10-Q 1 d10q.htm FORM 10-Q Form 10-Q

UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549-0001

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 August 4, 2001
   
OR
   
(   ) 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: 0-23760
   
American Eagle Outfitters, Inc.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
     
Delaware   No. 13-2721761
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)   (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
     
150 Thorn Hill Drive, Warrendale, PA   15086-7528
(Address of principal executive offices)   (Zipcode)
     
(724) 776-4857
(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 the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer's classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.

Common stock, $.01 par value, 71,972,971 shares outstanding as of August 31, 2001.

    AMERICAN EAGLE OUTFITTERS, INC.
    TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION PAGE NO.
       
Item 1. Financial Statements
  Consolidated Balance Sheets  
  August 4, 2001 (Unaudited) and February 3, 2001 3
    Consolidated Statements of Operations (Unaudited)  
    Three and six months ended August 4, 2001 and July 29, 2000 4
  Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited)
  Six months ended August 4, 2001 and July 29, 2000 5-6
    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 7-11
  Review By Independent Accountants 12
    Independent Accountants' Review Report 12
       

Item 2.

Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations 13-15
       
Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk N/A
       
PART II. OTHER INFORMATION
       
Item 1. Legal Proceedings N/A
       
Item 2. Changes in Securities N/A
       
Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities N/A
       
Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders 16
       
Item 5. Other Information N/A
       
Item 6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K 16
       
Signatures 17
       
Exhibit 15 Acknowledgement of Independent Accountants 18

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION           AMERICAN EAGLE OUTFITTERS, INC.
Item 1. Financial Statements                               CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

  (Dollars in thousands) August 4,
2001
February 3,
2001


      Assets
Current assets: (Unaudited)
             
   Cash and cash equivalents $ 75,497 $ 133,446
   Short-term investments 27,927
   Merchandise inventory 145,095 84,064
   Accounts and note receivable, including related party 13,859 29,466
   Prepaid expenses and other 23,582 18,864
   Deferred income taxes 36,417 24,894


Total current assets 294,450 318,661


Fixed assets:
   Land 1,855 1,855
   Buildings 10,531 10,266
   Fixtures and equipment 120,223 93,186
   Leasehold improvements 175,099 134,930


307,708 240,237
   Less: Accumulated depreciation and amortization 72,026 56,864


235,682 183,373


Goodwill, net of accumulated amortization 24,625 26,123
Deferred income taxes 9,203 10,129
Other assets, net of accumulated amortization 6,343 4,760


Total assets $ 570,303 $ 543,046


Liabilities and stockholders’ equity
Current liabilities:
   Accounts payable $ 45,384 $ 42,038
   Current portion of note payable 4,204 4,300
   Accrued compensation and payroll taxes 20,150 25,549
   Accrued rent 23,495 22,577
   Accrued income and other taxes 9,509 29,719
   Unredeemed stored value cards and gift certificates 7,064 13,085
   Other liabilities and accrued expenses 11,815 11,879


Total current liabilities 121,621 149,147
Commitments and contingencies
Note payable 22,229 24,889
Other non-current liabilities 1,321 1,315
 
 
 
Total noncurrent liabilities 23,550 26,204
 
 
 
Stockholders’ equity:
   Preferred stock
   Common stock 718 704
   Contributed capital 154,238 118,709
   Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (219 ) 354
   Retained earnings 305,143 274,292


459,880 394,059


Less: Deferred compensation 10,979 4,025
      Treasury stock 23,769 22,339


Total stockholders’ equity 425,132 367,695


Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 570,303 $ 543,046


See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

AMERICAN EAGLE OUTFITTERS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(Unaudited)
(In thousands, except per share amounts)

   

Three Months Ended

 

Six Months Ended



   

August 4,
2001

 

July 29,
2000

 

August 4,
2001

 

July 29,
2000

 
 
 
 

Net sales

$

292,392

$

208,977

$

543,940

$

386,976

                       

