Quarterlytics / Consumer Cyclical / Apparel - Retail / Henry Boot

Henry Boot

boot · NYSE Consumer Cyclical
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Ticker boot
Exchange NYSE
Sector Consumer Cyclical
Industry Apparel - Retail
Employees 1001-5000
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FY2021 Annual Report · Henry Boot
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2 0 2 1   A N N U A L   R E P O R T

IDYLLWIND

CODY JAMES

MOONSHINE SPIRIT

SHYANNE

CODY JAMES WORK

HAWX

Dear Shareholders, 

I would like to begin by reflecting on the past year and the challenges we all encountered as a result of 
COVID-19. Over the past 16 months, the world has faced unprecedented times, and many have suffered greatly 
due to the global health pandemic. I am personally grateful for our healthcare professionals, doctors and scientists 
who have worked tirelessly to take care of the sick and develop and distribute effective vaccines. I would also like 
to thank all those within the Boot Barn organization who have demonstrated tremendous leadership as they 
continue to serve our customers. While there is still uncertainty in the external environment, I am more confident 
than ever in the resiliency of Boot Barn and the long-term potential that Boot Barn holds as the market leader in 
the western and work industry.   

While this was a year of great challenges, it was also a year of great accomplishment for Boot Barn. 

Despite the impact from COVID-19 and subsequent macro-economic headwinds, we were able to achieve very 
strong results. Consolidated same store sales grew 3%, cycling 5% same store sales growth in fiscal 2020 and 10% 
growth in the prior year. Our continued focus on full-price selling and commitment to profitability drove 
consolidated operating profit growth of 100 basis points during fiscal 2021, to 9.7% from 8.7% in fiscal 2020. 
Earnings per diluted share grew 23% on a tax adjusted basis. We are extremely pleased with the earnings power 
demonstrated by the business given the myriad of challenges over the last year. 

We are continuing to build a national lifestyle retail brand by focusing on the execution of each of Boot 

Barn’s four strategic initiatives, including: 

1.  Driving same-store sales growth 

Same store sales growth in our stores improved significantly as the year progressed. Decreased traffic in 

our stores resulting from customers staying at home in response to the COVID-19 crisis and temporary store 
closures led to a same store sales decline in our retail stores during the first half of the year of more than 17%. A 
strong holiday quarter, a much-improved macroeconomic environment, and contributions from our field team 
drove significant increases in our retail store same store sales in the second half of the year, which culminated in a retail 
store same store sales decline of only 1% for the year. The improvement in sales as the year progressed was broad-based 
and across nearly all merchandise categories and geographic regions. During the year we also created the Just Country 
segment. As part of this initiative, we augmented our assortment of hiking boots, outerwear, casual footwear and 
apparel. We believe that this work, coupled with advantageous consumer trends towards being outdoors and 
dressing more casually, has enabled us to further increase sales and capture a broader group of customers that will 
serve us well for ongoing growth in the future. 

2.  Strengthening our omni-channel leadership 

Same store sales in our e-commerce business increased 23.6% for the year. Our continued focus on 

improvement in e-commerce profitability helped drive a significant increase in e-commerce EBIT during the fiscal 
year. Several omni-channel initiatives we implemented over the past two years, including buy online pick-up in 
store, buy online curbside pickup, in-store fulfillment, same day delivery and buy online return in store, were well 
received by our customers. We continue to develop faster and more effective ways to deliver e-commerce orders 
to our customers, further enhancing customer service and mitigating freight costs. Additionally, we are using many 
of these new capabilities to drive increased traffic to the stores which is helping us to both drive incremental store 
sales as well as grow the percent of our customers that shop across both channels. These capabilities should serve 
us well going forward as they drive customer loyalty and strengthen our competitive position against pure e-
commerce players. As we look to fiscal 2022, our focus will remain on augmenting our omni-channel service 
offerings while continuing to build the profitability of that channel.  

3.  Increasing the penetration of our exclusive brand portfolio and expanding our merchandise margin  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
We are extremely proud of the outsized growth we have experienced in this portion of our business. Our 
fiscal 2021 exclusive brand penetration grew approximately 170 basis points over the prior year, to 23.7%. We are 
very pleased with our penetration growth despite the challenges we have faced as a result of COVID-19.  

The high-quality nature of our exclusive product is evidenced by their representation as top selling brands 
in our stores. Cody James, Shyanne, Idyllwind, and Hawx were each in our top 10 selling brands in the store during 
the year. As we look to fiscal 2022, we have already seen nice improvement in the supply chain. As a result, we 
expect exclusive brand penetration to return to approximately 250 basis points of growth in fiscal 2022.  

4.  Expanding our store base 

Adding new stores in attractive markets continues to be an important growth driver for sales and market 
share for Boot Barn. During this past year, we added 15 stores, bringing our total store count to 273 stores across 
36 states. We are pleased with our new store performance during fiscal 2021, given the difficult environment and 
uncertainty with how new stores would perform during the pandemic. New stores opened this past year have 
exceeded our sales plans and are expected to payback within our targeted 3-year period or better.  

While fiscal 2021 proved to be a challenging year, I am proud of the resiliency of this organization and the 

overall strength of the Boot Barn model. We have proven our ability to navigate as a company through difficult 
times, and I believe we will continue to fortify our leadership position in the western and work industry. I am 
looking forward to fiscal 2022 and the opportunities we have to continue to build the business.  

Sincerely, 

Jim

 
 
 
 
 
 
UNITED STATES 
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION 
Washington, D.C. 20549 
FORM 10 - K 

(Mark One) 
☒ 

ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES 
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 

For the fiscal year ended March 27, 2021 

☐ 

TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES 
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 

For the transition period from                              to                           

Commission file number: 001 - 36711 
BOOT BARN HOLDINGS, INC. 
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter) 

Delaware 

(State or other jurisdiction of 
incorporation or organization) 

90 - 0776290 
(I.R.S. Employer 
Identification No.) 

15345 Barranca Pkwy 
Irvine, CA 92618 
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code) 
Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (949) 453 - 4400 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: 

Title of each class 
Common Stock, $0.0001 par value 

Trading Symbol 
BOOT 

Name of each exchange on which registered 
New York Stock Exchange 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well - known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes ☒    No ☐ 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. Yes ☐    No ☒ 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange 
Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject 
to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes ☒    No ☐ 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to 
Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to 
submit such files). Yes ☒    No ☐ 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non - accelerated filer, a smaller reporting 

company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company,” and 
“emerging growth company” in Rule 12b - 2 of the Exchange Act.   

Large accelerated filer ☒ 

Accelerated filer ☐ 

Non - accelerated filer ☐ 

Smaller reporting company ☐          Emerging growth company ☐ 

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying 

with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐ 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed a report on and attestation to its management’s assessment of the effectiveness of its 
internal control over financial reporting under Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (15 U.S.C. 7262(b)) by the registered public accounting firm 
that prepared or issued its audit report. ☒ 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b - 2 of the Act). Yes ☐    No ☒ 

The aggregate market value of the registrant’s common stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant as of the end of its most recently completed 

second fiscal quarter was approximately $593.2 million. Shares held by each officer, director and person owning more than 10% of the outstanding 
voting and non-voting stock have been excluded from this calculation because such persons may be deemed to be affiliates of the registrant. This 
determination of potential affiliate status is not necessarily a conclusive determination for other purposes. Shares held include shares of which certain 
of such persons disclaim beneficial ownership. 

The number of outstanding shares of the registrant’s common stock, $0.0001 par value, as of May 10, 2021 was 29,251,626. 

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE 
Portions of the Registrant’s Proxy Statement for the 2021 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, to be filed pursuant to Regulation 14A within 

120 days after the end of the 2021 fiscal year, are incorporated by reference into Part III of this Form 10 - K. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
TABLE OF CONTENTS 

     Page    

PART I 
Item 1. 
Item 1A. 
Item 1B. 
Item 2. 
Item 3. 
Item 4. 
PART II   
Item 5. 

Item 6. 
Item 7. 
Item 7A. 
Item 8. 
Item 9. 
Item 9A. 
Item 9B. 
PART III  
Item 10. 
Item 11. 
Item 12. 

Item 13. 
Item 14. 
PART IV   
Item 15. 

  Business 
  Risk Factors 
  Unresolved Staff Comments 
  Properties 
  Legal Proceedings 
  Mine Safety Disclosures 

Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of 

Equity Securities 

  Selected Consolidated Financial Data 
  Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations 
  Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk 
  Consolidated Financial Statements and Supplementary Data 
  Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure 
  Controls and Procedures 
  Other Information 

  Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance 
  Executive Compensation 

Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder 
Matters 

  Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence 
  Principal Accounting Fees and Services 

  Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules 

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14  
37  
37  
38  
38  

39  
40  
43  
58  
59  
92  
92  
94  

95  
95  
95 

95  
95  

95  

 
      
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
Fiscal Year 

We operate on a fiscal calendar that results in a 52- or 53  - week fiscal year ending on the last Saturday of 
March unless April 1st is a Saturday, in which case the fiscal year ends on April 1st. In a 52 - week fiscal year, each 
quarter includes thirteen weeks of operations; in a 53 - week fiscal year, the first, second and third quarters each include 
thirteen weeks of operations and the fourth quarter includes fourteen weeks of operations. The data presented contains 
references to fiscal 2021, fiscal 2020, and fiscal 2019, which represent our fiscal years ended March 27, 2021, March 28, 
2020 and March 30, 2019, respectively. Fiscal 2021, 2020 and 2019 were each 52  - week periods. 

1 

 
 
Item 1.    Business. 

Our Company 

PART I 

We are the largest lifestyle retail chain devoted to western and work - related footwear, apparel and accessories 

in the United States. With 273 stores in 36 states as of March 27, 2021, we have more than three times as many stores as 
our nearest direct competitor that sells primarily western and work wear, and believe we have the potential to grow our 
domestic store base to 500 stores. Our stores, which are typically freestanding or located in strip centers, average 10,500 
selling square feet and feature a comprehensive assortment of brands and styles, coupled with attentive, knowledgeable 
store associates. We target a broad and growing demographic, ranging from passionate western and country enthusiasts 
to workers seeking dependable, high - quality footwear and apparel. We strive to offer an authentic, one - stop shopping 
experience that fulfills the everyday lifestyle needs of our customers and, as a result, many of our customers make 
purchases in both the western and work wear sections of our stores. Our store environment, product offering and 
marketing materials represent the aesthetics of the true American West, country music and rugged, outdoor work. These 
threads are woven together in our motto, “Be True”, which communicates the genuine and enduring spirit of the Boot 
Barn brand. 

Our product offering is anchored by an extensive selection of western and work boots and is complemented by a 
wide assortment of coordinating apparel and accessories. Many of the items that we offer are basics or necessities for our 
customers’ daily lives and typically represent enduring styles that are not meaningfully impacted by changing fashion 
trends. Accordingly, approximately 75% of our store inventory is kept in stock through automated replenishment 
programs. Our boot selection, which comprises approximately one - third of each store’s selling square footage space, is 
merchandised on self - service fixtures with western boots arranged by size and work boots arranged by style and 
function. This allows us to display the full breadth of our inventory and deliver a convenient shopping experience. We 
also carry market - leading assortments of denim, western shirts, cowboy hats, belts and belt buckles, western - style 
jewelry and accessories. Our western assortment includes many of the industry’s most sought - after brands, such as Ariat, 
Cinch, Cody James, Corral, Dan Post, Durango, El Dorado, Idyllwind, Justin, Laredo, Lucchese, Miss Me, Montana 
Silversmiths, Moonshine Spirit, Shyanne, Stetson, Tony Lama, Twisted X, Resistol and Wrangler. Our work assortment 
includes rugged footwear, outerwear, overalls, denim and shirts for the most physically demanding jobs where durability, 
performance and protection matter, including safety - toe boots and flame - resistant and high - visibility clothing. Among 
the top work brands sold in our stores are Carhartt, Cody James Work, Dickies, Georgia Boot, Hawx, Thorogood, 
Timberland Pro and Wolverine. Our merchandise is also available on our e - commerce websites. 

