Aritzia
Annual Report
2017
Aritzia Annual Report 2017 Aritzia is an
innovative design
house and
fashion retailer.
We believe in high-quality, beautifully designed fashion.
We believe in aspirational environments and experiences.
And we believe that all of this should come at a price
that is truly attainable.
From Our Founder,
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detail we are putting into developing our brand,
products, stores and eCommerce business.
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have always had and will continue to have in
building our infrastructure of people, processes
and systems.
remain
We
focused on offering beautifully
designed products through our exclusive brands,
with high-quality
fabrics, considered details,
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source the majority of our raw materials directly
from suppliers and manufacturers, which we
believe to be best-in-class, and work closely with
our partners throughout the production process.
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beautiful products at a price that is attainable, while
generating attractive margins. We continuously
gauge demand and fashion trends through sales
analytics, ensuring we are creating and delivering
the products that our customers desire.
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eCommerce business, we are building a truly
omni-channel sales strategy to meet the evolving
needs and preferences of our customers. We
believe there is a synergistic relationship between
our store network and aritzia.com, with the success
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a broader range of products and meet the needs
of customers in Canada, the United States and
international markets. Our eCommerce business
continues to generate meaningful growth and
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which have met or exceeded our performance
expectations.
in our
including the successful
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technology systems and
investments
infrastructure,
launch
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for our new Point of Sale (POS) System and our
new distribution centres — which are expected to
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Moving forward with our strategy
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the fashion retail sector, which demonstrates the
strength of our product offering and sourcing
Brian Hill | (cid:41)(cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:15)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:72)(cid:73)(cid:3)(cid:40)(cid:91)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:88)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:50)(cid:73)(cid:403)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:76)(cid:85)(cid:80)(cid:68)(cid:81)
Fellow Shareholders:
After 32 successful years as CEO of Aritzia, this is
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therefore like to start off by welcoming you as
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positioned fashion retailers today. On behalf of
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both our business and our management team.
Our Fiscal 2017 performance
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momentum we have achieved over the last three
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the year with net revenue increasing 23% to $667
million — bolstered largely by our remarkably
strong comparable sales growth of 14%, arguably
one of the highest across the industry. Our gross
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last year — increasing 320 basis points through
sourcing and manufacturing initiatives — and our
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to $65 million, or $0.55 per diluted share. We
believe this is exceptional performance given that
we also made long-term investments to support
our growth.
The strength of our business model
Aritzia has performed extraordinarily well despite
the current retail
landscape. We consistently
deliver beautiful product, exceptional customer
service and an aspirational shopping experience
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particularly complicated: we simply excel at
executing our strategy, season after season and
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1 initiatives, measured real estate strategy and
growing eCommerce business. Our strategy is
proven, with sales growing consistently for over
20 years.
We will continue to build on our portfolio
of exclusive brands, design beautiful and
innovative products,
sourcing
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also secured better contract terms with our
suppliers and manufacturers, which we believe
will deliver gross margin expansion over the
long-term.
and drive
Our near-term growth strategy is focused on the
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be adding to our premier real estate portfolio,
reaching new markets and expanding existing
stores in Canada and the United States. We plan
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reposition six to seven existing locations during
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quarter. Our approach to growth will always
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on meticulously designed stores
in premier,
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strong sales volume is making us a sought-after
tenant by major landlords, particularly in the U.S.,
resulting in increased opportunity to secure top
quality locations in prime shopping destinations.
Alongside expected store sales growth, we also
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our eCommerce channel, which we believe will
represent an expanding portion of our business
and will continue to reinforce our strong operating
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towards using advanced business intelligence
and behavioural analytics to further enhance our
understanding of our customers, which will in turn
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and generate increased sales volume in our
eCommerce business.
While top line expansion will drive our growth,
we are also seeing new opportunities
to
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we will move into two expanded and upgraded
distribution centres to better facilitate our store
and eCommerce growth and timely inventory
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launch of a new POS system and the next phase of
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we will continue to invest in high calibre talent
across our organization — from sales associates
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strategic goals.
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well-positioned to drive long term revenue and
earnings growth.
remain
Our competitive position
We
focused on our strategy and
seamless execution, and view the challenges
many other companies in our sector have faced
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our strong performance relative to others has
presented hiring, real estate and purchasing
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inception.
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growth may face occasional headwinds; however,
we are dedicated to managing the business
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opportunity to become the most relevant and
loved fashion destination for women all over
the world, and we are committed to becoming
just that.
In appreciation
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people is at the core of our success — whether
they are engaging with customers in our stores,
creating beautiful product in our design studio or
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Our employees, and their commitment to ongoing
progress, are what drive our business forward.
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sincere thank you to all of our new and existing
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our vision for our business and in our ability to
capitalize on the market opportunities we see for
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(cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:72)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:403)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:76)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3) (cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:80)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:90)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:3)
you as we deliver on our growth strategy in the
years ahead.
(cid:55)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:78)(cid:3)(cid:92)(cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:15)
(cid:123)(cid:3)(cid:3)(cid:36)(cid:71)(cid:77)(cid:88)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:40)(cid:37)(cid:44)(cid:55)(cid:39)(cid:36)(cid:15)(cid:3)(cid:36)(cid:71)(cid:77)(cid:88)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:49)(cid:72)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:44)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:36)(cid:71)(cid:77)(cid:88)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:49)(cid:72)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:44)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:88)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:86)(cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:81)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:16)(cid:44)(cid:41)(cid:53)(cid:54)(cid:3)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:90)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:75)(cid:3)(cid:90)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:88)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:83)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3)
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(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:89)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:36)(cid:79)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:403)(cid:74)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:36)(cid:81)(cid:81)(cid:88)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3)(cid:53)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:3)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:3)(cid:71)(cid:82)(cid:79)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:15)(cid:3)(cid:88)(cid:81)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:82)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:90)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)
2 A Portfolio of Exclusive Brands
We conceive, create and develop our own brands, and
sell them under the Aritzia banner. Approaching each
brand as an independent label with its own aesthetic, we
address a broad range of style preferences and lifestyle
requirements. Our exclusive brands currently represent
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Tna
3 A Record of Consistent Growth
Aritzia has a proven track record of consistent net revenue growth,
with strong net revenue growth every year for the last 20 years.
C$ millions
21%
CAGR
69
89
113
153
189
207
244
667
542
427
322
353
377
FY 2005
FY 2006
FY 2007
FY 2008
FY 2009
FY 2010
FY 2011
FY 2012
FY 2013
FY 2014
FY 2015
FY 2016
FY 2017
We have never closed an Aritzia store in our 32-year history —
a testament to our disciplined and measured store growth strategy.
15%
CAGR
42
7
35
47
8
39
51
10
41
54
12
42
62
14
48
64
15
49
79
19
60
81
20
61
74
17
57
15
18
21
36
31
28
26
FY 2005
FY 2006
FY 2007
FY 2008
FY 2009
FY 2010
FY 2011
FY 2012
FY 2013
FY 2014
FY 2015
FY 2016
FY 2017 Current
Canada
US
4 An Aspirational Shopping Experience
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locations — high-performing retail malls and high streets
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(cid:54)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:41)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:15)(cid:3) (cid:47)(cid:82)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:36)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:72)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:15)(cid:3) (cid:57)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:15)(cid:3) (cid:55)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3)
Montreal. Both in store and online, we pride ourselves
on providing an exceptional shopping experience with
personalized customer service.
5
Exceptional Quality at an Attainable Price Point
Aritzia products have a depth of design and quality
that provides our customers with compelling value.
Premium fabrics, considered detailing, sophisticated
construction and superior fit are at the core of each
exclusive collection.
6
Aritzia Annual Report 2017 Selected Financial Metrics1
14.0% comparable sales growth in
Revenue (C$ millions)
Fiscal 2017, following 16.7% growth
in Fiscal 2016
Positive comparable sales growth in
17 out of the last 20 years
10 consecutive quarters of positive
comparable sales growth
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(cid:22)(cid:28)(cid:17)(cid:27)(cid:8)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:41)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:70)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3) (cid:21)(cid:19)(cid:20)(cid:26)(cid:3) (cid:73)(cid:85)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:3) (cid:22)(cid:25)(cid:17)(cid:25)(cid:8)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3)
Fiscal 2016
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(cid:330)(cid:3) (cid:36)(cid:71)(cid:77)(cid:88)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:40)(cid:37)(cid:44)(cid:55)(cid:39)(cid:36)(cid:3) (cid:74)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:90)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:82)(cid:3) (cid:7)(cid:20)(cid:20)(cid:26)(cid:17)(cid:26)(cid:3)
million in Fiscal 2017
25%
CAGR
$542
$667
$427
FY 2015
FY 2016
FY 2017
Adjusted EBITDA (C$ millions)
35%
CAGR
$85
$118
$65
FY 2015
FY 2016
FY 2017
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(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:79)(cid:88)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3) (cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:76)(cid:79)(cid:3)
(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:88)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:85)(cid:92)(cid:3) (cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:87)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:86)(cid:17)(cid:3) (cid:55)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3)
(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:81)(cid:82)(cid:87)(cid:3) (cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:70)(cid:82)(cid:74)(cid:81)(cid:76)(cid:93)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:88)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:3) (cid:44)(cid:41)(cid:53)(cid:54)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:71)(cid:82)(cid:3) (cid:81)(cid:82)(cid:87)(cid:3) (cid:75)(cid:68)(cid:89)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:3)
(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:93)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:3) (cid:83)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:70)(cid:85)(cid:76)(cid:69)(cid:72)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:69)(cid:92)(cid:3) (cid:44)(cid:41)(cid:53)(cid:54)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:71)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:3)
unlikely to be comparable to similar measures presented by
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(cid:44)(cid:41)(cid:53)(cid:54)(cid:3) (cid:48)(cid:72)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:88)(cid:85)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:336)(cid:3) (cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:48)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:74)(cid:72)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:333)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:39)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:70)(cid:88)(cid:86)(cid:86)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:9)(cid:3) (cid:36)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:92)(cid:86)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:3)
(cid:90)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:3) (cid:36)(cid:81)(cid:81)(cid:88)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:3) (cid:53)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:87)(cid:3) (cid:73)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:3) (cid:68)(cid:3) (cid:71)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:70)(cid:88)(cid:86)(cid:86)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3) (cid:82)(cid:73)(cid:3) (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3) (cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:403)(cid:81)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:86)(cid:15)(cid:3)
components, reconciliations, and use of these measures.
Adjusted Net Income (C$ millions)
60%
CAGR
$40
$65
$25
FY 2015
FY 2016
FY 2017
7 (cid:48)(cid:68)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:74)(cid:72)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:81)(cid:87)(cid:333)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:39)(cid:76)(cid:86)(cid:70)(cid:88)(cid:86)(cid:86)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)(cid:3)
(cid:9)(cid:3)(cid:36)(cid:81)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:92)(cid:86)(cid:76)(cid:86)
Aritzia Inc.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
Fiscal Year Ended February 26, 2017
May 10, 2017
The following Management’s Discussion and Analysis (“MD&A”) dated May 10, 2017 is intended to assist
readers in understanding the business environment, strategies and performance and risk factors of Aritzia Inc.
(together with its consolidated subsidiaries, referred to herein as “Aritzia”, the “Company”, “we”, “us” or “our”). This
MD&A provides the reader with a view and analysis, from the perspective of management, of the Company’s financial
results for the fourth quarter and the fiscal year ended February 26, 2017. This MD&A should be read in conjunction
with the Company’s audited annual consolidated financial statements and notes for Fiscal 2017 (as hereinafter
defined).
Basis of Presentation
Our audited annual consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes have been prepared in
accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”), as issued by the International Accounting
Standards Board (“IASB”), using the accounting policies described therein. All amounts are presented in thousands of
Canadian dollars unless otherwise indicated. We manage our business on the basis of one operating and reportable
segment.
All references in this MD&A to “Q4 2017” are to our 13-week period ended February 26, 2017, and to “Q4
2016” are to our 13-week period ended February 28, 2016. All references in this MD&A to “Fiscal 2017” are to our
52-week period ended February 26, 2017, to “Fiscal 2016” are to our 52-week period ended February 28, 2016 and
to “Fiscal 2015” are to our 52-week period ended March 1, 2015.
The audited annual consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes for the 52-week period ended
February 26, 2017 and this MD&A were reviewed by our Audit Committee and approved by our Board of Directors
on May 10, 2017.
Non-IFRS Measures Including Retail Industry Metrics
This MD&A makes reference to certain non-IFRS measures including certain retail industry metrics. These
measures are not recognized measures under IFRS, do not have a standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and are
therefore unlikely to be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies. Rather, these measures are
provided as additional information to complement those IFRS measures by providing further understanding of our
results of operations from management’s perspective. Accordingly, these measures should not be considered in
isolation or as a substitute for analysis of our financial information reported under IFRS. We use non-IFRS measures
including “EBITDA”, “Adjusted EBITDA”, “Adjusted Net Income”, “Adjusted Net Income per diluted share” and “gross
profit margin”. This MD&A also makes reference to “comparable sales growth” and “sales per square foot”, which are
commonly used operating metrics in the retail industry but may be calculated differently compared to other retailers.
These non-IFRS measures, including retail industry metrics, are used to provide investors with supplemental measures
of our operating performance and thus highlight trends in our core business that may not otherwise be apparent
when relying solely on IFRS measures. We believe that securities analysts, investors and other interested parties
frequently use non-IFRS measures, including retail industry metrics, in the evaluation of issuers. Our management also
uses non-IFRS measures, including retail industry metrics, in order to facilitate operating performance comparisons
from period to period, to prepare annual operating budgets and forecasts and to determine components of
management compensation. For definitions and reconciliations of these non-IFRS measures to the relevant reported
9
measures, please see “How We Assess the Performance of Our Business” and “Selected Consolidated Financial
Information” sections of this MD&A.
Forward-Looking Information
Certain statements made in this MD&A, including, but not limited to, expectations regarding industry trends,
overall market growth rates, and our growth rates and growth strategies, expectations regarding our capital
expenditures, operations and use of future cash flow, our business plans and strategies, expectations regarding
brand expansions, expectations regarding new store openings and the expansion and repositioning of existing
stores, intentions with respect to the implementation of new accounting standards and other statements that are not
historical facts, are forward-looking.
Often but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology
such as “may” “will”, “expect”, “believe”, “estimate”, “plan”, “could”, “should”, “would”, “outlook”, “forecast”,
“anticipate”, “foresee”, “continue” or the negative of these terms or variations of them or similar terminology.
Forward-looking statements are based on current estimates and assumptions made by us in light of our experience
and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors that
we believe are appropriate and reasonable in the circumstances. However, there can be no assurance that such
estimates and assumptions will prove to be correct.
Many factors could cause our actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements or future events or
developments to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements, including,
without limitation, the factors discussed in the “Risk Factors” section of this MD&A and in the Company’s annual
information form dated May 10, 2017 for the fiscal year ended February 26, 2017 (the “AIF”). A copy of the AIF can
be accessed under the Company’s profile on the System for Electronic Document Analysis and Retrieval (“SEDAR”) at
www.sedar.com. These factors are not intended to represent a complete list of the factors that could affect us;
however, these factors should be considered carefully.
The purpose of the forward-looking statements is to provide the reader with a description of management’s
current expectations regarding the Company’s financial performance and they may not be appropriate for other
purposes; readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements made herein. To the extent any
forward-looking information in this MD&A constitutes future-oriented financial information or financial outlook, within
the meaning of applicable securities laws, such information is being provided to demonstrate the potential of the
Company and readers are cautioned that this information may not be appropriate for any other purpose. Future-
oriented financial information and financial outlook, as with forward-looking information generally, are based on
current assumptions and subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors. Furthermore, unless otherwise stated, the
forward-looking statements contained in this MD&A are made as of the date of this MD&A, and we have no intention
and undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new
information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws. The forward-looking
statements contained in this MD&A are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.
Overview
Aritzia is an innovative design house and fashion retailer of exclusive brands. We design apparel and
accessories for our collection of exclusive brands and sell them under the Aritzia banner. We conceive, create,
develop and sell a strategic mix of women’s fashion products directly to our customers with a depth of design and
quality that provides compelling value. Our unique multi-brand portfolio and product mix affords us enhanced
flexibility to address evolving fashion trends and enables us to appeal to our customers across multiple life stages,
resulting in strong and enduring customer loyalty.
10
We connect our customers to the energy of our culture through the products we sell, the environments we
create and the ways in which we communicate. We currently operate 61 stores in Canada and 20 stores in the United
States, averaging approximately 5,000 square feet, all of which are in prime locations within high performing retail
malls and high streets. We sell our products exclusively through our stores and aritzia.com, giving us complete
control of the presentation of our brand and the relationships with our customers. This strategy allows us to present
our brand in a consistent manner, including pricing, marketing and product presentation. We strive to offer our
customers an aspirational shopping experience and exceptional level of service at every interaction. Our culture is
highly focused on the customer, and our sales associates and eCommerce support teams are trained to provide
shopping experiences that are personalized to exceed our customers’ wants and needs.
Initial Public Offering
On October 3, 2016, we successfully closed our initial public offering (the “IPO”) of our subordinate voting
shares (the “Shares”) at a price of $16.00 per Share through a secondary sale of shares by our principal shareholders.
Our principal shareholders sold 25,000,000 Shares under the IPO for total gross proceeds of $400.0 million. The
Shares are listed for trading on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol “ATZ”.
The underwriters were granted an over-allotment option (the “Over-Allotment Option”) to purchase up to an
additional 3,750,000 Shares from our principal shareholders at a price of $16.00 per Share. The Over-Allotment
Option was fully exercised after the IPO and raised additional gross proceeds of $60.0 million for the selling
shareholders. Underwriting fees were paid by the selling shareholders and other expenses related to the IPO of
approximately $7.7 million were incurred and are being paid by us.
In connection with and immediately prior to the IPO, each Class A and Class C common share was exchanged
for either one multiple voting share or one Share. Our Class B and Class D common shares and preferred shares were
removed from our authorized share capital. Our authorized share capital consists of (i) an unlimited number of Shares,
(ii) an unlimited number of multiple voting shares and (iii) an unlimited number of preferred shares, issuable in series.