Cost of sales, including certain buying, occupancy
      and warehousing
expenses

 

184,403

 

145,387

 

334,081

 

253,330

 
 
 
 

Gross profit

 

107,989

 

63,590

 

209,859

 

133,646

Selling, general and administrative expenses

 

75,284

 

55,016

 

144,899

 

101,723

Depreciation and amortization

 

9,851

 

4,952

 

17,949

 

9,243

 
 
 
 

Operating income

 

22,854

 

3,622

 

47,011

 

22,680

Other income, net

 

876

 

948

 

1,845

 

2,661

 
 
 
 

Income before income taxes

 

23,730

 

4,570

 

48,856

 

25,341

Provision for income taxes

 

8,424

 

1,793

 

18,005

 

9,956

 
 
 
 

Net income

$

15,306

$

2,777

$

30,851

$

15,385

 
 
 
 
                       

Basic earnings per common share

$

0.21

$

0.04

$

0.43

$

0.22

 
 
 
 

Diluted earnings per common share

$

0.21

$

0.04

$

0.42

$

0.21

 
 
 
 

Weighted average common shares outstanding - basic

 

71,537

 

69,429

 

71,187

 

69,863

 
 
 
 

Weighted average common shares outstanding - diluted

 

74,586

 

71,366

 

74,185

 

72,305

 
 
 
 

Retained earnings, beginning

$

289,837

$

193,142

$

274,292

$

180,534

Net income

 

15,306

 

2,777

 

30,851

 

15,385

 
 
 
 
Retained earnings, ending $ 305,143   $ 195,919   $ 305,143   $ 195,919
 
 
 
 

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

AMERICAN EAGLE OUTFITTERS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(Unaudited)
(Dollars In thousands)

      Six Months Ended
       
         

August 4,
2001

 

July 29,
2000

 
   
 

Operating activities:

       
               

Net income

$

30,851

$

15,385

               

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash used for operating activities:

       
             
     

Depreciation and amortization

 

17,949

 

9,243

     

Loss on impairment and write-off of fixed assets

 

1,706

 

504

     

Stock compensation

 

1,434

 

299

     

Deferred income taxes

 

(10,673

)  

(3,029

)

Changes in assets and liabilities:

       
     

Merchandise inventory

 

(61,181

)  

(28,185

)
     

Accounts and note receivable

 

14,385

 

(15,075

)
     

Prepaid expenses and other

 

(6,500

)  

(10,706

)
     

Accounts payable

 

6,589

 

19,050

     

Unredeemed stored value cards

 

(6,007

)  

(3,362

)
     

Accrued liabilities

 

(11,407

)  

(10,991

)
       
   
 
       

    Total adjustments

 

(53,705

)  

(42,252

)
 
   
 

Net cash used for operating activities

 

(22,854

)  

(26,867

)
 
   
 

Investing activities:

       

Capital expenditures

 

(72,745

)  

(46,626

)

Purchase of an import services company, Blue Star Imports

 

 

(8,500

)

Purchase of short-term investments

 

(6,953

)  

(28,442

)

Sale of short-term investments

 

34,880

 

74,200

Other investing activities

 

(5,905

)  

 
   
 

Net cash used for investing activities

 

(50,723

)  

(9,368

)
 
   
 
Financing activities:              

Repurchase of common stock

 

 

(22,339

)

Net proceeds from stock options exercised

 

15,111

 

1,858

Other financing activities

 

907

 

 
   
 

Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities

 

16,018

 

(20,481

)
 
   
 

Effect of exchange rates on cash

 

(390

)  

Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents

 

(57,949

)  

(56,716

)
 
   
 

Cash and cash equivalents – beginning of period

 

133,446

 

76,581

 
   
 
Cash and cash equivalents – end of period $ 75,497     $ 19,865  
 
   
 

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

AMERICAN EAGLE OUTFITTERS, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

1.   Interim Financial Statements

The accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements of American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. (the "Company") at August 4, 2001 and for the three and six month periods ended August 4, 2001 (the "current period") and July 29, 2000 (the "prior period") have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by generally accepted accounting principles for complete financial statements. In the opinion of management, all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring accruals) considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included. The Consolidated Balance Sheet at February 3, 2001 was derived from the audited financial statements. The Company's business is affected by the pattern of seasonality common to most retail apparel businesses. The results for the current and prior periods are not necessarily indicative of future financial results.