Boot Barn was founded in 1978 and, over the past 43 years, has grown both organically and through successful 

strategic acquisitions of competing chains. We have rebranded and remerchandised the acquired chains under the Boot 
Barn banner. We believe that our business model and scale provide us with competitive advantages that have contributed 
to our consistent and strong financial performance, generating sufficient cash flow to support national growth. 

Acquisitions   

G.&L. Clothing, Inc.   

On August 26, 2019, Boot Barn, Inc. completed the acquisition of G.&L. Clothing, Inc. (“G.&L. Clothing”), an 

individually-owned retailer operating one store in Des Moines, Iowa. As part of the transaction, Boot Barn, Inc. 
purchased the inventory, entered into new leases with the store’s landlord and offered employment to the G.&L. Clothing 
team. The primary reason for the acquisition of G.&L. Clothing was to further expand the Company’s retail operations in 
Iowa. The cash consideration paid for the acquisition was $3.7 million. 

Drysdales, Inc.   

On July 3, 2018, Boot Barn, Inc. completed the acquisition of assets from Drysdales, Inc. (“Drysdales”), a 

retailer with two stores in Tulsa, Oklahoma. As part of the transaction, Boot Barn, Inc. purchased the inventory, entered 

2 

into new leases with the stores’ landlord, offered employment to the Drysdales team at both store locations and assumed 
certain customer credits. The primary reason for the acquisition of Drysdales was to further expand the Company’s retail 
operations in Oklahoma. The cash consideration paid was $3.8 million.   

Lone Star Western & Casual LLC   

On April 24, 2018, Boot Barn, Inc. completed the acquisition of Lone Star Western & Casual LLC (“Lone 

Star”), an individually owned retail company with three stores in Waxahachie, Corsicana and Athens, Texas. As part of 
the transaction, Boot Barn, Inc. purchased the inventory, entered into new leases with the stores’ landlord and offered 
employment to the Lone Star team at all three store locations. The primary reason for the acquisition of Lone Star was to 
further expand the Company’s retail operations in Texas. The cash consideration paid for the acquisition was 
$4.4 million.   

Woods Boots Asset Acquisition 

On September 11, 2017, we acquired assets from Wood’s Boots, a four-store family-owned retailer with stores 
in Midland and Odessa, Texas. As part of the transaction, we purchased the inventory, entered into new leases with the 
stores’ landlord, offered employment to the Wood’s Boots team at all four store locations and assumed certain customer 
credits. Based on the fair value analysis of the net assets acquired and liabilities assumed, the inventory was valued at 
$2.8 million, and the customer credits were valued at less than $0.1 million. 

Country Outfitter Asset Acquisition 

On February 16, 2017, we acquired all rights and interest in the www.countryoutfitter.com website and 

tradename, along with the associated social media platforms. We additionally purchased a customer email list and 
assumed Country Outfitter’s merchandise credits. The Country Outfitter e-commerce website sells primarily country and 
western fashion merchandise. The Country Outfitter assets were purchased for $1.8 million of cash and assumed 
liabilities. The Company operates www.countryoutfitter.com as a website separate from its other e-commerce sites. 

Sheplers Acquisition 

On June 29, 2015, we acquired Sheplers, Inc. and Sheplers Holding Corporation (collectively with Sheplers, 

Inc. “Sheplers”), a western lifestyle company with 25 retail locations across the United States and an e-commerce 
business. We refer to the acquisition as the “Sheplers Acquisition”. We financed the Sheplers Acquisition with 
borrowings under a senior secured asset-based revolving credit facility for which Wells Fargo Bank, National 
Association is agent (the “June 2015 Wells Fargo Revolver”), and a syndicated senior secured term loan for which GCI 
Capital Markets LLC is agent (the “2015 Golub Term Loan”). Through the Sheplers Acquisition, we added eight new 
markets, expanded both our Texas (Dallas and San Antonio) and Denver markets, and greatly increased our omni-
channel capabilities as Sheplers had a leading e-commerce platform (“Sheplers e-commerce”). We rebranded 19 of the 
25 retail stores acquired through the Sheplers Acquisition, and closed the remaining six stores during fiscal 2016.     

Our Competitive Strengths 

We believe the following strengths differentiate us from our competitors and provide a solid foundation for 

future growth: 

Powerful lifestyle brand.    The Boot Barn brand is built on western lifestyle values that are core to American 
culture. Our deep understanding of this lifestyle enables us to create long - lasting relationships with our customers who 
embody these ideals. Our brand is highly visible through our sponsorship of local and national rodeos, stock shows, 
concerts and country music artists. We sell our products through pop - up shops at several of the largest events that we 
sponsor. We believe these grassroots marketing efforts make our brand synonymous with the western lifestyle, validate 
our brand’s authenticity and establish Boot Barn as the trusted specialty retailer for all of our customers’ everyday needs. 

3 

 
Strong e-commerce positioning.    We offer a compelling shopping experience to our customers, including 273 

brick-and-mortar stores combined with our e-commerce websites consisting primarily of bootbarn.com, sheplers.com 
and countryoutfitter.com. Bootbarn.com and sheplers.com offer a compelling every-day low price shopping experience 
catered towards a lifestyle customer with western roots and a strong work influence. Countryoutfitter.com has a curated 
assortment appealing to a more fashion-based country lifestyle customer. Each of our e-commerce sites has distinct 
brand positioning and provides a differentiated shopping experience to our customers. 

Fast growing specialty retailer of western and work wear in the U.S.    Our broad geographic footprint, which 
currently spans 36 states, provides us with significant economies of scale, enhanced supplier relationships, the ability to 
recruit and retain high quality store associates and the ability to reinvest in our business at levels that we believe exceed 
those of our competition. 

Loyal customer base.    Our customers come to us for many aspects of their everyday footwear and clothing 

needs because of the breadth and availability of our product offering. Our customer loyalty program, B Rewarded, 
enhances our connection and relationship with our customers. Our loyalty program has grown rapidly since its inception 
in fiscal 2011 and as of March 27, 2021 includes approximately 4.7 million members who have purchased merchandise 
from us in the last three fiscal years. The majority of our sales are made to these customers. We leverage this database, 
which provides useful information about our customers, to enhance our marketing activities across our stores and e-
commerce websites, refine our merchandising and planning efforts and assist in our selection of sites for new stores. 

Differentiated shopping experience.    We deliver a one - stop shopping experience that engages our customers 
and, we believe, fulfills their lifestyle needs. Our stores are designed to create an inviting and engaging experience and 
include prominent storefront signage, a simple and easy - to - shop layout and a large and conveniently arranged 
self - service selection of boots. We offer significant inventory breadth and depth across a range of boots, apparel and 
accessories. Additionally, all of our stores are equipped with touch screen devices that allow our customers to access 
millions of additional boots, apparel and other items from our e-commerce warehouse inventory as well as the inventory 
at most of our larger third-party vendors, purchase these items in store, and, in most cases, receive free shipping. We also 
have touch screen devices that allow customers to browse our in-store assortment and select an item that meets their 
functional requirements and preferences. In fiscal 2021, we continued to enhance customer service with our omni-
channel initiatives, including buy online pick up in-store, buy online pick up curbside, buy online return in store, buy 
online ship from store, and same day delivery. We believe that our strong, long - lasting supplier relationships enhance 
our ability to provide a compelling merchandise assortment with a strong in - stock position both in - store and online. Our 
knowledgeable store associates are passionate about our merchandise and deliver a high level of service to our 
customers. These elements help promote customer loyalty and drive repeat visits. 

Compelling merchandise assortment and strategy.    We believe we offer a diverse merchandise assortment 

that features the most sought - after western and work wear brands, well - regarded niche brands and exclusive private 
brands across a range of merchandise categories including boots, apparel and accessories. We have a core assortment of 
styles that serves as a foundation for our merchandising strategy and we augment and tailor that assortment by region to 
cater to local preferences.   

Portfolio of exclusive private brands.    We have leveraged our scale, merchandising experience and customer 

knowledge to launch a portfolio of private brands exclusive to us, which primarily include Shyanne, Cody James, 
Moonshine Spirit, Idyllwind, Hawx, Cody James Work, and El Dorado. Our private brands are currently available in 
stores, on bootbarn.com, sheplers.com and countryoutfitter.com and offer high - quality western and work boots as well as 
apparel and accessories for men, ladies and kids. Each of our private brands, which address product and price segments 
that we believe are underserved by third - party brands, offers exclusive products to our customers and has historically 
achieved better merchandise margins than the third-party brands that we carry. Customer receptivity and demand for our 
private brands have been strong, demonstrated by the increasing penetration of private brands and sales momentum 
across our store base and e-commerce websites. 

Versatile store model with compelling unit economics.    We have successfully opened and currently operate 

stores that generate strong cash flow, consistent store - level financial results and an attractive return on investment across 
a variety of geographies, markets, store sizes and location types. We operate stores in markets characterized as 

4 

agribusiness centers and ranch regions, and in other various geographies throughout the United States. Our stores are 
also successful in small, rural towns, suburban and major metropolitan areas. 

Our new store model requires an average net cash investment of approximately $0.8 million and targets an 

average payback period of three years. Our lean operating structure, coupled with our strong supplier relationships, has 
allowed us to grow with minimal supply chain investments as most of our products ship directly from our suppliers to 
our stores. We believe that our proven retail model and attractive unit economics support our ability to grow our store 
footprint in both new and existing markets across the U.S. 

Highly experienced management team and passionate organization.    Our senior management team has 
extensive experience across all key retail disciplines and has been instrumental in developing a robust and scalable 
infrastructure to support our growth. In addition to playing an important role in developing our long - term growth 
initiatives, our senior management team embraces the genuine and enduring qualities of the western and work lifestyle 
and has created a positive culture of enthusiasm and entrepreneurial spirit which is shared by team members throughout 
our entire organization.   

Our Growth Strategies 

We are pursuing several strategies to continue our profitable growth, including: 

Continuing omni-channel leadership.    Our growing national footprint, social media following and broader 

marketing efforts drive traffic to our stores and e - commerce websites. We operate our e-commerce websites as an 
alternative to shopping in the stores, which allows us to reach customers outside our geographic footprint. We continue 
to make investments in both online and in-store advertising, aimed at increasing traffic to our e - commerce websites, 
which reached more than 69 million total visits in fiscal 2021 compared to more than 63 million total visits in fiscal 
2020, and increasing the amount of merchandise purchased by customers who visit our websites, while improving the 
shopping experience for our customers. Additionally, all of our stores are equipped with touch screen devices that allow 
our customers to access millions of additional boots, apparel and other items from our e-commerce warehouse inventory 
as well as the inventory at most of our larger third-party vendors, purchase these items in store, and, in most cases, 
receive free shipping. We also have touch screen devices that allow customers to browse our in-store assortment and 
select an item that meets their functional requirements and preferences. In fiscal 2021, we continued to enhance customer 
service with our omni-channel initiatives, including buy online pick up in-store, buy online pick up curbside, buy online 
return in store, buy online ship from store, and same day delivery. We have also made investments in our e-commerce 
infrastructure, including adding automation to our warehouses to support expanding e-commerce growth. Our e-
commerce sales as a portion of total consolidated net sales were 18.6% and 15.9% in fiscal 2021 and fiscal 2020, 
respectively.   

