial instruments designated as cash flow hedges:
 
 
 
 
 
   Foreign exchange currency contracts
$
494

 
$
(479
)
 
Cost of sales
   Foreign exchange currency contracts
31

 
21

 
Other income/expense
      Less income tax effect
(21
)
 
70

 
Income tax expense (benefit)
 
504

 
(388
)
 
 
Marketable securities:
 
 
 
 
 
   Available-for-sale securities
(87
)
 

 
Other income/expense
      Less income tax effect
33

 

 
Income tax expense (benefit)
 
(54
)
 

 
 
SERP:
 
 
 
 
 
   Actuarial loss amortization
234

 
277

 
(1) 
   Prior service (credit) cost amortization
(58
)
 
155

 
(1) 
      Less income tax effect
(67
)
 
(165
)
 
Income tax expense (benefit)
 
109

 
267

 
 
Total reclassifications during the period
$
559

 
$
(121
)
 
 
__________________________________
(1)
These accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) components are included in the computation of net periodic pension cost. Refer to Note 13 for further information.
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests
The Company is party to a put arrangement with respect to the common securities that represent the remaining noncontrolling interest from the acquisition of its majority-owned subsidiary, Guess Sud SAS (“Guess Sud”). The put arrangement for Guess Sud, representing 40% of the total outstanding equity interest of that subsidiary, may be exercised at the discretion of the noncontrolling interest holders by providing written notice to the Company any time after January 30, 2012. The put arrangement is recorded on the balance sheet at its expected redemption

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value based on a method which approximates fair value and classified as a redeemable noncontrolling interest outside of permanent equity. The redemption value of the Guess Sud redeemable put arrangement was $4.6 million and $4.7 million at May 3, 2014 and February 1, 2014, respectively.
During fiscal 2014, the Company entered into a majority-owned joint venture to establish Guess Brasil Comércio e Distribuição S.A. (“Guess Brazil”). The Company funded $1.8 million to obtain a 60% interest in Guess Brazil and is subject to a put arrangement with respect to the common securities that represent the remaining noncontrolling interest. The put arrangement may be exercised at the discretion of the noncontrolling interest holder by providing written notice to the Company beginning in fiscal 2020, or sooner in certain limited circumstances, and every third anniversary thereafter subject to certain time restrictions. The redemption value of the Guess Brazil put arrangement is based on a multiple of Guess Brazil’s earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization subject to certain adjustments. The redemption value of the Guess Brazil redeemable put arrangement was $1.2 million and $1.1 million at May 3, 2014 and February 1, 2014, respectively.
(4)
Accounts Receivable
Accounts receivable is summarized as follows (in thousands):
 
May 3, 2014
 
Feb 1, 2014
Trade
$
239,769

 
$
291,411

Royalty
8,165

 
16,372

Other
6,764

 
8,174

 
254,698

 
315,957

Less allowance for doubtful accounts
37,157

 
39,392

 
$
217,541

 
$
276,565

Accounts receivable consists of trade receivables relating primarily to the Companys wholesale business in Europe, and to a lesser extent, to its wholesale businesses in North America and Asia, and royalty receivables relating to its licensing operations. The accounts receivable allowance includes allowances for doubtful accounts, wholesale sales returns and wholesale markdowns. Retail sales returns allowances are included in accrued expenses.
(5)
Inventories
Inventories consist of the following (in thousands):
 
May 3, 2014
 
Feb 1, 2014
Raw materials
$
11,005

 
$
10,585

Work in progress
340

 
977

Finished goods
362,078

 
339,337

 
$
373,423

 
$
350,899

As of May 3, 2014 and February 1, 2014, the Company had an allowance to write-down inventories to the lower of cost or market of $21.1 million and $23.4 million, respectively.
(6)
Restructuring Charges
During the first quarter of fiscal 2014, the Company implemented plans to streamline its structure and reduce expenses in both Europe and North America. During the second quarter of fiscal 2014, the Company expanded these plans to include the consolidation and streamlining of certain operations in Europe and Asia. There were no restructuring charges incurred during the three months ended May 3, 2014 as the actions under these plans were substantially completed during fiscal 2014. The Company does not expect significant future cash-related severance and lease termination charges related to these plans to be incurred during the remainder of fiscal 2015. During the three months ended May 4, 2013, the Company incurred restructuring charges of $2.3 million related primarily to severance costs. As of May 3, 2014, the Company had a balance of approximately $3.0 million in accrued expenses for amounts expected to be paid during the remainder of fiscal 2015. At February 1, 2014, the Company had a balance of approximately $4.6 million in accrued expenses related to these restructuring activities.

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The following table summarizes the components of the restructuring activities during the fiscal year ended February 1, 2014 and three months ended May 3, 2014 (in thousands):
 
Severance
 
Impairment and Lease Termination
 
Total
Balance at February 2, 2013
$

 
$

 
$

Charges to operations
9,206

 
3,236

 
12,442

Non-cash write-offs

 
(1,717
)
 
(1,717
)
Cash payments
(4,567
)
 
(1,492
)
 
(6,059
)
Foreign currency and other adjustments
(61
)
 
(27
)
 
(88
)
Balance at February 1, 2014
$
4,578

 
$

 
$
4,578

Cash payments
(944
)
 

 
(944
)
Foreign currency and other adjustments
(663
)
 

 
(663
)
Balance at May 3, 2014
$
2,971

 
$

 
$
2,971

(7)
Income Taxes
Income tax expense for the interim periods was computed using the effective tax rate estimated to be applicable for the full fiscal year. The Companys effective income tax rate decreased to 32.0% for the three months ended May 3, 2014 from 33.0% for the three months ended May 4, 2013.
The Company accrues an amount for its estimate of additional income tax liability which the Company, more likely than not, could incur as a result of the ultimate resolution of income tax audits (“uncertain tax positions”). The Company reviews and updates the estimates used in the accrual for uncertain tax positions as more definitive information becomes available from taxing authorities, upon completion of tax audits, upon expiration of statutes of limitation, or upon occurrence of other events.
The Company had aggregate accruals for uncertain tax positions, including penalties and interest, of $11.4 million at each of the periods ended May 3, 2014 and February 1, 2014.
(8)
Segment Information
The Company’s businesses are grouped into five reportable segments for management and internal financial reporting purposes: North American Retail, Europe, Asia, North American Wholesale and Licensing. Management evaluates segment performance based primarily on revenues and earnings (loss) from operations before restructuring charges, if any. The Company believes this segment reporting reflects how its five business segments are managed and each segment’s performance is evaluated. The North American Retail segment includes the Company’s retail and e-commerce operations in North America and its retail operations in Central and South America. The Europe segment includes the Company’s wholesale, retail and e-commerce operations in Europe and the Middle East. The Asia segment includes the Company’s wholesale, retail and e-commerce operations in Asia. The North American Wholesale segment includes the Company’s wholesale operations in North America and Central and South America. The Licensing segment includes the worldwide licensing operations of the Company. The business segment operating results exclude corporate overhead costs, which consist of shared costs of the organization, and restructuring charges. These costs are presented separately and generally include, among other things, the following unallocated corporate costs: accounting and finance, executive compensation, facilities, global advertising and marketing, human resources, information technology and legal.

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Net revenue and earnings (loss) from operations are summarized as follows for the three months ended May 3, 2014 and May 4, 2013 (in thousands):
    
 
Three Months Ended
 
May 3, 2014
 
May 4, 2013
Net revenue:
 

 
 

North American Retail
$
228,344

 
$
238,311

Europe
159,158

 
165,392

Asia
70,118

 
71,132

North American Wholesale
39,308

 
43,829

Licensing
25,613

 
30,250

Total net revenue
$
522,541

 
$
548,914

Earnings (loss) from operations:
 

 
 

North American Retail
$
(8,399
)
 
$
(4,233
)
Europe
(6,632
)
 
(5,218
)
Asia
3,353

 
6,964

North American Wholesale
7,753

 
8,649

Licensing
22,721

 
26,204

Corporate Overhead
(20,773
)
 
(18,704
)
Restructuring Charges

 
(2,337
)
Total earnings (loss) from operations
$
(1,977
)
 
$
11,325

Due to the seasonal nature of the Companys business segments, the above net revenue and operating results are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the full fiscal year. Restructuring charges incurred during the three months ended May 4, 2013 related to plans to streamline the Company’s structure and reduce expenses in Europe and North America. Refer to Note 6 for more information regarding these restructuring charges.
(9)
Borrowings and Capital Lease Obligations
Borrowings and capital lease obligations are summarized as follows (in thousands):
 
May 3, 2014
 
Feb 1, 2014
European capital lease, maturing quarterly through 2016
$
7,947

 
$
8,637

Other
794

 
3,103

 
8,741

 
11,740

Less current installments
1,829

 
4,160

Long-term capital lease obligations and other debt
$
6,912

 
$
7,580

Capital Lease
The Company entered into a capital lease in December 2005 for a building in Florence, Italy. At May 3, 2014, the capital lease obligation was $7.9 million. The Company entered into a separate interest rate swap agreement designated as a non-hedging instrument that resulted in a swap fixed rate of 3.55%. This interest rate swap agreement matures in 2016 and converts the nature of the capital lease obligation from Euribor floating-rate debt to fixed-rate debt. The fair value of the interest rate swap liability at May 3, 2014 was approximately $0.5 million.
Credit Facilities
On July 6, 2011, the Company entered into a five-year senior secured revolving credit facility with JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., Bank of America, N.A. and the other lenders party thereto (the “Credit Facility”) which provided for a $200 million revolving multicurrency line of credit. The Credit Facility is available for direct borrowings and the issuance of letters of credit, subject to certain letters of credit sublimits. It may be used for working capital and other general corporate purposes.

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On August 31, 2012, the Company increased its borrowing capacity under the Credit Facility from $200 million to $300 million by exercising the accordion feature in the Credit Facility pursuant to a Lender Joinder Agreement with the lenders party thereto. Also on August 31, 2012, the Company entered into an Amendment to the Credit Facility with the lenders party thereto to provide for (i) greater flexibility in certain of the Company’s covenants under the Credit Facility and (ii) access to a new $100 million accordion feature, subject to certain conditions and the willingness of existing or new lenders to assume such increased amount. At May 3, 2014, the Company had $1.5 million in outstanding standby letters of credit, no outstanding documentary letters of credit and no outstanding borrowings under the Credit Facility.
The Company, through its European subsidiaries, maintains short-term uncommitted borrowing agreements, primarily for working capital purposes, with various banks in Europe. The majority of the borrowings under these agreements are secured by specific accounts receivable balances. Based on the applicable accounts receivable balances at May 3, 2014, the Company could have borrowed up to $109.0 million under these agreements. At May 3, 2014, the Company had no outstanding borrowings and $0.4 million in outstanding documentary letters of credit under these agreements. The agreements are denominated primarily in euros and provide for annual interest rates ranging from 0.6% to 3.2%. The maturities of any short-term borrowings under these arrangements are generally linked to the credit terms of the underlying accounts receivable that secure the borrowings. With the exception of one facility for up to $48.6 million that has a minimum net equity requirement, there are no other financial ratio covenants.
Other
From time-to-time, the Company will obtain other financing in foreign countries for working capital to finance its local operations.
(10)
Share-Based Compensation
The following table summarizes the share-based compensation expense recognized under all of the Company’s stock plans during the three months ended May 3, 2014 and May 4, 2013 (in thousands): 
 