Certain notes and other information have been condensed or omitted from the interim Consolidated Financial Statements presented in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. Therefore, these Consolidated Financial Statements should be read in conjunction with the Company's Fiscal 2000 Annual Report.

2.   Basis of Presentation

Fiscal Year

The Company's financial year is a 52/53 week year that ends on the Saturday nearest to January 31. For tax purposes, the Company reports on a July year-end. As used herein, "Fiscal 2002", "Fiscal 2001" and "Fiscal 2000" refers to the fifty-two week periods ending February 1, 2003, February 2, 2002 and the fifty-three week period ended February 3, 2001, respectively.

Principles of Consolidation

The Consolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of the Company and its subsidiaries. The results of operations of the acquired Canadian businesses are included in the Consolidated Financial Statements beginning October 29, 2000. All intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation.

Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. On an ongoing basis, management reviews its estimates based on currently available information. Changes in facts and circumstances may result in revised estimates.

Recent Financial Accounting Developments

In June 2001, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued SFAS No. 141, Business Combinations, and SFAS No. 142, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2001. Under the new standards, goodwill and intangible assets deemed to have indefinite lives will no longer be amortized but will be subject to annual impairment tests. Other intangible assets will continue to be amortized over their useful lives.

The Company will apply the new standards on accounting for goodwill and other intangible assets beginning in the first quarter of Fiscal 2002. During Fiscal 2002, the Company will perform the required impairment tests of goodwill and indefinite lived intangible assets. The Company has not yet determined what the effect of these tests will be on its earnings and financial position.

Foreign Currency Translation

The Canadian dollar is the functional currency for the Canadian operations. In accordance with SFAS Statement No. 52, Foreign Currency Translation, assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies were translated into U.S. dollars at the exchange rate prevailing at the

balance sheet date. Revenues and expenses denominated in foreign currencies were translated into U.S. dollars (the reporting currency) at the monthly average exchange rate for the period. Gains or losses resulting from foreign currency transactions are included in the results of operations, whereas, related translation adjustments are reported as an element of other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes, in accordance with SFAS Statement No. 130, Reporting Comprehensive Income (See Note 6 of the Consolidated Financial Statements).

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash includes cash equivalents. The Company considers all highly liquid investments purchased with a maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents.

Short-Term Investments

Cash in excess of operating requirements is invested in marketable equity or government debt obligations. Short-term investments include investments with an original maturity of greater than three months.

Capital Structure

At the Company's Annual Meeting of Stockholders on June 5, 2001, the shareholders approved the increase in the number of authorized shares of common stock from 150,000,000 to 250,000,000 common shares at $.01 par value. The Company has 73,796,219 and 72,228,716 shares issued and 71,942,466 and 70,418,966 shares outstanding as of August 4, 2001 and February 3, 2001, respectively. The Company has 5,000,000 preferred shares authorized at $.01 par value, with none issued or outstanding at August 4, 2001.

Earnings Per Share

The following table shows the amounts used in computing earnings per share and the effect on income per share and the weighted average number of shares of dilutive potential common stock (stock options and restricted stock).

(In thousands) Three Months Ended
  Six Months Ended
                       
   

August 4,
2001


   

July 29,
2000


   

August 4,
2001


   

July 29,
2000


                       

Net income

$

15,306

  $

2,777

  $

30,851

  $

15,385




 

Weighted average common shares outstanding:
    Basic shares

 

71,537

   

69,429

   

71,187

   

69,863

Dilutive effect of stock options and non-vested     restricted stock

 

3,049

   

1,937

   

2,998

   

2,442


 
 

Diluted shares

 

74,586

 

71,366

 

74,185

 

72,305


 
 
 

Reclassification

Certain reclassifications have been made to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the prior periods in order to conform to the August 4, 2001 presentation.