Driving same store sales growth.    We believe that we can continue to grow our same store sales by increasing 

our brand awareness, driving additional traffic to our stores and e-commerce websites and increasing the amount of 
merchandise purchased by customers while visiting both our stores and e-commerce channels. Our management team 
has several initiatives in place to accelerate growth, enhance our store associates’ selling skills, drive store - level 
productivity and increase customer engagement through our loyalty program. 

Building our private brand portfolio.    We believe we can achieve gross margin enhancement by increasing 
the penetration of our private brand sales. As of March 27, 2021, our private brands primarily include Shyanne, Cody 
James, Moonshine Spirit, Idyllwind, Hawx, Cody James Work, and El Dorado, and are sold in our stores and on our 
e-commerce websites. Each of our private brands, which address product and price segments that we believe are 
underserved by third - party brands, offers high quality exclusive products to our customers and has historically achieved 
better merchandise margins than the third-party brands that we carry.     

Expanding our store base.    Driven by our compelling store economics, we believe that there is a significant 
opportunity to expand our store base in the U.S. During fiscal 2021, we opened 15 new stores with no acquisitions. We 
typically rebrand acquired stores within twelve months from the date of acquisition. Based on an extensive analysis, we 
believe that we have the potential to grow our domestic store base of 273 stores as of March 27, 2021 to approximately 

5 

500 stores over time. Over the long-term we plan to target store openings in new and existing markets and in adjacent 
and underserved markets that we believe will be receptive to our concept. Over the past several years, we have made 
investments in personnel, information technology, warehouse infrastructure and e - commerce platforms to support the 
expansion of our operations. 

Leveraging our economies of scale.    We believe that we have a variety of opportunities to increase the 
profitability of our business over time. Our ability to leverage our infrastructure and drive store - level productivity due to 
economies of scale is expected to be a primary driver of our improvement in profitability. We intend to continually refine 
our merchandise mix and increase the penetration of our private brands to help differentiate us from our competitors and 
achieve higher merchandise margins. We also expect to capitalize on additional economies of scale in purchasing and 
sourcing as we grow our geographic footprint and online presence. 

Enhancing brand awareness.    We intend to enhance our brand awareness and customer loyalty in a number of 

ways, such as continuing to grow our store base and our online and social media initiatives. We use broadcast media 
such as radio, television and outdoor advertisements to reach customers in new and existing markets. We also maintain 
our strong market position through our grassroots marketing efforts, including sponsorship of rodeos, stock shows and 
other western industry events, as well as our association with country music, including partnerships with Miranda 
Lambert and Brad Paisley and up - and - coming country musicians. We have an effective social media strategy with high 
customer engagement, as evidenced by our strong following on Facebook and Instagram.   

Our Market Opportunity 

We participate in the large, growing and highly fragmented western and work wear markets of the broader 

apparel and footwear industry. We offer a variety of boots, apparel and accessories that are basics or necessities for our 
customers’ daily lives. Many of our customers are employed in the agriculture, oil and gas, manufacturing and 
construction industries, and are often country and western enthusiasts. We believe that growth in the western wear 
market has been and will continue to be driven by the growth of western events, such as rodeos, the popularity of country 
music and the continued strength and endurance of the western lifestyle. As a result of the coronavirus (“COVID - 19”) 
pandemic, public and private sector policies and initiatives intended to reduce the transmission of COVID  - 19, such as 
the imposition of travel restrictions, mandates from federal, state and local authorities to avoid large gatherings of 
people, quarantine or “shelter-in-place”, and the promotion of social distancing significantly impacted events around the 
country. As a result of these initiatives, many large public events including rodeos, concerts and country music festivals 
were cancelled or otherwise postponed. We believe additional cancellations and postponements will negatively impact 
near-term growth in the western wear market. We believe that growth in the work wear market has been and will 
continue to be driven by increasing activity in construction and manufacturing. Additionally, government regulations for 
workplace safety have driven and, we believe, will continue to drive, sales in specific categories, such as safety - toe boots 
and flame - resistant and high - visibility clothing for various industrial and outdoor occupations. The COVID - 19 global 
pandemic resulted in an economic slowdown impacting many industries and both public and private sector jobs. As a 
result of this pressure, the global demand for oil was significantly impacted and drove the price of oil down. We believe 
these factors could negatively impact near-term growth in the work wear market.   

Our Sales Channels 

During fiscal 2021, we continued to enhance our omni-channel capabilities. Our current omni-channel presence 

consists of both brick-and-mortar stores as well as an e-commerce platform, consisting primarily of bootbarn.com, 
sheplers.com and countryoutfitter.com. 

Our stores 

As a lifestyle retail concept, our stores offer a broad array of merchandise to outfit an entire family, while 

working during the week, relaxing on the weekend, or dressing up for an evening out. Our stores are easy to navigate 
with clear sight lines to all major product categories. Our preferred store layout has ladies’ and children’s apparel on one 
side of the store and men’s western and men’s work apparel on the other side. Our basic denim is usually merchandised 
on shelving placed on the exterior walls, while our premium - priced, more stylized denim and clothing are prominently 

6 

 
displayed on floor fixtures and mannequins. We utilize the space in the front of the store for accessories such as hats, 
belts, jewelry, handbags, home merchandise, gifts and various impulse purchase items. 

Boots, our signature category, anchor the rear of the store with an expansive assortment displayed on fixtures up 
to six shelves in height. We offer virtually all of our boots in pairs out on the sales floor. To reflect the typical purchasing 
decision process of each of our customer segments, we arrange all western boots by size and all work boots by function 
and brand. While our knowledgeable and friendly store associates are readily available to assist our customers, the store 
design facilitates a self - service shopping experience. 

Our stores are generally located in or near high visibility, power and large neighborhood shopping centers with 
trade areas of five or more miles. Our stores average 10,500 selling square feet and feature a comprehensive assortment 
of brands and styles, coupled with attentive, knowledgeable store associates. Our stores are designed and managed to 
drive profitability and, we believe, create a compelling customer shopping experience. 

During fiscal 2021, we opened 15 new stores. As of March 27, 2021, our retail footprint included 273 stores in 

36 states across the U.S. Two of our stores are operated under the “American Worker” name. Our American Worker 
stores primarily feature work - related footwear, apparel and accessories. We do not currently intend to open additional 
American Worker stores. 

7 

The following table shows the number of stores in each of the 36 states in which we operated as of March 27, 

2021.   

State 
Alabama 
Arkansas 
Arizona 
California 
Colorado 
Florida 
Georgia 
Idaho 
Illinois 
Indiana 
Iowa 
Kansas 
Kentucky 
Louisiana 
Minnesota 
Mississippi 
Missouri 
Montana 
Nebraska 
Nevada 
New Mexico 
North Carolina 
North Dakota 
Ohio 
Oklahoma 
Oregon 
Pennsylvania 
South Carolina 
South Dakota 
Tennessee 
Texas 
Utah 
Virginia 
Washington 
Wisconsin 
Wyoming 
Total 

E-commerce 

      Number of    

stores 

  2  
  1  
  14  
  53  
  13  
  8  
  3  
  3  
  1  
  4  
  6  
  4  
  3  
  6  
  3  
  1  
  2  
  4  
  2  
  11  
  7  
  6  
  6  
  2  
  8  
  4  
  4  
  3  
  2  
  10  
  58  
  2  
  3  
  4  
  1  
  9  
  273  

Our e - commerce websites are an integral part of our brand and allow us to further build awareness in our 

current markets and reach customers not served by our current geographic footprint. During fiscal 2021, we had more 
than 69 million total visits to our websites and we sold merchandise to customers in all 50 states. Approximately 3.3% of 
our total e - commerce revenue for fiscal 2021 was generated from customers outside of the United States. Such 
foreign - source revenue constituted approximately 0.6% of our overall net sales in fiscal 2021. 

Our growing national footprint and broader marketing efforts drive traffic to our bootbarn.com website, which 

in turn also drives traffic to our stores. We believe that many customers, especially those shopping for boots, browse 
online at bootbarn.com and then visit our stores to make their purchases to ensure a proper fit. As a multi - channel 

8 

 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
 
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
 
 
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
  
  
  
 
retailer, we are implementing technology initiatives that integrate in - store and e - commerce platforms into one seamless 
customer experience. As an example, we have implemented in-store touch screen devices to expand the product offering 
available to our in-store customers, including additional styles, colors and sizes not carried in the store. In fiscal 2021, 
we continued to enhance customer service with our omni-channel initiatives, including buy online pick up in-store, buy 
online pick up curbside, buy online return in store, buy online ship from store, and same day delivery. 

Our e-commerce businesses are every-day low price models. For all of our e-commerce brands, we 
communicate information on current promotions and upcoming events on our e - commerce websites, which helps drive 
purchases online and traffic to our stores. We continue to improve follow - up email communication related to order 
confirmations, as well as offer boot care and other accessories associated with boot purchases. 

Store expansion opportunities and site selection 

We have substantial experience in opening stores in new and existing geographic markets. During the last three 

fiscal years, we have successfully added, on a net basis, 47 new stores through a combination of organic growth and 
strategic acquisitions. We evaluate potential new locations in light of a variety of criteria, including local demographics 
and population, the area’s industrial base, the existing competitive landscape, occupancy costs, store visibility, traffic, 
environmental considerations, co - tenancy and accessibility. We also consider a region’s total store potential to help 
ensure efficiencies in store management and media spending. Most of our stores are in high - traffic and highly visible 
locations and many have freeway signage. Stores located in metropolitan areas are typically established in high - density 
neighborhoods, and stores located in rural areas are typically established near highways or major thoroughfares. 

Based on an extensive internal analysis of our current customer base, store performance drivers and competitor 

penetration, we believe that the U.S. market supports the ability to grow our current domestic store base to 
approximately 500 stores. We utilized multiple methods for measuring market size, including a review of demographic 
and psychographic factors on a state - by - state basis. We supplemented that data by analyzing our share of the geographic 
markets in which we currently operate and extrapolating that share to new geographic markets. Based on our market 
analysis, we have created a regional and state - by - state development plan to strategically extend our store portfolio. 
Careful consideration was given to operational constraints and merchandising differences in new and existing markets, 
while balancing the relevant risks associated with opening stores in those markets. 

Over the past several years, we have invested in construction and real estate resources, information technology 

and warehouse infrastructure to support the expansion of our operations. In addition, we have developed a model for new 
stores that assumes a leased 8,000 to 12,000 square foot space, requires an average net cash investment of approximately 
$0.8 million and targets an average payback period of three years. We believe that under this model we can grow our 
store base by approximately 10% annually over the next several years without substantially modifying our current 
resources and infrastructure.   

Store Management and Training 

We have a strong culture focused on providing superior customer service. We believe that our store associates 

and managers form the foundation of the Boot Barn brand. We recruit people who are welcoming, friendly and 
service - oriented, and who often live the western lifestyle or have a genuine affinity for it. We have a positive culture of 
enthusiasm and entrepreneurial spirit throughout the Company, which is particularly strong in our stores. Given the 
lifestyle nature of the Boot Barn brand, we have developed a natural connection between our customers and our store 
associates. 

Given the importance of both fit and function in selling much of our product, we utilize a well - developed sales, 
service and product training program. We provide over 20 hours of training for new store associates, as well as ongoing 
product, sales and leadership training. Additionally, we provide home office and supplier - led workshops on products, 
selling skills and leadership at our annual three - day store manager meeting. Our store management training programs 
emphasize building skills that lead to effective store management and overall leadership. Our store managers are 
responsible for hiring and staffing our stores and are empowered with the sales, customer service and operational tools 
necessary to monitor employee and store performance. We believe that our continued investments in training our 

9 

employees help drive loyalty from our store associates and, in turn, our customers. We are committed to providing the 
right merchandise solution for each of our customers based on the ultimate end use of our products. Our goal is to train 
each of our store associates to be able to guide a customer throughout a store and provide helpful knowledge on product 
fit, functions and features across our departments. Rather than rely heavily on sales commissions and supplier - specific 
incentive programs, we utilize a system under which the vast majority of our store associates’ compensation is based on 
an hourly wage. We believe that this produces a team - oriented culture, creates a less pressured selling environment and 
helps ensure that our store associates are focused on the specific needs of our customers. 