Following the foregoing share exchanges, all of our issued and outstanding multiple voting shares and Shares
were consolidated on an approximately one-to-0.5932 basis. In connection with the IPO, options to acquire Class A
and Class D common shares were also consolidated on an approximately one-to-0.5932 basis for options exercisable
to acquire Shares at a post-consolidated exercise price such that the in-the-money value of such options remained
unchanged.
Concurrent with the IPO, amendments to our credit facilities with our syndicate of lenders became effective. See
the section entitled “Liquidity and Capital Resources – Credit Facilities”.
Secondary Offering
On January 26, 2017, we successfully closed a secondary offering (the “Secondary Offering”) of our Shares by
certain of our shareholders at a price of $17.45 per Share, as well as a concurrent block trade by a group of our
employees (“Concurrent Block Trade”). Our shareholders sold 20,100,000 Shares under the Secondary Offering and
our employees sold 1,788,366 Shares under the Concurrent Block Trade for total gross proceeds of $382.0 million.
Underwriting fees were paid by the selling shareholders and other expenses related to the Secondary Offering of
approximately $0.9 million were incurred and are being paid by us.
Financial Highlights
We refer the reader to the section entitled “How We Assess the Performance of Our Business” of this MD&A for
the definition of the items discussed below and, when applicable, to the section entitled “Selected Consolidated
Financial Information” for reconciliations of non-IFRS measures with the most directly comparable IFRS measure.
11
Q4 2017 Compared to Q4 2016
Select financial highlights include the following:
(cid:120) Net revenue increased by 17.4% to $196.4 million from $167.4 million in Q4 2016
(cid:120) Comparable sales growth was 11.5%, following 9.2% comparable sales growth in Q4 2016
(cid:120) Gross profit margin increased to 38.4% from 34.0% in Q4 2016
(cid:120) SG&A expenses increased by 26.9% to $49.5 million from $39.0 million in Q4 2016. Excluding the
impact of Secondary Offering costs incurred this quarter of approximately $0.9 million, SG&A expenses
were 24.7% of net revenue, compared to 23.3% of net revenue in Q4 2016
(cid:120) Adjusted EBITDA increased by 38.8% to $32.3 million from $23.3 million in Q4 2016. Adjusted EBITDA
was 16.4% of net revenue, compared to 13.9% of net revenue in Q4 2016
(cid:120) Stock-based compensation of $4.4 million was expensed in Q4 2017 primarily due to the accounting of
options under our legacy option plan of $2.3 million and the accounting of options under our new
option plan of $2.1 million
(cid:120) Net income increased by 15.1% to $11.5 million, compared to net income of $10.0 million in Q4 2016
(cid:120) Adjusted Net Income increased by 55.5% to $18.3 million, or $0.16 per diluted share (treasury stock
method(1)), compared to $11.8 million, or $0.10 per diluted share (treasury stock method(2)) in Q4 2016.
Adjusted Net Income was 9.3% of net revenue, compared to 7.0 % of net revenue in Q4 2016
Fiscal 2017 Compared to Fiscal 2016
Select financial highlights include the following:
(cid:120) Net revenue increased by 23.0% to $667.2 million from $542.5 million in Fiscal 2016
(cid:120) Comparable sales growth was 14.0%, following 16.7% comparable sales growth in Fiscal 2016
(cid:120) Gross profit margin increased to 39.8% from 36.6% in Fiscal 2016
(cid:120) SG&A expenses increased by 32.3% to $178.8 million from $135.1 million in Fiscal 2016. Excluding the
impact of IPO costs and Secondary Offering costs of approximately $8.6 million, SG&A expenses were
25.5% of net revenue, compared to 24.9% of net revenue in Fiscal 2016
(cid:120) Adjusted EBITDA increased by 38.5% to $117.7 million from $85.0 million in Fiscal 2016. Adjusted
EBITDA was 17.6% of net revenue, compared to 15.7% of net revenue in Fiscal 2016
(cid:120) Stock-based compensation expense of $103.0 million was primarily due to the fair value accounting of
our legacy time-based options and the triggering of our legacy performance-based options in
connection with the IPO. Prior to the IPO, we accounted for the time-based options under the legacy
option plan as a stock-based compensation liability due to the cash settlement feature. As of September
Notes:
(1) Adjusted Net Income per diluted share for Q4 2017 and Fiscal 2017 is a non-IFRS measure and is calculated by dividing Adjusted Net Income
by the total number of outstanding shares plus the total number of dilutive share options that would be included under the treasury stock
method as at February 26, 2017 (or 117,408,845 diluted shares). For reconciliation of diluted shares to a reported measure, please see
“Selected Consolidated Financial Information”.
(2) The Company effected changes to its share capital in connection with the IPO completed in Q3 2017. For comparative purposes, Adjusted
Net Income per diluted share for Q4 2016 and Fiscal 2016 is based on the same diluted share count as Adjusted Net Income per diluted share
for Q4 2017 and Fiscal 2017, respectively.
12
30, 2016, we amended the legacy option plan to remove this cash settlement feature and, accordingly,
accounted for the time-based options as an equity-settled plan from this date forward
(cid:120) Net loss was $56.1 million compared to net income of $32.4 million in Fiscal 2016. This net loss was
primarily driven by the non-cash stock-based compensation expense of $103.0 million as discussed
above
(cid:120) Adjusted Net Income increased by 60.4% to $64.6 million, or $0.55 per diluted share (treasury stock
method(1)), from $40.3 million, or $0.34 per diluted share (treasury stock method(2)) in Fiscal 2016.
Adjusted Net Income was 9.7% of net revenue, compared to 7.4% of net revenue in Fiscal 2016
Summary of Factors Affecting Performance
We believe that our performance and future success depend on a number of factors that present significant
opportunities for us. These factors are also subject to a number of inherent risks and challenges, some of which are
discussed below. See also the “Risk Factors” section of this MD&A and in our AIF.
Our Brand
Aritzia is a growing, innovative design house and fashion retailer that creates and develops fashion apparel. We
have become a well known and deeply loved brand by our customers in Canada with growing customer awareness
and affinity in the United States and outside of North America. Maintaining, enhancing and growing our brand appeal
within our addressable market is critical to our continued success. Any loss of brand appeal may adversely affect our
business and financial results.
Product Innovation and Merchandise Planning Strategy
We believe that our differentiated multi-brand strategy is a key driver of our year-over-year net revenue growth,
comparable sales growth and average sales per square foot of greater than $1,400 per square foot. Each of our
exclusive brands is treated as an independent label with its own vision and aesthetic point of view, and is supported
by our own dedicated in-house design team focused on creating beautiful products. Our demand-driven
merchandise planning, buying and inventory strategies have been developed and refined over many years, and are
designed to ensure that we have the right product, at the right time, at the right price, in the right quantity and in the
right place.
Store Network Expansion and Enhancement
We have a meaningful opportunity to continue to grow our store network across North America, particularly in
the United States. In addition to opening new Aritzia and exclusive brand stores (e.g. Wilfred, Babaton and TNA), we
have generated attractive returns on capital by enhancing elements of our existing stores (including footprint, layout
and assortment) through carefully considered store expansions and repositions.
The following table summarizes the change in our store count for the periods indicated.
Number of stores, beginning of period
New stores
Number of stores, end of period
Stores expanded or repositioned
Q4 2017
Q4 2016
Fiscal 2017
Fiscal 2016
77
2
79
-
72
2
74
-
74
5
79
5
64
10
74
2
In addition to the changes in our store count since the fourth quarter of last year (described in the table above),
during the first quarter of 2018, we opened two new stores and repositioned one store.
13
eCommerce Growth
Our eCommerce business was launched in fiscal 2013 and quickly surpassed our growth expectations with
continued outstanding performance in Fiscal 2017.
We are in the early phases of leveraging advanced business intelligence and behaviour analytics to further
enhance our understanding of our customers. We believe there is a synergistic relationship between our store
network and aritzia.com, with the success of each channel benefiting the other through increased brand awareness
and affinity. Within our eCommerce business, we believe there is a significant opportunity to broaden the assortment
of both exclusive brands and third party products to complement our existing offering and drive new sales.
We introduced shipping to international markets in October 2016, which is helping set the foundation for future
expansion by allowing us to gather intelligence, refine our learnings and identify international markets that could
support our stores. This will further enhance our eCommerce reach, allowing us to capitalize on growing demand for
our products outside North America.
Sourcing and Production
We contract and maintain direct relationships with a diversified base of independent third party mills, trim
suppliers and manufacturers for our exclusive brands, which provide us with the flexibility to source high quality
materials and products at competitive costs. We source the majority of our raw materials directly from mills, trim
suppliers and manufacturers, which we believe to be best-in-class, located primarily in Asia and Europe that uphold
our standards for quality, lead time and cost. By partnering closely with long-standing manufacturers as well as
adding new innovative and scalable manufacturers, we have been able to drive lower product costs. We also maintain
a formalized quality assurance program whereby we inspect our manufacturers’ factories to ensure quality control.
We engage independent expert service providers to conduct factory audits for compliance with local laws and
regulations and global standards.
Infrastructure Investments
We continue to strategically invest ahead of our growth plans. During Q4 2017, we implemented a set of
enhancements to our new human resource information system, which included the implementation of employee self-
service, and time and absence management. In the coming year, we expect to launch additional capabilities of this
system to better enable strategic human capital decisions, as well as a new point-of-sale (POS) system to further
enhance our omni-channel operations and customer relationship capabilities. In April 2017, we expanded our
Columbus area distribution centre capacity from 45,000 square feet to 138,000 square feet. We have also begun the
process of relocating and expanding our Greater Vancouver distribution centre, from our existing 83,000 square foot
facility into a new 223,000 square foot facility. We expect the new Greater Vancouver distribution centre to be
operational by Spring of next year. These investments in systems and infrastructure are expected to drive increased
efficiencies and set the stage for the next phase of growth.
Consumer Trends
The women’s apparel industry is subject to shifts in consumer trends, preferences and consumer spending and
our revenue and operating results depend, in part, on our ability to respond to such changes in a timely manner. Our
differentiated multi-brand strategy gives us control over our products and provides us with the flexibility to optimize
our brand mix as needed to address changes in consumer demand and fashion preferences, which has been a critical
driver of the consistency of our growth. Our diversified mix of exclusive brands satisfies a broad range of fashion
needs, which allows us to attract a wide customer base and increases our addressable market. Our revenue is also
impacted by discretionary spending by consumers, which is affected by many factors that are beyond our control,
including, but not limited to, general economic conditions, consumer disposable income levels, consumer confidence
levels, consumer debt, the cost of basic necessities and other goods and the effects of weather or natural disasters.
We believe that our track record demonstrates the success of our exclusive brand strategy at responding to changes
in fashion demands through all stages of economic cycles.
14
Seasonality
Our business is seasonal, with a higher proportion of net revenue and operating cash flows generated during
the second half of the fiscal year, which includes the back-to-school and holiday seasons. We also have higher
working capital requirements in the periods preceding the launch of new seasons as we receive and pay for new
inventory. We manage our working capital needs through cash flow from operations and our revolving credit facility
(defined herein).
Average quarterly share of annual net revenue over the last three completed fiscal years is as follows:
First fiscal quarter
Second fiscal quarter
Third fiscal quarter
Fourth fiscal quarter
Yearly total
Weather
18%
23%
28%
31%
100%
Extreme weather conditions in the areas in which our stores are located could adversely affect our business and
financial results. For example, frequent or unusually heavy snowfall, ice storms, rainstorms or other extreme weather
conditions over a prolonged period could make it difficult for our customers to travel to our stores and thereby
reduce our revenue and profitability. This is potentially mitigated by our customers’ ability to buy our products
through aritzia.com. Our business is also susceptible to unseasonable weather conditions. For example, extended
periods of unseasonably warm temperatures during the winter season or cool weather during the summer season
could render a portion of our inventory incompatible with those unseasonable conditions, which could adversely
affect sales of these seasonal items.
Competition
We operate in the women’s apparel industry, primarily within the North American market. We are strategically
positioned in a customer market segment of the global fashion landscape between fast fashion and affordable luxury.
We compete on the basis of several factors that include our strategic mix of exclusive brands, offering high quality
products at an attainable price point, our proven and sophisticated merchandise planning strategy, our focus on
providing exceptional customer service, our premier real estate portfolio and our market positioning. We believe the
industry is evolving to benefit players like us that have the scale needed to leverage their infrastructure and
capabilities in areas such as brand equity creation, real estate selection, store design, supply chain and eCommerce.
Foreign Exchange
The majority of our net revenue is derived in Canadian dollars while the vast majority of our cost of goods sold is
denominated in U.S. dollars, which has caused an increase in our cost of goods sold since Fiscal 2014 due to the
weakening of the Canadian dollar against the U.S. dollar over this period. Future fluctuations in the exchange rate of
the Canadian dollar versus the U.S. dollar could materially affect our gross profit margins and operating results. We
use foreign currency forward contracts to mitigate risks associated with forecasted U.S. dollar merchandise purchases
sold in Canada, but there can be no assurances that such strategies will prove to be successful. See “Financial
Instruments” and “Risk Factors” sections of this MD&A.
How We Assess the Performance of Our Business
In assessing the performance of our business, we consider a variety of financial and operating measures that
affect our operating results.
15
Net Revenue
Net revenue primarily reflects our sale of merchandise, less returns and discounts. Retail revenue is recognized
at the point of sale, net of an estimated allowance for returns, while eCommerce revenue is recognized at the
estimated date of receipt of the merchandise by the customer, net of an estimated allowance for returns.
Comparable Sales Growth
Comparable sales growth is a retail industry metric used to compare the percentage change in sales derived
from the established stores of a certain period as compared to the sales from the same stores in the same period in
the prior year. Comparable sales growth helps to explain our revenue growth in established stores and eCommerce,
which may not otherwise be apparent when relying solely on net revenues. Comparable sales is calculated based on
revenue (net of sales tax, returns and discounts) from stores that have been opened for at least 56 weeks including
eCommerce revenue (net of sales tax, returns and discounts), and excludes stores that were expanded or
repositioned and stores in centres where we opened a new additional store during this period. Comparable sales
growth also excludes the impact of foreign currency fluctuations as it is calculated using a U.S. dollar to Canadian
dollar exchange rate of 1:1 in all reporting periods. Our comparable sales growth may be calculated differently
compared to other retailers.
Gross Profit
Gross profit reflects our net revenue less cost of goods sold. Cost of goods sold includes inventory and product-
related costs and occupancy costs, as well as depreciation expense for our stores and distribution centres. Our cost of
goods sold may include different costs compared to other retailers. Gross profit as a percentage of net revenue (gross
profit margin) is impacted by the components of cost of goods sold, product mix and markdowns. We define gross
profit margin as our gross profit divided by our net revenues.
Selling, General and Administrative (“SG&A”) Expenses
Our SG&A expenses consist of selling expenses that are generally variable with net revenue and general and
administrative operating expenses that are primarily fixed. Our SG&A expenses also include depreciation and
amortization expenses for all support office assets and intangible assets. We expect our SG&A expenses to increase
as we continue to open new stores, grow our eCommerce business, increase brand awareness and invest in our
infrastructure. Our SG&A expenses have increased as a result of public company costs, as well as costs related to the
IPO and Secondary Offering.
SG&A expenses as a percentage of net revenue is usually higher in the lower-volume first and second quarters,
and lower in the higher-volume third and fourth quarters because a portion of these costs are relatively fixed. Our
SG&A expenses may include different expenses compared to other retailers.
EBITDA
We define EBITDA as consolidated net income (loss) before depreciation and amortization, finance expense and
income tax expense.
Adjusted EBITDA
We believe Adjusted EBITDA is a useful measure of operating performance, as it provides a more relevant
picture of operating results in that it excludes the effects of financing and investing activities by removing the effects
of interest, depreciation and amortization, expenses that are not reflective of underlying business performance and
other one-time or non-recurring expenses. We use Adjusted EBITDA to facilitate a comparison of our operating
performance on a consistent basis from period-to-period and to provide for a more complete understanding of
factors and trends affecting our business. We define Adjusted EBITDA as consolidated net income (loss) before
depreciation and amortization, finance expense and income tax expense, adjusted for the impact of certain items,
including non-cash items such as stock-based compensation expense, unrealized foreign exchange gains or losses on
forward contracts and other items we consider non-recurring and not representative of our ongoing operating
16
performance. Because Adjusted EBITDA excludes non-cash items, we believe that it is less susceptible to variances in
actual performance resulting from depreciation and amortization and other non-cash charges.
Adjusted Net Income (per diluted share)
We believe Adjusted Net Income (per diluted share) is a useful measure of performance, as it provides a more
relevant picture of results by excluding the effects of expenses that are not reflective of underlying business
performance and other one-time or non-recurring expenses. We use Adjusted Net Income to facilitate a comparison
of our performance on a consistent basis from period-to-period and to provide for a more complete understanding of
factors and trends affecting our business. We define Adjusted Net Income as consolidated net income (loss), adjusted
for the impact of certain items, including non-cash items such as stock-based compensation expense, unrealized
foreign exchange gains or losses on forward contracts and other items we consider non-recurring and not
representative of our ongoing operating performance, net of related tax effects. We define Adjusted Net Income per
diluted share by dividing Adjusted Net Income by the total number of outstanding shares plus the total number of
dilutive share options that would be included under the treasury stock method as at the end of the relevant period.
Sales per Square Foot
We calculate sales per square foot by dividing the revenue (net of sales tax, returns and discounts) from stores
that have been opened for at least 13 fiscal periods (i.e. approximately 13 months) by the total leasable square
footage used for day-to-day retail operations for these stores. Our sales per square foot may be calculated differently
compared to other retailers.
17
Selected Consolidated Financial Information
The following table summarizes our recent results of operations for the periods and fiscal years indicated. The
selected consolidated financial information set out below for Fiscal 2017, Fiscal 2016 and Fiscal 2015 has been
derived from our audited annual consolidated financial statements and related notes. The selected consolidated
financial information set out below for Q4 2017 and Q4 2016 is unaudited.