Three Months Ended
 
May 3, 2014

 
May 4, 2013
Stock options
$
456

 
$
573

Nonvested stock awards/units
2,938

 
1,605

Employee Stock Purchase Plan
63

 
70

Total share-based compensation expense
$
3,457

 
$
2,248

Unrecognized compensation cost, adjusted for estimated forfeitures, related to nonvested stock options and nonvested stock awards/units totaled approximately $5.1 million and $32.2 million, respectively, as of May 3, 2014. This cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.9 years. The weighted average fair values of stock options granted during the three months ended May 3, 2014 and May 4, 2013 were $6.27 and $5.92, respectively. 
Grants
On April 2, 2014, the Company made an annual grant of 365,600 stock options and 301,200 nonvested stock awards/units to its employees. On April 3, 2013, the Company made an annual grant of 416,500 stock options and 408,400 nonvested stock awards/units to its employees.
Performance Awards
On July 11, 2013, the Company granted 100,000 nonvested stock units to Paul Marciano, the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Vice Chairman of the Board, in connection with an employment agreement entered into between the Company and Mr. Paul Marciano. The nonvested stock units had an initial vesting period of seven months followed by two annual vesting periods, which were subject to the achievement of performance-based vesting conditions for the last three quarters of fiscal 2014. The Company also granted a target of 143,700 nonvested stock units to Mr. Paul Marciano, of which approximately 84% are expected to vest based on the

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achievement of performance-based conditions for the last three quarters of fiscal 2014. Such shares are scheduled to vest on February 1, 2016.
On April 8, 2014, the Company granted 100,000 nonvested stock units to Mr. Paul Marciano which have an initial vesting period of ten months followed by two annual vesting periods, subject to the achievement of performance-based vesting conditions for fiscal 2015. The Company also granted a target of 159,700 nonvested stock units to Mr. Paul Marciano on April 8, 2014. The number of shares that will ultimately vest will equal 0% to 150% of the target number of shares, subject to the achievement of performance-based vesting conditions for fiscal 2015. Such shares are scheduled to vest on January 31, 2017.
(11)
Related Party Transactions
The Company and its subsidiaries periodically enter into transactions with other entities or individuals that are considered related parties, including certain transactions with entities affiliated with trusts for the respective benefit of Paul Marciano, who is an executive of the Company, Maurice Marciano, Chairman of the Board, Armand Marciano, their brother and former executive of the Company, and certain of their children (the “Marciano Trusts”).
Leases
The Company leases warehouse and administrative facilities, including the Companys corporate headquarters in Los Angeles, California, from partnerships affiliated with the Marciano Trusts and certain of their affiliates. There were four of these leases in effect at May 3, 2014 with expiration dates ranging from 2015 to 2020.
Aggregate rent and property tax expense under these related party leases was $1.5 million for each of the three months ended May 3, 2014 and May 4, 2013. The Company believes the related party lease terms have not been significantly affected by the fact that the Company and the lessors are related.
Aircraft Arrangements
The Company periodically charters aircraft owned by MPM Financial, LLC (“MPM Financial”), an entity affiliated with the Marciano Trusts, through independent third party management companies contracted by MPM Financial to manage its aircraft. Under an informal arrangement with MPM Financial and the third party management companies, the Company has chartered, and may from time-to-time continue to charter, aircraft owned by MPM Financial at a discount from the third party management companies’ preferred customer hourly charter rates. The total fees paid under these arrangements for the three months ended May 3, 2014 were approximately $0.2 million. During the three months ended May 4, 2013, the total fees paid under these arrangements were minimal.
Consulting Arrangement
After serving for over 30 years as an executive and leader for Guess?, co-founder Maurice Marciano elected to retire from his position as executive Chairman of the Board and as an employee of the Company upon the expiration of his employment agreement on January 28, 2012. Mr. Marciano continues to serve the Company as its non-executive Chairman of the Board. In addition, under the terms of his previously existing employment agreement, the Company and Mr. Marciano entered into a two-year consulting agreement (the “Marciano Consulting Agreement”) under which Mr. Marciano provided certain consulting services to the Company, including advice and counsel to the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and other senior executives. The Marciano Consulting Agreement, which had a two-year term that commenced on January 28, 2012, provided for consulting fees of $500,000 per year and continued automobile use in a manner consistent with past practice. In January 2014, the Company extended the Marciano Consulting Agreement for an additional one-year period. Total expenses incurred with respect to the Marciano Consulting Agreement for the three months ended May 3, 2014 and May 4, 2013 were approximately $0.2 million and $0.1 million, respectively.

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Other Transactions
From time-to-time, the Company utilizes a third-party agent named Harmony Collection, LLC to produce specific apparel products on behalf of the Company. Armand Marciano, brother of Maurice and Paul Marciano, is part owner and an executive of the parent company of Harmony Collection, LLC. The total payments made by the Company under this arrangement for the three months ended May 3, 2014 and May 4, 2013 were approximately $0.3 million and $0.4 million, respectively. The Company believes that the price and transaction terms have not been significantly affected by the relationship between the parties.
These related party disclosures should be read in conjunction with the disclosure concerning related party transactions in the Companys Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended February 1, 2014.
(12)
Commitments and Contingencies
Leases
The Company leases its showrooms, advertising, licensing, sales and merchandising offices, remote distribution and warehousing facilities and retail and factory outlet store locations under operating lease agreements expiring on various dates through September 2031. Some of these leases require the Company to make periodic payments for property taxes, utilities and common area operating expenses. Certain retail store leases provide for rents based upon the minimum annual rental amount and a percentage of annual sales volume, generally ranging from 3% to 12%, when specific sales volumes are exceeded. Some leases include lease incentives, rent abatements and fixed rent escalations, which are amortized and recorded over the initial lease term on a straight-line basis. The Company also leases some of its equipment under operating lease agreements expiring at various dates through December 2018. As discussed in further detail in Note 9, the Company leases a building in Florence, Italy under a capital lease.
In March 2014, the Company amended its lease with respect to its primary U.S. distribution center based in Louisville, Kentucky to extend the term for an additional ten years, to 2024. The amendment also provides for two extension options for an additional period of five years each.
Litigation
On May 6, 2009, Gucci America, Inc. filed a complaint in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York against Guess?, Inc. and certain third-party licensees for the Company asserting, among other things, trademark and trade dress law violations and unfair competition. The complaint sought injunctive relief, compensatory damages, including treble damages, and certain other relief. Complaints similar to those in the above action have also been filed by Gucci entities against the Company and certain of its subsidiaries in the Court of Milan, Italy, the Court of Paris, France and the Intermediate People’s Court of Nanjing, China. The three week bench trial in the U.S. matter concluded on April 19, 2012, with the court issuing a preliminary ruling on May 21, 2012 and a final ruling on July 19, 2012. Although the plaintiff was seeking compensation in the U.S. matter in the form of damages of $26 million and an accounting of profits of $99 million, the final ruling provided for monetary damages of $2.3 million against the Company and $2.3 million against certain of its licensees. The court also granted narrow injunctions in favor of the plaintiff for certain of the claimed infringements. On August 20, 2012, the appeal period expired without any party having filed an appeal, rendering the judgment final. On May 2, 2013, the Court of Milan ruled in favor of the Company in the Milan, Italy matter. In the ruling, the Court rejected all of the plaintiff’s claims and ordered the cancellation of three of the plaintiff’s Italian and four of the plaintiff’s European Community trademark registrations. On June 10, 2013, the plaintiff appealed the Court’s ruling in the Milan matter. In the China matter, the Intermediate People’s Court of Nanjing, China issued a ruling on November 8, 2013 granting an injunction in favor of the plaintiff for certain of the claimed infringements on handbags and small leather goods and awarding the plaintiff statutory damages in the amount of approximately $80,000. The Company strongly disagrees with the Court’s decision and has appealed the ruling. The judgment in the China matter is stayed pending the appeal, which is expected to be heard during the second quarter of fiscal 2015.

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On August 25, 2006, Franchez Isaguirre, a former employee of the Company, filed a complaint in the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles alleging violations by the Company of California wage and hour laws. The complaint was subsequently amended, adding a second former employee as an additional named party. The plaintiffs purport to represent a class of similarly situated employees in California who allegedly had been injured by not being provided adequate meal and rest breaks. The complaint seeks unspecified compensatory damages, statutory penalties, attorney’s fees and injunctive and declaratory relief. On June 9, 2009, the Court certified the class but immediately stayed the case pending the resolution of a separate California Supreme Court case on the standards of class treatment for meal and rest break claims. Following the Supreme Court ruling, the Superior Court denied the Company’s motions to decertify the class and to narrow the class in January 2013 and June 2013, respectively. The Company subsequently petitioned to have the Court’s decision not to narrow the class definition reviewed. That petition was ultimately denied by the California Supreme Court in April 2014. No trial date has been set.
Although the Company believes that it has a strong position and will continue to vigorously defend each of these remaining matters, it is unable to predict with certainty whether or not these efforts will ultimately be successful or whether the outcomes will have a material impact on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.
The Company is also involved in various other claims and other matters incidental to the Company’s business, the resolution of which is not expected to have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position or results of operations. No material amounts were accrued as of May 3, 2014 or February 1, 2014 related to any of the Company’s legal proceedings.
(13)
Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan
The components of net periodic pension cost for the three months ended May 3, 2014 and May 4, 2013 were as follows (in thousands):    
 
Three Months Ended
 
May 3, 2014
 
May 4, 2013
Interest cost
$
572

 
$
586

Net amortization of unrecognized prior service (credit) cost
(58
)
 
155

Net amortization of actuarial losses
234

 
277

Net periodic defined benefit pension cost
$
748

 
$
1,018

In July 2013, the Company amended the SERP to limit the amount of eligible wages under the plan that count toward the SERP benefit for the active participant. As a result, the projected benefit obligation and unrecognized prior service cost were reduced by $4.5 million during fiscal 2014.
As a non-qualified pension plan, no dedicated funding of the SERP is required; however, the Company has made, and expects to continue to make, periodic payments into insurance policies held in a rabbi trust to fund the expected obligations arising under the non-qualified SERP. The amount of future payments into the insurance policies may vary, depending on any changes to the estimates of final annual compensation levels and investment performance of the trust. The cash surrender values of the insurance policies were $53.0 million and $51.4 million as of May 3, 2014 and February 1, 2014, respectively, and were included in other assets in the Company’s condensed consolidated balance sheets. As a result of changes in the value of the insurance policy investments, the Company recorded unrealized gains of $1.6 million and $1.5 million in other income during the three months ended May 3, 2014 and May 4, 2013, respectively.
(14)
Fair Value Measurements
Authoritative guidance defines fair value as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The guidance establishes a fair value hierarchy, which prioritizes the inputs used in measuring fair value into three broad levels as follows:
Level 1—Inputs are unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that can be accessed at the measurement date.

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Level 2—Inputs include quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability (i.e. interest rates, yield curves, etc.), and inputs that are derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data by correlation or other means (market corroborated inputs).
Level 3—Unobservable inputs that reflect assumptions about what market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability. These inputs would be based on the best information available, including the Company’s own data.
The following table presents the fair value hierarchy for those assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of May 3, 2014 and February 1, 2014 (in thousands):
 
 
Fair Value Measurements at May 3, 2014
 
Fair Value Measurements at Feb 1, 2014
Recurring Fair Value Measures
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
 
Total
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
 
Total
Assets:
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Foreign exchange currency contracts
 
$

 
$
41

 
$

 
$
41

 
$

 
$
2,116

 
$

 
$
2,116

Available-for-sale securities
 
5,125

 

 

 
5,125

 
5,732

 

 

 
5,732

Total
 
$
5,125

 
$
41

 
$

 
$
5,166

 
$
5,732

 
$
2,116

 
$

 
$
7,848

Liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Foreign exchange currency contracts
 
$

 
$
4,345

 
$

 
$
4,345

 
$

 
$
1,712

 
$

 
$
1,712

Interest rate swap
 

 
515

 

 
515

 

 
581

 

 
581

Deferred compensation obligations
 

 
8,125

 

 
8,125

 

 
7,498

 