Merchandising 

Strategy 

We seek to establish our stores as a one - stop destination for western and work - related footwear, apparel and 

accessories. Our merchandising strategy is to offer a core assortment of products, brands and styles by store, department 
and price point. We augment and tailor this assortment by region to cater to local preferences such as toe profiles for 
western boots, styling for western apparel, and functions and features for work apparel and work boots depending on 
climate and the local industries served. In addition, we actively maintain a balance between third party brands and our 
own brands that, we believe, offers our customers a compelling mix between selection, product and value. 

Our business is moderately seasonal and as a result our revenues fluctuate from quarter to quarter. The third 
quarter of our fiscal year, which includes the Christmas shopping season, has historically produced higher sales and 
disproportionately higher operating results than the other quarters of our fiscal year. Historically, neither the western nor 
the work component of our business has been meaningfully impacted by fashion trends or seasonality. We believe that 
many of our customers are driven primarily by utility and brand, and our best - selling styles tend to be items that carry 
over from year to year with only minor updates. In fiscal 2021, fiscal 2020 and fiscal 2019 we generated approximately 
34%, 34% and 33% of our net sales during our third fiscal quarter, respectively. 

We have a minimal amount of seasonal merchandise that could necessitate significant markdowns. This allows 

us to implement automated replenishment systems for approximately 75% of our store merchandise, meaning that, as 
sales are captured in a store’s point of sale system, recommended purchase orders are systematically generated for 
approval by our merchandising group, ensuring our strong in - stock inventory position. As a result, demand and margins 
for the majority of our products are fairly predictable, which reduces our inventory risk. Unfavorable economic 
conditions, including those caused by COVID - 19, could leave us with either excess inventory or a shortage of inventory 
and increased pressure on our margins. For more information about the risks, uncertainties, and other factors that could 
affect our future results, please see Item 1A, Risk Factors, of this Annual Report on Form 10 - K.   

Our products 

During fiscal 2021, our products contributed to overall sales in the following manner: 

•  Gender—Men’s merchandise accounted for approximately 65% of our sales with the balance being ladies, 

kids and unisex merchandise. 

• 

Styling—Western styles comprised approximately two thirds of our sales, with work - related and other 
styles making up the balance. 

•  Product category—Boots accounted for just over half of our sales, with apparel comprising an additional 

32% and the balance consisting of hats, gifts, accessories and home merchandise. 

Throughout our long history we have maintained collaborative relationships with our key suppliers. These 

relationships, coupled with our scale, have allowed us to carry a wide selection of popular and niche brands, including 
Ariat, Carhartt Workwear, Cinch, Corral, Dan Post, Georgia Boot, Justin Boots, Keen, Lucchese, Rocky, Stetson, 
Timberland, Tony Lama, Twisted X, Wolverine and Wrangler. In many cases, we are one of the largest accounts of our 
suppliers and have become important as the largest specialty retailer of western and work wear in the U.S. As a result, 

10 

we have several advantages relative to our competitors, including increased buying power and access to first - to - market 
or limited-edition products. This provides us with competitive differentiation and the ability to generate higher 
merchandise margins. 

Our scale has also allowed us to introduce our own proprietary western wear brands, Shyanne and Cody James, 

which offer high - quality western boots, shirts, jackets and hats for women and men, respectively. We also have an 
exclusive license agreement with country music star Brad Paisley, who designs a collection of boots, apparel and 
accessories for us, under the brand name Moonshine Spirit, that reflect his lifestyle and personality. In fiscal 2019 we 
entered into a new partnership with country music artist Miranda Lambert, to develop a lifestyle brand, Idyllwind, 
inspired by her music and creative talents, which includes boots, apparel and accessories. In fiscal 2020 we developed 
two additional private brands, Hawx and Cody James Work. These brands offer high quality work wear and work boots 
to our customers. We created these brands to address segments that we believe are underserved by third - party brands. 
We have a dedicated product development team that designs and sources merchandise from suppliers around the world. 
These product assortments are exclusive to Boot Barn and are merchandised and marketed as if they were third - party 
brands both in our stores and on our e-commerce websites. In fiscal 2021, sales from our private brand products 
accounted for approximately 23.7% of our consolidated sales including our stores and e-commerce websites. These 
private brands differentiate us from our competitors and have historically produced higher incremental merchandise 
margins than the third - party brands that we carry. 

Planning and allocation 

We believe that we have assembled a talented and experienced team in both the buying and merchandise 

planning functions. The experience of our team is critical to understanding the technical requirements of our 
merchandise based on region and use, such as the appropriate safety toe regulations for work boots in a particular 
industry. The team is constantly managing our replenishment model to ensure a high in - stock position by stock keeping 
unit, or SKU, on a store - by - store basis. Our merchandising team optimizes the product selection, mix and depth across 
our stores by analyzing demand on a market - by - market basis, continuously reviewing our sell - through results, 
communicating with our suppliers about local market preferences and new products, shopping our competitors’ stores, 
and immersing themselves in trade and western lifestyle events including rodeos, country music concerts and other 
industry - specific activities. Our merchandising team also makes frequent visits to our stores and partners with our 
regional, district and store managers to refine the merchandise assortment by region. Our team has demonstrated the 
ability to effectively manage merchandising, pricing and promotional strategies across our store base. 

To keep the product assortment fresh, we reposition a small portion of our merchandise on the sales floor every 

month. To drive traffic to our stores and create in - store energy and excitement, we execute a promotional calendar that 
showcases select brands or merchandise categories throughout the year and rotates on a monthly cadence. Our 
promotional activity also enables us to consistently engage with our customers both online and in - store, as well as 
through our various marketing media. Our ability to optimize the price for each merchandise category on a 
market - by - market basis, helps us to maximize profitability while remaining price competitive.   

Marketing and Advertising 

Our marketing strategy is designed to build brand awareness, acquire new customers, enhance customer loyalty 

and drive in - store and online transactions. We customize our marketing mix for each of our markets and purposes. For 
example, during store grand openings we engage in additional local community outreach and advertise in local print 
media in select markets. We primarily use the following forms of media: 

Pay-per-click—We use pay-per-click advertising to reach online shoppers whose behavior indicates an interest 
in our products. This marketing medium allows us the opportunity to grow our business and acquire new customers.       

Radio and television—We purchase spots on both national and regional radio stations, primarily country music 

channels, to draw customers to nearby locations. We also maintain relationships with several country music artists in 
order to capitalize on the popularity of country music, using our stores and marketing communications to promote their 
album sales or concerts. In return, these country music artists often make in - store appearances or mention us on social 

11 

media and occasionally give private performances. We also purchase television spots to create awareness in new markets 
and occasionally help support grand openings of new stores. 

Direct mail—We conduct several direct mail campaigns, and during fiscal 2021, we sent out approximately 3.3 

million mailers, ranging in size from postcards to catalogs of approximately 50 pages. 

E - mail—We e - mail our e - commerce customers and members of our B Rewarded loyalty program as part of our 

cross - channel effort to drive traffic to our stores and websites. We sent more than one billion e - mails in fiscal 2021. 

Social media—We also have a marketing strategy that has produced a fast - growing social media presence, as 

evidenced by our strong following on Facebook and Instagram. Our posts celebrate country and western life and humor, 
and routinely get thousands of likes, hundreds of shares and dozens of comments each.   

Event sponsorship—We typically sponsor community - based western events each year within the regional 
footprint of our store locations. Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, a well-known 20 - day celebration of western 
heritage, is one of our most prominent sponsorships and attracts more than two million visitors to Houston, Texas, where 
we operate eighteen stores in the area. We also sponsor the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo, an 18 - day event with 
more than two million attendees. Other prominent sponsorships include Cheyenne Frontier Days, the largest outdoor 
rodeo in the U.S., the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association and related National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas, 
Nevada, Professional Bull Riders and the National High School Rodeo Association, which supports rodeos for 
competitors in high school and junior high school. At more prominent events, we often set up pop-up shops as large as 
9,000 square feet, which allow participants to purchase our merchandise. As a result of the COVID - 19 pandemic, public 
and private sector policies and initiatives intended to reduce the transmission of COVID - 19, such as the imposition of 
travel restrictions, mandates from federal, state and local authorities to avoid large gatherings of people, quarantine or 
“shelter-in-place”, and the promotion of social distancing significantly impacted events around the country. As a result of 
these initiatives, many large public events including rodeos, concerts and country music festivals were cancelled or 
otherwise postponed. We believe additional event cancellations and postponements could negatively impact sales in the 
near-term. 

Distribution 

Our suppliers ship most of our in - store merchandise directly to our stores and a portion of our e - commerce 

merchandise to our e - commerce customers. The remaining units are either shipped from our distribution center located 
in Fontana, California, or from the distribution center in Wichita, Kansas, that we acquired as a result of the Sheplers 
Acquisition. Our distribution center in California distributes our private brand and volume discount purchases to our 
stores, and supplies inventory for sponsored events and new store openings. Our Wichita, Kansas distribution center 
fulfills our e-commerce orders. In accordance with our automated replenishment programs, third  - party suppliers 
typically deliver merchandise to our stores daily, ensuring in - stock merchandise availability and a steady flow of new 
inventory for our customers.   

Competition 

The retail industry for western and work wear is highly fragmented and characterized by primarily regional 

competitors. We estimate that there are thousands of independent specialty stores scattered across the country. We 
believe that we compete primarily with smaller regional chains and independents on the basis of product quality, brand 
recognition, price, customer service and the ability to identify and satisfy consumer demand. In addition, as we expand 
our e-commerce sales presence, we are competing to an increasing degree with online retailers and the e-commerce 
offerings of traditional competitors. We also compete with farm supply stores and, to a lesser degree, mass merchants, 
some of which are significantly larger than us, but most of which realize only a small percentage of their total revenues 
from the sale of western and work wear. We have more than three times as many stores as our nearest direct competitor 
that sells primarily western and work wear and we believe that our nationally recognized lifestyle brand, economies of 
scale, breadth and depth of inventory across a variety of categories, strong in  - stock position, portfolio of authentic 
private brands, enhanced supplier partnerships, exclusive offerings and ability to recruit and retain high quality store 
associates favorably differentiate us from our competitors. 

12 

Information technology 

We have made significant investments to create a scalable information technology platform to support growth 
in our retail and e - commerce sales without further near - term investments in our information technology infrastructure. 
We use an Enterprise Resource Planning system (“Aptos Retail”) for integrated point - of - sale, merchandising, planning, 
sales audit, customer relationship management, inventory control, loss prevention, purchase order management and 
business intelligence. We operate Aptos Retail on a software - as - a - service platform. This approach allows us to regularly 
upgrade to the most recent software release with minimal operational disruption, nominal systems infrastructure 
investment and a relatively small in - house information technology department. Aptos Retail also interfaces with our 
accounting system.   

We have also invested in an information technology platform for our e-commerce websites. At the end of fiscal 

2017, we upgraded our e-commerce platform. This upgrade of our e-commerce platform acts as the foundation for our 
digital store fronts.   

Intellectual property 

We regard our trademarks as having value and as being important to our marketing efforts. We have registered 

our trademarks in the U.S., including our brand name “Boot Barn” and our private label brands. We have a registered 
trademark for the “Sheplers” and “Country Outfitter” brand names. We have foreign trademark protection in China and 
Hong Kong where we have registered our Boot Barn trademarks. We also own the domain name for our primary e-
commerce websites, www.bootbarn.com, www.sheplers.com and www.countryoutfitter.com. Our policy is to pursue 
registration of our trademarks and to rigorously defend their infringement by third parties.   