3.   Supplemental Disclosures of Cash Flow Information

(Dollars in thousands)    
  For the Six Months Ended
           
August 4, 2001
July 29, 2000
           
Cash paid for interest $ 993 $
Income tax payments $ 40,793 $ 20,100
Increases to contributed capital related
to the tax benefits associated with the
exercise and vesting of stock options
and restricted stock
$ 12,482 $ 1,900

4.   Related Party Transactions

The Company has various transactions with related parties. The nature of the relationship with each party is primarily through common ownership. The Company has an operating lease for its corporate headquarters and distribution center with an affiliate. The lease which expires on December 31, 2020, provides for annual rental payments of approximately $2.0 million through 2000, $2.4 million through 2005, $2.6 million through 2015, and $2.7 million through the end of the lease.

In addition, the Company and its subsidiaries sell merchandise to various related parties.

Related party amounts follow:

 

(Dollars in thousands)      
  Three Months Ended
  Six Months Ended
                     
   

August 4,
2001


   

July 29,
2000


   

August 4,
2001


 

July 29,
2000


                     

Accounts receivable

$

408

 

$

8,370

 

$

408

$

8,370

Rent expense

$

482

 

$

624

 

$

1,217

$

1,288

Merchandise sales

$

1,449

 

$

8,562

 

$

2,191

$

9,338

In connection with the liquidation of the Braemar inventory, the Company engaged the services of a related party consultant. The agreement was in effect until July 2001, when all Braemar stores closed and were turned over to the Company for conversion to American Eagle stores (See Note 8 of the Consolidated Financial Statements). For the three and six months ended August 4, 2001, the Company paid $0.5 million and $1.2 million, respectively, to the consultant, excluding reimbursement of direct expenses. At August 4, 2001, the Company has a related accounts payable balance of $0.6 million under this agreement.

5.   Accounts Receivable

Accounts and note receivable is comprised of the following:

(Dollars in thousands)    
           
August 4, 2001
February 3,
2001

           
Accounts receivable – construction allowances $ 3,575 $ 7,346
           
Related party accounts receivable   408   2,149
           
Note receivable   3,581   5,904
           
Accounts and notes receivable – other 6,295 14,067


Total $ 13,859 $ 29,466


6.   Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

Other comprehensive income (loss) is comprised of the following:

(Dollars in thousands)        
  Three Months Ended
    Six Months Ended
                           
   

August 4,
2001


     

July 29,
2000


   

August 4,
2001


     

July 29,
2000


                           
Net Income $ 15,306     $ 2,777   $ 30,851     $ 15,385
  Unrealized gain on investments and reclassification     adjustment, net of tax         969           237
  Foreign currency translation adjustment, net of tax   628           11      

 

Unrealized derivative losses on cash flow hedge, net of tax   (107 ) (230 )




Other comprehensive gain (loss), net of tax   521       969     (219 ) 237




Total comprehensive income $ 15,827     $ 3,746   $ 30,632 $ 15,622




7.   Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities

The Company adopted SFAS No. 133, "Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities", as amended, (SFAS No.133) on February 4, 2001, the beginning of Fiscal 2001. SFAS No. 133 requires the transition adjustment from adoption to be reported in net income or other comprehensive income (loss), as appropriate, as the cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle. In accordance with the transition provisions of SFAS No. 133, the Company recorded a cumulative transition adjustment to decrease other comprehensive income (loss) by approximately $0.3 million, net of related tax effects, to recognize the fair value of its derivative instruments as of the date of adoption.