 
7,498

Total
 
$

 
$
12,985

 
$

 
$
12,985

 
$

 
$
9,791

 
$

 
$
9,791

 
There were no transfers of financial instruments between the three levels of fair value hierarchy during the three months ended May 3, 2014 or during the year ended February 1, 2014.
The fair values of the Companys available-for-sale securities are based on quoted prices. The fair value of the interest rate swaps are based upon inputs corroborated by observable market data. Foreign exchange forward contracts are entered into by the Company principally to hedge the future payment of inventory and intercompany transactions by non-U.S. subsidiaries. Periodically, the Company may also use foreign currency forward contracts to hedge the translation and economic exposures related to its net investments in certain of its international subsidiaries. The fair values of the Companys foreign exchange forward contracts are based on quoted foreign exchange forward rates at the reporting date. Deferred compensation obligations to employees are adjusted based on changes in the fair value of the underlying employee-directed investments. Fair value of these obligations is based upon inputs corroborated by observable market data.
Available-for-sale securities are recorded at fair value and are included in short-term investments and other assets in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets depending on their respective maturity dates. At May 3, 2014, available-for-sale securities consisted of $5.0 million of corporate bonds which mature in September 2014 and $0.1 million of marketable equity securities. During the three months ended May 3, 2014, the Company received proceeds of $0.6 million from the sale of marketable equity securities which were classified as available-for-sale securities. The cost of securities sold was based on the specific identification method. Gains recognized during the three months ended May 3, 2014 were $0.1 million as a result of this sale and were included in other income and expense. Unrealized gains (losses), net of taxes, are included as a component of stockholders equity and comprehensive income (loss). The accumulated unrealized gains, net of taxes, included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) related to available-for-sale securities owned by the Company at May 3, 2014 were minimal.
At February 1, 2014, available-for-sale securities consisted of $5.1 million of corporate bonds and $0.6 million of marketable equity securities. The accumulated unrealized gains, net of taxes, included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) related to available-for-sale securities owned by the Company at February 1, 2014 were $0.1 million.
The carrying amount of the Companys remaining financial instruments, which principally include cash and cash equivalents, trade receivables, accounts payable and accrued expenses, approximates fair value due to the

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relatively short maturity of such instruments. The fair values of the Companys debt instruments (see Note 9) are based on the amount of future cash flows associated with each instrument discounted using the Companys incremental borrowing rate. At May 3, 2014 and February 1, 2014, the carrying value of all financial instruments was not materially different from fair value, as the interest rates on variable-rate debt including the capital lease obligation approximated rates currently available to the Company. 
Long-Lived Assets
Long-lived assets, such as property and equipment, and purchased intangibles subject to amortization, are reviewed for impairment quarterly or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. The Company considers each individual store as an asset group for impairment testing, which is the lowest level at which individual cash flows can be identified. The asset group includes store leasehold improvements, furniture, fixtures and equipment, computer hardware and software and certain long-term security deposits and lease acquisition costs. The Company reviews retail stores for impairment risk once the locations have been opened for at least one year, or sooner as changes in circumstances require. The Company believes that waiting one year allows a store to reach a maturity level where a more comprehensive analysis of financial performance can be performed.
An asset is considered to be impaired if the Company determines that the carrying value may not be recoverable based upon its assessment of the assets ability to continue to generate earnings from operations and positive cash flow in future periods or if significant changes in the Companys strategic business objectives and utilization of the assets occurred. If the carrying amount of an asset exceeds its estimated undiscounted future cash flows, an impairment charge is recognized in the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds the estimated fair value, which is determined based on discounted future cash flows. The impairment loss calculations require management to apply judgment in estimating future cash flows and the discount rates that reflect the risk inherent in future cash flows. Future expected cash flows for store assets are based on managements estimates of future cash flows over the remaining lease period or expected life, if shorter. The Company considers historical trends, expected future business trends and other factors when estimating each stores future cash flow. The Company also considers factors such as: the local environment for each store location, including mall traffic and competition; the Companys ability to successfully implement strategic initiatives; and the ability to control variable costs such as cost of sales and payroll, and in some cases, renegotiate lease costs. The estimated cash flows used for this nonrecurring fair value measurement are considered a Level 3 input as defined above. If actual results are not consistent with the assumptions and judgments used in estimating future cash flows and asset fair values, there may be additional exposure to future impairment losses that could be material to the Companys results of operations.
The Company recorded impairment charges of $0.2 million and $1.0 million during the three months ended May 3, 2014 and May 4, 2013, respectively, related primarily to the full impairment of certain under-performing retail stores in North America. These impairment charges, which exclude impairment charges incurred related to restructuring activities, were included in SG&A expenses in the Company’s condensed consolidated statements of income (loss) for each of the respective periods. Refer to Note 6 for more information regarding impairment charges related to restructuring activities.
(15)
Derivative Financial Instruments
Hedging Strategy
The Company operates in foreign countries, which exposes it to market risk associated with foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations. The Company has entered into certain forward contracts to hedge the risk of foreign currency rate fluctuations. The Company has elected to apply the hedge accounting rules in accordance with authoritative guidance for certain of these hedges.
The Company’s primary objective is to hedge the variability in forecasted cash flows due to the foreign currency risk. Various transactions that occur primarily in Europe, Canada and South Korea are denominated in U.S. dollars and British pounds and thus are exposed to earnings risk as a result of exchange rate fluctuations when converted to their functional currencies. These types of transactions include U.S. dollar denominated

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purchases of merchandise and U.S. dollar and British pound denominated intercompany liabilities. In addition, certain operating expenses and tax liabilities are denominated in Swiss francs and are exposed to earnings risk as a result of exchange rate fluctuations when converted to the functional currency. The Company enters into derivative financial instruments, including forward exchange contracts, to offset some but not all of the exchange risk on certain of these anticipated foreign currency transactions.
Periodically, the Company may also use foreign currency forward contracts to hedge the translation and economic exposures related to its net investments in certain of its international subsidiaries.
The impact of the credit risk of the counterparties to the derivative contracts is considered in determining the fair value of the foreign currency forward contracts. As of May 3, 2014, credit risk has not had a significant effect on the fair value of the Companys foreign currency contracts.
The Company also has interest rate swap agreements, which are not designated as hedges for accounting purposes, to effectively convert its floating-rate debt to a fixed-rate basis. The principal objective of these contracts is to eliminate or reduce the variability of the cash flows in interest payments associated with the Company’s variable-rate capital lease obligation, thus reducing the impact of interest rate changes on future interest payment cash flows. Refer to Note 9 for further information. 
Hedge Accounting Policy
U.S. dollar forward contracts are used to hedge forecasted merchandise purchases over specific months. Changes in the fair value of these U.S. dollar forward contracts, designated as cash flow hedges, are recorded as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) within stockholders’ equity and are recognized in cost of product sales in the period which approximates the time the hedged merchandise inventory is sold. The Company also hedges forecasted intercompany royalties over specific months. Changes in the fair value of these U.S. dollar forward contracts, designated as cash flow hedges, are recorded as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) within stockholders’ equity and are recognized in other income and expense in the period in which the royalty expense is incurred.
U.S. dollar forward contracts are also used to hedge the net investments of certain of the Company’s international subsidiaries over specific months. Changes in the fair value of these U.S. dollar forward contracts, designated as net investment hedges, are recorded in foreign currency translation adjustment as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) within stockholders’ equity and are not recognized in earnings until the sale or liquidation of the hedged net investment.
The Company also has foreign currency contracts that are not designated as hedging instruments for accounting purposes. Changes in fair value of foreign currency contracts not designated as hedging instruments are reported in net earnings as part of other income and expense.

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Summary of Derivative Instruments
The fair value of derivative instruments in the condensed consolidated balance sheets as of May 3, 2014 and February 1, 2014 was as follows (in thousands):
 
 
Derivative
Balance Sheet
Location
 
Fair Value at May 3,
2014
 
Fair Value at Feb 1,
2014
ASSETS:
 
 
 
 

 
 

Derivatives designated as hedging instruments:
 
 
 
 

 
 

Foreign exchange currency contracts:
 
 
 
 
 
 
   Cash flow hedges
 
Other current assets
 
$
41

 
$
977

Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:
 
 
 
 
 
 

Foreign exchange currency contracts
 
Other current assets
 

 
1,139

Total
 
 
 
$
41

 
$
2,116

LIABILITIES:
 
 
 
 

 
 

Derivatives designated as hedging instruments:
 
 
 
 

 
 

Foreign exchange currency contracts:
 
 
 
 
 
 
   Cash flow hedges
 
Accrued expenses
 
$
1,756

 
$
672

Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:
 
 
 
 

 
 

Foreign exchange currency contracts
 
Accrued expenses
 
2,589

 
1,040

Interest rate swaps
 
Other long-term liabilities
 
515

 
581

Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
 
 
 
3,104

 
1,621

Total
 
 
 
$
4,860

 
$
2,293

Derivatives Designated As Hedging Instruments
Cash Flow Hedges
During the three months ended May 3, 2014, the Company purchased U.S. dollar forward contracts in Canada and Europe totaling US$36.4 million and US$26.0 million, respectively, that were designated as cash flow hedges. As of May 3, 2014, the Company had forward contracts outstanding for its European and Canadian operations of US$92.1 million and US$40.6 million, respectively, to hedge forecasted merchandise purchases and intercompany royalties, which are expected to mature over the next 14 months.
The following table summarizes the gains (losses) before taxes recognized on the derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges in OCI and net earnings (loss) for the three months ended May 3, 2014 and May 4, 2013 (in thousands): 
 
Gain (Loss)
Recognized in
OCI
 
Location of
Gain (Loss)
Reclassified from
Accumulated OCI
into Earnings (Loss)(1)
 
Gain (Loss)
Reclassified from
Accumulated OCI into
Earnings (Loss)
 
Three Months Ended
May 3, 2014
 
Three Months
Ended
May 4, 2013
 
 
Three Months Ended
May 3, 2014
 
Three Months
Ended
May 4, 2013
Derivatives designated as cash flow hedges:
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

Foreign exchange currency contracts
$
(2,572
)
 
$
4,232

 
Cost of sales
 
$
(494
)
 
$
479

Foreign exchange currency contracts
$
(107
)
 
$
438

 
Other income/expense
 
$
(31
)
 
$
(21
)
 __________________________________
(1)
The ineffective portion was immaterial during the three months ended May 3, 2014 and May 4, 2013 and was recorded in net earnings (loss) and included in interest income/expense.
As of May 3, 2014, accumulated other comprehensive loss included a net unrealized loss of approximately $1.7 million, net of tax, which will be recognized in cost of product sales or other expense over the following 12 months, at the then current values on a pre-tax basis, which can be different than the current quarter-end values.

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The following table summarizes net after-tax derivative activity recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (in thousands):
 
Three Months Ended
 
May 3,
2014
 
May 4,
2013
Beginning balance loss
$
(113
)
 
$
(1,782
)
Net gains (losses) from changes in cash flow hedges
(2,058
)
 
4,088

Net (gains) losses reclassified to earnings (loss)
504

 
(388
)
Ending balance gain (loss)
$
(1,667
)
 
$
1,918

At February 1, 2014, the Company had forward contracts outstanding for its European and Canadian operations of US$87.1 million and US$15.2 million, respectively, that were designated as cash flow hedges.
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments
As of May 3, 2014, the Company had euro foreign currency contracts to purchase US$104.0 million expected to mature over the next 11 months.
The following table summarizes the gains (losses) before taxes recognized on the derivative instruments not designated as hedging instruments in other income and expense for the three months ended May 3, 2014 and May 4, 2013 (in thousands):
 
Location of
Gain (Loss)
Recognized in
Earnings (Loss)
 
Gain (Loss)
Recognized in Earnings (Loss)
 
 
Three Months Ended
May 3, 2014
 
Three Months
Ended
May 4, 2013
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:
 
 
 

 
 

Foreign exchange currency contracts
Other income/expense
 
$
(2,789
)
 
$
3,776

Interest rate swaps
Other income/expense
 
$
75

 
$
78

At February 1, 2014, the Company had euro foreign currency contracts to purchase US$111.8 million and Canadian dollar foreign currency contracts to purchase US$13.8 million.
(16)
Subsequent Events
On May 29, 2014, the Company announced a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.225 per share on the Company’s common stock. The cash dividend will be paid on June 27, 2014 to shareholders of record as of the close of business on June 11, 2014.