Our employees 

As of March 27, 2021, we employed approximately 1,500 full - time and 3,400 part - time employees, of which 
approximately 600 were employed at our Store Support Center and distribution centers and approximately 4,300 were 
employed at our stores. The number of employees, especially part - time employees, fluctuates depending upon our 
seasonal needs. None of our employees are represented by a labor union and we consider our relationship with our 
employees to be good. We have never experienced a strike or significant work stoppage.   

Regulation and legislation 

We are subject to labor and employment laws, laws governing truth - in - advertising, privacy laws, safety 

regulations and other laws at the federal, state and local level, including consumer protection regulations, such as the 
Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008, that regulate retailers and govern the promotion and sale of 
merchandise and the operation of stores and warehouse facilities. We monitor changes in these laws and believe that we 
are in material compliance with all applicable laws. 

We source many of our private brand products from outside the U.S. The U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act 

and other similar anti - bribery and anti - kickback laws and regulations generally prohibit companies and their 
intermediaries from making improper payments to non - U.S. officials for the purpose of obtaining or retaining business. 
Our policies and our supplier compliance agreements mandate compliance with applicable law, including these laws and 
regulations. 

Available Information 

Our internet address is www.bootbarn.com and the investor relations section of our website is located at 
investor.bootbarn.com, where we make available, free of charge, our annual reports on Form 10 - K, quarterly reports on 
Form 10 - Q and current reports on Form 8 - K and amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 
13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as well as proxy statements, as soon as reasonably practicable 
after we electronically file such material with, or furnish it to, the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). 

13 

Information on our website should not be considered part of this Annual Report on Form 10 - K unless specifically 
incorporated by reference herein.   

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward - Looking Statements 

This annual report contains forward - looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties. All 
statements other than statements of historical or current fact included in this annual report are forward - looking 
statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the 
Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”). Forward - looking statements refer to our current 
expectations and projections relating to, by way of example and without limitation, our financial condition, liquidity, 
profitability, results of operations, margins, plans, objectives, strategies, future performance, business and industry. You 
can identify forward - looking statements by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. These 
statements may include words such as “anticipate”, “estimate”, “expect”, “project”, “plan”, “intend”, “believe”, “may”, 
“might”, “will”, “could”, “should”, “can have”, “likely” and other words and terms of similar meaning in connection 
with any discussion of the timing or nature of future operating or financial performance or other events, but not all 
forward - looking statements contain these identifying words. For example, all statements we make relating to our 
estimated and projected earnings, revenues, costs, expenditures, cash flows, growth rates and financial results, our plans 
and objectives for future operations, growth or initiatives, strategies or the expected outcome or impact of pending or 
threatened litigation are forward - looking statements. Factors that might cause or contribute to such a discrepancy 
include, but are not limited to, the factors set forth in Item 1A. Risk Factors – “Summary of Risk Factors” below. 

We derive many of our forward - looking statements from our current operating budgets and forecasts, which are 

based upon detailed assumptions. While we believe that our assumptions are reasonable, we caution that it is very 
difficult to predict the impact of known factors, and it is impossible for us to anticipate all factors that could affect our 
actual results. For these reasons, we caution readers not to place undue reliance on these forward - looking statements. 

See “Risk Factors” for a more complete discussion of the risks and uncertainties mentioned above and for a 

discussion of other risks and uncertainties. It is not possible for our management to predict all risks, nor can we assess 
the impact of all factors on our business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual 
results to differ materially from those contained in any forward - looking statements we may make. In addition, the 
ongoing COVID - 19 pandemic may also exacerbate other risks discussed herein, any of which could, individually or in 
the aggregate, have a material effect on us. Additional impacts from the COVID - 19 pandemic may arise that we are not 
aware of currently. All forward - looking statements attributable to us are expressly qualified in their entirety by these 
cautionary statements as well as others made in this annual report and in our other SEC filings and public 
communications. You should evaluate all forward - looking statements made by us in the context of these risks and 
uncertainties. 

We caution you that the risks and uncertainties identified by us may not be all of the factors that are important 
to you. Furthermore, the forward - looking statements included in this annual report are made only as of the date hereof. 
Our forward - looking statements do not reflect the potential impact of any future acquisitions, mergers, dispositions, joint 
ventures or investments that we may make. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward - looking 
statement as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as otherwise required by law. 

Item 1A.    Risk Factors   

Summary of Risk Factors 

Below is a summary of the principal factors that make an investment in our common stock speculative or risky. This 
summary does not address all of the risks that we face. Additional discussion of the risks summarized in this risk factor 
summary, and other risks that we face, can be found below under the heading “Risk Factors” and should be carefully 
considered, together with other information in this Form 10 - K and our other filings with the SEC. 

14 

Risks Related to our Business 

•  The ongoing COVID - 19 pandemic may continue to adversely affect our business operations, growth 

strategies, store traffic, employee availability, financial condition, liquidity and cash flow for an extended 
period of time. 

•  Our sales could be severely impacted by decreases in consumer spending due to declines in consumer 

confidence, local economic conditions in our markets or changes in consumer preferences. 

•  Our business largely depends on a strong brand image, and if we are unable to maintain and enhance our 
brand image, particularly in markets where we have newly acquired stores and in new markets where we 
have limited brand recognition, we may be unable to increase or maintain our level of sales. 
•  We face intense competition in our industry and we may be unable to compete effectively. 
•  Most of our merchandise is produced in foreign countries, making the price and availability of our 

merchandise susceptible to international trade risks and other international conditions, including the 
impacts of COVID - 19. 

•  Our failure to adapt to new challenges that arise when expanding into new geographic markets could 

adversely affect our ability to profitably operate those stores and maintain our brand image. 

•  Our continued growth depends upon successfully opening new stores as well as integrating any acquired 
stores, and our failure to successfully open new stores or integrate acquired stores could negatively affect 
our business and stock price. 

•  As we expand our business, we may be unable to generate significant amounts of cash from operations. 
•  Any significant change in our distribution model could initially have an adverse impact on our cash flows 

• 

and results of operations. 
If we fail to maintain good relationships with our suppliers or if our suppliers are unable or unwilling to 
provide us with sufficient quantities of merchandise at acceptable prices, our business and operations may 
be adversely affected. 

•  Our efforts to improve and expand our exclusive product offerings may be unsuccessful, and implementing 
these efforts may divert our operational, managerial, financial and administrative resources, which could 
harm our competitive position and reduce our revenue and profitability. 

•  We purchase merchandise based on sales projections and our purchase of too much or too little inventory 

may adversely affect our overall profitability. 

•  A rise in the cost of fabric, raw materials, labor or transportation could increase our cost of merchandise 

• 

and cause our results of operations and margins to decline. 
If our suppliers and manufacturers fail to use acceptable labor or other practices, our reputation may be 
harmed, which could negatively impact our business. 
If we lose key management personnel, our operations could be negatively impacted. 
If we cannot attract, train and retain qualified employees, our business could be adversely affected. 

• 
• 
•  Higher wage and benefit costs could adversely affect our business. 
•  The concentration of our stores and operations in certain geographic locations subjects us to regional 

economic conditions and natural disasters that could adversely affect our business. 

•  We could be required to collect additional sales taxes or be subject to other tax liabilities that may increase 

the costs our clients would have to pay for our products and adversely affect our operating results. 

•  The adoption of new tax legislation could affect our financial performance. 
•  Our leverage may reduce our cash flow available to grow our business.   
•  Our borrowings under the June 2015 Wells Fargo Revolver and the 2015 Golub Term Loan are at variable 
rates, exposing us to interest rate risk, including increases in interest rates resulting from changes in the 
determination of the London Interbank Offered Rate. 

•  The June 2015 Wells Fargo Revolver and the 2015 Golub Term Loan contain restrictions and limitations 

that could significantly impact our ability to operate our business.   

•  We are required to make significant lease payments for our stores, Store Support Center and distribution 

center, which may strain our cash flow.   

•  New accounting guidance or changes in the interpretation or application of existing accounting guidance 

could adversely affect our financial performance. 

15 

 
•  We may be unable to maintain same store sales or net sales per square foot, which may cause our results of 

operations to decline. 

•  Any inability to balance our private brand merchandise with the third-party branded merchandise that we 

sell may have an adverse effect on our net sales and gross profit. 

•  We are subject to payment-related risks that could increase our operating costs, expose us to fraud or theft, 

• 

subject us to potential liability and potentially disrupt our business. 
If our management information systems fail to operate or are unable to support our growth, our operations 
could be disrupted. 

•  We rely on UPS and the United States Postal Service to deliver our e-commerce merchandise to our 

customers and our business could be negatively impacted by disruptions in the operations of these third-
party service providers. 

•  Use of social media may adversely impact our reputation or subject us to fines or other penalties. 
•  Our e-commerce businesses subject us to numerous risks that could have an adverse effect on our results of 

operations. 

•  Our sales can significantly fluctuate based upon shopping seasons, which may cause our results of 

operations to fluctuate disproportionately on a quarterly basis. 

•  We buy and stock merchandise based upon seasonal weather patterns and therefore unseasonable or 
extreme weather could negatively impact our sales, financial condition and results of operations. 
If we fail to obtain and retain high-visibility sponsorship or endorsement arrangements with celebrities, or 
if the reputation of any of the celebrities that we partner with is impaired, our business may suffer. 

• 

•  Our management information systems and databases could be disrupted by system security failures, cyber 

threats or by the failure of, or lack of access to, our Enterprise Resource Planning system. These disruptions 
could negatively impact our sales, increase our expenses, subject us to liability and/or harm our reputation. 

•  Our failure to maintain adequate internal controls over our financial and management systems may cause 
errors in our financial reporting. These errors may cause a loss of investor confidence and result in a 
decline in the price of our common stock. 
• 
If we are unable to protect our intellectual property rights, our financial results may be negatively impacted. 
•  We may be subject to liability if we, or our suppliers, infringe upon the intellectual property rights of third 

parties. 

Issues with merchandise safety could damage our reputation, sales and financial results. 

•  Litigation costs and the outcome of litigation could have a material adverse effect on our business. 
• 
•  Union attempts to organize our employees could negatively affect our business. 
•  Violations of or changes in laws, including employment laws and laws related to our merchandise, could 

make conducting our business more expensive or change the way we do business. 

•  We may engage in strategic transactions that could negatively impact our liquidity, increase our expenses 

and present significant distractions to our management. 
•  Terrorism or civil unrest could negatively affect our business. 
• 

If our goodwill, intangible assets or long-lived assets become impaired, we may be required to record a 
significant charge to earnings. 

Risks Related To Ownership of Our Common Stock 

•  The market price and trading volume of our common stock have been and may continue to be volatile, 

which could result in rapid and substantial losses for our stockholders, and you may lose all or part of your 
investment. 

•  Anti - takeover provisions in our corporate organizational documents and current credit facility and under 
Delaware law may delay, deter or prevent a takeover of us and the replacement or removal of our 
management, even if such a change of control would benefit our stockholders. 
If securities or industry analysts do not publish research and reports or publish inaccurate or unfavorable 
research and reports about our business, the price and trading volume of our common stock could decline. 

• 

•  We do not currently intend to pay cash dividends on our common stock, which may make our common 

stock less desirable to investors and decrease its value. 

16 

 
Risk Factors 

You should carefully consider the risks and uncertainties described below, together with all of the other 
information in this annual report, including our consolidated financial statements, and related notes included elsewhere 
in this annual report. If any of the following risks were realized, our business, financial condition, results of operations 
and prospects could be materially and adversely affected. In that event, the price of our common stock could decline, and 
you could lose part or all of your investment. 