Q4 2017
13 weeks
Q4 2016
13 weeks
Fiscal 2017
52 weeks
Fiscal 2016
52 weeks
Fiscal 2015
52 weeks
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise noted)
Consolidated Statements of Operations:
Net revenue
Cost of goods sold
$ 196,396 100.0% $ 167,358 100.0% $ 667,181 100.0% $ 542,463 100.0% $
121,028
61.6%
110,426
66.0%
401,658
60.2%
344,095 63.4%
Gross profit
75,368
38.4%
56,932
34.0%
265,523
39.8%
198,368 36.6%
427,426 100.0%
62.7%
268,081
159,345
37.3%
Operating expenses
Selling, general and administrative
Stock-based compensation expense
49,471
4,413
25.2%
2.2%
38,992
2,025
23.3%
1.2%
178,773
103,044
26.8%
15.4%
135,111 24.9%
2.0%
10,651
113,539
11,890
26.6%
2.8%
Income (loss) from operations
Finance expense
Other expense (income), net
21,484
1,339
1,589
10.9%
0.7%
0.8%
15,915
2,306
(302)
9.5%
1.4%
(0.2%)
(16,294)
10,455
(1,362)
(2.4%)
1.6%
(0.2%)
52,606
10,995
(3,512)
9.7%
2.0%
(0.6%)
Income (loss) before income taxes
Income tax expense
18,556
7,028
9.4%
3.6%
13,911
3,898
8.3%
2.3%
(25,387)
30,722
(3.8%)
4.6%
45,123
12,751
8.3%
2.4%
33,916
12,982
(1,754)
22,688
6,238
Net income (loss)
$
11,528
5.9% $
10,013
6.0% $
(56,109)
(8.4%) $
32,372
6.0% $
16,450
7.9%
3.0%
(0.4%)
5.3%
1.5%
3.8%
Other Performance Measures:
Year-over-year net revenue growth
Comparable sales growth
Capital expenditures
Number of stores, end of period
17.4%
11.5%
11,610
79
$
20.6%
9.2%
6,685
74
$
23.0%
14.0%
31,136
79
$
26.9%
16.7%
28,183
74
$
13.4%
7.6%
12,732
64
$
18
The following table provides a reconciliation of net income (loss) to EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted Net
Income, Adjusted Net Income per diluted share and Comparable Sales to Net Revenue for the periods indicated.
Q4 2017
13 weeks
Q4 2016
13 weeks
Fiscal 2017
52 weeks
Fiscal 2016
52 weeks
Fiscal 2015
52 weeks
(in thousands of Canadian dollars unless otherwise noted)
Reconciliation of Net Income (Loss) to
Adjusted EBITDA:
Net income (loss)
Depreciation and amortization
Finance expense
Income tax expense
$
EBITDA
Adjustments to EBITDA:
Stock-based compensation expense
Unrealized foreign exchange loss
(gain) on forward contracts
IPO and Secondary Offering costs
Adjusted EBITDA
Adjusted EBITDA as a Percentage of Net
Reconciliation of Net Income (Loss) to
Adjusted Net Income:
Net income (loss)
Adjustments to net income (loss):
Stock-based compensation expense
Unrealized foreign exchange loss
(gain) on forward contracts
IPO and Secondary Offering costs
Refinancing costs related to debt
modification at the IPO
Related tax effects
Adjusted Net Income
Adjusted Net Income as a Percentage of
11,528
5,362
1,339
7,028
25,257
4,413
1,730
881
$
10,013
4,834
2,306
3,898
21,051
2,025
177
-
$
(56,109)
21,129
10,455
30,722
6,197
103,044
(181)
8,604
$
32,372
18,200
10,995
12,751
74,318
10,651
-
-
$
16,450
17,281
12,982
6,238
52,951
11,890
-
-
$
32,281
$
23,253
$ 117,664
$
84,969
$
64,841
Revenue
16.4%
13.9%
17.6%
15.7%
15.2%
$
11,528
$
10,013
$
(56,109)
$
32,372
$
16,450
103,044
10,651
11,890
4,413
1,730
881
-
(268)
2,025
177
-
-
(458)
(181)
8,604
2,867
6,402
-
-
-
(2,741)
-
-
-
(3,049)
25,291
5.9%
0.22
$
$
$
18,284
$
11,757
$
64,627
$
40,282
Net Revenue
9.3%
7.0%
9.7%
7.4%
Adjusted Net Income per Diluted Share
(1)(2)
$
0.16
$
0.10
$
0.55
$
0.34
___________________________
Notes:
(1) Adjusted Net Income per diluted share for Q4 2017 and Fiscal 2017 are non-IFRS measures and are calculated by dividing Adjusted Net
Income by the total number of outstanding shares plus the total number of dilutive share options that would be included under the
treasury stock method as at February 26, 2017 (or 117,408,845 diluted shares). For reconciliation of diluted shares to a reported measure,
please see below.
The Company effected changes to its share capital in connection with the IPO completed in Q3 2017. For comparative purposes, Adjusted
Net Income per diluted share for Q4 2016, Fiscal 2016 and Fiscal 2015 are based on the same diluted share count as Adjusted Net Income
per diluted share for Q4 2017 and Fiscal 2017.
(2)
19
Q4 2017
13 weeks
Q4 2016
13 weeks
Fiscal 2017
52 weeks
Fiscal 2016
52 weeks
Fiscal 2015
52 weeks
(in thousands of Canadian dollars)
Reconciliation of Comparable Sales to
Net Revenue:
Comparable sales(3)
Non-comparable sales
$ 130,958
65,438
$ 113,525
$ 446,874
$ 407,244
53,833
220,307
135,219
Net revenue
$ 196,396
$ 167,358
$ 667,181
$ 542,463
$
366,982
60,444
$
427,426
___________________________
Note:
(3)
The comparable sales for a given period represents revenue (net of sales tax, returns and discounts) from stores that have been opened
for at least 56 weeks including eCommerce revenue (net of sales tax, returns and discounts) within that given period. This information is
provided to give context for comparable sales in such given year as compared to net revenue reported in our financial statements. See
relevant definition in “How We Assess the Performance of Our Business” of this MD&A.
Q4 2017
13 weeks
Fiscal 2017
52 weeks
Reconciliation of Diluted Shares (for
purposes of Adjusted Net Income
per diluted share) to Shares
Outstanding:
Weighted average number of basic shares
outstanding
107,612,377
104,787,171
Adjustment to account for difference in
weighted average number of shares
outstanding and actual number of
shares outstanding
Total number of shares outstanding
Dilutive share options under the treasury
1,160,084
108,772,461
3,985,290
108,772,461
stock method
8,636,384
8,636,384
Total number of diluted shares for
purposes of Adjusted Net Income
per diluted share
117,408,845
117,408,845
The following table provides selected financial position data for the periods indicated.
Selected Consolidated Financial Position Data:
Total assets
Total non-current liabilities
Results of Operations
Analysis of Results for Q4 2017 to Q4 2016
As at
February 26,
2017
As at
February 28,
2016
As at
March 1,
2015
$
486,845 $
183,728
401,118 $
221,285
373,412
206,648
The following section provides an overview of our financial performance during Q4 2017 compared to Q4 2016.
Net Revenue
Net revenue increased by 17.4% to $196.4 million in Q4 2017, compared to $167.4 million in Q4 2016. The
increase was primarily driven by comparable sales growth of 11.5%, with strong in-store performance and continued
momentum in our eCommerce business, as well as the revenue from five new store openings and five expanded or
repositioned stores since the fourth quarter of last year.
20
Gross Profit
Gross profit increased by 32.4% to $75.4 million in Q4 2017, compared to $56.9 million in Q4 2016. The
increase was primarily driven by an increase in net revenue and improvement in gross profit margin.
Gross profit margin was 38.4% in Q4 2017, compared to 34.0% in Q4 2016. The increase in gross profit margin
was primarily attributable to lower product-related costs in addition to leverage on the fixed portion of store
occupancy costs and fewer markdowns compared to Q4 2016.
SG&A Expenses
SG&A expenses increased by 26.9% to $49.5 million in Q4 2017, compared to $39.0 million in Q4 2016. SG&A
expenses in Q4 2017 included costs incurred in conjunction with the Secondary Offering.
SG&A expenses were 24.7% of net revenue in Q4 2017, excluding the impact of Secondary Offering costs of
approximately $0.9 million, compared to 23.3% of net revenue in Q4 2016. This increase was primarily due to
investment in support office talent and higher store labour costs as we continue to focus on elevating our retail
experience.
Adjusted EBITDA
Adjusted EBITDA increased by 38.8% to $32.3 million, or 16.4% of net revenue in Q4 2017, compared to $23.3
million, or 13.9% of net revenue in Q4 2016, primarily due to the factors discussed above.
Stock-Based Compensation Expense
Stock-based compensation of $4.4 million was expensed in Q4 2017, compared to $2.0 million in Q4 2016.
Included in Q4 2017 is $2.3 million of expense that relates to the accounting of our options under the legacy option
plan. The remaining $2.1 million of expense primarily relates to the accounting of options under our new option plan.
Finance Expense
Finance expense decreased by $1.0 million to $1.3 million in Q4 2017, compared to $2.3 million in Q4 2016.
The decrease was primarily driven by lower average debt outstanding and lower average interest rates.
Income Tax Expense
Income tax expense is recognized based on management’s best estimate of the weighted average annual
income tax rate expected for the full fiscal year. The statutory income tax rates for Q4 2017 and Q4 2016 were 26.3%
and 26.2%, respectively. Income taxes increased by $3.1 million to $7.0 million in Q4 2017, compared to $3.9 million
in Q4 2016. The effective tax rates for Q4 2017 and Q4 2016 were 37.9% and 28.0%, respectively. The increase in
the income tax expense and effective income tax rate when compared to Q4 2016 is primarily due the increase in
income from operations excluding stock-based compensation expense which is not deductible for tax purposes. In
Q4 2016, stock-based compensation expense for legacy time-based options was treated as a deductible expense
due to the cash settlement feature.
Net Income (Loss)
Net income was $11.5 million in Q4 2017, compared to net income of $10.0 million in Q4 2016, primarily due to
the factors discussed above.
Adjusted Net Income
Adjusted Net Income increased by 55.5% to $18.3 million, or $0.16 per diluted share in Q4 2017, compared to
$11.8 million, or $0.10 per diluted share in Q4 2016, primarily due to the factors discussed above.
21
Analysis of Results for Fiscal 2017 to Fiscal 2016
The following section provides an overview of our financial performance during Fiscal 2017 compared to Fiscal
2016.
Net Revenue
Net revenue increased by 23.0% to $667.2 million in Fiscal 2017, compared to $542.5 million in Fiscal 2016.
The increase was primarily driven by comparable sales growth of 14.0%, arising from both the strong performance in
stores and continued momentum in our eCommerce business, as well as revenue from non-comparable stores.
Gross Profit
Gross profit increased by 33.9% to $265.5 million in Fiscal 2017, compared to $198.4 million in Fiscal 2016. The
increase was primarily driven by an increase in net revenue and improvement in gross profit margin.
Gross profit margin was 39.8% in Fiscal 2017, compared to 36.6% in Fiscal 2016. The increase in gross profit
margin was primarily attributable to lower product-related costs in addition to leverage on the fixed portion of store
occupancy costs.
SG&A Expenses
SG&A expenses increased by 32.3% to $178.8 million in Fiscal 2017, compared to $135.1 million in Fiscal 2016.
SG&A expenses were 25.5% of net revenue in Fiscal 2017, excluding the impact of IPO costs and Secondary
Offering costs of approximately $8.6 million, compared to 24.9% of net revenue in Fiscal 2016. This increase was
primarily due to investment in support office talent and higher store labour costs as we continue to focus on elevating
our retail experience.
Adjusted EBITDA
Adjusted EBITDA increased by 38.5% to $117.7 million, or 17.6% of net revenue in Fiscal 2017, compared to
$85.0 million, or 15.7% of net revenue in Fiscal 2016, primarily due to the factors discussed above.
Stock-Based Compensation Expense
Stock-based compensation of $103.0 million was expensed in Fiscal 2017, compared to $10.7 million in Fiscal
2016, due primarily to the accounting of time-based and performance-based options under the legacy option plan in
conjunction with the IPO. In Fiscal 2017, stock-based compensation of approximately $76.1 million was expensed
primarily relating to the accounting for fair value adjustments on our time-based legacy option plan, driven by the
increase in valuation of our Shares in connection with the IPO. In August 2016, we also concluded that it is probable
that the performance conditions relating to our performance-based options will be achieved in connection with the
IPO. As a result, we recognized stock-based compensation expense for our performance-based options in the amount
of $23.6 million in Fiscal 2017.
Finance Expense
Finance expense decreased by $0.5 million to $10.5 million in Fiscal 2017, compared to $11.0 million in Fiscal
2016. Finance expense in Fiscal 2017 included the write-off of deferred financing costs of $2.9 million relating to the
amendment of our credit facilities concurrent with the closing of the IPO. Excluding the impact of the write-off of
deferred financing costs, finance expense was $7.6 million in Fiscal 2017. The decrease was primarily driven by lower
average debt outstanding and lower average interest rates.
Income Tax Expense
Income taxes increased by $17.9 million to $30.7 million in Fiscal 2017, compared to $12.8 million in Fiscal
2016, primarily due to the reversal of a deferred income tax asset previously recognized on stock-based
22
compensation liability for our legacy time-based options to income tax expense in Fiscal 2017. The remaining
increase in income taxes is due to the increase in income from operations excluding stock-based compensation
expense which is not deductible for tax purposes. The statutory income tax rates for Fiscal 2017 and Fiscal 2016 were
26.3% and 26.2% respectively. The effective tax rates for Fiscal 2017 and Fiscal 2016 were (121.0%) and 28.3%,
respectively. The decrease in the Fiscal 2017 effective income tax rate is primarily due to stock-based compensation
expense for time-based and performance-based options not being deductible for tax, resulting in an increased
income tax expense over a loss before income taxes.
Net Income (Loss)
Net loss was $56.1 million in Fiscal 2017 compared to net income of $32.4 million in Fiscal 2016, primarily due
to the factors discussed above.
Adjusted Net Income
Adjusted Net Income increased by 60.4% to $64.6 million, or $0.55 per diluted share in Fiscal 2017, compared
to $40.3 million, or $0.34 per diluted share in Fiscal 2016, primarily due to the factors discussed above.
Summary of Consolidated Quarterly Results and Certain Performance Measures
The following table summarizes the results of our operations for the last eight most recently completed quarters.
This unaudited quarterly information, other than comparable sales growth, has been prepared in accordance with
IFRS. Due to seasonality, the results of operations for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of the results of
operations for the fiscal year.
Q4
Fiscal 2017
Q3
Q2
Q1
Q4
Fiscal 2016
Q3
Q2
Q1
(in thousands of Canadian dollars)
$
$
Consolidated Statements of
Operations:
Net revenue
Gross profit
Income (loss) from operations
Net income (loss)
Percentage of Net Revenue:
Net revenue
Gross profit
Income (loss) from operations
Net income (loss)
Adjusted EBITDA (1)
Adjusted Net Income (1)
Other Performance Measures:
Comparable sales growth
Stores
Number of stores, beginning of
period
New stores
Number of stores, end of period
Stores expanded or repositioned
___________________________
Note:
(1)
196,396 $ 186,460 $ 157,918 $ 126,407 $ 167,358 $ 155,380 $ 121,360 $
51,211
13,064
56,671
(80,686)
41,582
6,917
63,478
23,983
56,932
15,915
75,368
21,484
82,273
29,844
98,365
36,376
5,791
11,528 $
(8,097) $
(67,288) $
7,748 $
10,013 $
15,553 $
4,744 $
2,062
100.0%
38.4%
10.9%
100.0% 100.0%
35.9%
(51.1%)
44.1%
16.0%
100.0%
40.5%
10.3%
100.0%
34.0%
9.5%
100.0%
40.9%
15.4%
100.0%
34.3%
5.7%
100.0%
37.0%
5.9%
5.9%
32,281
18,284
(4.3%)
45,427
27,457
(42.6%)
19,809
9,281
6.1%
6.0%
20,147
9,605
23,253
11,757
10.0%
33,558
18,976
3.9%
2.1%
16,453
6,515
11,705
3,034
11.5%
15.2%
16.9%
12.9%
9.2%
15.4%
20.8%
25.8%
77
2
79
-
75
2
77
2
74
1
75
74
-
74
72
2
74
67
5
72
65
2
67
64
1
65
1
2
-
1
-
1
See “How We Assess the Performance of Our Business” for definitions of Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted Net Income, which are non-IFRS
measures. See also “Non-IFRS Measures”.
23
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Overview
Our principal uses of funds are for operating expenses, capital expenditures and debt service requirements. We
believe that cash generated from operations, together with amounts available under our credit facilities (defined
herein), are expected to be sufficient to meet our future operating expenses, capital expenditures and future debt
service requirements. Our ability to fund operating expenses, capital expenditures and future debt service
requirements will depend on, among other things, our future operating performance, which will be affected by
general economic, financial and other factors, including factors beyond our control. See “Summary of Factors
Affecting Performance” and “Risk Factors” of this MD&A for additional information. We review investment
opportunities in the normal course of our business and may make select investments to implement our business
strategy when suitable opportunities arise. Historically, the funding for any such investments has come from cash
flows from operating activities and/or our credit facilities.
Credit Facilities
As at February 26, 2017, the aggregate amount outstanding under our term credit facility was $134.1 million,
maturing on May 13, 2019 (“Term Credit Facility”). A $70.0 million revolving credit facility is also available as part of
this facility (“Revolving Credit Facility” and together with the Term Credit Facility, the “Credit Facilities”). No amounts
were drawn on the Revolving Credit Facility as at February 26, 2017. Scheduled mandatory repayments of the Term
Credit Facility will be $15.3 million and $19.2 million in February 2018 and February 2019, respectively, with the
balance due on the maturity date of May 13, 2019. In addition, the Term Credit Facility requires mandatory loan
prepayments by us of principal and interest if certain events occur. See “Contractual Obligations – Off-Balance Sheet
Arrangements and Commitments” for letters of credit issued.