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ITEM 2.
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
General
Unless the context indicates otherwise, when we refer to “we,” “us,” “our” or the “Company” in this Form 10-Q, we are referring to Guess?, Inc. (“GUESS?”) and its subsidiaries on a consolidated basis.
Important Factors Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, including documents incorporated by reference herein, contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.  Forward-looking statements may also be contained in the Company’s other reports filed under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, in its press releases and in other documents. In addition, from time-to-time, the Company through its management may make oral forward-looking statements. These statements relate to analyses and other information based on forecasts of future results and estimates of amounts not yet determinable. These statements also relate to our goals, future prospects and proposed new products, services, developments or business strategies. These forward-looking statements are identified by their use of terms and phrases such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “goal,” “intend,” “may,” “outlook,” “pending,” “plan,” “predict,” “project,” “strategy,” “will,” “would,” and other similar terms and phrases, including references to assumptions.
Although we believe that the expectations reflected in any of our forward-looking statements are reasonable, actual results could differ materially from those projected or assumed. These forward-looking statements may include, among other things, statements relating to our expected results of operations, the accuracy of data relating to, and anticipated levels of, future inventory and gross margins, anticipated cash requirements and sources, cost containment efforts, restructuring charges, estimated charges, plans regarding store openings, closings and remodels, plans regarding business growth and international expansion, plans regarding supply chain efficiencies and global planning and allocation, e-commerce and omni-channel initiatives, business seasonality, results of litigation, industry trends, consumer demands and preferences, competition, currency fluctuations, estimated tax rates, results of tax audits and other regulatory proceedings, raw material and other inflationary cost pressures, consumer confidence and general economic conditions. We do not intend, and undertake no obligation, to update our forward-looking statements to reflect future events or circumstances. Such statements involve risks and uncertainties, which may cause actual results to differ materially from those set forth in these statements. Important factors that could cause or contribute to such difference include those discussed under “Part I, Item 1A. Risk Factors” contained in the Company’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 1, 2014 and in our other filings made from time-to-time with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) after the date of this report.
Business Segments
The Company’s businesses are grouped into five reportable segments for management and internal financial reporting purposes: North American Retail, Europe, Asia, North American Wholesale and Licensing. Management evaluates segment performance based primarily on revenues and earnings (loss) from operations before restructuring charges, if any. The Company believes this segment reporting reflects how its five business segments are managed and each segment’s performance is evaluated. The North American Retail segment includes the Company’s retail and e-commerce operations in North America and its retail operations in Central and South America. The Europe segment includes the Company’s wholesale, retail and e-commerce operations in Europe and the Middle East. The Asia segment includes the Company’s wholesale, retail and e-commerce operations in Asia. The North American Wholesale segment includes the Company’s wholesale operations in North America and Central and South America. The Licensing segment includes the worldwide licensing operations of the Company. The business segment operating results exclude corporate overhead costs, which consist of shared costs of the organization, and restructuring charges. These costs are presented separately and generally include, among other things, the following unallocated corporate costs: accounting and finance, executive compensation, facilities, global advertising and marketing, human resources, information technology and legal. Information relating to these segments is summarized in Note 8 to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

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Products
We derive our net revenue from the sale of GUESS?, G by GUESS, GUESS Kids and MARCIANO apparel and our licensees’ products through our worldwide network of retail stores, wholesale customers and distributors, as well as our on-line sites. We also derive royalty revenue from worldwide licensing activities.
Global Economic Conditions
Economic and market conditions have continued to be volatile and uncertain in many markets around the world and consumer behavior remains cautious. In North America, the relatively weaker levels of consumer confidence and the highly promotional conditions among retailers may persist for some time. In Europe, sovereign debt issues, government austerity programs and bank credit issues have impacted the capital markets of numerous European countries, resulting in reduced consumer confidence and discretionary spending in those countries. These circumstances have had, and could in the future have, a negative impact on our business, particularly in our more mature markets in Southern Europe. The impact could be greater in our multi-brand wholesale channel, particularly in Italy, where many customers are relatively small and are not well capitalized. While the economic environment in Southern Europe has shown signs of improvement, the turmoil in Russia and Ukraine could negatively impact our Eastern European business. We also continue to see evidence of a more cautious consumer in China, where the economy has shown clear signs of slowing, as well as a more volatile environment in South Korea.
Foreign Currency Volatility
Since the majority of our international operations are conducted in currencies other than the U.S. dollar (primarily the euro, Canadian dollar and Korean won), currency fluctuations can have a significant impact on the translation of our international revenues and earnings into U.S. dollar amounts.
During the first three months of fiscal 2015, the average U.S. dollar rate was weaker against the euro and the Korean won and stronger against the Canadian dollar compared to the average rate in the same prior-year period. This had an overall positive impact on the translation of our international revenues and a minimal impact on the translation of our loss from operations for the three months ended May 3, 2014 compared to the same prior-year period.
In addition, some of our transactions that occur primarily in Europe, Canada and South Korea are denominated in U.S. dollars, Swiss francs and British pounds, exposing them to exchange rate fluctuations when converted to their functional currencies. Fluctuations in exchange rates can impact the operating margins of our foreign operations and reported earnings and are largely dependent on the transaction timing and magnitude during the period that the currency fluctuates. If the exchange rate for the euro, Canadian dollar or Korean won weakens versus the U.S. dollar at the time U.S. dollar denominated inventory is purchased relative to the purchases of the comparable period, our product margins could be unfavorably impacted. Our product margins in Canada for the three months ended May 3, 2014 were negatively impacted as a result of exchange rate fluctuations compared to the same prior-year period. There was minimal impact on our product margins in Europe and South Korea for the three months ended May 3, 2014 as a result of exchange rate fluctuations compared to the same prior-year period.
The Company enters into derivative financial instruments to offset some but not all of the exchange risk on foreign currency transactions. For additional discussion regarding our exposure to foreign currency risk, forward contracts designated as hedging instruments and forward contracts not designated as hedging instruments, refer to “Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.”
Strategy
International Growth. Global expansion continues to be a key component of our long-term growth strategy. Our combined revenues outside of the U.S. and Canada represented approximately half of the Companys total revenues for the three months ended May 3, 2014, compared to one-fifth in fiscal 2005. We expect to continue to expand in our existing international markets, particularly in less mature markets like Germany, the Middle East and Russia. At the same time, we plan to develop in newer key markets such as Brazil and Japan.

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Productivity Improvements. One of our goals is to drive growth by enhancing the productivity of our existing operations. We will continue to focus on expanding on our omni-channel strategy, improving supply chain efficiencies and optimizing global planning and allocation. In addition, we will continue to be opportunistic with our store openings and optimize our existing store portfolio by closing select under-performing stores as lease terms permit. We will continue to regularly assess and implement initiatives that we believe will build brand equity, grow our business and enhance long-term profitability in each region.
North American Retail. In North American Retail, we plan to increase retail sales and profitability over the long-term by improving the productivity and performance of our existing stores and by leaving a larger portion of our buys open prior to each season allowing us to produce closer to market delivery. We will also continue to emphasize our e-commerce channel as we execute our omni-channel strategy. During fiscal 2015, we expect to continue with reduced store openings as well as the closure of certain under-performing stores as lease terms permit, while we focus on improving the performance of existing stores. In addition, we plan to remodel key existing locations as part of the roll-out of our new store designs.
Europe. In Europe, over the long-term, we will continue to focus on developing new markets in Northern and Eastern Europe where our brand is well known but still under-penetrated. We have flagship stores in key cities such as Barcelona, Dusseldorf, London, Milan, Munich and Paris. During fiscal 2015, we and our partners plan to continue our retail store expansion primarily in Northern and Eastern Europe as well as the Middle East, but we expect this to be partially offset by the closure of certain under-performing stores mainly in Southern Europe as lease terms permit.
Asia. We see significant long-term market opportunities in Asia and we have dedicated capital and human resources to support the regions growth and development. We and our partners have opened flagship stores in key cities such as Beijing, Hong Kong, Seoul and Shanghai, and we have partnered with licensees to develop our business in the second-tier and third-tier cities in this region. In China, where the economy has shown some signs of slowing, we see evidence of a more cautious consumer. Our strategy in South Korea, with a combined 432 stores and concessions at May 3, 2014, is to improve productivity and expand distribution for both our GUESS? and G by GUESS branded locations. We are also in the process of establishing our direct operations in Japan where we had two stores and one concession as of May 3, 2014. For the three months ended May 3, 2014, we and our partners opened 13 new stores and closed 15 stores in Asia, ending the year with 497 stores and 501 concessions. We and our partners plan to open between 90 and 95 retail stores and concessions in total across all concepts in Asia during fiscal 2015.
Capital Allocation
The Company’s investments in capital for the full fiscal year 2015 are planned between $75 million and $85 million (after deducting estimated lease incentives of approximately $5 million). The planned investments in capital are primarily for store remodeling programs in North American Retail, new store openings in North America and expansion of our retail business in Europe.
Comparable Store Sales
As a result of our omni-channel strategy, there is less distinction between our brick-and-mortar retail stores and our e-commerce sites and we believe the inclusion of e-commerce sales in our comparable store sales metric is a more meaningful representation of these results. Therefore, beginning in the first quarter of fiscal 2015, the Company began reporting National Retail Federation (“NRF”) calendar comparable store sales on a quarterly basis for our stores in the U.S. and Canada including the results of our e-commerce sites as well as separately disclosing the impact of e-commerce sales on our comparable store sales metric. A store is considered comparable after it has been open for 13 full months. If a store remodel results in a square footage change of more than 15%, or involves a relocation or a change in store concept, the store is removed from the comparable store base until it has been opened at its new size, in its new location or under its new concept for 13 full months. An e-commerce site is considered comparable after it has been operational in a country for 13 full months and would exclude any related revenue from shipping fees.

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Definitions and calculations of comparable store sales differ among companies in the apparel retail industry, and therefore comparable store sales disclosed by us may not be comparable to the comparable same store sales metric disclosed by other companies.
Other
The Company operates on a 52/53-week fiscal year calendar, which ends on the Saturday nearest to January 31 of each year. The three months ended May 3, 2014 had the same number of days as the three months ended May 4, 2013.
Executive Summary
Overview 
Net loss attributable to Guess?, Inc. was $2.1 million, or diluted loss of $0.03 per common share, for the quarter ended May 3, 2014, compared to net earnings attributable to Guess?, Inc. of $9.9 million, or diluted earnings of $0.12 per common share, for the quarter ended May 4, 2013. During the first quarter of fiscal 2014, the Company implemented plans to streamline its structure and reduce expenses in both Europe and North America which resulted in restructuring charges for the quarter ended May 4, 2013 of $2.3 million (or $1.8 million after considering the $0.6 million reduction to income tax expense as a result of the charge), or an unfavorable after-tax impact of $0.02 per share. Excluding the impact of the restructuring charges and the related tax impact, adjusted net earnings attributable to Guess?, Inc. was $11.7 million and adjusted diluted earnings was $0.14 per common share for the quarter ended May 4, 2013. References to financial results excluding the impact of the restructuring charges are non-GAAP measures and are addressed below under “Non-GAAP Measures.”
Highlights of the Company’s performance for the quarter ended May 3, 2014 compared to the same prior-year period are presented below, followed by a more comprehensive discussion under “Results of Operations”:
Operations
Total net revenue decreased 4.8% to $522.5 million for the quarter ended May 3, 2014, from $548.9 million in the same prior-year period. In constant currency, net revenue decreased by 5.6%.
Gross margin (gross profit as a percentage of total net revenue) decreased 230 basis points to 33.7% for the quarter ended May 3, 2014, compared to 36.0% in the same prior-year period.
Selling, general and administrative (“SG&A”) expenses decreased 3.0% to $178.2 million for the quarter ended May 3, 2014, compared to $183.8 million in the same prior-year period. SG&A expenses as a percentage of revenue (“SG&A rate”) increased by 60 basis points to 34.1% for the quarter ended May 3, 2014, compared to 33.5% in the same prior-year period.
The Company incurred $2.3 million in restructuring charges during the quarter ended May 4, 2013.
Loss from operations was $2.0 million for the quarter ended May 3, 2014, compared to earnings from operations of $11.3 million in the same prior-year period. Operating margin decreased by 250 basis points to negative 0.4% for the quarter ended May 3, 2014, compared to 2.1% in the same prior-year period.
Other expense, net (including interest income and expense), totaled $1.2 million for the quarter ended May 3, 2014, compared to other income, net of $5.2 million in the same prior-year period.
The effective income tax rate decreased 100 basis points to 32.0% for the quarter ended May 3, 2014, compared to 33.0% in the same prior-year period. 
Key Balance Sheet Accounts
The Company had $477.5 million in cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments as of May 3, 2014, up $164.2 million, compared to $313.3 million as of May 4, 2013.
Accounts receivable, which relates primarily to the Company’s wholesale business in Europe, and to a lesser extent, to its wholesale businesses in North America and Asia and its international licensing