The Company utilizes an interest rate swap to manage interest rate risk. The derivative effectively changes the interest rate on the borrowings under the non-revolving term facility from a variable rate to a fixed rate. The Company recognizes its derivative on the balance sheet at fair value at the end of each period. Changes in the fair value of the derivative that is designated and meets all the required criteria for a cash flow hedge are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). During the quarter ended August 4, 2001, unrealized net losses on derivative instruments of approximately $0.1 million, net of related tax effects, were recorded in other comprehensive income (loss).

8.   Exit Cost Accrual

In connection with the acquisition of the three divisions of Dylex Limited, the Company announced its intention to convert certain retail locations to American Eagle retail stores. Management finalized and approved a plan related to the conversion during Fiscal 2000. The Company accrued approximately $7.3 million in exit costs consisting primarily of operating losses of the discontinued businesses, lease costs, and severance costs. The conversion plan is expected to be completed during the third quarter of Fiscal 2001.

The following table summarizes the changes in the exit cost accrual for the six months ended August 4, 2001.

(Dollars in thousands)
For the six months ended August 4, 2001
Reserve balance at
February 3, 2001

Payments
Reallocation of
Reserve Balance

Reserve balance at
August 4, 2001

Operating Losses $ 4,166 $ 4,231 $ 65 $
Lease Costs

2,662

2,662
Severance Costs 439 223 (65 ) 151




Total $ 7,267 $ 4,454 $ $ 2,813




The exit cost accrual was estimated and may be adjusted as new facts become evident. However, management does not believe that any potential changes would be material.

9.   Contingency

During Fiscal 2000, a senior executive assumed a new position within the Company. As a result of this change, the Company accelerated the vesting on grants covering 780,000 shares of stock for this individual. This acceleration does not result in additional compensation expense unless this executive ceases employment with the Company prior to the original vesting dates. As of August 4, 2001, under the original terms of this executive's option agreements, 442,500 shares would have been unvested which would have resulted in compensation expense reducing net income by $5.8 million.

10.   Income Taxes

For the three and six months ended August 4, 2001, the effective tax rate used for the provision of income tax approximated 36% and 37%, respectively. For the three and six months July 29, 2000, the effective tax rate used for the provision of income tax approximated 39%.

11.     Legal Proceedings

The Company is a party to ordinary routine litigation incidental to its business. Management does not expect the results of the litigation to be material to the financial statements individually or in the aggregate.

Review by Independent Accountants

Ernst & Young LLP, our independent accountants, have performed a limited review of the Consolidated Financial Statements for the three month periods ended August 4, 2001 and July 29, 2000, as indicated in their report on the limited review included below. Since they did not perform an audit, they express no opinion on the Consolidated Financial Statements referred to above. Management has given effect to any significant adjustments and disclosures proposed in the course of the limited review.

Independent Accountants' Review Report

The Board of Directors and Stockholders
American Eagle Outfitters, Inc.

We have reviewed the accompanying consolidated balance sheet of American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. as of August 4, 2001, and the related consolidated statements of operations for the three and six month periods ended August 4, 2001 and July 29, 2000 and the consolidated statements of cash flows for the six month periods ended August 4, 2001 and July 29, 2000. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management.

We conducted our reviews in accordance with standards established by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. A review of interim financial information consists principally of applying analytical procedures to financial data and making inquiries of persons responsible for financial and accounting matters. It is substantially less in scope than an audit conducted in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States, which will be performed for the full year with the objective of expressing an opinion regarding the financial statements taken as a whole. Accordingly, we do not express such an opinion.

Based on our reviews, we are not aware of any material modifications that should be made to the accompanying consolidated financial statements referred to above for them to be in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles.

We have previously audited, in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States, the consolidated balance sheet of American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. as of February 3, 2001, and the related consolidated statements of operations and cash flows for the year then ended (not presented herein) and in our report dated March 9, 2001 we expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements. In our opinion, the information set forth in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet as of February 3, 2001, is fairly stated, in all material respects, in relation to the consolidated financial statements from which it has been derived.