Concurrent with the IPO, amendments to our Credit Facilities with our syndicate of lenders became effective.
Each of the Credit Facilities has various interest rate charge options that are based on Canadian prime rates, base
rates and LIBOR rates plus the applicable margin from time to time in effect. The amendment included allowing us to
enter into bi-lateral letters of credit agreements of up to $75.0 million with different lenders, lowering the applicable
margin on interest rates and amending other terms and conditions.
The credit agreement contains restrictive covenants customary for credit facilities of this nature, including
restrictions on us and each credit facility guarantor, subject to certain exceptions, to incur indebtedness, grant liens,
merge, amalgamate or consolidate with other companies, transfer, lease or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all
of its assets, liquidate or dissolve, engage in any material business other than the fashion clothing business, make
investments, acquisitions, loans, advances or guarantees, make any restricted payments, enter into transactions with
affiliates, repay indebtedness, enter into restrictive agreements, enter into sale-leaseback transactions, ensure
pension plan compliance, sell or discount receivables, enter into agreements with unconditional purchase
obligations, issue shares, create or acquire a subsidiary or make any hostile acquisitions.
On March 29, 2017, we entered into a $50.0 million trade finance agreement for letters of credit, secured pari
passu with the Credit Facilities. The interest rate for the letters of credit is between 1.17% and 2.00%.
Cash Flows
The following table presents cash flows for the periods and fiscal years indicated.
Q4 2017 Q4 2016 Fiscal 2017 Fiscal 2016
52 weeks
13 weeks
52 weeks
13 weeks
Net cash generated from operating activities
Net cash generated from (used in) financing activities
Net cash used in investing activities
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash
equivalents
$
30,176 $
9,156 $ 112,102 $
1,785
(11,610)
(11,321)
(6,685)
(5,060)
(31,136)
57,621
(33,096)
(28,183)
(223)
(102)
35
21
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
$
20,128 $
(8,952) $
75,941 $
(3,637)
(in thousands of Canadian dollars)
24
Analysis of Cash Flows for the Fourth Quarter and Fiscal 2017
Cash Flows Generated from Operating Activities
For Q4 2017, cash flows generated from operating activities totalled $30.2 million, compared to $9.2 million in
Q4 2016. This increase was primarily attributable to higher Adjusted Net Income, a lower use of working capital due
to the timing of certain payments and a reduction in the amount of interest paid, offset by higher income tax
payments made.
For Fiscal 2017, cash flows generated from operating activities totalled $112.1 million, compared to $57.6
million for Fiscal 2016. This increase was primarily due to higher Adjusted Net Income and a lower use of working
capital due to the timing of certain payments and increased volume in deferred revenue.
Cash Flows Generated From (Used in) Financing Activities
For Q4 2017, cash flows generated from financing activities totalled $1.8 million, compared to cash flows of
$11.3 million used in Q4 2016. This change was primarily due to repayments on our Credit Facilities made in Q4
2016, offset by net proceeds received from options exercised in Q4 2017.
For Fiscal 2017, cash flows used in financing activities totalled $5.1 million, compared to $33.1 million in Fiscal
2016. This decrease was primarily due to lower net repayments on our Credit Facilities and net proceeds received
from options exercised in Fiscal 2017.
Cash Flows Used in Investing Activities
For Q4 2017, cash flows used in investing activities totalled $11.6 million, compared to $6.7 million in Q4 2016.
This increase was primarily due to timing of capital expenditures related to new stores and store expansions and
repositions.
For Fiscal 2017, cash flows used in investing activities totalled $31.1 million, compared to $28.2 million in
Fiscal 2016. This increase was primarily due to timing of capital expenditures related to new stores and store
expansions and repositions.
Contractual Obligations
The following table summarizes our significant undiscounted maturities of our contractual obligations and
commitments as at February 26, 2017.
Less than
1 year
1 to
5 years
More than
5 years
(in thousands of Canadian dollars)
Total
$
50,484 $
766
3,937
15,321
- $
983
4,125
118,738
- $
-
-
-
50,484
1,749
8,062
134,059
$
70,508 $ 123,846 $
- $ 194,354
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
Finance lease obligations
Assumed interest on long-term debt(1)
Debt(2)
Total contractual obligations
___________________________
Notes:
(1) Based on interest rate in effect as at February 26, 2017.
(2)
The term loan requires mandatory loan prepayments by Aritzia of principal and interest if certain events occur.
25
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements and Commitments
The following table summarizes our off-balance sheet arrangements and commitments as at February 26, 2017.
Operating leases
Purchase obligations
Less than
1 year
1 to
5 years
More than
5 years
(in thousands of Canadian dollars)
Total
$
$
71,524 $
24,790
312,995 $
324,786 $
-
-
709,305
24,790
96,314 $
312,995 $
324,786 $
734,095
Operating leases for certain of our premises include renewal options, rent escalation clauses and free-rent
periods. The operating lease commitment reflects minimum annual commitments for our operating leases for our
premises (excluding other occupancy charges and additional rent based on a percentage of revenue).
Our third party manufacturers purchase raw materials on our behalf to be used for future production. As at
February 26, 2017, we had $24.8 million of raw materials not already included for use in purchase orders.
We enter into trade letters of credit to facilitate the international purchase of inventory. We also enter into
standby letters of credit to secure certain of our obligations, including leases and duties related to import purchases.
As at February 26, 2017, letters of credit totalling $19.3 million have been issued.
Other than those items disclosed here and elsewhere in this MD&A and our consolidated financial statements,
we do not have any material off-balance sheet arrangements or commitments as at February 26, 2017.
Financial Instruments
We primarily use foreign currency forward contracts to manage our exposure to fluctuations with respect to the
U.S. dollar for U.S. dollar merchandise purchases sold in Canada. We currently do not apply hedge accounting. The
fair value of the forward contracts is included in prepaid expenses and other current assets or in accounts payable
and accrued liabilities, depending on whether they represent assets or liabilities to us. Changes in the fair value of
foreign currency forward contracts are recorded in net income (loss). As at February 26, 2017, we had approximately
$27.5 million of U.S. dollar denominated forward contracts outstanding at an average forward rate of 1.3026.
Related Party Transactions
Berkshire Partners LLC (“Berkshire”) is the investment manager to private equity funds that indirectly hold an
ultimate controlling interest in the Company. Berkshire provided consulting and management advisory services to us
pursuant to a Management Agreement dated December 19, 2005. Concurrent with the closing of the IPO, we
terminated the Management Agreement with Berkshire.
During the years ended February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016, we incurred management fees of $0.2
million and $0.3 million, respectively, for services rendered. Total reimbursements to Berkshire for travel, lodging and
other costs for the years ended February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016 were $0.2 million and $0.1 million,
respectively. At February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016, $nil and $0.1 million, respectively, was included in
accounts payable and accrued liabilities.
In connection with the IPO and Secondary Offering, we reimbursed in aggregate $1.4 million in professional
fees and other costs to the principal selling shareholders. At February 26, 2017, $0.9 million was included in accounts
payable and accrued liabilities.
During the years ended February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016, we purchased $10.8 million and $7.7 million,
respectively, of merchandise from a company partially owned by private equity funds managed by Berkshire. As at
February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016, $0.1 million and $0.2 million, respectively, was included in accounts
payable and accrued liabilities.
26
Transactions with Key Management
Key management includes our directors and executive team. Compensation awarded to key management
includes:
Salaries, directors’ fees and short-term benefits
Stock-based compensation expense (1)
Fiscal 2017 Fiscal 2016
52 weeks
52 weeks
$
$
3,084
14,781
17,865
$
$
3,017
202
3,219
___________________________
Note:
(1)
Stock-based compensation expense for the 52-week period ended February 26, 2017 includes stock-based compensation expense for our
legacy time-based and legacy performance-based options, plus stock-based compensation expense for our time-based options under our
new stock option plan.
Subsequent Event
Subsequent to year-end, we opened a flagship store in Century City Westfield in Los Angeles, our first location
in Southern California, and our sixth Wilfred banner store in Square One Shopping Centre in Toronto. We also
repositioned our Richmond Centre location in Greater Vancouver. In addition, Oliver Walsh, who was Chief Marketing
Officer, departed the Company to move onto his next endeavor.
Critical Accounting Estimates and Judgments
The preparation of consolidated financial statements in accordance with IFRS requires management to make
judgments, estimates and assumptions that affect the application of accounting policies and the reported amounts of
assets, liabilities, income and expenses. Estimates and assumptions are continuously evaluated and are based on
management’s best judgments and experience and other factors, including expectations of future events that are
believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognized in the period in
which the estimates are revised and in any future periods affected. Actual results may differ from these estimates.
The following discusses the most significant accounting judgments and estimates made by management in
preparation of the consolidated financial statements:
Valuation of Finished Goods Inventory
Inventory, consisting of finished goods, is stated at the lower of cost and net realizable value. Cost is determined
using weighted average costs. Cost of inventories includes the cost of merchandise and all costs incurred to deliver
the inventory to our distribution centres including freight and duty.
We periodically review our inventories and make provisions as necessary to appropriately value obsolete or
damaged goods. In addition, as part of inventory valuations, we accrue for inventory shrinkage for lost or stolen items
based on historical trends from actual physical inventory counts.
Impairment of Assets
Goodwill and intangible assets that have an indefinite useful life are not subject to amortization and are tested
annually for impairment or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that they might be
impaired.
Other assets are tested for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying
amount may not be recoverable.
An impairment loss is recognized for the amount by which the asset’s carrying amount exceeds its recoverable
amount. The recoverable amount is the higher of an asset’s fair value less costs of disposal and value in use. The
27
recoverable value is determined using discounted future cash flow models, which incorporate assumptions regarding
future events, specifically future cash flows, growth rates and discount rates.
For the purposes of assessing impairment, assets are grouped at the lowest levels where there are separately
identifiable cash inflows which are largely independent of the cash inflows from other assets or groups of assets
(cash-generating unit). Non-financial assets, other than goodwill, that suffered an impairment are reviewed for
possible reversal of the impairment at the end of each reporting period.
Stock-Based Compensation Expense
Stock-based compensation expense requires the use of estimates in the Black-Scholes option pricing model.
The classification of stock options as an equity-settled or cash-settled plan is influenced by judgment in determining
the expected settlement of the option. Judgment is also required in determining the timing of expense recognition
for performance-based options.
Income Tax Expense
Income tax expense requires judgment to determine when tax losses, credits and provisions are recognized
based on tax rules in various jurisdictions.
Significant New Accounting Standards Adopted
•
In December 2014, the IASB issued amendments to International Accounting Standard (“IAS”) 1,
“Presentation of Financial Statements”, as part of its major initiative to improve presentation and disclosure
in financial reports (the “Disclosure Initiative”). These amendments will not require any significant change
to current practice, but should facilitate improved financial statement disclosures. The amendments are
effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2016. We adopted IAS 1 on our consolidated
financial statements during the fiscal year ended February 26, 2017, and no material changes have been
made as a result of this amendment to IAS 1.
Significant New Accounting Standards Issued But Not Yet Adopted
In May 2014, the IASB issued IFRS 15, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers”. The new standard
contains a single model that applies to contracts with customers and two approaches to recognizing
revenue: at a point in time or over time. The model features a contract-based five-step analysis of
transactions to determine whether, how much and when revenue is recognized. New estimates and
judgmental thresholds have been introduced, which may affect the amount and/or timing of revenue
recognized. IFRS 15 is effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2018, with early
application permitted. We are currently evaluating the impact of IFRS 15 on our consolidated financial
statements and expect to apply the standard in accordance with its future mandatory effective date.
financial
instruments project and replaces
In July 2014, the IASB issued the final version of IFRS 9, “Financial Instruments”, which reflects all phases of
the
Instruments: Recognition and
Measurement”, and all previous versions of IFRS 9. The new standard introduces new requirements for
classification and measurement, impairment and hedge accounting. IFRS 9 is effective for annual periods
beginning on or after January 1, 2018, with early application permitted. We are currently evaluating the
impact of IFRS 9 on our consolidated financial statements and expect to apply the standard in accordance
with its future mandatory effective date.
IAS 39, “Financial
In January 2016, the IASB issued IFRS 16, “Leases”, which sets out a new model for lease accounting
replacing IAS 17. The standard introduces a single lessee accounting model and requires a lessee to
recognize assets and liabilities for all leases with a term of more than 12 months, unless the underlying
asset is of low value. A lessee is required to recognize a right-of-use asset representing its right to use the
underlying asset and a lease liability representing its obligation to make lease payments. Lessors continue
to classify leases as finance and operating leases. Other areas of the lease accounting model have been
impacted, including the definition of a lease. Transitional provisions have been provided. IFRS 16 is
effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2019, and is to be applied retrospectively.
Early adoption is permitted if IFRS 15 has been adopted. While we are currently evaluating the impact that
•
•
•
28
this new guidance will have on our consolidated financial statements, the recognition of certain leases is
expected to increase the assets and liabilities on our consolidated statements of financial position upon
adoption. As a result, we expect IFRS 16 to have a fundamental change to our consolidated statements of
financial position. We expect to apply the standard in accordance with its future mandatory effective date.
•
In June 2016, the IASB issued amendments to IFRS 2, “Share-based Payment”, clarifying how to account
for certain types of share-based payment transactions. The amendments provide requirements on the
accounting for: the effects of vesting and non-vesting conditions on the measurement of cash-settled
share-based payments; share-based payment transactions with a net settlement feature for withholding tax
obligations; and a modification to the terms and conditions of a share-based payment that changes the
classification from cash-settled to equity-settled. The amendments to IFRS 2 are effective prospectively for
annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2018 with early application permitted. We are currently
evaluating the impact of IFRS 2 on our consolidated financial statements and we expect to apply the
standard in accordance with its future mandatory effective date.
Outlook
The first quarter of fiscal 2018 is off to a strong start with the Spring and Summer collections being well-received
by our customers, putting us on track for our 11th consecutive quarter of positive comparable sales growth.
In April, we opened a flagship store in Century City Westfield in Los Angeles, our first location in Southern
California, and our sixth Wilfred banner store in Square One Shopping Centre in Toronto. We also repositioned our
Richmond Centre location in Greater Vancouver at the end of April. In addition, we plan to open three to four new
stores and expand or reposition five to six existing locations in the remainder of fiscal 2018. This includes the opening
of a flagship store on Rush Street in Chicago and the repositioning of an existing San Francisco location into a flagship
store on Market Street. We continue to see strong momentum online and are expecting meaningful growth in our
eCommerce business in fiscal 2018. This planned increase in our store footprint and anticipated growth in
eCommerce will keep us on track with the growth objectives outlined in our five-year plan.
In fiscal 2018, we continue to make strategic investments in the business. The implementation of a new point-
of-sale (POS) system is expected to further enhance our omni-channel operations and customer relationship
capabilities. In April, we expanded our Columbus area distribution centre capacity from 45,000 square feet to
138,000 square feet. We have also begun the process of relocating and expanding our Greater Vancouver
distribution centre, from our existing 83,000 square foot facility into a new 223,000 square foot facility. We expect the
new Greater Vancouver distribution centre to be operational by Spring of next year. These investments in systems
and infrastructure are expected to drive increased efficiencies and set the stage for our next phase of growth.
The aforementioned description of our potential growth opportunities is based on management’s current
strategies, our assumptions and expectations concerning our growth outlook and opportunities, and our assessment
of the outlook and opportunities for the business and the apparel industry as a whole and may be considered to be
forward-looking information for purposes of applicable securities laws in Canada. Readers are cautioned that actual
results may vary from those described above. See below and “Forward-Looking Information” and “Risk Factors” in the
MD&A and the Company’s AIF for a description of the assumptions underlying the forward-looking information and
of the risks and uncertainties that impact our business and that could cause actual results to vary.
Implicit in such forward-looking statements are certain assumptions, relating to, among others, the opening of
new stores, the expansion or repositioning of existing stores, the achievement of continued comparable sales growth,
including growing our eCommerce business, investment on maintenance capital expenditures and infrastructure
investments, a U.S. dollar to Canadian dollar exchange rate of 1:1.3, taxation rates consistent with historical levels and
debt repayments consistent with the terms set out in the MD&A. These current assumptions, although considered
reasonable by us at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect. Readers are cautioned that actual future
operating results and economic performance of the Company, including with respect to our anticipated annual net
revenue, eCommerce net revenue, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted Net Income, are subject to a number of risks and
uncertainties, including, among others, general economic, geo-political, market and business conditions, changes in
foreign currency rates from those assumed, the risk of unseasonal weather patterns and the risk that we may not
continue to achieve comparable sales growth.
29
Risk Factors
For a detailed description of risk factors associated with the Company, refer to the “Risk Factors” section of the
Company’s AIF, which is available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.
In addition, we are exposed to a variety of financial risks in the normal course of operations including foreign
exchange, interest rate, credit and liquidity risk, as summarized below. Our overall risk management program and
business practices seek to minimize any potential adverse effects on our consolidated financial performance.
Financial risk management is carried out under practices approved by our Audit Committee. This includes
reviewing and making recommendations to the Board regarding the adequacy of our risk management policies and
procedures with regard to identification of the Company’s principal risks, and implementation of appropriate systems
and controls to manage these risks. Risk management covers many areas of risk including, but not limited to, foreign
exchange risk, interest rate risk, credit risk and liquidity risk.
Foreign Exchange Risk
We source the majority of our raw materials and merchandise from various suppliers in Asia and Europe with the
vast majority of purchases denominated in U.S. dollars. Our foreign exchange risk is primarily with respect to the U.S.
dollar but we have limited exposure to other currencies as well. We use foreign exchange forward contracts to
mitigate risks associated with forecasted U.S. dollar merchandise purchases sold in Canada.
Interest Rate Risk
We are exposed to changes in interest rates on our cash and cash equivalents, bank indebtedness and long-
term debt. Debt issued at variable rates exposes us to cash flow interest rate risk. Debt issued at fixed rates exposes
us to fair value interest rate risk. During the period, we had only variable interest rate debt.