Risks Related To Our Business 

The ongoing COVID - 19 pandemic may continue to adversely affect our business operations, growth strategies, store 
traffic, employee availability, financial condition, liquidity and cash flow for an extended period of time.   

The ongoing COVID - 19 pandemic, has adversely affected our business and may continue to adversely affect 

our business for an indefinite period until the impact of the pandemic subsides. Since first being reported, COVID - 19 has 
spread to numerous countries around the world, including the U.S. Measures taken by governmental authorities to reduce 
the transmission of COVID - 19, including stay-at-home orders and business closures, as well as lack of subsequent 
economic stimulus initiatives, have resulted in wide-scale unemployment and financial hardship for a large portion of the 
U.S. population, and these impacts, among others, have created significant uncertainties. These uncertainties include, but 
are not limited to, the potential adverse effect of the pandemic on the economy, our supply chain partners, our employees 
and customers, customer sentiment in general, and traffic within our stores and on our e-commerce sites. As a result of 
the economic slowdown caused by COVID - 19, many industries and public and private sector jobs have been and may 
continue to be impacted, including but not limited to those in the construction, domestic manufacturing, energy, food and 
agriculture, transportation and warehouse sectors. Consumer fear about becoming ill with the virus and recommendations 
and/or mandates from federal, state and local authorities to avoid large gatherings of people or self-quarantine may 
continue or may increase, which has already affected, and may continue to affect, traffic to our stores. If as a result of the 
pandemic, we are unable to continue to provide employees with appropriate compensation and protective measures, we 
may be unable to retain or attract employees to perform necessary functions within our stores and engage with our 
customers. In addition, if we are required to transition certain or all our employees to a remote work environment in an 
effort to mitigate the spread of COVID - 19, our failure to provide appropriate technological resources and maintain 
adequate safeguards around our remote work environment could result in loss of productivity and usage errors by our 
employees or the loss or compromise of confidential customer, employee or company data. In addition, the remote work 
environment may increase certain risks to our business, including phishing and other cybersecurity attacks. 

Although our operations have generally stabilized since the onset of the pandemic, there can be no assurances 

that the spread of COVID - 19 will not strain our supply chain, store operations and merchandising functions in the future. 
This could create difficulties and delays in obtaining products from our distributors, delivering products to our stores and 
adequately staffing our stores and distribution centers. If we are unable to continue to source, transport and stock 
products in our stores or to maintain adequate staffing levels in our stores and distribution centers due to disruptions 
caused by the COVID - 19 pandemic, we will be unable to maintain inventory levels and continue to operate our stores at 
levels to meet customer demand. Further, if we do not identify and source appropriate products in response to our 
customers’ evolving needs during the COVID - 19 pandemic, we may lose existing customers and fail to attract new 
customers, which could cause our sales to decrease, resulting in a material adverse effect on our business, financial 
condition, results of operations and cash flows. 

17 

Except for temporary store closures due to COVID  - 19, all of our stores remained open as of March 27, 2021. 

We have experienced instances of our employees contracting COVID - 19, and in response we follow CDC and other 
health authority guidelines to report positive test results and reduce further transmission. Although our stores currently 
remain open, any widespread transmission of COVID - 19 among our employees within a particular store or geographical 
area might necessitate that we temporarily close certain stores, which may negatively affect our business and financial 
condition, as well as the perception of our company. Additionally, any widespread transmission of COVID - 19 among 
the employees in our distribution centers might necessitate the temporary closure of our facilities, resulting in product 
delivery delays and other logistical constraints. Further, if individuals believe they have contracted COVID - 19 in our 
stores or believe that we have not taken appropriate precautionary measures to reduce the transmission of COVID - 19, we 
may be subject to costly and time-consuming litigation. 

Continued impacts of the pandemic could have a material adverse effect on our near-term and long-term 

business operations, store traffic, employee availability, financial condition, liquidity and cash flow, and may require 
significant actions in response, including but not limited to, additional employee furloughs and/or layoffs, reduced store 
hours or additional store closings, expense reductions, discounting of pricing of our products, all in an effort to mitigate 
the impacts of the pandemic. The full extent to which the COVID - 19 pandemic impacts our business and financial 
condition will largely depend on future developments, which are highly uncertain and cannot be predicted, including new 
information which may emerge concerning the severity of the pandemic, the impacts of new variants of the virus, the 
timing, distribution, efficacy and public acceptance of vaccines and other treatments for COVID - 19 and the actions 
necessary to contain COVID - 19. 

Our sales could be severely impacted by decreases in consumer spending due to declines in consumer confidence, 
local economic conditions in our markets or changes in consumer preferences. 

We depend upon consumers feeling confident about spending discretionary income on our products to drive our 

sales. Consumer spending may be adversely impacted by economic conditions, such as consumer confidence in future 
economic conditions, interest and tax rates, inflation, employment levels, salary and wage levels, the availability of 
consumer credit, the level of housing, energy and food costs, general business conditions and other challenges affecting 
the global economy including the ongoing COVID - 19 pandemic. These risks may be exacerbated for retailers like us 
who focus on specialty footwear, apparel and accessories. Our financial performance is particularly susceptible to 
economic and other conditions in California, Texas and other states where we have a significant number of stores. Many 
of our stores operate in geographic areas where the local economies depend to a significant degree on oil and other 
commodity extraction, and many of our customers are employed in these industries. As a result of the economic 
slowdown caused by COVID - 19, the global demand for oil was significantly impacted and the price of oil was driven 
down significantly from previous levels. Our financial performance is accordingly susceptible to economic and other 
conditions relating to output and employment in these areas. Our financial performance also is impacted by conditions in 
the construction sector, domestic manufacturing and the transportation and warehouse sectors, the growth of which we 
believe is an important driver of our work wear business. In addition, our financial performance may be negatively 
affected if the popularity of the western and country lifestyle subsides, or if there is a general trend in consumer 
preferences away from boots and other western or country products in favor of another general category of footwear or 
attire. If this were to occur or if periods of decreased consumer spending persist, our sales could decrease, which could 
have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects. In addition, 
difficult economic conditions may exacerbate some of the other risks described in this Item 1A. Risk Factors, including 
those risks associated with increased competition, decreases in store traffic, brand reputation, the interruption of the 
production and flow of merchandise, the ability to achieve our growth strategies, and the ability to improve and expand 
our exclusive product offering. These risks could be exacerbated individually or collectively. 

Our business largely depends on a strong brand image, and if we are unable to maintain and enhance our brand 
image, particularly in markets where we have newly acquired stores and in new markets where we have limited brand 
recognition, we may be unable to increase or maintain our level of sales. 

We believe that our brand image and brand awareness have contributed significantly to the success of our 

business. We also believe that maintaining and enhancing our brand image, particularly in markets where we have newly 
acquired stores and in new markets where we have limited brand recognition, is important to maintaining and expanding 

18 

our customer base. Our ability to successfully integrate newly acquired and newly opened stores into their surrounding 
communities, to expand into new markets or to maintain the strength and distinctiveness of our brand image in our 
existing markets will be adversely impacted if we fail to connect with our target customers. Our efforts to rebrand newly 
acquired stores could result in reduced sales and profitability of such stores. Maintaining and enhancing our brand image 
may require us to make substantial investments in areas such as merchandising, marketing, store operations, community 
relations, store graphics and employee training, which could adversely affect our cash flow and which may ultimately be 
unsuccessful. Furthermore, our brand image could be jeopardized if we fail to maintain high standards for merchandise 
quality, if we fail to comply with local laws and regulations or if we experience negative publicity or other negative 
events that affect our image and reputation. Some of these risks may be beyond our ability to control, such as the effects 
of negative publicity regarding our suppliers. Failure to successfully market and maintain our brand image in new and 
existing markets could harm our business, results of operations and financial condition. 

We face intense competition in our industry and we may be unable to compete effectively. 

The retail industry for western and work wear is highly fragmented and characterized by primarily regional 

competitors. We estimate that there are thousands of independent specialty stores scattered across the country. We 
believe that we compete primarily with smaller regional chains and independent stores on the basis of product quality, 
brand recognition, price, customer service and the ability to identify and satisfy consumer demand. In addition, as we 
expand our e-commerce sales presence and as a result of consumers’ growing desire to shop online (including as a result 
of the COVID - 19 pandemic), we are competing to an increasing degree with online retailers and the e-commerce 
offerings of traditional competitors. There can be no assurance that our e-commerce expansion initiatives will be 
successful. We also compete with farm supply stores and, to a lesser degree, mass merchants. Competition with some or 
all of these retailers could require us to lower our prices or risk losing customers. In addition, significant or unusual 
promotional activities by our competitors may force us to respond in-kind and adversely impact our operating cash flow 
and gross profit. As a result of these factors, current and future competition could have a material adverse effect on our 
financial condition and results of operations. 

Many of the mass merchants and online retailers that sell some western or work wear products have greater 
financial, marketing and other resources than we currently do, and in the case of online retailers, lower overhead and 
overall cost structure. Therefore, these competitors may be able to devote greater resources to the marketing and sale of 
these products, generate national brand recognition or adopt more aggressive pricing policies than we can, which would 
put us at a competitive disadvantage if they decide to expand their offerings of these product lines. Moreover, we do not 
possess exclusive rights to many of the elements that comprise our in-store experience and product offerings. Our 
competitors may seek to emulate facets of our business strategy, including our in-store experience, which could result in 
a reduction of some competitive advantages or special appeal that we might possess. In addition, most of our suppliers 
sell products to us on a non-exclusive basis. As a result, our current and future competitors may be able to duplicate or 
improve on some or all of the in-store and e-commerce product offerings that we believe are important in differentiating 
our stores, our e-commerce offerings and our customers’ shopping experience. If our competitors were to duplicate or 
improve on some or all of our in-store experience, or our in-store and e-commerce product offerings, our competitive 
position and our business could suffer. 

Most of our merchandise is produced in foreign countries, making the price and availability of our merchandise 
susceptible to international trade risks and other international conditions, including the impacts of COVID - 19. 

The majority of our private brand products are manufactured in foreign countries, including Mexico and China. 
In addition, we purchase most of our third-party branded merchandise from domestic suppliers that have a large portion 
of their merchandise made in foreign countries. 

The countries, specifically Mexico and China, in which our merchandise currently is manufactured or may be 
manufactured in the future could become subject to trade restrictions imposed by the U.S., including increased tariffs or 
quotas, embargoes and customs restrictions, which could increase the cost or reduce the supply of products available to 
us and have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Recently, uncertainty 
has increased regarding tax and trade policies, border adjustments, tariffs and government regulations affecting trade 
between the U.S. and other countries, such as Mexico and China. Such tariffs on imports from foreign countries, as well 

19 

as changes in tax and trade policies such as a border adjustment tax or disallowance of certain tax deductions for 
imported merchandise, if enacted, could materially increase our manufacturing costs, the costs of our imported 
merchandise or our income tax expense, which would have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and 
results of operations. Any tariffs by China or other foreign countries on imports of our products could also adversely 
affect our international e-commerce sales. Any increase in our manufacturing costs, the cost of our merchandise or 
limitation on the amount of merchandise we are able to purchase, or any decrease in our international e-commerce sales, 
could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. 

Additionally, public health issues affecting China, Mexico or another foreign country from which a large 

portion of our third-party and private brand merchandise is purchased and imported, including the ongoing COVID - 19 
pandemic, may result in the temporary closure of our suppliers’ facilities or shipping ports, resulting in product delivery 
delays. For example, COVID - 19 has led to work and travel restrictions in and out of China and other countries around 
the world as well as temporary closures or production and logistical constraints due to workforce availability of certain 
factories in China. These travel restrictions, factory closures and production and logistical constraints may result in, 
among other things, delayed shipments and increased shipping costs. These impacts on our supply chain could have a 
material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. 

