![](https://a673b.bigscoots-temp.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/gettyimages-1056242100.jpg)
Ulta Beauty Inc. (NASDAQ: ULTA) released its fiscal fourth-quarter financial results before the markets opened on Friday. The firm posted $3.61 in earnings per share (EPS) and $2.12 billion in revenue, which compares with consensus estimates of $3.56 in EPS on revenue $2.1 billion. The same period of last year reportedly had EPS of $3.40 and $1.94 billion in revenue.
During the most recent quarter, net sales increased 9.7%, while comparable sales increased 9.4%. Overall, the comparable sales increase was driven by 7.1% transaction growth and 2.3% growth in average ticket.
Retail comparable sales increased 7.0%, including salon comparable sales growth of 6.2%. And e-commerce comparable sales increased 25.1%.
Looking ahead to the full year, the firm expects to increase total sales in the double digits while delivering EPS in the range of $12.65 to $12.85. Consensus estimates call for $12.75 in EPS and $7.51 billion in revenue.
Mary Dillon, CEO of Ulta, commented:
The Ulta Beauty team delivered excellent results in the fourth quarter. This performance reflects an acceleration in comparable sales in our retail stores, primarily driven by traffic. We continued to gain significant share across all major categories, particularly with digitally native brands where Ulta Beauty is often the only point of distribution in brick and mortar. Solid execution by our merchandising, store operations, e-commerce, marketing, supply chain and systems teams drove healthy sales growth and a differentiated guest experience throughout the important holiday season
Shares of Ulta traded up more than 7% early Friday to $335.97, in a new 52-week range of $199.15 to 336.69. The consensus price target is $329.10.
It’s Your Money, Your Future—Own It (sponsor)
Retirement can be daunting, but it doesn’t need to be.
Imagine having an expert in your corner to help you with your financial goals. Someone to help you determine if you’re ahead, behind, or right on track. With SmartAsset, that’s not just a dream—it’s reality. This free tool connects you with pre-screened financial advisors who work in your best interests. It’s quick, it’s easy, so take the leap today and start planning smarter!
Don’t waste another minute; get started right here and help your retirement dreams become a retirement reality.
Thank you for reading! Have some feedback for us?
Contact the 24/7 Wall St. editorial team.