Credit Risk
Credit risk refers to the possibility that we can suffer financial losses due to the failure of our counterparties to
meet their payment obligations. We are exposed to minimal credit risk. We do not extend credit to customers, but do
have some receivable exposure in relation to tenant improvement allowances. In order to reduce this risk, we enter
into leases with landlords with established credit history, and for certain leases, we may offset rent payments until
accounts receivable are fully satisfied. We deposit our cash and cash equivalents with major financial institutions that
have been assigned high credit ratings by internationally recognized credit rating agencies. We only enter into
derivative contracts with major financial institutions, as described above, for the purchase of foreign currency forward
contracts.
Liquidity risk
Liquidity risk is the risk that we cannot meet a demand for cash or fund our obligations as they come due. We
manage liquidity risk by continuously monitoring actual and projected cash flows, taking into account the seasonality
of our revenue, income and working capital needs. The Revolving Credit Facility is used to maintain liquidity.
Disclosure Controls and Procedures
Disclosure controls and procedures are designed to provide reasonable assurance that information required to
be disclosed by the Company in its annual filings, interim filings or other reports filed or submitted by it under
securities legislation is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the
securities legislation and include controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be
disclosed by the Company in its annual filings, interim filings or other reports filed or submitted under securities
legislation is accumulated and communicated to the Company’s management, including its certifying officers, namely
the Chief Executive Officer ("CEO") and the Chief Financial Officer ("CFO"), as appropriate to allow timely decisions
regarding public disclosure.
As of February 26, 2017, an evaluation of the design of the Company's disclosure controls and procedures, as
defined under National Instrument 52-109 – Certification of Disclosure in Issuers' Annual and Interim Filings, was
30
carried out under the supervision of the CEO and CFO and with the participation of the Company's management.
Based on that evaluation, the CEO and CFO have concluded that the design and operation of these controls were
effective as of February 26, 2017. Although the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were operating
effectively as of February 26, 2017, there can be no assurance that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures
will detect or uncover all failures of persons within the Company to disclose material information otherwise required
to be set forth in the Company’s regulatory filings.
Internal Controls over Financial Reporting
Internal control over financial reporting is designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of
financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements in accordance with IFRS. Management is responsible
for establishing adequate internal control over financial reporting for the Company.
An evaluation of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company's internal control over financial
reporting was conducted as of February 26, 2017. Based on that evaluation, the CEO and the CFO concluded that the
design and operation of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting, as defined by National Instrument
52-109, were effective. The evaluations were conducted in accordance with the framework and criteria established in
Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the
Treadway Commission ("COSO"), a recognized control model, and the requirements of National Instrument 52-109 -
Certification of Disclosure in Issuers' Annual and Interim Filings.
Controls systems, no matter how well designed, have inherent limitations. Therefore, even when determined to
be designed effectively, disclosure controls and internal control over financial reporting can provide only reasonable
assurance with respect to disclosure, reporting and financial statement preparation.
Share Information Prior to the Completion of the IPO
Prior to the completion of the IPO, we had an unlimited authorized number of Class A, B, C and D common
shares, with no par value. The Class A, B, C and D common shares were identical, except for an additional 0.001%
voting right attached to each Class B common share and no voting right attached to each Class D common share. The
Class A, B, C and D common shares ranked pari passu in all respects, including the right to receive dividends and
upon any distribution of our assets.
Prior to the completion of the IPO, we had 110,987,688 Class A common shares and 62,781,263 Class C
common shares issued and outstanding. In addition, there were 28,692,457 options (after giving effect to the
cancellation of 898,625 options upon closing), each exercisable for one common share, issued and outstanding.
Assuming exercise of all outstanding options, there would have been 202,461,408 common shares issued and
outstanding on a fully diluted basis.
Current Share Information
As of May 9, 2017, an aggregate of 53,208,701 Shares, 55,756,002 multiple voting shares and no preferred
shares are issued and outstanding. All of the issued and outstanding multiple voting shares are, directly or indirectly,
held or controlled by the principal shareholders. As of May 9, 2017, an aggregate of 14,341,152 options to acquire
Shares are outstanding.
Additional Information
Additional information relating to the Company, including the Company’s AIF, is available on SEDAR at
www.sedar.com. The Company’s Shares are listed for trading on the Toronto Stock Exchange (“TSX”) under the
symbol “ATZ”.
31
Aritzia Inc.
Consolidated Financial Statements
February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016
(in thousands of Canadian dollars)
32
May 10, 2017
Independent Auditor’s Report
To the Shareholders of Aritzia Inc.
We have audited the accompanying consolidated financial statements of Aritzia Inc. and its subsidiaries,
which comprise the consolidated statements of financial position as at February 26, 2017 and February 28,
2016 and the consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income (loss), changes in
shareholders’ equity and cash flows for the years then ended, and the related notes, which comprise a
summary of significant accounting policies and other explanatory information.
Management’s responsibility for the consolidated financial statements
Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of these consolidated financial
statements in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards, and for such internal control
as management determines is necessary to enable the preparation of consolidated financial statements
that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.
Auditor’s responsibility
Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with Canadian generally accepted auditing standards. Those
standards require that we comply with ethical requirements and plan and perform the audit to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free from material
misstatement.
An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and disclosures in
the consolidated financial statements. The procedures selected depend on the auditor’s judgment,
including the assessment of the risks of material misstatement of the consolidated financial statements,
whether due to fraud or error. In making those risk assessments, the auditor considers internal control
relevant to the entity’s preparation and fair presentation of the consolidated financial statements in order
to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing
an opinion on the effectiveness of the entity’s internal control. An audit also includes evaluating the
appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates made by
management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the consolidated financial statements.
We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained in our audits is sufficient and appropriate to provide a
basis for our audit opinion.
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
PricewaterhouseCoopers Place, 250 Howe Street, Suite 1400, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada V6C 3S7
T: +1 604 806 7000, F: +1 604 806 7806
“PwC” refers to PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, an Ontario limited liability partnership.
33
Opinion
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial
position of Aritzia Inc. and its subsidiaries as at February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016 and their
financial performance and their cash flows for the years then ended in accordance with International
Financial Reporting Standards.
(signed) “PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP”
Chartered Professional Accountants
34
Aritzia Inc.
Consolidated Statements of Financial Position
As at February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016
(in thousands of Canadian dollars)
Assets
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents
Accounts receivable
Income taxes recoverable
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
Inventory
Total current assets
Property and equipment
Intangible assets
Goodwill
Other assets
Deferred tax assets
Total assets
Liabilities
Current liabilities
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
Income taxes payable
Current portion of lease obligations
Current portion of long-term debt
Deferred revenue
Total current liabilities
Other non-current liabilities
Deferred tax liabilities
Lease obligations
Long-term debt
Total liabilities
Shareholders’ equity
Share capital
Contributed surplus
Retained earnings (deficit)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
Total shareholders’ equity
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
Commitments and contingencies (note 18)
Subsequent events (note 10)
Note
February 26,
2017
February 28,
2016
$
5
6
7
7
16
$
8
$
6
10
9
16
6
10
12
$
79,527 $
2,624
-
12,743
74,184
169,078
95,695
58,484
151,682
2,052
9,854
486,845 $
50,484 $
19,222
766
15,288
15,749
101,509
47,711
16,555
983
118,479
285,237
131,853
88,612
(18,480)
(377)
201,608
486,845 $
3,586
3,600
726
10,245
77,331
95,488
81,490
58,522
151,682
4,892
9,044
401,118
33,157
11,769
707
11,348
10,170
67,151
74,948
12,174
1,774
132,389
288,436
75,371
-
37,629
(318)
112,682
401,118
Approved by the Board of Directors
__________________Brian Hill Director
__________Marni Payne Director
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
35
Aritzia Inc.
Consolidated Statements of Operations
For the years ended February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, except number of shares and per share amounts)
Net revenue
Cost of goods sold
Gross profit
Operating expenses
Selling, general and administrative
Stock-based compensation expense
Income (loss) from operations
Finance expense
Other income, net
Income (loss) before income taxes
Income tax expense
Net income (loss)
Net income (loss) per share
Basic
Diluted
Weighted average number of shares outstanding
(thousands)
Basic
Diluted
Note
February 26,
2017
February 28,
2016
$
667,181 $
542,463
15
401,658
344,095
265,523
198,368
13, 15
15
16
178,773
103,044
(16,294)
10,455
(1,362)
(25,387)
30,722
135,111
10,651
52,606
10,995
(3,512)
45,123
12,751
$
(56,109) $
32,372
$
14
14
(0.54) $
(0.54)
0.31
0.31
14
14
104,787
104,787
103,046
103,046
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
36
Aritzia Inc.
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss)
For the years ended February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016
(in thousands of Canadian dollars)
Net income (loss)
Other comprehensive income (loss)
Items that are or may be reclassified subsequently to
net income:
Foreign currency translation adjustment
February 26,
2017
February 28,
2016
$
(56,109) $
32,372
(59)
9
Comprehensive income (loss)
$
(56,168) $
32,381
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
37
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38
Aritzia Inc.
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
For the years ended February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016
(in thousands of Canadian dollars)
Operating activities
Net income (loss) for the year
Adjustments for:
Note
February 26,
2017
February 28,
2016
$
(56,109) $
32,372
Depreciation and amortization
Finance expense
Stock-based compensation expense
Amortization of deferred rent
Proceeds from deferred lease inducements
Amortization of deferred lease inducements
Unrealized foreign exchange gain on forward contracts
Income tax expense
13, 15
11
16
20
10
10
6
10
13
6
7
Cash generated before non-cash working capital balances and
interest and income taxes
Net change in non-cash working capital balances
Cash generated before interest and income taxes
Interest paid
Income taxes paid
Net cash generated from operating activities
Financing activities
Net repayment of bank indebtedness
Repayment of long-term debt
Repayment of lease obligations
Payment of financing fees
Net proceeds from options exercised
Settlement of stock options
Net cash used in financing activities
Investing activities
Purchase of property and equipment
Purchase of intangible assets
Net cash used in investing activities
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and
cash equivalents
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents - Beginning of year
Cash and cash equivalents - End of year
$
79,527 $
Supplemental cash flow information (note 20)
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
21,129
10,455
103,044
2,866
8,064
(2,517)
(181)
30,722
117,473
20,814
138,287
(6,958)
(19,227)
112,102
-
(11,491)
(755)
(827)
8,013
-
(5,060)
(29,807)
(1,329)
(31,136)
35
75,941
3,586
18,200
10,995
10,651
5,818
4,597
(1,902)
-
12,751
93,482
(11,654)
81,828
(9,715)
(14,492)
57,621
(16,000)
(13,668)
(269)
(2,667)
-
(492)
(33,096)
(28,016)
(167)
(28,183)
21
(3,637)
7,223
3,586
39
Aritzia Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise noted)
1 Nature of operations and basis of presentation
a) Nature of operations
Aritzia Inc. and its subsidiaries (collectively referred to as the “Company”) is a design house and
fashion retailer. The Company designs apparel and accessories for its collection of exclusive brands
and sells them under the Aritzia banner. The Company’s range of women’s fashion apparel and
accessories addresses a range of style preferences and lifestyle requirements. There were 79 and 74
retail stores as at February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016, respectively.
Aritzia Inc. is a corporation governed by the Business Corporations Act (British Columbia). The address
of its registered office is 666 Burrard Street, Suite 1700, Vancouver, B.C., Canada, V6C 2X8. On
August 10, 2016, the Company changed its name from Aritzia Capital Corporation to Aritzia Inc.
On October 3, 2016, the Company completed an initial public offering (the “IPO”) of its subordinate
voting shares through a secondary sale of shares by its principal shareholders.
The IPO of 25,000,000 subordinate voting shares at $16.00 per subordinate voting share raised gross
proceeds of $400.0 million for the selling shareholders. In addition, such shareholders of the Company
granted the underwriters an over-allotment option to purchase from the selling shareholders an
additional 3,750,000 subordinate voting shares at an exercise price of $16.00 per subordinate voting
share. The over-allotment option was fully exercised after the IPO and raised additional gross
proceeds of $60.0 million for the selling shareholders. Underwriting fees were paid by the selling
shareholders, and other expenses related to the IPO of approximately $7.7 million were incurred and
are being paid by the Company.
On January 26, 2017, the Company completed a secondary offering (the “Secondary Offering”) on a
bought deal basis of its subordinate voting shares through a secondary sale of shares by certain
shareholders, as well as a concurrent block trade by a group of employees of the Company (the
“Concurrent Block Trade”).
The Secondary Offering of 20,100,000 subordinate voting shares and the sale of 1,788,366
subordinate voting shares through the Concurrent Block Trade raised gross proceeds of $382.0 million
for the selling shareholders, at a price of $17.45 per subordinate voting share. Underwriting fees were
paid by the selling shareholders, and other expenses related to the Secondary Offering of
approximately $0.9 million were incurred and are being paid by the Company.
The Company’s subordinate voting shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the stock
symbol “ATZ”.
b) Basis of preparation
The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared under International
Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board
(“IASB”). The consolidated financial statements have been prepared on a historical cost basis, except
40
Aritzia Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise noted)
for derivative instruments, the cash-settled legacy option plan and Deferred Share Units (“DSUs”) as
disclosed in the accounting policies set out in note 2.
The Company’s fiscal year-end is the Sunday closest to the last day of February, typically resulting in a
52-week year, but occasionally giving rise to an additional week, resulting in a 53-week year, which last
occurred in fiscal 2013. All references to 2017 and 2016 represent the fiscal years ended February 26,
2017 and February 28, 2016, respectively.
These consolidated financial statements were authorized for issue by the Board of Directors on May
10, 2017.
c) Seasonality of operations
The Company’s business is affected by the pattern of seasonality common to most retail apparel
businesses. Historically, the Company has recognized a significant portion of its operating profit in the
third and fourth fiscal quarters of each year as a result of increased net revenue during the back-to-
school and holiday season.
2 Summary of significant accounting policies
Principles of consolidation
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly owned
subsidiaries, including Aritzia LP and United States of Aritzia Inc. All intercompany transactions and
balances are eliminated on consolidation, and consistent accounting policies are applied across the
Company.
Functional and presentation currency
The functional currency for each entity included in these consolidated financial statements is the currency of
the primary economic environment in which the entity operates. These consolidated financial statements
are presented in Canadian dollars, which is the Company’s functional currency.
U.S. operations
Assets and liabilities of the Company’s U.S. operations have a functional currency of U.S. dollars and are
translated into Canadian dollars at the exchange rate in effect at the reporting date. Revenues and
expenses are translated into Canadian dollars at average exchange rates during the reporting period. The
resulting unrealized translation gains or losses are included in other comprehensive income (loss).
Translation of other foreign currency transactions and balances
Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies at the reporting date are translated into
the functional currencies at the exchange rate at that date. Other statement of financial position items
denominated in foreign currencies are translated into the functional currencies at the exchange rate
41
Aritzia Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise noted)
prevailing at the respective transaction dates. Revenues and expenses denominated in foreign currencies
are translated into the functional currencies at average exchange rates during the period. The resulting
gains or losses on translation are included in the determination of net income.
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents comprise cash on hand and term deposits with an original maturity of less than
three months. At February 26, 2017, the Company had $68.8 million in cash held in term deposits classified
as cash equivalents (February 28, 2016 - $nil).
Accounts receivable
Accounts receivable primarily comprise landlord lease inducement receivables and duty drawback
receivables from the relevant governmental authorities. The Company records a landlord lease inducement
receivable when the Company has fulfilled certain requirements under the lease agreement to be eligible
to receive cash. An allowance for doubtful accounts represents management’s best estimate of probable
credit losses in accounts receivable. Receivables are written off against the allowance when management
believes that the amount receivable will not be recovered. At February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016,
the Company recorded no allowance for doubtful accounts.
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
Prepaid expenses and other current assets comprise prepaid expenses, deposits and packaging supplies.
Inventory
Inventory, consisting of finished goods, is stated at lower of cost and net realizable value. Cost is
determined using weighted average costs. Cost of inventories includes the cost of merchandise and all
costs incurred to deliver inventory to the Company’s distribution centres including freight and duty.
The Company periodically reviews its inventories and makes provisions as necessary to appropriately value
obsolete or damaged goods. In addition, as part of inventory valuations, the Company accrues for
inventory shrinkage for lost or stolen items based on historical trends from actual physical inventory counts.
Property and equipment
Property and equipment are measured at cost less accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment
losses. Cost includes expenditures that are directly attributable to the acquisition of the asset, including any
costs directly attributable to bringing the asset to a working condition for its intended use. Purchased
software that is integral to the functionality of the related equipment is capitalized as part of that
equipment.
The Company capitalizes borrowing costs incurred as part of the financing of the acquisition and
construction of property and equipment. Maintenance and repairs are expensed as incurred. Cost and
42
Aritzia Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise noted)
related accumulated depreciation for property and equipment are removed from the accounts upon their
sale or disposition and the resulting gain or loss is reflected in the results of operations.
Depreciation is recognized in net income (loss) on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of
each component of an item of property and equipment, commencing when the assets are ready for use,
as follows:
Computer hardware and software
Furniture and equipment
Leasehold improvements
3 - 10 years
3 - 10 years
shorter of lease term and
estimated useful life
Estimates of useful lives, residual values and methods of depreciation are reviewed annually. Any changes
are accounted for prospectively as a change in accounting estimate. Depreciation expense is recorded in
the consolidated statements of operations in cost of goods sold and selling, general and administrative
expense.
Intangible assets
Intangible assets are recorded at cost and include trade names, trademarks, non-competition agreements,
retail leases and internally developed computer software.
Significant costs to purchase any trademarks from third parties are capitalized and amortized over the
useful lives of the assets. Cost includes all expenditures that are directly attributable to the acquisition or
development of the asset.
The Company capitalizes, in intangible assets, direct costs incurred during the application and
infrastructure development stages of developing computer software for internal use. All costs incurred
during the preliminary project stage, including project scoping, identification and testing of alternatives,
are expensed as incurred.