/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
August 16, 2001

Item 2.     Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

Comparison of three months ended August 4, 2001 to the three months ended July 29, 2000

Net sales increased 39.9% to $292.4 million from $209.0 million for the same period last year. The increase was primarily attributable to new stores, remodeled stores and nonstore sales, and the addition of the Thriftys/Bluenotes and American Eagle stores in Canada. Our favorable sales performance was driven by a 14.4% increase in units sold and a 3.1% increase in prices in our American Eagle stores in the United States.

Comparable store sales increased 4.6% when compared to the same period last year.

Gross profit increased to $108.0 million from $63.6 million. Gross profit as a percent of net sales increased to 36.9% from 30.4%. The increase in gross profit as a percent of net sales, was attributable primarily to a 6.4% increase in merchandise margins and a 0.1% decrease in buying, occupancy, and warehousing costs. The decrease in merchandise costs resulted primarily from reduced markdowns and improved markons in our American Eagle stores in the United States.

Selling, general and administrative expenses increased to $75.3 million from $55.0 million. As a percent of net sales, these expenses decreased to 25.7% from 26.3%. The improvement in selling, general and administrative expenses as a percent to sales is due primarily to lower advertising costs as a percentage of sales and reduced fulfillment costs in our e-commerce business. These reductions were offset by increased communications costs related to the implementation of a wide area network and an increase in compensation costs mainly attributable to our Canadian operations.

Depreciation and amortization expense increased to $9.9 million from $5.0 million. As a percent of net sales, these expenses increased to 3.4% from 2.4% due primarily to our U.S. expansion, including new stores, remodeled stores and our new distribution center in Kansas as well as due to our Canadian acquisition and expansion.

Other income, net was $0.9 million, or 0.3% of net sales and $0.9 million, or 0.5% of net sales for the three months ended August 4, 2001 and July 29, 2000, respectively. The decrease as a percent of net sales was primarily due to lower cash reserves available for investment and lower average investment rates which resulted in lower investment income, and interest expense on the note payable issued in connection with the Canadian acquisition. No borrowings were required under the terms of our line of credit during the current or prior periods.

Income before income taxes increased to $23.7 million from $4.6 million. As a percent of net sales, income before income taxes increased to 8.1% from 2.2%. The increase in income before income taxes as a percent of sales was attributable to the factors noted above.

Comparison of six months ended August 4, 2001 to the six months ended July 29, 2000

Net sales increased 40.6 % to $543.9 million from $387.0 million for the same period last year. The increase was primarily attributable to new stores, remodeled stores and nonstore sales, and the addition of the Thriftys/Bluenotes and American Eagle stores in Canada. Our favorable sales performance was driven by a 19.4% increase in units sold and a 2.6% increase in prices in our American Eagle stores in the United States.

Comparable store sales increased 6.2% when compared to the same period last year.

Gross profit increased to $209.9 million from $133.6 million. Gross profit as a percent of net sales increased to 38.6% from 34.6%. The increase in gross profit as a percent of net sales, was attributable primarily to a 4.0% increase in merchandise margins resulting primarily from reduced markdowns and improved markons in our American Eagle stores in the United States.

Selling, general and administrative expenses increased to $144.9 million from $101.7 million. As a percent of net sales, these expenses increased to 26.6% from 26.3%. The increase in selling, general and administrative expenses as a percent to sales is due primarily to an increase in compensation costs mainly attributable to our Canadian operations, increased communication costs related to the

implementation of a wide area network and increased costs to support technology capability in our stores. These increases were offset by lower advertising costs as a percent of sales.

Depreciation and amortization expense increased to $17.9 million from $9.2 million. As a percent of net sales, these expenses increased to 3.3% from 2.4% due primarily to our U.S. expansion, including new stores, remodeled stores and our new distribution center in Kansas as well as due to our Canadian acquisition and expansion.