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business, decreased by $33.6 million, or 13.4%, to $217.5 million at May 3, 2014, compared to $251.1 million at May 4, 2013. On a constant currency basis, accounts receivable decreased $42.1 million, or 16.8%.
Inventory decreased by $2.4 million, or 0.6%, to $373.4 million as of May 3, 2014, compared to $375.8 million as of May 4, 2013. When measured in terms of finished goods units, inventory volumes increased by 0.9% as of May 3, 2014, when compared to May 4, 2013.
Global Store Count
In the first quarter of fiscal 2015, together with our partners, we opened 28 new stores worldwide, consisting of 13 stores in Europe and the Middle East, 13 stores in Asia, one store in the U.S. and one store in South America. Together with our partners, we closed 39 stores worldwide, consisting of 17 stores in Europe and the Middle East, 15 stores in Asia, four stores in the U.S. and Canada and three stores in Central and South America.
We ended the first quarter of fiscal 2015 with 1,697 stores worldwide, comprised as follows:
Region
 
Total Stores
 
Directly
Operated Stores
 
Licensee Stores
United States and Canada
 
491

 
491

 

Europe and the Middle East
 
623

 
264

 
359

Asia
 
497

 
49

 
448

Central and South America
 
86

 
37

 
49

Total
 
1,697

 
841

 
856

This store count does not include 505 concessions located primarily in South Korea and Greater China, which have been excluded because of their smaller store size in relation to our standard international store size. Of the total 1,697 stores, 1,221 were GUESS? stores, 276 were GUESS? Accessories stores, 108 were G by GUESS stores and 92 were MARCIANO stores.
Results of Operations
Three Months Ended May 3, 2014 and May 4, 2013
Consolidated Results
Net Revenue. Net revenue decreased by $26.4 million, or 4.8%, to $522.5 million for the quarter ended May 3, 2014, from $548.9 million for the quarter ended May 4, 2013. In constant currency, net revenue decreased by 5.6% as currency translation fluctuations relating to our foreign operations favorably impacted net revenue by $4.2 million compared to the same prior-year period. The decrease in revenue was driven primarily by lower European wholesale shipments and negative comparable store sales in North American Retail, partially offset by the favorable impact on revenue from expansion of our directly operated retail business in Europe.
Gross Profit. Gross profit decreased by $21.2 million, or 10.7%, to $176.2 million for the quarter ended May 3, 2014, from $197.4 million in the same prior-year period, due primarily to the unfavorable impact from lower wholesale sales in Europe, negative comparable store sales in North American Retail and lower overall product margins.
Gross margin decreased 230 basis points to 33.7% for the quarter ended May 3, 2014, from 36.0% in the same prior-year period, due to a higher occupancy rate and lower overall product margins. The higher occupancy rate was driven by lower wholesale shipments in Europe and negative comparable store sales in North American Retail. Product margins declined due primarily to more markdowns in North American Retail.
The Company’s gross margin may not be comparable to that of other entities since some entities include all of the costs related to their distribution in cost of product sales and others, like the Company, generally exclude wholesale-related distribution costs from gross margin, including them instead in SG&A expenses. Additionally, some entities include retail store occupancy costs in SG&A expenses and others, like the Company, include retail store occupancy costs, including rent and depreciation, in cost of product sales.

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Selling, General and Administrative Expenses. SG&A expenses decreased by $5.6 million, or 3.0%, to $178.2 million for the quarter ended May 3, 2014, from $183.8 million in the same prior-year period. The decrease in SG&A expenses, which included the unfavorable impact of currency translation, was due primarily to lower general and administrative expenses, lower selling and merchandising expenses in Europe and lower investments in advertising and marketing.
The Company’s SG&A rate increased by 60 basis points to 34.1% for the quarter ended May 3, 2014, from 33.5% in the same prior-year period, due primarily to the negative impact on the Company’s fixed cost structure resulting from a decline in European wholesale shipments and negative comparable store sales in North American Retail, partially offset by lower general and administrative expenses and lower selling and merchandising expenses in Europe.
Restructuring Charges. During the first quarter of fiscal 2014, the Company implemented plans to streamline its structure and reduce expenses in both Europe and North America which resulted in restructuring charges of $2.3 million incurred during the quarter ended May 4, 2013.
Earnings (Loss) from Operations.  Loss from operations was $2.0 million for the quarter ended May 3, 2014, compared to earnings from operations of $11.3 million in the same prior-year period. Currency translation fluctuations relating to our foreign operations unfavorably impacted loss from operations by $0.3 million.
Operating margin decreased 250 basis points to negative 0.4% for the quarter ended May 3, 2014, compared to 2.1% in the same prior-year period. Operating margin was negatively impacted by lower overall gross margins and a higher SG&A rate, partially offset by restructuring charges incurred during the same prior-year period.
Interest Expense, Net. Interest expense, net was $0.1 million for the quarter ended May 3, 2014, compared to interest expense, net of $0.2 million for the quarter ended May 4, 2013, and includes the impact of hedge ineffectiveness of foreign currency forward contracts designated as cash flow hedges.
Other Income (Expense), Net. Other expense, net was $1.1 million for the quarter ended May 3, 2014, compared to other income, net of $5.5 million in the same prior-year period. Other expense, net in the quarter ended May 3, 2014 consisted primarily of net unrealized and realized mark-to-market revaluation losses on foreign currency contracts, partially offset by net unrealized gains on non-operating assets. Other income, net in the quarter ended May 4, 2013 consisted primarily of net unrealized mark-to-market revaluation gains on foreign currency contracts and net unrealized gains on non-operating assets.
Income Tax Expense (Benefit).  Income tax benefit for the quarter ended May 3, 2014 was $1.0 million, or a 32.0% effective tax rate, compared to income tax expense of $5.5 million, or a 33.0% effective tax rate, in the same prior-year period. Generally, income taxes for the interim periods are computed using the effective tax rate estimated to be applicable for the full fiscal year which is subject to ongoing review and evaluation by management. The effective income tax rate for the three months ended May 4, 2013 included the impact of $2.3 million in restructuring charges recorded during the first quarter of fiscal 2014. This unfavorably impacted the mix of taxable earnings among the Company’s tax jurisdictions, resulting in an increase in the effective income tax rate for the first quarter of fiscal 2014 of 110 basis points.
Net Earnings (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests. Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests for the quarter ended May 3, 2014 was $0.1 million, net of taxes, compared to net earnings attributable to noncontrolling interests of $1.2 million, net of taxes, in the same prior-year period.
Net Earnings (Loss) Attributable to Guess?, Inc. Net loss attributable to Guess?, Inc. was $2.1 million for the quarter ended May 3, 2014, compared to net earnings attributable to Guess?, Inc. of $9.9 million in the same prior-year period. Diluted loss per share was $0.03 for the quarter ended May 3, 2014, compared to diluted earnings per share of $0.12 for the quarter ended May 4, 2013. The results for the quarter ended May 4, 2013 included the unfavorable $0.02 per share after-tax impact of the restructuring charges. Excluding the impact of the restructuring charges and the related tax impact, adjusted net earnings attributable to Guess?, Inc. was $11.7 million and adjusted diluted earnings was $0.14 per common share for the quarter ended May 4, 2013. References to financial results excluding the impact of the restructuring charges are non-GAAP measures and are addressed below under “Non-GAAP Measures.”

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Information by Business Segment
The following table presents our net revenue and earnings (loss) from operations by segment for the three months ended May 3, 2014 and May 4, 2013:
 
Three Months Ended
 
 
 
 
 
May 3, 2014
 
May 4, 2013
 
Change
 
% Change
 
(dollars in thousands)
 
 
Net revenue:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
North American Retail
$
228,344

 
$
238,311

 
$
(9,967
)
 
(4.2
%)
Europe
159,158

 
165,392

 
(6,234
)
 
(3.8
)
Asia
70,118

 
71,132

 
(1,014
)
 
(1.4
)
North American Wholesale
39,308

 
43,829

 
(4,521
)
 
(10.3
)
Licensing
25,613

 
30,250

 
(4,637
)
 
(15.3
)
Total net revenue
$
522,541

 
$
548,914

 
$
(26,373
)
 
(4.8
%)
Earnings (loss) from operations:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
North American Retail
$
(8,399
)
 
$
(4,233
)
 
$
(4,166
)
 
(98.4
%)
Europe
(6,632
)
 
(5,218
)
 
(1,414
)
 
(27.1
)
Asia
3,353

 
6,964

 
(3,611
)
 
(51.9
)
North American Wholesale
7,753

 
8,649

 
(896
)
 
(10.4
)
Licensing
22,721

 
26,204

 
(3,483
)
 
(13.3
)
Corporate Overhead
(20,773
)
 
(18,704
)
 
(2,069
)
 
11.1

Restructuring Charges

 
(2,337
)
 
2,337

 
 
Total earnings (loss) from operations
$
(1,977
)
 
$
11,325

 
$
(13,302
)
 
(117.5
%)
Operating margins:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
North American Retail
(3.7
%)
 
(1.8
%)
 
 
 
 
Europe
(4.2
%)
 
(3.2
%)
 
 
 
 
Asia
4.8
%
 
9.8
%
 
 
 
 
North American Wholesale
19.7
%
 
19.7
%
 
 
 
 
Licensing
88.7
%
 
86.6
%
 
 
 
 
Total Company
(0.4
%)
 
2.1
%
 
 
 
 
North American Retail
Net revenue from our North American Retail operations decreased by $10.0 million, or 4.2%, to $228.3 million for the quarter ended May 3, 2014, from $238.3 million in the same prior-year period. The decrease in revenue was driven by negative comparable store sales of 3.8% for our combined U.S. and Canadian stores including the results of our e-commerce sites (negative 2.3% in constant currency, which also excludes the unfavorable translation impact of currency fluctuations relating to our Canadian retail stores). The inclusion of our e-commerce sales improved the comparable store sale percentage by 3.3% in U.S. dollars and constant currency. The store base for the U.S. and Canada decreased by an average of 18 net stores during the quarter ended May 3, 2014 compared to the same prior-year period, resulting in a 1.8% net decrease in average square footage. Currency translation fluctuations relating to our non-U.S. retail stores unfavorably impacted net revenue by $3.8 million.
Loss from operations for the North American Retail segment was $8.4 million for the quarter ended May 3, 2014, compared to loss from operations of $4.2 million in the same prior-year period. The decline reflects the impact on earnings from negative comparable store sales and lower product margins.
Operating margin decreased 190 basis points to negative 3.7% for the quarter ended May 3, 2014, compared to negative 1.8% in the same prior-year period. The decrease was driven by the negative impact on the fixed cost structure resulting from negative comparable store sales and lower product margins due primarily to more markdowns and the unfavorable impact of currencies on product costs in Canada. These decreases were partially offset by lower store selling expenses, lower general and administrative expenses and lower investments in advertising and marketing.
In the first quarter of fiscal 2015, we opened one new store and closed four stores in the U.S. and Canada. At May 3, 2014, we directly operated 491 stores in the U.S. and Canada, comprised of 175 full-priced GUESS?