The Aritzia trade name has been determined to have an indefinite life and is not amortized. The remaining
intangible assets are amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives as follows:
Other trade names and trademarks
Retail leases included in other intangibles
Computer software
term of registration or up to a
maximum of 20 years
term of lease
3 - 7 years
Estimates of useful lives, residual values and methods of amortization are reviewed annually. Any changes
are accounted for prospectively as a change in accounting estimate. Amortization expense is recorded in
the consolidated statements of operations in cost of goods sold and selling, general and administrative
expense.
43
Aritzia Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise noted)
Goodwill
Goodwill represents non-identifiable intangible assets acquired on business combinations.
Impairment of assets
Goodwill and intangible assets that have an indefinite useful life are not subject to amortization and are
tested annually for impairment, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that they
might be impaired. Other assets are tested for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances
indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. An impairment loss is recognized for the amount
by which the asset’s carrying amount exceeds its recoverable amount. The recoverable amount is the
higher of an asset’s fair value less costs of disposal and value in use. For the purposes of assessing
impairment, assets are grouped at the lowest levels for which there are separately identifiable cash inflows
which are largely independent of the cash inflows from other assets or groups of assets (cash-generating
unit or “CGU”). Non-financial assets, other than goodwill, that suffered an impairment are reviewed for
possible reversal of the impairment at the end of each reporting period.
Leases
Leases are classified as either operating or finance, based on the substance of the transaction at inception
of the lease. Classification is reassessed if the terms of the lease are changed.
Operating leases
Leases in which a significant portion of the risks and rewards of ownership are not assumed by the
Company are classified as operating leases. The Company carries on its operations in premises under
leases of varying terms, which are accounted for as operating leases. Operating leases are recorded on a
straight-line basis over the term of the lease beginning on the possession date. Accordingly, reasonably
assured rent escalations are amortized over the lease term, and free-rent periods are allocated to a portion
of rent expense. The difference between the recognized rental expense and the total rental payments is
reflected in the consolidated statements of financial position as a deferred lease liability. Contingent rental
payments based on sales volumes are recorded in the period in which the sales occur.
Tenant allowances are recorded as deferred lease credits on the consolidated statements of financial
position and amortized as a reduction of rent expense over the term of the respective leases.
Finance leases
Finance leases are capitalized at the commencement of the lease at the inception-date fair value of the
leased property or, if lower, at the present value of the minimum lease payments. Lease payments are
apportioned between finance charges and reduction of the lease liability so as to achieve a constant rate of
interest on the remaining balance of the liability. Finance charges are recognized in finance expense in the
consolidated statements of operations. An asset under a finance lease is depreciated over the shorter of the
useful life of the asset and the lease term.
44
Aritzia Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise noted)
Provisions
Provisions are recognized when the Company has a present legal or constructive obligation as a result of a
past event, it is probable that an outflow of economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation and a
reliable estimate can be made of the amount of the obligation. If the effect of the time value of money is
material, provisions are discounted using a current pre-tax rate that reflects, where appropriate, the risks
specific to the liability. Where discounting is used, the increase in the provision due to the passage of time
is recognized as a finance cost.
An asset retirement obligation is a legal obligation associated with the retirement of tangible long-lived
assets that the Company may be required to settle. The Company’s asset retirement obligations are
primarily associated with leasehold improvements that the Company is contractually obligated to remove
at the end of a lease. At inception of a lease with such conditions, the Company recognizes the best
estimate of the fair value of the liability, with a corresponding increase in the carrying value of the related
asset. The liability, recorded in other non-current liabilities, is estimated based on a number of assumptions
requiring management’s judgment, including store closing costs, cost inflation rates and discount rates,
and is accreted to its projected future value over time. The capitalized asset is depreciated over its useful
life. Upon satisfaction of the asset retirement obligation conditions, differences between the recorded asset
retirement obligation liability and the actual retirement costs incurred are recognized as a gain or loss in
the consolidated statements of operations.
Financial instruments
Financial assets and liabilities are recognized when the Company becomes a party to the contractual
provision of the financial instrument. Financial assets are derecognized when the contractual rights to
receive cash flows from the financial asset expire and financial liabilities are derecognized when obligations
under the contract expire, are discharged or cancelled. Financial instruments upon initial recognition are
measured at fair value and classified as financial assets or liabilities at fair value through profit or loss
(“FVTPL”), loans and receivables, other financial liabilities or as derivative instruments. Loans and
receivables and other financial liabilities are measured at amortized cost and derivative instruments are
measured at FVTPL. The following classifications have been applied:
(cid:120)
cash and cash equivalents and accounts receivable are classified as loans and receivables;
(cid:120) bank indebtedness, accounts payable and accrued liabilities, lease obligations and long-term debt are
classified as other financial liabilities; and
(cid:120)
foreign currency forward contracts are classified as financial assets or financial liabilities at FVTPL.
Bank indebtedness and long-term debt are initially recognized at fair value, net of recognized transaction
costs, and subsequently measured at amortized cost, being the carrying value. Any difference between the
carrying value and the redemption value is recognized in the consolidated statements of operations using
the effective interest rate method.
45
Aritzia Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise noted)
Financial assets and liabilities are measured at fair value using a valuation hierarchy for disclosure of fair
value measurements. The determination of the applicable level within the hierarchy of a particular asset or
liability depends on the inputs used in the valuation as of the measurement date, notably the extent to
which the inputs are market-based (observable) or internally derived (unobservable). Observable inputs are
inputs that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability based on market data obtained
from independent sources. Unobservable inputs are inputs based on a company’s own assumptions about
market participant assumptions using the best information available. The hierarchy is broken down into
three levels based on the reliability of inputs as follows:
Level 1 - Valuations based on quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that a
company has the ability to access at the measurement date.
Level 2 - Valuations based on quoted inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1, that are
observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly through corroboration with observable
market data.
Level 3 - Valuations based on inputs that are unobservable and significant to the overall fair value
measurement.
Offsetting financial instruments
Financial assets and liabilities are offset and the net amount is reported in the consolidated statements of
financial position when there is a legally enforceable right to offset the recognized amounts and there is an
intention to settle on a net basis or to realize the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.
Share capital
Multiple voting shares and subordinate voting shares are classified as shareholders’ equity. Incremental
costs directly attributable to the issuance of shares are shown in equity as a deduction, net of tax, from the
proceeds of the issuance. When share capital recognized as equity is re-purchased for cancellation, the
amount of consideration paid, which includes directly attributable costs, net of tax, is recognized as a
deduction from equity. The excess of the purchase price over the carrying amount of the shares is charged
to retained earnings.
Revenue recognition
Revenue is recognized at the time merchandise is received by the customer. Sales to customers through the
Company’s retail stores are recognized at the point-of-sale, net of an estimated allowance for returns.
eCommerce sales are recognized at the estimated date of receipt of the merchandise by the customer, net
of an estimated allowance for returns. Amounts related to shipping and handling that are billed to
customers are recorded in net revenue with the related costs recorded in cost of goods sold. Revenues are
reported net of sales taxes collected from various governmental agencies.
46
Aritzia Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise noted)
Receipts from the sale of gift cards are treated as deferred revenue. When gift cards are redeemed for
merchandise, the Company recognizes the related revenue. The Company estimates gift card breakage,
and to the extent management determines there is no requirement for remitting card balances to
government agencies under unclaimed property laws, recognizes revenue in proportion to actual gift card
redemptions as a component of net revenue.
The Company recognizes promotional gift cards as a reduction of revenue upon redemption.
Cost of goods sold
Cost of goods sold includes inventory and product-related costs and occupancy costs, as well as
depreciation expense for the Company’s stores and distribution centres.
Selling, general and administrative
Selling, general and administrative expenses consist of selling expenses that are generally variable with
revenues and general and administrative operating expenses that are primarily fixed. Selling, general and
administrative expenses also include depreciation and amortization expense for all support office assets
and intangible assets.
Store opening costs
Store opening costs are expensed as incurred.
Employee benefits
Short-term employee benefit obligations, which include wages, salaries, compensated absences and
bonuses, are expensed as the related service is provided.
Termination benefits are recognized as an expense when the Company has demonstrated commitment,
without realistic possibility of withdrawal, to a formal detailed plan to terminate employment before the
normal retirement date.
Income tax expense
Current and deferred income taxes are recognized in the Company’s net income (loss), except to the extent
that they relate to a business combination or items recognized directly in equity or other comprehensive
income (loss).
Current taxes are recognized for the estimated taxes payable or receivable on taxable income or loss for
the current year and any adjustment to income taxes payable in respect of previous years. Current income
taxes are determined using tax rates and tax laws that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the
year-end date.
47
Aritzia Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise noted)
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized where the carrying amount of an asset or liability differs
from its tax base, except for taxable temporary differences arising on the initial recognition of goodwill and
temporary differences arising on the initial recognition of an asset or liability in a transaction that is not a
business combination, and at the time of the transaction affects neither accounting nor taxable income or
loss. In addition, deferred tax liabilities are not recognized for taxable temporary differences arising on
investments in subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures where the reversal of the temporary difference
can be controlled and it is probable that the difference will not reverse in the foreseeable future. The
amount of deferred tax provided is based on the expected manner of realization or settlement of the
carrying amount of the asset and liability, using tax rates enacted or substantively enacted at the year-end
date.
A deferred tax asset is recognized for unused tax losses, tax credits and deductible temporary differences,
to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profits will be available against which they can be
utilized. The carrying amount of deferred tax assets is reviewed at each statement of financial position date
and reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that sufficient taxable profits will be available to
allow all or part of the asset to be recovered.
Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are offset when there is a legally enforceable right to offset
current tax assets against current tax liabilities and when the deferred income tax assets and liabilities
relate to income tax levied by the same taxation authority on either the taxable entity or different taxable
entities where there is an intention to settle the balances on a net basis.
Stock-based compensation expense
Stock Option Plans
The Company has a legacy Equity Incentive Plan (the “Legacy Plan”) pursuant to which it has granted time-
based and performance-based stock options to directors, employees, consultants and advisors. Concurrent
with the IPO, the Company amended and restated the Legacy Plan to comply with public company
provisions as required by the Toronto Stock Exchange. The Company also implemented a new stock option
plan (the “2016 Option Plan”), pursuant to which it can grant time-based stock options to acquire
subordinate voting shares to directors, executive officers, employees and consultants.
The Legacy Plan in effect prior to the IPO provided that the Board of Directors, at its sole discretion, could
elect to settle vested time-based options in cash upon the request of an option holder under certain
circumstances. As a result of the Company having historically cash-settled vested time-based options for
certain option holders prior to the IPO, the Company was considered to have a cash-settled plan.
48
Aritzia Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise noted)
Prior to the IPO, as a cash-settled plan, the Company was required to record a liability for the potential
future settlement of the vested time-based options at each reporting date by reference to the fair value of
the liability. The liability was adjusted each reporting period for changes in the fair value of the options,
with the corresponding amount reflected in the consolidated statements of operations. The fair value of the
liability was determined using the Black-Scholes option pricing model.
The Company had both time-based and performance-based options prior to the IPO. After the IPO, the
Company has only time-based options. For awards with service conditions that are subject to graded
vesting, compensation cost is recognized on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period for each
separately vesting portion of the award as if the award was, in substance, multiple awards. In addition, the
total amount of compensation expense to be recognized is based on the number of awards expected to
vest and is adjusted to reflect those awards that do ultimately vest. For awards with performance
conditions, the Company recognizes the compensation expense if and when the Company concludes that it
is probable that the performance conditions will be achieved. The Company reassesses the probability of
achieving the performance conditions at each reporting date.
Deferred Share Units
In conjunction with the IPO, the Company adopted the Director Deferred Share Unit Program for
non-employee board members. DSUs are grants of notional subordinate voting shares that are redeemable
for cash based on the market value of the Company’s subordinate voting shares and are non-dilutive to
shareholders. The cost of the service received as consideration is initially measured based on the market
value of the Company’s shares at the date of grant. The grant-date fair value is recognized as stock-based
compensation expense over the vesting period with a corresponding increase recorded in other liabilities.
Deferred share units are remeasured at each reporting date based on the market value of the Company’s
subordinate voting shares with changes in fair value recognized as stock-based compensation expense for
the proportion of the service that has been rendered at that date.
Net income (loss) per share
Basic net income (loss) per share is calculated by dividing the net income (loss) for the fiscal year
attributable to shareholders of the Company by the weighted average number of multiple voting shares
and subordinate voting shares outstanding during the year.
In calculating net income (loss) per diluted share for options that can be settled in either shares or cash, the
more dilutive of the cash-settled and equity-settled method is used. Net income (loss) per diluted share,
assuming cash settlement, is calculated consistent with basic net income (loss) per share, as the accounting
for the liability is based on the fair value alternative and cash settlement would not result in the issuance of
additional equity instruments. Net income (loss) per diluted share, assuming equity settlement, is calculated
for dilutive share options by adjusting the numerator to reflect what income would have been if the grant
date fair value was reflected in net income and by adjusting the denominator by the weighted average
number of shares that would be included under the treasury stock method.
49
Aritzia Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise noted)
3 Significant new accounting standards
Standards recently adopted
In December 2014, the IASB issued amendments to International Accounting Standard (“IAS”) 1,
“Presentation of Financial Statements”, as part of its major initiative to improve presentation and disclosure
in financial reports (the “Disclosure Initiative”). These amendments will not require any significant change to
current practice, but should facilitate improved financial statement disclosures. The amendments are
effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2016. The Company adopted IAS 1 for its
consolidated financial statements during the year ended February 26, 2017, and no material changes have
been made as a result of this amendment to IAS 1.
Standards issued but not yet adopted
In May 2014, the IASB issued IFRS 15, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers”. The new standard
contains a single model that applies to contracts with customers and two approaches to recognizing
revenue: at a point in time or over time. The model features a contract-based five-step analysis of
transactions to determine whether, how much and when revenue is recognized. New estimates and
judgmental thresholds have been introduced, which may affect the amount and/or timing of revenue
recognized. IFRS 15 is effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2018, with early
application permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of IFRS 15 on its consolidated
financial statements and expects to apply the standard in accordance with its future mandatory effective
date.
In July 2014, the IASB issued the final version of IFRS 9, “Financial Instruments”, which reflects all phases of
the financial instruments project and replaces IAS 39, “Financial Instruments: Recognition and
Measurement”, and all previous versions of IFRS 9. The new standard introduces new requirements for
classification and measurement, impairment and hedge accounting. IFRS 9 is effective for annual periods
beginning on or after January 1, 2018, with early application permitted. The Company is currently
evaluating the impact of IFRS 9 on its consolidated financial statements and expects to apply the standard
in accordance with its future mandatory effective date.
In January 2016, the IASB issued IFRS 16, “Leases”, which sets out a new model for lease accounting
replacing IAS 17. The standard introduces a single lessee accounting model and requires a lessee to
recognize assets and liabilities for all leases with a term of more than 12 months, unless the underlying
asset is of low value. A lessee is required to recognize a right-of-use asset representing its right to use the
underlying asset and a lease liability representing its obligation to make lease payments. Lessors continue
to classify leases as finance and operating leases. Other areas of the lease accounting model have been
impacted, including the definition of a lease. Transitional provisions have been provided. IFRS 16 is
effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2019, and is to be applied retrospectively.
Early adoption is permitted if IFRS 15 has been adopted. While the Company is currently evaluating the
impact this new guidance will have on its consolidated financial statements, the recognition of certain
leases is expected to increase the assets and liabilities on the consolidated statements of financial position
upon adoption. As a result, the Company expects IFRS 16 to have a fundamental change to the
50
Aritzia Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise noted)
consolidated statements of financial position. The Company expects to apply the standard in accordance
with its future mandatory effective date.
In June 2016, the IASB issued amendments to IFRS 2, “Share-based Payment”, clarifying how to account for
certain types of share-based payment transactions. The amendments provide requirements on the
accounting for: the effects of vesting and non-vesting conditions on the measurement of cash-settled share-
based payments; share-based payment transactions with a net settlement feature for withholding tax
obligations; and a modification to the terms and conditions of a share-based payment that changes the
classification from cash-settled to equity-settled. The amendments to IFRS 2 are effective prospectively for
annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2018, with early application permitted. The Company is
currently evaluating the impact of IFRS 2 on its consolidated financial statements and expects to apply the
standard in accordance with its future mandatory effective date.
4 Critical accounting estimates and judgments
The preparation of consolidated financial statements in accordance with IFRS requires management to
make judgments, estimates and assumptions that affect the application of accounting policies and the
reported amounts of assets, liabilities, income and expenses. Estimates and assumptions are continuously
evaluated and are based on management’s best judgments and experience and other factors, including
expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. Revisions to
accounting estimates are recognized in the period in which the estimates are revised and in any future
periods affected. Actual results may differ from these estimates.
Significant judgments and estimates made by management in the process of applying accounting policies
and that have the most significant effect on the amounts recognized in the consolidated financial
statements include the following:
(cid:120)
(cid:120)
The provision recorded to remeasure inventories based on the lower of cost and net realizable value
(note 5), which is a critical estimate.
Impairment of assets, which is influenced by judgment in defining a CGU and determining the
indicators of impairment, and estimates used to measure impairment losses, if any (note 6). These
estimates include future cash flow projections, growth rates and discount rates.
(cid:120) Goodwill and indefinite life intangible asset impairment testing, which requires management to make
critical estimates in the impairment testing model. On an annual basis, the Company tests whether
goodwill and indefinite life intangible assets are impaired. The recoverable value is determined using
discounted future cash flow models, which incorporate assumptions regarding future events,
specifically future cash flows, growth rates and discount rates (note 7).
(cid:120)
Stock-based compensation expense requires the use of estimates in the Black-Scholes option pricing
model (note 13). The classification of stock options as an equity-settled or cash-settled plan is
influenced by judgment in determining the expected settlement of the option. Judgment is also
required in determining the timing of expense recognition for performance-based options.
51
Aritzia Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise noted)
(cid:120)
Income taxes, which requires judgment to determine when tax losses, credits and provisions are
recognized based on tax rules in various jurisdictions (note 16).