Other income, net decreased to $1.8 million, or 0.3% of net sales, from $2.7 million, or 0.6% of net sales. The decrease as a percent of net sales was primarily due to lower cash reserves available for investment and lower average investment rates which resulted in lower investment income, and interest expense on the note payable issued in connection with the Canadian acquisition. No borrowings were required under the terms of our line of credit during the current or prior periods

Income before income taxes increased to $48.9 million from $25.3 million. As a percent of net sales, income before income taxes increased to 9.0% from 6.5%. The increase in income before income taxes as a percent of sales was attributable to the factors noted above.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

The following sets forth certain measures of the Company's liquidity:

    For the Six Months Ended
(In thousands)        
August 4,
2001

    July 29,
2000

           
Working Capital $ 172,829   $ 126,542
Current ratio   2.42     2.36

Net cash used for operating activities was $22.9 million for the six months ended August 4, 2001. This was primarily a result of net income for the period of $30.9 million offset by net cash used primarily for working capital of $53.7 million. The working capital change consisted primarily of an increase in inventory from February 3, 2001 due to the seasonality of the retail business.

Cash outflows for investing activities for the six months ended August 4, 2001 were primarily for capital expenditures of $72.7 million offset by net proceeds from the sale of short-term investments of $27.9 million.

Net cash provided by financing activities of $16.0 million was primarily from stock options exercises during the six months ended August 4, 2001.

At August 4, 2001, the Company had an unsecured demand lending arrangement with a bank to provide a $145.0 million line of credit at either the lender's prime lending rate (6.8% at August 4, 2001) or a negotiated rate such as LIBOR. This includes a temporary increase to the line of $20.0 million which was approved in June 2001. The facility has a limit of $40.0 million that can be used for direct borrowing. No borrowings were required against the line for the current or prior period. At August 4, 2001, letters of credit in the amount of $79.6 million were outstanding, leaving a remaining available balance on the line of $65.4 million. During June 2001, the Company entered into an agreement with a separate financial institution for an uncommitted letter of credit facility for $50.0 million. There were no amounts outstanding under this facility as of August 4, 2001.

During November 2000, the Company entered into a $29.1 million non-revolving term facility (the "term facility") and a $4.9 million revolving operating facility (the "operating facility"). The term facility matures in December 2007 and bears interest at the one month Bankers' Acceptance Rate (3.7 % at August 4, 2001) plus 140 basis points. The operating facility is due in November 2001, has six additional one year extensions, and bears interest at either the lender's prime lending rate (6.8% at August 4, 2001) or the Bankers' Acceptance Rate (3.7% at August 4, 2001) plus 120 basis points. There were no borrowings under the operating facility for the period ended August 4, 2001.

Capital expenditures, net of construction allowances, totaled $72.7 million for the six months ended August 4, 2001. This amount consisted primarily of expenditures related to new American Eagle stores in the United States and Canada, expenditures related to our new distribution center facility in Kansas and expenditures for remodeled and relocated stores.

We plan to open approximately 56 American Eagle Outfitters stores in the United States and Canada and three Thriftys/Bluenotes stores during the remainder of the fiscal year. This forward-looking statement will be influenced by factors including our financial position, consumer spending, and the number of acceptable mall store leases that may become available. We believe that our existing cash and investment balances, our cash flow from operations, and our bank line of credit will be sufficient to meet our anticipated cash requirements through Fiscal 2001.

Impact of Inflation

We do not believe that the relatively modest levels of inflation experienced in the United States in recent years have had a significant effect on our net sales or our profitability. Substantial increases in cost, however, could have a significant impact on our business and the industry in the future.

Safe Harbor Statement, Seasonality, and Business Risks

This report contains various `forward-looking statements' within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, which represent our expectations or beliefs concerning future events, including the following:

-the planned opening of approximately 56 American Eagle stores and three Bluenotes stores during the remainder of Fiscal 2001, and
-the sufficiency of existing cash and investment balances, cash flows and line of credit facilities to meet Fiscal 2001 cash requirements.