Our failure to adapt to new challenges that arise when expanding into new geographic markets could adversely affect 
our ability to profitably operate those stores and maintain our brand image. 

Our expansion into new geographic markets could result in competitive, merchandising, distribution and other 

challenges that are different from those we encounter in the geographic markets in which we currently operate. In 
addition, to the extent that our store count increases, we may face risks associated with market saturation of our product 
offerings and locations. Our suppliers may also restrict their sales to us in new markets to the extent they are already 
saturating that market with their products through other retailers or their own stores. There can be no assurance that any 
newly opened stores will be received as well as, or achieve net sales or profitability levels comparable to those of, our 
existing stores in the time periods estimated by us, or at all. If our stores fail to achieve, or are unable to sustain, 
acceptable net sales and profitability levels, our business may be materially harmed, we may incur significant costs 
associated with closing those stores and our brand image may be negatively impacted. 

Our continued growth depends upon successfully opening new stores as well as integrating any acquired stores, and 
our failure to successfully open new stores or integrate acquired stores could negatively affect our business and stock 
price. 

We have grown our store count rapidly in recent years, both organically and through strategic acquisitions of 
competing chains. Our ability to successfully open and operate new and acquired stores is subject to a variety of risks 
and uncertainties, such as: 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

identifying suitable store locations, the availability of which is beyond our control; 

obtaining acceptable lease terms; 

sourcing sufficient levels of inventory; 

selecting the appropriate merchandise to appeal to our customers; 

hiring, training and retaining store employees; 

assimilating new store employees into our corporate culture; 

•  marketing the new stores’ locations and product offerings effectively; 

• 

avoiding construction delays and cost overruns in connection with the build out of new stores; 

20 

• 

avoiding other costs in opening new stores, such as rebranding acquired locations and environmental 
liabilities; 

•  managing and expanding our infrastructure to accommodate growth; and 

• 

integrating the new and acquired stores with our existing buying, distribution and other support 
operations. 

Our failure to successfully address these challenges could have a material adverse effect on our financial 

condition and results of operations. We opened or acquired 15 stores in fiscal 2021, 20 stores in fiscal 2020, and 17 
stores in fiscal 2019. We plan to continue to open or acquire new stores in the coming years; however, there can be no 
assurance that we will open or acquire new stores in fiscal 2022 or thereafter, or that any such stores will be profitable. 
The expansion of our store base will place increased demands on our operational, managerial and administrative 
resources. These increased demands could cause us to operate our existing business less effectively, which in turn could 
cause the financial performance of our existing stores to deteriorate. In addition, we plan to open some new stores within 
existing markets. Some of these new stores may open close enough to our existing stores that a segment of customers 
will stop shopping at our existing stores and instead shop at the new stores, causing sales and profitability at those 
existing stores to decline. If this were to occur with a number of our stores, this could have a material adverse effect on 
our financial condition and results of operations. 

In addition to opening new stores, we may acquire and rebrand stores. Acquiring and integrating stores involves 

additional risks that could adversely affect our growth and results of operations. Newly acquired stores may be 
unprofitable and we may incur significant costs and expenses in connection with any acquisition including systems 
integration and costs relating to remerchandising and rebranding the acquired stores. Integrating newly acquired chains 
or individual stores may divert our senior management’s attention from our core business. Our ability to integrate newly 
acquired stores will depend on the successful expansion of our existing financial controls, distribution model, 
information systems, management and human resources and on attracting, training and retaining qualified employees. 

As we expand our business, we may be unable to generate significant amounts of cash from operations. 

As we expand our business, we will need significant amounts of cash from operations to pay our existing and 

future lease obligations, build out new store space, purchase inventory, pay personnel, and, if necessary, further invest in 
our infrastructure and facilities. We primarily rely on cash flow generated from existing stores and our e-commerce 
businesses to fund our current operations and our growth. It typically takes several months and a significant amount of 
cash to open a new store. For example, our new store model requires an average net cash investment of approximately 
$0.8 million. If we continue to open a large number of stores relatively close in time, the cost of these store openings and 
the cost of continuing operations could reduce our cash position. An increase in our net cash outflow for new stores 
could adversely affect our operations by reducing the amount of cash available to address other aspects of our business. 

We cannot assure you that any new stores that we open will become profitable in the anticipated time frame, or 
at all. Not all of our stores are currently profitable. We cannot assure you that our existing stores, which may be currently 
profitable, will not cease to be profitable in the future. 

If our business does not generate sufficient cash flow from operations to fund these activities, and sufficient 

funds are not otherwise available from our current credit facility or future credit facilities, we may need additional equity 
or debt financing. If such financing is not available to us on satisfactory terms, our ability to operate and expand our 
business or to respond to competitive pressures would be limited and we could be required to delay, curtail or eliminate 
planned store openings. Moreover, if we raise additional capital by issuing equity securities or securities convertible into 
equity securities, your ownership may be diluted. Any debt financing we may incur may impose covenants that restrict 
our operations, and will require interest payments that would create additional cash demands and financial risk for us. 

21 

Any significant change in our distribution model could initially have an adverse impact on our cash flows and results 
of operations. 

Our suppliers ship most of our in - store merchandise directly to our stores and a portion of our e - commerce 

merchandise to our e - commerce customers. In the future, as part of our long-term strategic planning, we may change our 
distribution model to increase the amount of merchandise that we self-distribute through a centralized distribution center. 
Changing our distribution model to increase distributions from a centralized distribution center to our stores and 
customers would initially involve significant capital expenditures, which would increase our borrowings and interest 
expense or temporarily reduce the rate at which we open new stores. In addition, if we are unable to successfully 
integrate a new distribution model into our operations in a timely manner, our supply chain could experience significant 
disruptions, which could reduce our sales and adversely impact our results of operations. 

If we fail to maintain good relationships with our suppliers or if our suppliers are unable or unwilling to provide us 
with sufficient quantities of merchandise at acceptable prices, our business and operations may be adversely affected. 

Our business is largely dependent on continued good relationships with our suppliers, including suppliers for 

our third-party branded products and manufacturers for our private brand products. During fiscal 2021, merchandise 
purchased from our top three suppliers accounted for approximately 21%, 6% and 6% of our sales, respectively. We 
operate on a purchase order basis for our private brand and third-party branded merchandise and do not have long-term 
written agreements with our suppliers. Accordingly, our suppliers can refuse to sell us merchandise, limit the type or 
quantity of merchandise that they sell to us, enter into exclusivity arrangements with our competitors or raise prices at 
any time, which could have an adverse impact on our business. Deterioration in our relationships with our suppliers 
could have a material adverse impact on our business, and there can be no assurance that we will be able to acquire 
desired merchandise in sufficient quantities on terms acceptable to us in the future. Also, some of our suppliers sell 
products directly from their own retail stores or e-commerce websites, and therefore directly compete with us. These 
suppliers may decide at some point in the future to discontinue supplying their merchandise to us, supply us less 
desirable merchandise or raise prices on the products they do sell us. If we lose key suppliers and are unable to find 
alternative suppliers to provide us with substitute merchandise for lost products, our business may be adversely affected. 

Our efforts to improve and expand our exclusive product offerings may be unsuccessful, and implementing these 
efforts may divert our operational, managerial, financial and administrative resources, which could harm our 
competitive position and reduce our revenue and profitability. 

We seek to grow our business by improving and expanding our exclusive product offerings, which includes 

introducing new brands and growing and expanding our existing brands. The principal risks to our ability to successfully 
improve and expand our product offering are that: 

• 

• 

• 

• 

introduction of new products may be delayed, which may allow our competitors to introduce similar 
products in a more timely fashion, which could hinder our ability to be viewed as the exclusive provider of 
certain western and work apparel brands and items; 

the third - party suppliers of our exclusive product offerings may not maintain adequate controls with respect 
to product specifications and quality, which may lead to costly corrective action and damage to our brand 
image; 

if our expanded exclusive product offerings fail to maintain and enhance our distinctive brand identity, our 
brand image may be diminished and our sales may decrease; and 

these efforts may divert our management’s attention from other aspects of our business and place a strain 
on our operational, managerial, financial and administrative resources, as well as our information systems. 

In addition, our ability to successfully improve and expand our exclusive product offerings may be affected by 

economic and competitive conditions, changes in consumer spending patterns and changes in consumer preferences, 
including those resulting from the COVID - 19 pandemic. These efforts could be abandoned, cost more than anticipated 

22 

and divert resources from other areas of our business, any of which could impact our competitive position and reduce our 
revenue and profitability. 

We purchase merchandise based on sales projections and our purchase of too much or too little inventory may 
adversely affect our overall profitability. 

We must actively manage our purchase of inventory. We generally order our seasonal and private brand 

merchandise several months in advance of it being received and offered for sale. If there is a significant decrease in 
demand for these products, including from the impact of COVID - 19, or if we fail to accurately predict consumer 
demand, including by disproportionately increasing the penetration of our private brand merchandise, we may be forced 
to rely on markdowns or promotional sales to dispose of excess inventory. This could have an adverse effect on our 
margins and operating income. Conversely, if we fail to purchase a sufficient quantity of merchandise, we may not have 
an adequate supply of products to meet consumer demand, thereby causing us to lose sales or adversely affecting our 
customer relationships. Any failure on our part to anticipate, identify and respond effectively to changing consumer 
demand and consumer shopping preferences could adversely affect our results of operations.   

A rise in the cost of fabric, raw materials, labor or transportation could increase our cost of merchandise and cause 
our results of operations and margins to decline. 

Fluctuations in the price, availability and quality of fabrics and raw materials, such as cotton and leather, that 

our suppliers use to manufacture our products, as well as the cost of labor and transportation, could have adverse impacts 
on our cost of merchandise and our ability to meet our customers’ demands. In particular, because key components of 
our products are cotton and leather, any increases in the cost of cotton or leather may significantly affect the cost of our 
products and could have an adverse impact on our cost of merchandise. We may be unable to pass all or any of these 
higher costs on to our customers, which could have a material adverse effect on our profitability. 

23 

If our suppliers and manufacturers fail to use acceptable labor or other practices, our reputation may be harmed, 
which could negatively impact our business. 

We purchase merchandise from independent third-party suppliers and manufacturers. If any of these suppliers 
have practices that are not legal or accepted in the U.S., consumers may develop a negative view of us, our brand image 
could be damaged and we could become the subject of boycotts by our customers or interest groups. Further, if the 
suppliers violate labor or other laws of their own country, these violations could cause disruptions or delays in their 
shipments of merchandise. For example, much of our merchandise is manufactured in China and Mexico, which have 
different labor practices than the U.S. We do not independently investigate whether our suppliers are operating in 
compliance with all applicable laws and therefore we rely upon the suppliers’ representations set forth in our purchase 
orders and supplier agreements concerning the suppliers’ compliance with such laws. In addition, regulatory 
developments regarding the use of “conflict minerals,” certain minerals originating from the Democratic Republic of 
Congo and adjoining countries, could affect the sourcing and availability of raw materials used by suppliers and subject 
us to costs associated with the regulations, including for the diligence pertaining to the presence of any conflict minerals 
used in our products, possible changes to products, processes or sources of our inputs, and reporting requirements. If our 
goods are manufactured using illegal or unacceptable labor practices in these countries, or other countries from which 
our suppliers source the products we purchase, our ability to supply merchandise for our stores without interruption, our 
brand image and, consequently, our sales may be adversely affected. 

If we lose key management personnel, our operations could be negatively impacted. 