5
Inventory
Finished goods
Finished goods in transit
February 26,
2017
February 28,
2016
$
$
68,620 $
5,564
68,287
9,044
74,184 $
77,331
The Company records a reserve to value inventory to its estimated net realizable value. This resulted in an
expense in cost of goods sold of $2.6 million and $1.1 million for the years ended February 26, 2017 and
February 28, 2016, respectively.
All of the Company’s inventory is pledged as security for the Credit Facilities (note 10).
6 Property and equipment
Leasehold
improvements
Furniture
and
equipment
Computer
hardware
Computer
software
Construction-
in-
progress
Total
Cost
Balance, March 1, 2015
Additions
Transfers from construction-
$
in-progress
Foreign exchange
Balance, February 28, 2016
Additions
Transfers from construction-
in-progress
Dispositions
Foreign exchange
91,570 $
21,706
19,992 $
5,392
16,303 $
1,547
5,068 $
1,351
4,909 $
925
137,842
30,921
1,300
2,403
116,979
15,339
595
(50)
(1,558)
96
519
25,999
4,920
369
147
18,366
1,479
173
(16)
(239)
4
(9,135)
(592)
6
85
6,510
919
35
(24)
688
(1,771)
14
-
3,168
4,077
11,323
171,931
33,980
(807)
-
(111)
-
(9,225)
(1,812)
Balance, February 26, 2017 $
131,305 $
30,837 $
10,122 $
8,128 $
14,482 $
194,874
Accumulated depreciation
Balance, March 1, 2015
Depreciation
Foreign exchange
$
44,830 $
9,447
1,148
12,817 $
2,517
342
13,032 $
1,616
120
3,269 $
1,273
30
Balance, February 28, 2016
55,425
15,676
14,768
4,572
Depreciation
Dispositions
Foreign exchange
12,856
(50)
(859)
3,211
(16)
(155)
1,652
(9,135)
(75)
1,219
(24)
114
- $
-
-
-
-
-
-
73,948
14,853
1,640
90,441
18,938
(9,225)
(975)
Balance, February 26, 2017 $
67,372 $
18,716 $
7,210 $
5,881 $
- $
99,179
Net carrying value
Balance, February 26, 2017 $
Balance, February 28, 2016
63,933 $
61,554
12,121 $
10,323
2,912 $
3,598
2,247 $
1,938
14,482 $
4,077
95,695
81,490
52
Aritzia Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise noted)
Construction-in-progress includes store build costs for stores not yet opened and support office projects
not available for use.
During the years ended February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016, interest of $208 and $18, respectively,
was capitalized to assets under construction. These interest costs relating to qualifying assets were
capitalized at a weighted average rate of 3.97% and 4.93% for the years ended February 26, 2017 and
February 28, 2016, respectively.
As at February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016, an amount of $2.8 million and $2.8 million, respectively, of
the furniture and equipment, computer hardware and computer software was held under finance leases.
Accumulated depreciation relating to this property and equipment amounted to $1.5 million at
February 26, 2017 (February 28, 2016 - $0.7 million).
Minimum annual payments for the Company’s finance lease obligations are as follows:
2018
2019
2020
Thereafter
Total minimum lease payments
Less: amount representing interest
$
$
827
784
227
-
1,838
(89)
1,749
53
Aritzia Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise noted)
7 Goodwill and intangible assets
Indefinite life
trade name
Definite life
trade name
Trademarks
Computer
software
Other
intangible
assets
Total
intangible
assets
Goodwill
46,092 $
17,175 $
-
-
-
-
1,709 $
-
-
19,897 $
2
(65)
7,973 $
-
(4,454)
92,846 $
2
(4,519)
151,682
-
-
46,092
-
17,175
-
1,709
-
19,834
2,076
3,519
-
88,329
2,076
151,682
-
Cost
Balance, March 1, 2015 $
Additions
Dispositions
Balance, February 28,
2016
Additions
Balance, February 26,
2017
$
46,092 $
17,175 $
1,709 $
21,910 $
3,519 $
90,405 $
151,682
Accumulated
amortization
Balance, March 1, 2015 $
Amortization
Dispositions
Balance, February 28,
2016
Amortization
Balance, February 26,
2017
Net carrying value
Balance, February 26,
2017
Balance, February 28,
2016
$
$
- $
-
-
-
-
8,082 $
782
-
8,864
719
1,709 $
-
-
13,538 $
2,215
(38)
7,650 $
323
(4,454)
30,979 $
3,320
(4,492)
1,709
-
15,715
1,395
3,519
-
29,807
2,114
- $
9,583 $
1,709 $
17,110 $
3,519 $
31,921 $
-
-
-
-
-
-
46,092 $
7,592 $
- $
4,800 $
- $
58,484 $
151,682
46,092
8,311
-
4,119
-
58,522
151,682
Until December 19, 2005, the operations of the Company were owned by a private, closely held Canadian
company. On December 19, 2005, a company owned by funds managed by Berkshire Partners LLC
(“Berkshire”) purchased the majority of the operations through a newly created company, Aritzia Capital
Corporation. The acquisition transaction was treated as a business combination and the identified assets
and liabilities that were acquired were measured at their acquisition date fair values, including goodwill
and the indefinite life trade name.
Goodwill and the indefinite life trade name are monitored and allocated to the group of CGUs at a country
level, based on the expected future benefits to be derived.
In assessing goodwill and the indefinite life trade name for impairment, the Company compared the
aggregate recoverable amount of the assets included in each of the CGUs to their respective carrying
amounts. The recoverable amounts have been determined based on the higher of the value in use and fair
value less costs of disposal. The Company performed its annual impairment test of goodwill and the
indefinite life trade name on the first day of the fourth quarter in fiscal 2017 and fiscal 2016.
The recoverable amount of goodwill and the indefinite life trade name was based on value in use,
calculated using discounted cash flows over five years with a terminal value generated from continuing use
of the CGUs. Cash flows were projected based on actual operating results and growth assumptions of
2.00% to account for what management believes approximates inflationary increases. A pre-tax discount
rate of 15.81% was used in the model.
54
Aritzia Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise noted)
As at February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016, management has determined that there was no
impairment of goodwill or the indefinite life trade name.
8 Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
Trade accounts payable
Other non-trade payables
Employee benefits payable
9 Other non-current liabilities
Deferred lease liability
Deferred lease inducements
Asset retirement obligations
Director Deferred Share Unit Program liability (note 13)
Stock-based compensation relating to Legacy Plan (note 13)
10 Bank indebtedness and long-term debt
$
$
$
February 26,
2017
February 28,
2016
30,028 $
6,182
14,274
18,122
4,820
10,215
50,484 $
33,157
February 26,
2017
February 28,
2016
29,970 $
16,675
889
177
-
27,757
12,023
953
-
34,215
$
47,711 $
74,948
On May 13, 2015, the Company finalized an amendment to its credit facilities. The amendments included
extending the maturity date from May 2016 to May 2019, transferring the term loan of $153.2 million to a
revised banking syndicate, increasing the credit facility available for operations to $70.0 million and
amending other terms and conditions.
Concurrent with the closing of the IPO, the Company amended its term loan and revolving credit facility
(collectively the “Credit Facilities”) with its syndicate of lenders. The amendments included allowing the
Company to enter into bilateral letters of credit agreements of up to $75.0 million within different lenders,
lowering the applicable margin on interest rates and amending other terms and conditions. As a result of
the amendments, the Company wrote off financing fees of $2.9 million (note 15) in finance expense for the
year ended February 26, 2017.
55
Aritzia Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise noted)
a)
Long-term debt
Term loan
Less: Deferred financing fees
Term loan, net of deferred financing fees
Less: Current portion
Long-term debt
February 26,
2017
February 28,
2016
$
134,059 $
(292)
133,767
(15,288)
145,550
(1,813)
143,737
(11,348)
$
118,479 $
132,389
The Company has a term loan of $134.1 million (February 28, 2016 - $145.6 million) that matures on
May 13, 2019. The Company has the option to borrow using Banker’s Acceptance borrowings (“BA”),
LIBO rate borrowings (“LIBO”) or Canadian prime rate borrowings (“Prime”) plus a marginal interest
rate between 0.75% and 3.00% (February 28, 2016 – 2.50% and 4.75%).
During the years ended February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016, the Company incurred $5.6 million
and $7.4 million of interest, respectively, at an average rate of 3.95% and 4.91%, respectively. At
February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016, the interest rate on the loan was 2.95% and 4.39%,
respectively, based on a one-month BA rate.
The term loan requires mandatory loan prepayments by the Company of principal and interest if
certain events occur. At February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016, the Company was not required to
make a mandatory loan prepayment.
The Company defers third party costs and creditor fees directly associated with acquiring long-term
debt. These deferred costs are classified against long-term debt and bank indebtedness and are
amortized as finance expense over the expected life of the related indebtedness using the effective
interest rate method.
b) Bank indebtedness
The Company has a revolving credit facility for operations of $70.0 million (February 28, 2016 -
$70.0 million). The revolving credit facility bears interest at BA, LIBO or Prime plus a marginal rate
between 0.75% and 3.00% (February 28, 2016 – 2.50% and 4.75%). The amount available under this
facility was reduced by open letters of credit (note 18(c)) to $50.7 million and $51.9 million,
respectively, at February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016. Up to $5.0 million of the facility can be
drawn upon by way of a swingline loan. The swingline loan bears interest at Prime plus a marginal rate
between 0.75% and 2.00%. At February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016, no advances were made
under this facility.
During the years ended February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016, the Company incurred interest of
$0.1 million and $0.7 million, respectively, at an average rate of 5.20% and 4.71%, respectively. At
56
Aritzia Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise noted)
February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016, the interest rate on the credit facility was 2.95% and 4.39%,
respectively, based on a one-month BA rate.
The Credit Facilities are collateralized by a first priority lien on all assets, leased real property interests and
inventory. In addition, the Company is to maintain certain financial covenants. At February 26, 2017 and
February 28, 2016, the Company was in compliance with all financial covenants.
Subsequent to February 26, 2017, the Company entered into a $50.0 million trade finance agreement for
letters of credit, secured pari passu with the Credit Facilities. The interest rate for the letters of credit is
between 1.17% and 2.00%.
11 Derivative financial instruments
The Company uses foreign currency forward contracts to manage its exposure to fluctuations with respect
to the U.S. dollar for U.S. dollar merchandise purchases sold in Canada. The fair value of the forward
contracts is included in prepaid expenses and other current assets or in accounts payable and accrued
liabilities in the consolidated statements of financial position, depending on whether they represent assets
or liabilities to the Company.
The amount recorded in the consolidated statements of operations in other income, net relates to the
change in fair value of foreign currency forward contracts during the year ended February 26, 2017 which
was a gain of approximately $0.2 million. No gains or losses relating to the changes in fair value of foreign
currency forward contracts were recognized during the year ended February 28, 2016.
The forward contracts generally have a term of no more than 12 months. The notional amount of these
contracts outstanding at February 26, 2017 was $27.5 million U.S. dollars at an average forward rate of
1.3026. There were no foreign currency forward contracts outstanding at February 28, 2016.
57
Aritzia Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise noted)
12 Share capital
Prior to the IPO, the Company’s authorized share capital consisted of an unlimited number of Class A, Class
B, Class C, Class D common shares and preferred shares. There were 110,987,688 Class A common shares
and 62,781,263 Class C common shares issued and outstanding.
Immediately prior to the closing of the IPO, all of the outstanding Class A and Class C common shares were
exchanged for either one multiple voting share or one subordinate voting share. The Company’s Class B
and Class D common shares and preferred shares were removed from the Company’s authorized share
capital. The Company’s authorized share capital consists of (i) an unlimited number of subordinate voting
shares, (ii) an unlimited number of multiple voting shares and (iii) an unlimited number of preferred shares,
issuable in series. Each subordinate voting share is entitled to one vote and each multiple voting share is
entitled to 10 votes on all matters upon which holders are entitled to vote.
Following the foregoing share exchanges, all of the Company’s issued and outstanding multiple voting
shares and subordinate voting shares were consolidated on a one-to-0.5931691091 basis.
Concurrent with the IPO and Secondary Offering, the selling shareholders exchanged a certain number of
their multiple voting shares for subordinate voting shares.
As at February 26, 2017, there were 55,756,002 multiple voting shares and 53,016,459 subordinate voting
shares issued and outstanding. There were no preferred shares issued and outstanding as at February 26,
2017.
13 Stock options
The Company has granted stock options under the Legacy Plan and the 2016 Option Plan.
Legacy Plan
Prior to the IPO, the Company had both time-based and performance-based options to acquire Class A or
Class D common shares. Time-based and performance-based options annually vest pro-rata on the
anniversary of the grant date for a period of up to five years. Vested performance-based options become
earned and exercisable upon a liquidation event based upon the majority shareholder’s achievement of a
certain internal rate of return. As a result of the IPO, a liquidation event was triggered and, as such, certain
performance-based options under the Legacy Plan became earned and exercisable.
In connection with the IPO, options to acquire Class A and Class D common shares were also consolidated
on a one-to-0.5931691091 basis for options exercisable to acquire subordinate voting shares at a post-
consolidated exercise price such that the in-the-money value of such options remained unchanged.
Following completion of the IPO, no additional options will be granted under the Legacy Plan, and the
outstanding options under the Legacy Plan are exercisable for subordinate voting shares of the Company.
In addition, the expiration date of certain options under the Legacy Plan was extended from June 1, 2017
to April 4, 2018. Outstanding stock options have a term of 10 years to 15 years.
58
Aritzia Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise noted)
Transactions for stock options granted under the Legacy Plan post share consolidation for the years ended
on the dates indicated below were as follows:
February 26, 2017
February 28, 2016(1)
Number
of
stock
options
Weighted
average
exercise
price
Number
of
stock
options
Weighted
average
exercise
price
Outstanding, at beginning of year
16,766,534
$
2.83
16,571,833
$
Granted
Forfeited
Exercised
Cancelled (2)
874,924
(121,662)
(5,698,087)
(533,037)
7.09
4.01
1.42
3.56
1,706,639
(1,511,938)
-
-
Outstanding, at end of year
11,288,672
$
3.82
16,766,534
$
2.53
6.04
3.09
-
-
2.83
Exercisable, at end of year
7,602,406
$
3.03
6,453,965
$
2.36
(1)
This table reflects the options and exercise price after the one-to-0.5931691091 share
consolidation which took effect immediately prior to the closing of the IPO.
(2) Upon closing of the IPO, the Company cancelled 533,037 performance-based options under the
Legacy Plan.
Information relating to stock options outstanding and exercisable under the Legacy Plan as at February 26,
2017 is as follows:
Stock options outstanding
Stock options exercisable
Weighted
average
remaining
contractual
life
(in years)
2.69
6.10
7.70
5.51
Number of
stock
options
3,713,279
3,776,280
3,799,113
11,288,672
Weighted
average
exercise
price
$1.61
$3.89
$5.91
Number of
stock
options
3,710,641
2,544,352
1,347,413
$3.82
7,602,406
Weighted
average
remaining
contractual
life
(in years)
2.69
5.67
6.22
4.31
Weighted
average
exercise
price
$1.61
$3.93
$5.27
$3.03
Exercise prices
per share
$0.01 to $3.13
$3.14 to $4.96
$4.97 to $7.09
59
Aritzia Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise noted)
a) Time-based options
The Legacy Plan in effect prior to the IPO provided that the Board of Directors, at its sole discretion,
could elect to settle vested time-based options in cash upon the request of an option holder under
certain circumstances. As a result of the Company having historically cash-settled vested time-based
options for certain option holders prior to the IPO, the Company was considered to have a cash-settled
plan. As a cash-settled plan, the Company was required to record a liability for the potential future
settlement of the vested time-based options at each reporting date by reference to the fair value of the
liability. Concurrent with the IPO, the Company amended the Legacy Plan to remove the cash
settlement feature as of September 30, 2016. As a result of this modification, the Company accounts
for the time-based options as an equity-settled plan from the date of modification.
The fair value of the recorded liability in relation to the time-based options at the date of modification,
September 30, 2016, was $107.2 million. This amount has been reclassified to contributed surplus on
the consolidated statements of financial position. From the date of modification to February 26, 2017,
the Company recognized stock-based compensation expense of $3.2 million.
The weighted average fair value of the time-based stock options at the date of modification was
estimated based on the Black-Scholes option pricing model using the following assumptions:
Dividend yield
Expected volatility
Risk-free interest rate
Expected life
Exercise price (post share consolidation)
Weighted average fair value of stock options
estimated at the date of modification
0.0%
44.0%
1.0%
1.2 to 5.7 years
$0.01 to $7.09
$11.51
The computation of expected volatility was based on the historical volatility of comparable companies
from a representative peer group of publicly traded retail apparel companies. The expected life
estimate was determined by management based on a number of factors including vesting terms,
exercise behaviour and the contractual term of the options.
Stock-based compensation expense in relation to the time-based options for the years ended
February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016 was $76.1 million and $10.7 million, respectively. Included
in this expense was an adjustment for the fair value of the options based on an updated estimated
share price of the Company up to the date of the plan modification, from being cash-settled to equity-
settled, on September 30, 2016.
60
Aritzia Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise noted)
b) Performance-based options
The performance-based options are equity-settled. As such, the expense associated with performance-
based options is recorded as stock-based compensation expense with a corresponding entry made to
contributed surplus on the consolidated statements of financial position.
During August 2016, the Company concluded that it is probable that the performance conditions will
be achieved and recognized stock-based compensation expense in relation to the performance-based
options of $22.5 million during the 13-week period ended August 28, 2016. The Company recognized
stock-based compensation expense of $23.6 million during the year ended February 26, 2017.
The weighted average fair value of the performance-based stock options at the date of grant was
estimated based on the Black-Scholes option pricing model using the following assumptions:
Dividend yield
Expected volatility
Risk-free interest rate
Expected life
Exercise price (post share consolidation)
Weighted average fair value of stock options
estimated at the date of grant
0.0%
43.1% to 54.8%
1.0% to 3.5%
0.8 to 10.0 years
$0.01 to $7.09
$3.51
2016 Option Plan
Concurrent with the IPO, the Company adopted the 2016 Option Plan pursuant to which it can grant share
options to acquire subordinate voting shares to directors, executive officers, employees and consultants.