We caution that these statements are further qualified by factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements, including without limitation, the following:

-our ability to anticipate and respond to changing consumer preferences and fashion trends in a timely manner,
-decline in demand for our merchandise,
-the ability to obtain suitable sites for new stores at acceptable costs,
-the integration of new stores into existing operations,
-the acceptance of our AE brand in Canada,
-customer acceptance of our new store design,
-the hiring and training of qualified personnel,
-our ability to successfully acquire and integrate other businesses,
-the integration of our additional distribution facility into existing operations,
-the expansion of buying and inventory capabilities,
-the availability of capital,
-any disaster or casualty resulting in the interruption of service for our distribution centers,
-the effect of economic conditions and consumer spending patterns,
-the effect of changes in weather patterns,
-the change in currency and exchange rates, duties, tariffs, or quotas, and
-the effect of competitive pressures from other retailers.

The impact of the above factors, some of which are beyond our control, may cause our actual results to differ materially from expected results in these statements and other forward-looking statements we may make from time-to-time.

Historically, our operations have been seasonal, with a significant amount of net sales and net income occurring in the fourth fiscal quarter, reflecting increased demand during the year-end holiday selling season and, to a lesser extent, the third quarter, reflecting increased demand during the back-to-school selling season. During Fiscal 2000, these periods accounted for approximately 65% of our sales and approximately 84% of our net income. As a result of this seasonality, any factors negatively affecting us during the third and fourth fiscal quarters of any year, including adverse weather or unfavorable economic conditions, could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations for the entire year. Our quarterly results of operations also may fluctuate based upon such factors as the timing of certain holiday seasons, the number and timing of new store openings, the amount of net sales contributed by new and existing stores, the timing and level of markdowns, store closings, refurbishments and relocations, competitive factors, weather and general economic conditions.

PART II - OTHER INFORMATION

Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

(a)   The Company held its 2001 Annual Meeting of Stockholders on June 5, 2001. Holders of 67,713,399 shares of the Company's common stock were present in person or by proxy representing approximately 95.6% of the Company's 70,854,218 shares outstanding on the record date.
     
(b) and (c)   The following persons continued to serve as Class I directors: Ari Deshe, Michael G. Jesselson, George Kolber, Roger S. Markfield and Jay L. Schottenstein; and the following persons continue to serve as Class II directors: John L. Marakas, Saul Schottenstein, David W. Thompson and Gerald E Wedren. The following persons were elected as Class III members of the Company's Board of Directors to serve a three year term until the annual meeting in 2004 or until their successors are duly elected and qualified. Each person received the number of votes for or the number of votes with authority withheld indicated below.

 
Name   Shares For   Shares Abstain   Shares Not Voted
Jon P. Diamond   66,709,448   983,952   19,999
Martin P. Doolan   66,825,576   867,824   19,999
Gilbert W. Harrison   67,157,107   536,293   19,999
Thomas R. Ketteler   66,831,756   861,644   19,999
James V. O'Donnell   53,119,289   14,574,111   19,999

The proposal to amend the Company's 1999 Stock Incentive Plan to increase the number of shares available to be issued thereunder from 6 million shares to 11 million shares passed with 36,846,638 shares for, 24,698,869 shares against, 59,063 shares abstain, and 6,108,829 shares not voted.

The proposal to amend the Company's Certificate of Incorporation to increase the number of authorized shares of common stock to 250 million passed with 63,746,712 shares for, 3,950,458 shares against and 16,229 shares abstain.

The stockholder proposal regarding adoption of human rights standards did not pass. It received 6,637,737 shares for, 51,828,374 shares against, 3,138,459 shares abstain and 6,108,829 shares not voted.

(d)  

Not applicable

Item 6. Exhibits

(a) Exhibit 15

Acknowledgement of Ernst & Young LLP

     
(b) None.  

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.

Dated September 5, 2001

    American Eagle Outfitters, Inc.
    (Registrant)
 
/s/ Laura A. Weil
Laura A. Weil
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

     
/s/ Dale E. Clifton
Dale E. Clifton
Vice President, Controller and Chief Accounting Officer