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retail stores, 135 GUESS? factory outlet stores, 80 G by GUESS stores, 51 GUESS? Accessories stores and 50 MARCIANO stores. This compares to 511 stores as of May 4, 2013.
Europe
Net revenue from our Europe operations decreased by $6.2 million, or 3.8%, to $159.2 million for the quarter ended May 3, 2014, from $165.4 million in the same prior-year period. In local currency, net revenue decreased by 8.1% versus the same prior-year period. The decrease in revenue was driven primarily by lower shipments in our European wholesale business. This decrease was partially offset by the favorable impact on revenue from the expansion of our directly operated retail business and a percentage increase in the low single digits for comparable store sales in our directly operated retail stores versus the same prior-year period. At May 3, 2014, we directly operated 264 stores in Europe compared to 248 stores at May 4, 2013, excluding concessions, which represents a 6.5% increase over the prior-year first quarter end. Currency translation fluctuations relating to our European operations favorably impacted net revenue by $7.2 million.
Loss from operations from our Europe segment increased by $1.4 million, or 27.1%, to $6.6 million for the quarter ended May 3, 2014, from loss from operations of $5.2 million in the same prior-year period. The increase resulted primarily from the negative impact on earnings from lower wholesale shipments, partially offset by lower selling and merchandising expenses and higher overall product margins.
Operating margin decreased 100 basis points to negative 4.2% for the quarter ended May 3, 2014, compared to negative 3.2% in the same prior-year period. The decrease in operating margin was driven primarily by the negative impact on the fixed cost structure resulting from lower wholesale shipments, partially offset by higher overall product margins due primarily to improved inventory management compared to the same prior-year period and lower selling and merchandising expenses.
Asia
Net revenue from our Asia operations decreased by $1.0 million, or 1.4%, to $70.1 million for the quarter ended May 3, 2014, from $71.1 million in the same prior-year period. In constant currency, net revenue decreased by 4.3% versus the same prior-year period. The decrease was due to lower wholesale shipments in our Southeast Asia and Greater China businesses, partially offset by growth in our South Korea business driven primarily by retail expansion. We continued to grow our operations in Asia, where we and our partners operated 497 stores and 501 concessions at May 3, 2014, compared to 469 stores and 441 concessions as of May 4, 2013. Currency translation fluctuations relating to our Asia operations favorably impacted net revenue by $2.0 million.
Earnings from operations for the Asia segment decreased by $3.6 million, or 51.9%, to $3.4 million for the quarter ended May 3, 2014, from $7.0 million in the same prior-year period. The decrease was driven by the unfavorable impact on earnings from lower overall gross margins.
Operating margin decreased 500 basis points to 4.8% for the quarter ended May 3, 2014, compared to 9.8% in the same prior-year period. The decrease in operating margin was driven by lower overall gross margins due primarily to inventory liquidation in South Korea.
North American Wholesale
Net revenue from our North American Wholesale operations decreased by $4.5 million, or 10.3%, to $39.3 million for the quarter ended May 3, 2014, from $43.8 million in the same prior-year period. In constant currency, net revenue decreased by 7.7% compared to the same prior-year period. This decrease was driven by lower revenue in our U.S. and Canadian wholesale businesses driven by lower off-price shipments. Currency translation fluctuations relating to our non-U.S. wholesale businesses unfavorably impacted net revenue in our North American Wholesale segment by $1.1 million.
Earnings from operations from our North American Wholesale segment decreased by $0.9 million, or 10.4%, to $7.8 million for the quarter ended May 3, 2014, from $8.6 million in the same prior-year period. The decrease was due primarily to the unfavorable impact to earnings from lower revenue.
Operating margin was flat at 19.7% for the quarter ended May 3, 2014, compared to the same prior-year period.

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Licensing
Net royalty revenue from Licensing operations decreased by $4.6 million, or 15.3%, to $25.6 million for the quarter ended May 3, 2014, from $30.3 million in the same prior-year period. The decrease was driven primarily by the anniversary of certain one-time royalty benefits in the same prior-year period and lower sales in our handbag and eyewear categories.
Earnings from operations from our Licensing segment decreased by $3.5 million, or 13.3%, to $22.7 million for the quarter ended May 3, 2014, from $26.2 million in the same prior-year period. The decrease was driven primarily by the unfavorable impact to earnings from lower revenue.
Corporate Overhead
Unallocated corporate overhead increased by $2.1 million to $20.8 million for the quarter ended May 3, 2014, from $18.7 million in the same prior-year period. The increase was driven primarily by higher performance-based compensation.
Non-GAAP Measures
The Company’s reported financial results are presented in accordance with GAAP. The reported net earnings attributable to Guess?, Inc. and diluted earnings per share for the quarter ended May 4, 2013 reflect the impact of restructuring charges which affects the comparability of those reported results. Those financial results are also presented on a non-GAAP basis, as defined in Section 10(e) of Regulation S-K of the SEC, to exclude the effect of this item. The Company has excluded these restructuring charges, and related tax impact, from its adjusted financial measures primarily because it does not believe such charges reflect the Company’s ongoing operating results or future outlook. The Company believes that these “non-GAAP” or “adjusted” financial measures are useful as an additional means for investors to evaluate the comparability of the Company’s operating results when reviewed in conjunction with the Company’s GAAP financial statements. The non-GAAP measures are provided in addition to, and not as alternatives for, the Company’s reported GAAP results. 
The adjusted measures for the quarter ended May 4, 2013 exclude the impact of restructuring charges. During the first quarter of fiscal 2014, the Company implemented plans to streamline its structure and reduce expenses in both Europe and North America which resulted in restructuring charges of $2.3 million (or $1.8 million after considering the $0.6 million reduction to income tax expense as a result of the charge), or an unfavorable after-tax impact of $0.02 per share in the quarter ended May 4, 2013. Net earnings attributable to Guess?, Inc. for the quarter ended May 4, 2013 was $9.9 million and diluted earnings per common share for the quarter ended May 4, 2013 was $0.12. Excluding the impact of the restructuring charges and the related tax impact, adjusted net earnings attributable to Guess?, Inc. for the quarter ended May 4, 2013 was $11.7 million and adjusted diluted earnings per common share for the quarter ended May 4, 2013 was $0.14.
Our discussion and analysis herein also includes certain constant currency financial information. Foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations affect the amount reported from translating the Company’s foreign revenues and expenses into U.S. dollars. These rate fluctuations can have a significant effect on reported operating results under GAAP. The Company provides constant currency information to enhance the visibility of underlying business trends, excluding the effects of changes in foreign currency translation rates. To calculate revenues and earnings from operations on a constant currency basis, operating results for the current-year period are translated into U.S. dollars at the average exchange rates in effect during the comparable period of the prior year. The constant currency calculations do not adjust for the impact of revaluing specific transactions denominated in a currency that is different to the functional currency of that entity when exchange rates fluctuate. The constant currency information presented may not be comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other companies.

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Liquidity and Capital Resources
We need liquidity primarily to fund our working capital, the expansion and remodeling of our retail stores, shop-in-shop programs, concessions, systems, infrastructure, other existing operations, international growth, potential acquisitions, potential share repurchases and payment of dividends to our stockholders. During the three months ended May 3, 2014, the Company relied primarily on trade credit, available cash, real estate leases, short-term lines of credit and internally generated funds to finance our operations and expansion. The Company anticipates that we will be able to satisfy our ongoing cash requirements during the next twelve months for working capital, capital expenditures, interest and principal payments on our debt, potential acquisitions, potential share repurchases and any dividend payments to stockholders, primarily with cash flow from operations and existing cash balances supplemented by borrowings, as necessary, under our existing Credit Facility and bank facilities in Europe, as described below under “—Credit Facilities.”
As of May 3, 2014, the Company had cash and cash equivalents of $472.5 million and short-term investments of $5.1 million. Approximately 68% of the Company’s cash and cash equivalents were held outside of the U.S. As of May 3, 2014, we have not provided for U.S. federal and state income taxes on the undistributed earnings of our foreign subsidiaries, since such earnings are considered indefinitely reinvested outside the United States. If in the future we decide to repatriate such earnings, we would incur incremental U.S. federal and state income tax, reduced by allowable foreign tax credits. However, our intent is to keep these funds indefinitely reinvested outside of the United States and our current plans do not indicate a need to repatriate them to fund our U.S. operations. Due to the complexities associated with the hypothetical calculation, including the availability of foreign tax credits, it is not practicable to determine the unrecognized deferred tax liability related to the undistributed earnings.
Excess cash and cash equivalents, which represent the majority of our outstanding cash and cash equivalents balance, are held primarily in overnight deposit and short-term time deposit accounts and four diversified money market funds. The money market funds are AAA rated by national credit rating agencies and are generally comprised of high-quality, liquid investments. Please see “—Important Factors Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” and “Part I, Item 1A. Risk Factors” contained in the Company’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 1, 2014 for a discussion of risk factors which could reasonably be likely to result in a decrease of internally generated funds available to finance capital expenditures and working capital requirements.
The Company has presented below the cash flow performance comparison of the three months ended May 3, 2014, versus the three months ended May 4, 2013.
Operating Activities
Net cash used in operating activities was $0.2 million for the three months ended May 3, 2014, compared to net cash provided by operating activities of $31.7 million for the three months ended May 4, 2013, or a decrease of $31.9 million. The decrease was driven primarily by the unfavorable impact of changes in working capital and lower net earnings for the three months ended May 3, 2014 versus the same prior-year period. The change in working capital was driven primarily by the unfavorable impact from timing of payments.
Investing Activities
Net cash used in investing activities was $17.1 million for the three months ended May 3, 2014, compared to $10.1 million for the three months ended May 4, 2013. Cash used in investing activities related primarily to capital expenditures incurred on existing store remodeling programs in North American Retail and Europe. In addition, the settlement of forward currency contracts designated as hedging instruments and proceeds from the sale of investments are also included in cash flows used in investing activities.
The increase in cash used in investing activities was driven primarily by cash receipts from other assets during the same prior-year period. During the three months ended May 3, 2014, the Company opened nine directly operated stores compared to 15 directly operated stores that were opened in the comparable prior-year period. During the three months ended May 4, 2013, the Company also acquired four stores from one of our European licensees.

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Financing Activities
Net cash used in financing activities was $22.1 million for the three months ended May 3, 2014, compared to $37.9 million for the three months ended May 4, 2013. The decrease in net cash used in financing activities was due primarily to repurchases of shares of the Company’s common stock during the three months ended May 4, 2013.
Effect of Exchange Rates on Cash
During the three months ended May 3, 2014, changes in foreign currency translation rates increased our reported cash and cash equivalents balance by $9.0 million. This compares to a decrease of $6.3 million in cash and cash equivalents driven by changes in foreign currency translation rates during the three months ended May 4, 2013.
Working Capital
At May 3, 2014, the Company had net working capital (including cash and cash equivalents) of $838.0 million compared to $846.1 million at February 1, 2014 and $714.8 million at May 4, 2013. The Company’s primary working capital needs are for accounts receivable and inventory. Accounts receivable at May 3, 2014 amounted to $217.5 million, down $33.6 million, compared to $251.1 million at May 4, 2013. The accounts receivable balance relates primarily to the Company’s wholesale business in Europe, and to a lesser extent, to its wholesale businesses in North America and Asia and its international licensing business. On a constant currency basis, accounts receivable decreased by $42.1 million, or 16.8%, when compared to May 4, 2013. The decrease in accounts receivable was driven primarily by lower European wholesale shipments during the three months ended May 3, 2014 compared to the same prior-year period. As of May 3, 2014, approximately 61% of our total net trade receivables were insured for collection purposes or subject to certain bank guarantees or letters of credit. In Europe, approximately 81% of our net trade receivables were insured for collection purposes or subject to certain bank guarantees or letters of credit. Inventory at May 3, 2014 decreased to $373.4 million, or 0.6%, compared to $375.8 million at May 4, 2013. When measured in terms of finished goods units, inventory volumes increased by 0.9% as of May 3, 2014, when compared to May 4, 2013.
Dividends
During the first quarter of fiscal 2008, the Company announced the initiation of a quarterly cash dividend of $0.06 per share of the Company’s common stock. Since that time, the Company has continued to pay a quarterly cash dividend, which has subsequently increased to $0.225 per common share.
On May 29, 2014, the Company announced a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.225 per share on the Company’s common stock. The cash dividend will be paid on June 27, 2014 to shareholders of record as of the close of business on June 11, 2014.
The payment of cash dividends in the future will be at the discretion of our Board of Directors and will be based upon a number of business, legal and other considerations, including our cash flow from operations, capital expenditures, debt service requirements, cash paid for income taxes, earnings, share repurchases, economic conditions and liquidity.
Capital Expenditures
Gross capital expenditures totaled $17.3 million, before deducting lease incentives of $1.4 million, for the three months ended May 3, 2014. This compares to gross capital expenditures of $17.3 million, before deducting lease incentives of $0.3 million, for the three months ended May 4, 2013. The Company’s investments in capital for the full fiscal year 2015 are planned between $75 million and $85 million (after deducting estimated lease incentives of approximately $5 million). The planned investments in capital are primarily for store remodeling programs in North American Retail, new store openings in North America and expansion of our retail business in Europe.
In addition, we periodically evaluate strategic acquisitions and alliances and pursue those that we believe will support and contribute to our overall growth initiatives.