The options vest annually pro-rata on the anniversary of the grant date over a period of five years.
Transactions for stock options granted under the 2016 Option Plan for the year ended February 26, 2017
were as follows:
Outstanding, at beginning of year
Granted
Outstanding, at end of year
Exercisable, at end of year
Number
of
stock
options
Weighted
average
exercise
price
-
$
-
3,263,759
16.12
3,263,759
$
16.12
-
$
-
61
Aritzia Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise noted)
Stock options outstanding
Stock options exercisable
Exercise prices
per share
Number
Weighted
average
remaining
contractual
life
(in years)
Weighted
average
exercise
price
$16.00 to $16.60
3,263,759
6.65
$16.12
Weighted
average
remaining
contractual
life
(in years)
Weighted
average
exercise
price
-
-
Number
-
The weighted average fair value of the time-based stock options at the date of grant was estimated based
on the Black-Scholes option pricing model using the following assumptions from the date of grant to
February 26, 2017:
Dividend yield
Expected volatility
Risk-free interest rate
Expected life
Exercise price
Weighted average fair value of share options estimated
at the date of grant
0.0%
43.0% to 44.0%
0.7% to 1.3%
5.0 to 7.0 years
$16.00 to $16.60
$6.93
Stock-based compensation expense in relation to the time-based options under the 2016 Option Plan for
the year ended February 26, 2017 was $3.1 million.
Director Deferred Share Unit Program
The Director Deferred Share Unit Program was adopted in conjunction with the IPO for non-employee
board members. Each eligible director receives a portion of his or her annual director retainer in DSUs.
The grant of DSUs does not entitle any eligible director to dividends or other distributions on the
Company’s subordinate voting shares, or to exercise voting rights or any other rights attaching to the
ownership of the subordinate voting shares, provided that the Board may determine if and when DSUs are
to be credited with dividend equivalents based on the dividend policy of the Company at the relevant time.
DSUs vest when granted, but are not redeemable for cash settlement until the eligible director ceases to be
a member of the Board. DSUs are granted quarterly and the Company is required to record a liability for
the potential future settlement of the DSUs at each reporting date by reference to the fair value of the
liability. The fair value of the recorded liability in relation to the DSUs was $0.2 million at February 26, 2017,
with the expense recorded as stock-based compensation expense during the year ended February 26,
2017.
62
Aritzia Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise noted)
14 Net income (loss) per share
a) Basic
Basic net income (loss) per share is calculated by dividing the income (loss) attributable to
shareholders of the Company by the weighted average number of multiple voting shares and
subordinate voting shares outstanding during the periods ended on the dates provided below, after
giving effect, on a retrospective basis, to a one-to-0.5931691091 share consolidation that occurred in
connection with the IPO. As all the classes of shares are subject to the same distribution rights, the
Company performs the net income (loss) per share calculations as if all shares are a single class.
Net income (loss) attributable to shareholders of the Company
Weighted average number of shares outstanding during the year
$
(thousands)
February 26,
2017
February 28,
2016
(56,109) $
32,372
104,787
103,046
Basic net income (loss) per share
$
(0.54) $
0.31
b) Diluted
In calculating net income (loss) per diluted share for options that can be settled in either shares or
cash, the more dilutive of the cash-settled and equity-settled method is used. Accordingly, stock
options that are accounted for as cash-settled will require adjustments to the numerator and
denominator if the equity-settled method is determined to have a more dilutive effect. The cash-
settled method was more dilutive up to the date of modification for the years ended February 26,
2017 and February 28, 2016. The weighted average number of shares outstanding was adjusted after
giving effect, on a retrospective basis, to a one-to-0.5931691091 share consolidation that occurred in
connection with the IPO.
Net income (loss) attributable to shareholders of the Company
Weighted average number of shares for net income (loss) per
diluted share (thousands)
February 26,
2017
February 28,
2016
$
(56,109) $
32,372
104,787
103,046
Net income (loss) per diluted share
$
(0.54) $
0.31
63
Aritzia Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise noted)
15 Expenses by nature
Inventory and product-related costs and occupancy costs
Depreciation expense
Salaries, wages and employee benefits
Stock-based compensation expense
Interest expense and banking fees, net
Write-off of deferred financing fees (1)
Amortization of deferred financing fees
Cost of goods sold
February 26,
2017
February 28,
2016
$
$
$
$
$
$
384,543 $
17,115
331,516
12,579
401,658 $
344,095
Personnel expenses
February 26,
2017
February 28,
2016
139,662 $
103,044
111,897
10,651
242,706 $
122,548
Finance expense
February 26,
2017
February 28,
2016
6,988 $
2,867
600
9,762
-
1,233
10,455 $
10,995
(1) The Company wrote off financing fees of $2.9 million as a result of the amendment of its Credit
Facilities concurrent with the closing of the IPO during the year ended February 26, 2017 (note 10).
64
Aritzia Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise noted)
16 Income taxes
a)
Income tax expense
Current tax expense
Current period
Adjustment for prior period
Deferred tax expense (recovery)
Origination and reversal of temporary differences
Adjustment for prior period
Changes in substantively enacted tax rates
February 26,
2017
February 28,
2016
$
27,305 $
125
27,430
3,167
54
71
3,292
17,655
(13)
17,642
(5,156)
74
191
(4,891)
Income tax expense
$
30,722 $
12,751
b) Reconciliation of effective tax rate
The Company’s income tax expense differs from that calculated by applying the combined
substantively enacted Canadian federal and provincial statutory income tax rates for the years ended
February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016 of 26.3% and 26.2%, respectively, as follows:
Income (loss) before income taxes
Expected income tax expense (recovery)
Increase (decrease) in income taxes resulting from
Non-deductible stock-based compensation
Other non-deductible amounts
Foreign tax rate differences
Changes in substantively enacted tax rates
Adjustment for prior years
Other
February 26,
2017
February 28,
2016
$
$
(25,387) $
45,123
(6,687) $
11,837
36,089
703
321
71
179
46
-
119
579
191
61
(36)
Income tax expense
$
30,722 $
12,751
65
Aritzia Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise noted)
c) Deferred income tax
The tax effects of the significant temporary differences that comprise deferred tax assets and liabilities
as at February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016 are as follows:
Deferred tax assets
Deferred lease liability
Stock-based compensation
Financing and share issuance costs
Other
Total deferred tax assets
Deferred tax liabilities
Goodwill and intangible assets
Property and equipment
Partnership income reserve
Other
Total deferred tax liabilities
Net deferred tax liability
February 26,
2017
February 28,
2016
$
16,431 $
47
1,815
3,493
21,786
(18,841)
(9,577)
-
(69)
(28,487)
14,213
9,012
-
1,640
24,865
(18,050)
(7,573)
(2,158)
(214)
(27,995)
$
(6,701) $
(3,130)
The net change in deferred income tax liabilities is recorded as follows:
Deferred tax expense (recovery) recorded in net income
Deferred tax expense (recovery) recorded in other
comprehensive income
February 26,
2017
February 28,
2016
$
$
3,292 $
(4,891)
279
(655)
3,571 $
(5,546)
Of the deferred income tax balances, the Company expects $3.2 million of the deferred tax assets to
be recovered within 12 months and $0.1 million of the deferred tax liabilities to be settled within
12 months.
The Company intends to indefinitely reinvest the undistributed earnings of its foreign subsidiaries;
accordingly, the Company has not recorded a deferred tax liability on these earnings.
66
Aritzia Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise noted)
17 Segment information
The Company defines an operating segment on the same basis that it uses to evaluate performance
internally and to allocate resources by the Chief Operating Decision Maker (the “CODM”). The Company
has determined that the Chief Executive Officer is its CODM and there is one operating segment.
Therefore, the Company reports as a single segment. This includes all sales channels accessed by the
Company’s customers, including sales through the Company’s eCommerce website and sales at the
Company’s stores.
The following table summarizes revenue by geographic location of customers:
Canada
United States
February 26,
2017
February 28,
2016
$
$
496,292 $
170,889
414,499
127,964
667,181 $
542,463
The Company’s non-current, non-financial assets (property and equipment, intangible assets and goodwill)
are geographically located as follows:
Canada
United States
18 Commitments and contingencies
a) Operating leases
February 26,
2017
February 28,
2016
$
$
274,502 $
31,359
267,241
24,453
305,861 $
291,694
The Company conducts operations from leased stores, distribution centres and administrative offices.
For the years ended February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016, the rent expense under these
operating leases was $86.7 million and $77.5 million, respectively, of which $1.6 million and
$2.0 million was contingent rent.
Leases for certain of the Company’s premises include renewal options, rent escalation clauses and
free-rent periods. Minimum annual commitments for the Company’s operating leases for its premises,
excluding other occupancy charges and additional rent based on a percentage of sales, are as follows:
Less than 1 year
Between 1 and 5 years
More than 5 years
Total
$
$
71,524
312,995
324,786
709,305
67
Aritzia Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise noted)
b) Purchase obligations
At February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016, the Company had purchase obligations of $24.8 million
and $14.4 million, respectively, which represent commitments for fabric expected to be used during
upcoming seasons, made in the normal course of business.
c)
Letters of credit
At February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016, the Company had open letters of credit of $19.3 million
and $18.1 million, respectively.
19 Related party transactions
The Company is ultimately controlled by Canada Retail Holdings, L.P., also being the Company’s ultimate
parent.
The Company entered into the following transactions with related parties:
a) Berkshire is the investment manager to private equity funds that indirectly hold an ultimate controlling
interest in the Company. Berkshire provided consulting and management advisory services to the
Company pursuant to a Management Agreement dated December 19, 2005. Concurrent with the
closing of the IPO, the Company terminated the Management Agreement with Berkshire.
During the years ended February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016, the Company incurred
management fees of $190 and $321, respectively, for services rendered. Total reimbursements to
Berkshire for travel, lodging and other costs for the years ended February 26, 2017 and February 28,
2016 were $247 and $131, respectively. At February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016, $nil and $29,
respectively, was included in accounts payable and accrued liabilities.
b)
In connection with the IPO and Secondary Offering, the Company reimbursed in aggregate $1.4
million in professional fees and other costs to the principal selling shareholders. At February 26, 2017,
$948 was included in accounts payable and accrued liabilities.
c) During the years ended February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016, the Company purchased
$10.8 million and $7.7 million, respectively, of merchandise from a company partially owned by
private equity funds managed by Berkshire. At February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016, $47 and
$170, respectively, was included in accounts payable and accrued liabilities.
d) During the years ended February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016, the Company paid $2.2 million and
$2.0 million, respectively, for rent of premises partially owned by a company that is owned by a
director and officer of the Company.
68
Aritzia Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise noted)
e) During the years ended February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016, the Company provided unsecured
loans bearing interest at a rate of between 1% to 5% to certain employees, including key
management, with certain repayment terms. As at February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016, the
outstanding balance on the employee loans was $125 and $405, respectively, and was included in
accounts receivable and/or other assets.
f) During the year ended February 28, 2016, the Company made a charitable donation of $0.1 million to
an organization that is related to a director and officer of the Company.
g) Key management includes the Company’s directors and executive team. Compensation awarded to
key management includes:
Salaries, directors’ fees and short-term benefits
Stock-based compensation expense (1)
February 26,
2017
February 28,
2016
$
$
3,084 $
14,781
17,865 $
3,017
202
3,219
(1)
Stock-based compensation expense for the year ended February 26, 2017 includes stock-based
compensation expense for the Company’s time-based and performance-based options under the
Legacy Plan, plus stock-based compensation expense for the Company’s time-based options
under the 2016 Option Plan (note 13).
20 Supplemental cash flow information
Net change in non-cash working capital balances
Accounts receivable
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
Inventory
Other assets
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
Deferred revenue
Supplemental cash flow information
Accrued purchases of property and equipment
Accrued purchases of intangible assets
Non-cash increase in lease obligations for equipment under
finance leases
February 26,
2017
February 28,
2016
$
959 $
(2,569)
2,695
1,683
12,367
5,679
(1,311)
2,866
(13,005)
(1,171)
(2,362)
3,329
$
$
20,814 $
(11,654)
5,859 $
729
-
1,774
-
1,341
69
Aritzia Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise noted)
21 Financial instruments and risk management
The Company is exposed to a variety of financial risks in the normal course of operations including foreign
exchange, interest rate, credit and liquidity risk, as summarized below. The Company’s overall risk
management program and business practices seek to minimize any potential adverse effects on the
Company’s consolidated financial performance.
Risk management is carried out under practices approved by the Company’s Audit Committee. This
includes reviewing and making recommendations to the Board regarding the adequacy of the Company’s
risk management policies and procedures with regard to identification of the Company’s principal risks and
implementation of appropriate systems and controls to manage these risks. Risk management covers many
areas of risk including, but not limited to, foreign exchange risk, interest rate risk, credit risk and liquidity
risk.
Financial instruments by category
The classification of financial instruments and their carrying amounts are as follows:
Financial assets
Cash and cash equivalents
Accounts receivable
Foreign currency forward contracts
Financial liabilities
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
Lease obligations
Long-term debt
February 26,
2017
February 28,
2016
$
79,527 $
2,624
181
3,586
3,600
-
$
50,484 $
1,749
133,767
33,157
2,481
143,737
The carrying value of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable and accounts payable and
accrued liabilities approximates their fair value due to the relatively short periods to maturity of these
financial instruments. The fair value of the lease obligations is approximately equal to their carrying
value. For the other financial liabilities, the fair value is as follows:
Long-term debt (Level 2)
Foreign currency forward contracts (Level 2)
$
134,059 $
181
145,550
-
February 26,
2017
February 28,
2016
70
Aritzia Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise noted)
a) Market risk
Currency risk
The Company is exposed to foreign exchange risk on foreign currency denominated transactions,
monetary assets and liabilities denominated in a foreign currency, and net investments in foreign
operations. The Company sources the majority of its raw materials and merchandise from various
suppliers in Asia and Europe with the vast majority of purchases denominated in U.S. dollars. The
Company’s foreign exchange risk is primarily with respect to the U.S. dollar but the Company has
limited exposure to other currencies as well. Foreign currency forward contracts are used to mitigate
risks associated with forecasted U.S. dollar merchandise purchases sold in Canada.
As at February 26, 2017, a $0.01 variation in the Canadian dollar against the U.S. dollar on net
monetary accounts in U.S. dollars would, all other variables being constant, have an approximate
favourable/unfavourable impact of $0.1 million on net income (loss).
Interest rate risk
The Company is exposed to changes in interest rates on its cash and cash equivalents, bank
indebtedness and long-term debt. Debt issued at variable rates exposes the Company to cash flow
interest rate risk. Debt issued at fixed rates exposes the Company to fair value interest rate risk. During
the year, the Company had only variable rate debt. An increase or decrease in interest rate by 1%
would result in an increase/decrease of $1.4 million on interest expense on the Credit Facilities.
b) Credit risk
Credit risk is the risk of an unexpected loss if a counterparty to a financial instrument fails to meet its
contractual obligations. Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to credit risk
consist of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable and derivative contracts used to hedge
market risks. The Company offsets credit risks associated with cash and cash equivalents by depositing
its cash and cash equivalents with major financial institutions that have been assigned high credit
ratings by internationally recognized credit rating agencies. The Company is exposed to credit risk on
accounts receivable from its landlords for tenant allowances. In order to reduce this risk, the Company
enters into leases with landlords with established credit history and, for certain leases, the Company
may offset rent payments until accounts receivable are fully satisfied. The Company only enters into
derivative contracts with major financial institutions, as described above, for the purchase of its foreign
currency forward contracts.
c)
Liquidity risk
Liquidity risk is the risk that the Company cannot meet a demand for cash or fund its obligations as
they come due. Liquidity risk also includes the risk of not being able to liquidate assets in a timely
manner at a reasonable price. The Company manages liquidity risk through various means, including
monitoring actual and projected cash flows, taking into account the seasonality of its revenue, income
and working capital needs.
71
Aritzia Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
February 26, 2017 and February 28, 2016
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise noted)
The Company’s revolving credit facility is used to maintain liquidity. As at February 26, 2017, the
Company had available credit of $70.0 million (February 28, 2016 - $70.0 million) under its revolving
credit facility, of which $nil (February 28, 2016 - $nil) was drawn, and had outstanding letters of credit
totalling $19.3 million (February 28, 2016 - $18.1 million), which reduced the availability under this
credit facility. The amount drawn under this credit facility is presented as bank indebtedness in current
liabilities based on the Company’s estimate of what it expects to settle in the next 12 months (note 10).
The following table identifies the undiscounted contractual maturities of the Company’s financial
liabilities as at February 26, 2017:
Within one year
After one but
not more than
5 years
After 5 years
Total
Accounts payable and accrued
liabilities
Finance lease obligations
Assumed interest on long-term
debt (1)
Long-term debt
Total
$
$
50,484 $
766
3,937
15,321
- $
983
4,125
118,738
- $
-
-
-
50,484
1,749
8,062
134,059
70,508 $
123,846 $
- $
194,354
(1)
based on interest rates in effect as at February 26, 2017
22 Capital management
The Company’s objectives when managing capital are to:
(cid:120)
(cid:120)
ensure sufficient liquidity to enable the internal financing of capital projects thereby facilitating its
growth;
provide a strong capital base so as to maintain investor, creditor and market confidence and to sustain
future development of the business; and
(cid:120) maintain a flexible capital structure that optimizes the cost of capital at acceptable risk and preserves
the ability to meet financial obligations.
The Company defines capital as its Credit Facilities and shareholders’ equity. The Company’s primary uses
of capital are to finance increases in non-cash working capital along with capital expenditures for new store
additions, existing store expansion and renovation projects and other infrastructure investments. The
Company currently funds these requirements out of its internally generated cash flows and revolving credit
facility.
The Company is subject to financial covenants and collateral pursuant to the Credit Facilities presented in
note 10.
72
Consolidated Financial Statements