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Credit Facilities
On July 6, 2011, the Company entered into a five-year senior secured revolving credit facility with JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., Bank of America, N.A. and the other lenders party thereto (the “Credit Facility”) which provided for a $200 million revolving multicurrency line of credit. The Credit Facility is available for direct borrowings and the issuance of letters of credit, subject to certain letters of credit sublimits. It may be used for working capital and other general corporate purposes.
On August 31, 2012, the Company increased its borrowing capacity under the Credit Facility from $200 million to $300 million by exercising the accordion feature in the Credit Facility pursuant to a Lender Joinder Agreement with the lenders party thereto. Also on August 31, 2012, the Company entered into an Amendment to the Credit Facility with the lenders party thereto to provide for (i) greater flexibility in certain of the Company’s covenants under the Credit Facility and (ii) access to a new $100 million accordion feature, subject to certain conditions and the willingness of existing or new lenders to assume such increased amount. At May 3, 2014, the Company had $1.5 million in outstanding standby letters of credit, no outstanding documentary letters of credit and no outstanding borrowings under the Credit Facility.
The Credit Facility requires the Company to comply with a leverage ratio and a fixed charge coverage ratio. In addition, the Credit Facility contains customary covenants, including covenants that limit or restrict the Company and its subsidiaries’ ability to: incur liens, incur indebtedness, make investments, dispose of assets, make certain restricted payments, merge or consolidate and enter into certain transactions with affiliates. The Credit Facility also limits the Company’s ability to pay dividends unless immediately after giving effect thereto the aggregate amount of unrestricted cash and cash equivalents held by Guess?, Inc. and its domestic subsidiaries is at least $50 million. The Company may need to borrow against this facility periodically to ensure it will continue to meet the requirements of this covenant. Upon the occurrence of an event of default under the Credit Facility, the lenders may cease making loans, terminate the Credit Facility and declare all amounts outstanding to be immediately due and payable. The Credit Facility specifies a number of events of default (some of which are subject to applicable grace or cure periods), including, among other things, non-payment defaults, covenant defaults, cross-defaults to other material indebtedness, bankruptcy and insolvency defaults and material judgment defaults. The Credit Facility allows for both secured and unsecured borrowings outside of the Credit Facility up to specified amounts.
The Company, through its European subsidiaries, maintains short-term uncommitted borrowing agreements, primarily for working capital purposes, with various banks in Europe. The majority of the borrowings under these agreements are secured by specific accounts receivable balances. Based on the applicable accounts receivable balances at May 3, 2014, the Company could have borrowed up to $109.0 million under these agreements. At May 3, 2014, the Company had no outstanding borrowings and $0.4 million in outstanding documentary letters of credit under these agreements. The agreements are denominated primarily in euros and provide for annual interest rates ranging from 0.6% to 3.2%. The maturities of any short-term borrowings under these arrangements are generally linked to the credit terms of the underlying accounts receivable that secure the borrowings. With the exception of one facility for up to $48.6 million that has a minimum net equity requirement, there are no other financial ratio covenants.
The Company entered into a capital lease in December 2005 for a building in Florence, Italy. At May 3, 2014, the capital lease obligation was $7.9 million. The Company entered into a separate interest rate swap agreement designated as a non-hedging instrument that resulted in a swap fixed rate of 3.55%. This interest rate swap agreement matures in 2016 and converts the nature of the capital lease obligation from Euribor floating-rate debt to fixed-rate debt. The fair value of the interest rate swap liability at May 3, 2014 was approximately $0.5 million.
From time-to-time, the Company will obtain other financing in foreign countries for working capital to finance its local operations.

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Share Repurchases
On March 14, 2011, the Company’s Board of Directors authorized a program to repurchase, from time-to-time and as market and business conditions warrant, up to $250 million of the Company’s common stock (the “2011 Share Repurchase Program”). On June 26, 2012, the Company’s Board of Directors authorized a new program to repurchase, from time-to-time and as market and business conditions warrant, up to $500 million of the Company’s common stock (the “2012 Share Repurchase Program”). The 2012 Share Repurchase Program was in addition to the 2011 Share Repurchase Program. Repurchases under programs may be made on the open market or in privately negotiated transactions, pursuant to Rule 10b5-1 trading plans or other available means. There is no minimum or maximum number of shares to be repurchased under programs and programs may be discontinued at any time, without prior notice. There were no share repurchases under the 2012 Share Repurchase Program during the three months ended May 3, 2014. During the three months ended May 4, 2013, the Company repurchased 882,551 shares under the 2011 and 2012 Share Repurchase Programs at an aggregate cost of $22.1 million. At May 3, 2014, the Company had remaining authority under the 2012 Share Repurchase Program to purchase $495.8 million of its common stock and no remaining authority to purchase shares under the 2011 Share Repurchase Program.
Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan
On August 23, 2005, the Board of Directors of the Company adopted a Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan (“SERP”) which became effective January 1, 2006. The SERP provides select employees who satisfy certain eligibility requirements with certain benefits upon retirement, termination of employment, death, disability or a change in control of the Company, in certain prescribed circumstances. Paul Marciano, Chief Executive Officer and Vice Chairman of the Board, is the only active employee participating in the SERP.
As a non-qualified pension plan, no dedicated funding of the SERP is required; however, the Company has made, and expects to continue to make, periodic payments into insurance policies held in a rabbi trust to fund the expected obligations arising under the non-qualified SERP. The amount of future payments into the insurance policies may vary, depending on any changes to the estimates of final annual compensation levels and investment performance of the trust. The cash surrender values of the insurance policies were $53.0 million and $51.4 million as of May 3, 2014 and February 1, 2014, respectively, and were included in other assets in the Company’s condensed consolidated balance sheets. As a result of changes in the value of the insurance policy investments, the Company recorded unrealized gains of $1.6 million and $1.5 million in other income during the three months ended May 3, 2014 and May 4, 2013, respectively. The projected benefit obligation was $55.3 million and $54.7 million at May 3, 2014 and February 1, 2014, respectively, and was included in accrued expenses and other long-term liabilities in the Company’s condensed consolidated balance sheets depending on the expected timing of payments.
Inflation
The Company does not believe that inflation trends in the U.S. and internationally over the last three years have had a significant effect on net revenue or profitability.
Seasonality
The Company’s business is impacted by the general seasonal trends characteristic of the apparel and retail industries. The U.S., European and Canadian retail operations are generally stronger during the second half of the fiscal year, and the North American wholesale operations generally experience stronger performance from July through November. The European wholesale businesses operate with two primary selling seasons: the Spring/Summer season, which ships from November to April and the Fall/Winter season, which ships from May to October. The Company’s goal in the European wholesale business is to take advantage of early-season demand and potential reorders by offering a pre-collection assortment which ships at the beginning of each season. Customers retain the ability to request early shipment of backlog orders or delay shipment of orders depending on their needs.

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Wholesale Backlog
We generally receive orders for fashion apparel three to six months prior to the time the products are delivered to our customers’ stores. The backlog of wholesale orders at any given time is affected by various factors, including seasonality, cancellations, the scheduling of market weeks, the timing of the receipt of orders and the timing of the shipment of orders and may include orders for multiple seasons. Accordingly, a comparison of backlogs of wholesale orders from period to period is not necessarily meaningful and may not be indicative of eventual actual shipments.
U.S. and Canada Backlog. Our U.S. and Canadian wholesale backlog as of May 24, 2014, consisting primarily of orders for fashion apparel, was $75.8 million, compared to $61.4 million in constant currency at May 25, 2013, an increase of 23.5%. We estimate that if we were to normalize the orders for the scheduling of market weeks the current backlog would have increased by 0.1% compared to the prior year.
Europe Backlog. As of May 25, 2014, the European wholesale backlog was €230.9 million, compared to €260.2 million at May 26, 2013, a decrease of 11.3%. The backlog as of May 25, 2014 is comprised of sales orders for the Spring/Summer 2014, Fall/Winter 2014 and Spring/Summer 2015 seasons.
Application of Critical Accounting Policies
Our critical accounting policies reflecting our estimates and judgments are described in “Part II. Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended February 1, 2014 filed with the SEC on March 28, 2014. There have been no significant changes to our critical accounting policies during the three months ended May 3, 2014.
Recently Issued Accounting Guidance
In April 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued authoritative guidance which raises the threshold for disposals to qualify as discontinued operations. Under this new guidance, a discontinued operation is (1) a component of an entity or group of components that have been disposed of or are classified as held for sale and represent a strategic shift that has or will have a major effect on an entity’s operations and financial results, or (2) an acquired business that is classified as held for sale on the acquisition date. This guidance also requires expanded or new disclosures for discontinued operations, individually material disposals that do not meet the definition of a discontinued operation, an entity’s continuing involvement with a discontinued operation following disposal and retained equity method investments in a discontinued operation. This guidance is effective for fiscal periods beginning after December 15, 2014. The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
In May 2014, the FASB issued a comprehensive new revenue recognition standard which will supersede previous existing revenue recognition guidance. The standard creates a five-step model for revenue recognition that requires companies to exercise judgment when considering contract terms and relevant facts and circumstances. The five-step model includes (1) identifying the contract, (2) identifying the separate performance obligations in the contract, (3) determining the transaction price, (4) allocating the transaction price to the separate performance obligations and (5) recognizing revenue when each performance obligation has been satisfied. The standard also requires expanded disclosures surrounding revenue recognition. The standard is effective for fiscal periods beginning after December 15, 2016 and allows for either full retrospective or modified retrospective adoption. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of the adoption of this standard on its consolidated financial statements.

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ITEM 3.
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.
Exchange Rate Risk
More than half of product sales and licensing revenue recorded for the three months ended May 3, 2014 were denominated in currencies other than the U.S. dollar. The Company’s primary exchange rate risk relates to operations in Europe, Canada and South Korea. Changes in currencies affect our earnings in various ways. For further discussion on currency related risk, please refer to our risk factors under “Part 1, Item 1A. Risk Factors” contained in the Company’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 1, 2014.
Various transactions that occur primarily in Europe, Canada and South Korea are denominated in U.S. dollars and British pounds and thus are exposed to earnings risk as a result of exchange rate fluctuations when converted to their functional currencies. These types of transactions include U.S. dollar denominated purchases of merchandise and U.S. dollar and British pound denominated intercompany liabilities. In addition, certain operating expenses and tax liabilities are denominated in Swiss francs and are exposed to earnings risk as a result of exchange rate fluctuations when converted to the functional currency. The Company is also subject to certain translation and economic exposures related to its net investment in certain of its international subsidiaries. The Company enters into derivative financial instruments to offset some but not all of its exchange risk. In addition, some of the derivative contracts in place will create volatility during the fiscal year as they are marked-to-market according to the accounting rules and may result in revaluation gains or losses in different periods from when the currency impact on the underlying transactions are realized.
Derivatives Designated As Hedging Instruments 
Cash Flow Hedges
During the three months ended May 3, 2014, the Company purchased U.S. dollar forward contracts in Canada and Europe totaling US$36.4 million and US$26.0 million, respectively, that were designated as cash flow hedges. As of May 3, 2014, the Company had forward contracts outstanding for its European and Canadian operations of US$92.1 million and US$40.6 million, respectively, to hedge forecasted merchandise purchases and intercompany royalties, which are expected to mature over the next 14 months. The Company’s derivative financial instruments are recorded in its condensed consolidated balance sheet at fair value based on quoted market rates. Changes in the fair value of the U.S. dollar forward contracts, designated as cash flow hedges for forecasted merchandise purchases, are recorded as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) within stockholders’ equity and are recognized in cost of product sales in the period which approximates the time the hedged merchandise inventory is sold. Changes in the fair value of the U.S. dollar forward contracts, designated as cash flow hedges for forecasted intercompany royalties, are recorded as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) within stockholders’ equity and are recognized in other income and expense in the period in which the royalty expense is incurred.
As of May 3, 2014, accumulated other comprehensive loss included a net unrealized loss of approximately $1.7 million, net of tax, which will be recognized in cost of product sales or other expense over the following 12 months, at the then current values on a pre-tax basis, which can be different than the current quarter-end values. At May 3, 2014, the net unrealized loss of the remaining open forward contracts recorded in the Company’s condensed consolidated balance sheet was approximately $1.7 million.
At February 1, 2014, the Company had forward contracts outstanding for its European and Canadian operations of US$87.1 million and US$15.2 million, respectively, that were designated as cash flow hedges. At February 1, 2014, the net unrealized gain of these open forward contracts recorded in the Company’s condensed consolidated balance sheet was approximately $0.3 million.
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments
The Company also has foreign currency contracts that are not designated as hedging instruments for accounting purposes. Changes in fair value of foreign currency contracts not designated as hedging instruments are reported in net earnings as part of other income and expense. For the three months ended May 3, 2014, the Company recorded a net loss of $2.8 million for its euro and Canadian dollar foreign currency contracts not

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designated as hedges, which has been included in other expense. As of May 3, 2014, the Company had euro foreign currency contracts to purchase US$104.0 million expected to mature over the next 11 months. At May 3, 2014, the net unrealized loss of these open forward contracts recorded in the Company’s condensed consolidated balance sheet was approximately $2.6 million.
At February 1, 2014, the Company had euro foreign currency contracts to purchase US$111.8 million and Canadian dollar foreign currency contracts to purchase US$13.8 million. At February 1, 2014, the net unrealized gain of these open forward contracts recorded in the Company’s condensed consolidated balance sheet was approximately $0.1 million.
Sensitivity Analysis
At May 3, 2014, a sensitivity analysis of changes in foreign currencies when measured against the U.S. dollar indicates that, if the U.S. dollar had uniformly weakened by 10% against all of the U.S. dollar denominated foreign exchange derivatives totaling US$236.7 million, the fair value of the instruments would have decreased by $26.3 million. Conversely, if the U.S. dollar uniformly strengthened by 10% against all of the U.S. dollar denominated foreign exchange derivatives, the fair value of these instruments would have increased by $21.5 million. Any resulting changes in the fair value of the hedged instruments may be partially offset by changes in the fair value of certain balance sheet positions (primarily U.S. dollar denominated liabilities in our foreign operations) impacted by the change in the foreign currency rate. The ability to reduce the exposure of currencies on earnings depends on the magnitude of the derivatives compared to the balance sheet positions during each reporting cycle.
Interest Rate Risk
At May 3, 2014, approximately 91% of the Company’s total indebtedness related to a capital lease obligation, which is covered by a separate interest rate swap agreement with a swap fixed interest rate of 3.55% that matures in 2016. Changes in the related interest rate that result in an unrealized gain or loss on the fair value of the swap are reported in other income or expense. The change in the unrealized fair value of the interest swap decreased other expense, net by $0.1 million during the three months ended May 3, 2014. The majority of the Company’s remaining indebtedness is at variable rates of interest. Accordingly, changes in interest rates would impact the Company’s results of operations in future periods. A 100 basis point increase in interest rates would have had an insignificant effect on interest expense for the three months ended May 3, 2014.
The fair value of the Company’s debt instruments are based on the amount of future cash flows associated with each instrument discounted using the Company’s incremental borrowing rate. At May 3, 2014 and February 1, 2014, the carrying value of all financial instruments was not materially different from fair value, as the interest rate on the Company’s debt approximates rates currently available to the Company.
ITEM 4. Controls and Procedures.
Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, we conducted an evaluation of our disclosure controls and procedures, as such term is defined under Rule 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Based on this evaluation, our principal executive officer and our principal financial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of the end of the quarterly period covered by this report.
There was no change in our internal control over financial reporting during the first quarter of fiscal 2015, that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
In May 2013, the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (“COSO”) issued an updated version of its Internal Control-Integrated Framework (“2013 framework”). The originally issued framework (“1992 framework”) remains available during the transition period, which extends to December 15, 2014, after which time the COSO will consider it superseded by the 2013 framework. As of May 3, 2014, the Company continued to utilize the 1992 framework and plans to transition to the 2013 framework during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2015. The Company does not expect significant changes to its overall internal control structure over financial reporting to result from the transition to the 2013 framework.

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PART II.  OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM 1.
Legal Proceedings.
Litigation
On May 6, 2009, Gucci America, Inc. filed a complaint in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York against Guess?, Inc. and certain third-party licensees for the Company asserting, among other things, trademark and trade dress law violations and unfair competition. The complaint sought injunctive relief, compensatory damages, including treble damages, and certain other relief. Complaints similar to those in the above action have also been filed by Gucci entities against the Company and certain of its subsidiaries in the Court of Milan, Italy, the Court of Paris, France and the Intermediate People’s Court of Nanjing, China. The three week bench trial in the U.S. matter concluded on April 19, 2012, with the court issuing a preliminary ruling on May 21, 2012 and a final ruling on July 19, 2012. Although the plaintiff was seeking compensation in the U.S. matter in the form of damages of $26 million and an accounting of profits of $99 million, the final ruling provided for monetary damages of $2.3 million against the Company and $2.3 million against certain of its licensees. The court also granted narrow injunctions in favor of the plaintiff for certain of the claimed infringements. On August 20, 2012, the appeal period expired without any party having filed an appeal, rendering the judgment final. On May 2, 2013, the Court of Milan ruled in favor of the Company in the Milan, Italy matter. In the ruling, the Court rejected all of the plaintiff’s claims and ordered the cancellation of three of the plaintiff’s Italian and four of the plaintiff’s European Community trademark registrations. On June 10, 2013, the plaintiff appealed the Court’s ruling in the Milan matter. In the China matter, the Intermediate People’s Court of Nanjing, China issued a ruling on November 8, 2013 granting an injunction in favor of the plaintiff for certain of the claimed infringements on handbags and small leather goods and awarding the plaintiff statutory damages in the amount of approximately $80,000. The Company strongly disagrees with the Court’s decision and has appealed the ruling. The judgment in the China matter is stayed pending the appeal, which is expected to be heard during the second quarter of fiscal 2015.
On August 25, 2006, Franchez Isaguirre, a former employee of the Company, filed a complaint in the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles alleging violations by the Company of California wage and hour laws. The complaint was subsequently amended, adding a second former employee as an additional named party. The plaintiffs purport to represent a class of similarly situated employees in California who allegedly had been injured by not being provided adequate meal and rest breaks. The complaint seeks unspecified compensatory damages, statutory penalties, attorney’s fees and injunctive and declaratory relief. On June 9, 2009, the Court certified the class but immediately stayed the case pending the resolution of a separate California Supreme Court case on the standards of class treatment for meal and rest break claims. Following the Supreme Court ruling, the Superior Court denied the Company’s motions to decertify the class and to narrow the class in January 2013 and June 2013, respectively. The Company subsequently petitioned to have the Court’s decision not to narrow the class definition reviewed. That petition was ultimately denied by the California Supreme Court in April 2014. No trial date has been set.
Although the Company believes that it has a strong position and will continue to vigorously defend each of these remaining matters, it is unable to predict with certainty whether or not these efforts will ultimately be successful or whether the outcomes will have a material impact on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.
The Company is also involved in various other claims and other matters incidental to the Company’s business, the resolution of which is not expected to have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position or results of operations. No material amounts were accrued as of May 3, 2014 or February 1, 2014 related to any of the Company’s legal proceedings.
ITEM 1A. Risk Factors.
There have not been any material changes from the Risk Factors as previously disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended February 1, 2014, filed with the SEC on March 28, 2014.

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ITEM 2.
Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds.
Items (a) and (b) are not applicable.
Item (c).  Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
Period
Total 
Number
of Shares
Purchased
 
Average 
Price
Paid
per Share
 
Total Number of 
Shares
Purchased as Part of
Publicly 
Announced
Plans or Programs
 
Maximum Number 
(or Approximate 
Dollar Value)
of Shares That May
Yet Be Purchased
Under the Plans
or Programs
February 2, 2014 to March 1, 2014
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Repurchase program(1)

 

 

 
$
495,786,484

Employee transactions(2)
1,133

 
$
28.48

 

 

March 2, 2014 to April 5, 2014
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Repurchase program(1)

 

 

 
$
495,786,484

Employee transactions(2)
274

 
$
27.82

 

 

April 6, 2014 to May 3, 2014
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Repurchase program(1)

 

 

 
$
495,786,484

Employee transactions(2)
438

 
$
27.69

 

 

Total
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Repurchase program(1)

 

 

 
 
Employee transactions(2)
1,845

 
$
28.19

 

 
 
 
________________________________
(1) 
On June 26, 2012, the Company’s Board of Directors authorized a program to repurchase, from time-to-time and as market and business conditions warrant, up to $500 million of the Company’s common stock. Repurchases under the program may be made on the open market or in privately negotiated transactions, pursuant to Rule 10b5-1 trading plans or other available means. There is no minimum or maximum number of shares to be repurchased under the program, which may be discontinued at any time, without prior notice.
(2) 
Consists of shares surrendered to, or withheld by, the Company in satisfaction of employee tax withholding obligations that occur upon vesting of restricted stock awards/units granted under the Company’s 2004 Equity Incentive Plan, as amended.

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ITEM 6.
Exhibits.
Exhibit
Number
 
Description
3.1.
 
Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Registrant (incorporated by reference from Amendment No. 3 to the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (Registration No. 333-4419) filed July 30, 1996).
3.2.
 
Second Amended and Restated Bylaws of the Registrant (incorporated by reference from the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed December 4, 2007).
4.1.
 
Specimen Stock Certificate (incorporated by reference from Amendment No. 3 to the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (Registration No. 333-4419) filed July 30, 1996).
†10.1.
 
Employment Letter Agreement dated as of March 14, 2013 between the Registrant and Sharleen Ernster.*
†10.2.
 
Restricted Stock Unit Agreement dated as of April 8, 2014 between the Registrant and Paul Marciano.*
†10.3.
 
Performance Share Award Agreement dated as of April 8, 2014 between the Registrant and Paul Marciano.*
10.4.
 
2004 Equity Incentive Plan (Amended and Restated as of May 20, 2014) (incorporated by reference from Appendix A to the Registrant’s Definitive Proxy Statement on Form 14A filed May 28, 2014).*
†31.1.
 
Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Vice Chairman of the Board pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
†31.2.
 
Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
†32.1.
 
Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Vice Chairman of the Board pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
†32.2.
 
Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
†101.INS
 
XBRL Instance Document
†101.SCH
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
†101.CAL
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document
†101.DEF
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document
†101.LAB
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document
†101.PRE
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document
_______________________________________________________________________________
*
Management Contract or Compensatory Plan
Filed herewith


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SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
 
 
Guess?, Inc.
 
 
 
 
Date:
June 6, 2014
By:
/s/ PAUL MARCIANO
 
 
 
Paul Marciano
 
 
 
Chief Executive Officer and Vice Chairman of the Board
 
 
 
 
Date:
June 6, 2014
By:
/s/ SANDEEP REDDY
 
 
 
Sandeep Reddy
 
 
 
Chief Financial Officer
 
 
 
(Principal Financial Officer)


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