We depend upon the leadership and experience of our executive management team. If we are unable to retain 

existing management personnel who are critical to our success, it could result in harm to our supplier and employee 
relationships, the loss of key information, expertise or know-how and unanticipated recruitment and training costs. The 
loss of the services of any of our key management personnel could have a material adverse effect on our business and 
prospects, and could be viewed negatively by investors and analysts, which could cause the price of our common stock 
to decline. We may be unable to find qualified individuals to replace key management personnel on a timely basis, 
without incurring increased costs or at all. We do not maintain key person life insurance covering any employee. If we 
lose the services of any of our key management personnel or we are unable to attract additional qualified personnel, we 
may be unable to successfully manage our business. 

If we cannot attract, train and retain qualified employees, our business could be adversely affected. 

Our success depends upon the quality of the employees we hire. We recruit people who are welcoming, friendly 

and service-oriented, and who often live the western lifestyle or have a genuine affinity for it. Employees in many 
positions must have knowledge of our merchandise and the skill necessary to excel in a customer service environment. 
The turnover rate in the retail industry is typically high and finding qualified candidates to fill positions may be difficult. 
Our planned growth will require us to hire and train even more personnel. If we cannot attract, train and retain corporate 
employees, district managers, store managers and store associates with the qualifications we deem necessary, our ability 
to effectively operate and expand may be adversely affected. In addition, we rely on temporary and seasonal personnel to 
staff our distribution center. We cannot guarantee that we will be able to find adequate temporary or seasonal personnel 
to staff our operations when needed, which may strain our existing personnel and negatively impact our operations. 

Higher wage and benefit costs could adversely affect our business. 

Changes in federal and state minimum wage laws and other laws relating to employee benefits could cause us to 

incur additional wage and benefit costs. For example, the federal government has considered raising the national 
minimum wage, and various states and local jurisdictions have sought to increase retail employee wages by raising 
minimum wage rates or scheduling future increases in such rates, which may also cause wage rates above the minimum 
to increase in those markets. Increased labor costs brought about by changes in minimum wage laws, other regulations or 
prevailing market conditions would increase our expenses and have an adverse impact on our profitability, or could 
negatively impact the quality of our workforce if we fail to increase our wages competitively. 

24 

 
The concentration of our stores and operations in certain geographic locations subjects us to regional economic 
conditions and natural disasters that could adversely affect our business. 

Our Store Support Center and distribution centers are located in California and Kansas. If we encounter any 

disruptions to our operations at these locations or if they were to shut down for any reason, including due to fire, tornado, 
earthquake or other natural disaster, then we may be prevented from effectively operating our stores and our e-commerce 
businesses. Additionally, a widespread transmission of COVID - 19 among the employees in our distribution centers 
might necessitate the temporary closure of our facilities, resulting in product delivery delays and other logistical 
constraints. Furthermore, the risk of disruption or shutdown at our buildings in California are greater than they might be 
if they were located in another region, as southern California is prone to natural disasters such as earthquakes and 
wildfires. Any disruption or shutdown at our locations could significantly impact our operations and have a material 
adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.   

In addition, of the 273 stores that we operated as of March 27, 2021, 125 of these stores were located in 

Arizona, California and Texas. The geographic concentration of our stores may expose us to economic downturns or 
natural disasters in those states where our stores are located. For example, our stores located in North Dakota, Wyoming, 
Colorado, Texas and surrounding areas are likely to be adversely impacted by an economic downturn affecting the oil, 
gas, and commodities industries. Any similar events in states where our stores are concentrated could have a material 
adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. 

We could be required to collect additional sales taxes or be subject to other tax liabilities that may increase the costs 
our clients would have to pay for our products and adversely affect our operating results. 

An increasing number of states have considered or adopted laws that attempt to impose tax collection 
obligations on out-of-state retailers. In South Dakota v. Wayfair, Inc. et al (“Wayfair”), a case challenging existing law 
that online sellers are not required to collect sales and use tax unless they have a physical presence in the buyer’s state, 
the Supreme Court decided that states may adopt laws requiring sellers to collect sales and use tax, even in states where 
the seller has no physical presence. As a result of Wayfair, states or the federal government may adopt, or begin to 
enforce, laws requiring us to calculate, collect, and remit taxes on sales in their jurisdictions. A successful assertion by 
one or more states requiring us to collect taxes where we presently do not do so, or to collect more taxes in a jurisdiction 
in which we currently do collect some taxes, could result in substantial tax liabilities, including taxes on past sales, as 
well as penalties and interest. The imposition by state governments of sales tax collection obligations on out-of-state 
retailers could also create additional administrative burdens for us, put us at a competitive disadvantage if they do not 
impose similar obligations on our competitors and decrease our future sales, which could have a material adverse impact 
on our business and operating results. 

The adoption of new tax legislation could affect our financial performance. 

We are subject to income and other taxes in the United States. Our effective tax rate in the future could be 

adversely affected by changes in the valuation of deferred tax assets and liabilities and changes in tax laws. More 
generally, it is possible that U.S. federal income or other tax laws or the interpretation of tax laws will change. For 
example, the Biden Administration has proposed an increase in the U.S. corporate income tax rate and a minimum 
corporate tax based on book income. It is difficult to predict whether and when there will be tax law changes having a 
material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. 

Our leverage may reduce our cash flow available to grow our business.   

As of March 27, 2021, we had an aggregate of $111.5 million of total outstanding indebtedness. Our obligations 

to pay principal and interest under the June 2015 Wells Fargo Revolver and the 2015 Golub Term Loan will reduce our 
available cash flow, limiting our flexibility to respond to changing business and economic conditions and increasing any 
additional borrowing costs.   

25 

Our borrowings under the June 2015 Wells Fargo Revolver and the 2015 Golub Term Loan are at variable rates, 
exposing us to interest rate risk, including increases in interest rates resulting from changes in the determination of 
the London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”). 

The June 2015 Wells Fargo Revolver and the 2015 Golub Term Loan provide for variable interest rates. As a 

result, if interest rates increase, our debt service obligations under the current credit facilities could increase even though 
the amount borrowed remained the same, which would adversely impact our net income.   

The variable interest rates under the June 2015 Wells Fargo Revolver and the 2015 Golub Term Loan may be 

determined, at the Company’s option, based upon LIBOR or a base rate, in each case, plus an applicable margin. On 
July 27, 2017, the United Kingdom's Financial Conduct Authority, which regulates LIBOR, announced that it intends to 
phase out LIBOR by the end of 2021. It is unclear whether LIBOR will cease to exist or if new methods of calculating 
LIBOR will be established such that it continues to exist after 2021. The U.S. Federal Reserve, in conjunction with the 
Alternative Reference Rates Committee, a steering committee comprised of large U.S. financial institutions, is 
considering replacing U.S. dollar LIBOR with a new index calculated by short term repurchase agreements, backed by 
Treasury securities.   

Any changes to the determination of LIBOR or replacement thereof may result in an increase in LIBOR and, in 

turn, an increase in the variable interest rates based upon LIBOR under the June 2015 Wells Fargo Revolver and the 
2015 Golub Term Loan, or cause us to elect to apply the base rate to the borrowings thereunder, which base rate may be 
higher than applicable interest rates prior to any such changes.   

The June 2015 Wells Fargo Revolver and the 2015 Golub Term Loan contain restrictions and limitations that could 
significantly impact our ability to operate our business.   

The June 2015 Wells Fargo Revolver and the 2015 Golub Term Loan contain covenants that, among other 
things, may, under certain circumstances, place limitations on the dollar amounts paid or other actions relating to:   

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

payments in respect of, or redemptions or acquisitions of, debt or equity issued by Boot Barn or its 
subsidiaries, including the payment of dividends on our common stock; 

incurring additional indebtedness; 

incurring guarantee obligations; 

paying dividends; 

creating liens on assets; 

entering into sale and leaseback transactions; 

•  making investments, loans or advances; 

• 

• 

• 

entering into hedging transactions; 

engaging in mergers, consolidations or sales of all or substantially all of their respective assets; and 

engaging in certain transactions with affiliates. 

In addition, the Company is required to satisfy certain financial ratios as set forth in these agreements. Our 

ability to satisfy these financial ratios will depend on our ongoing financial and operating performance, which in turn 
will be subject to economic conditions and to financial, market and competitive factors, many of which are beyond our 

26 

control. Our ability to comply with these ratios in future periods will also depend on our ability to successfully 
implement our overall business strategy and realize contemplated synergies.   

Various risks, uncertainties and events beyond our control could affect our ability to comply with the covenants 
contained in our current credit facilities. Failure to comply with any of these covenants could result in a default under the 
June 2015 Wells Fargo Revolver and the 2015 Golub Term Loan and under other agreements containing cross-default 
provisions. A default would permit lenders to accelerate the maturity of the debt under these agreements and to foreclose 
upon any collateral securing the debt. Under these circumstances, we might not have sufficient funds or other resources 
to satisfy all of our obligations. In addition, the limitations imposed by financing agreements on our ability to incur 
additional debt and to take other actions might significantly impair our ability to obtain other financing.   

We are required to make significant lease payments for our stores, Store Support Center and distribution center, 
which may strain our cash flow.   

We do not own any real estate. Instead, we lease all of our retail store locations as well as our Store Support 
Center and distribution centers. The store leases generally have a base lease term of five or 10 years, with one or more 
renewal periods of five years, on average, exercisable at our option. Many of our leases have early cancelation clauses 
which permit us to terminate the lease if certain sales thresholds are not met in certain periods of time. Our costs under 
these leases are a significant amount of our expenses and are growing rapidly as we expand the number of locations and 
the cost of leasing existing locations rises. In fiscal 2021, our total lease expense was $50.3 million, and we expect this 
amount to continue to increase as we open more stores. We are required to pay additional rent under many of our lease 
agreements based upon achieving certain sales thresholds for each store location. We are generally responsible for the 
payment of property taxes and insurance, utilities and common area maintenance fees. Many of our lease agreements 
also contain provisions which increase the rent payments on a set time schedule, causing the cash rent paid for a location 
to escalate over the term of the lease. In addition, rent costs could escalate when multi-year leases are renewed at the 
expiration of their lease term. These costs are significant, recurring and increasing, which places a consistent strain on 
our cash flow.   

We depend on cash flows from operations to pay our lease expenses and to fulfill our other cash needs. If our 

business does not generate sufficient cash flows from operating activities, and sufficient funds are not otherwise 
available to us from borrowings under our current credit facility, future credit facilities or from other sources, we may be 
unable to service our operating lease expenses, grow our business, respond to competitive challenges or fund our other 
liquidity and capital needs, which would harm our business.   

Additional sites that we lease are likely to be subject to similar long-term leases. If an existing or future store is 

not profitable, and we decide to close it, we may nonetheless be committed to perform our obligations under the 
applicable lease including, among other things, paying the base rent for the balance of the lease term. We may fail to 
identify suitable store locations, the availability of which is beyond our control, to replace such closed stores. In addition, 
as our leases expire, we may fail to negotiate renewals, either on commercially acceptable terms or at all, which could 
cause us to close stores in desirable locations. Of the store leases that will reach their termination date during fiscal 2022, 
twenty-one of those leases do not contain an option to automatically extend the lease term. If we are unable to enter into 
new leases or renew existing leases on terms acceptable to us or be released from our obligations under leases for stores 
that we close, our business, profitability and results of operations may be harmed. 

New accounting guidance or changes in the interpretation or application of existing accounting guidance could 
adversely affect our financial performance. 

The implementation of new accounting standards could require certain systems, internal processes and controls 
and other changes that could increase our operating costs and result in changes to our financial statements. For example, 
the implementation of accounting standards related to leases, as issued by the Financial Accounting Standards Board, 
required us to make significant changes to our lease management and other accounting systems, and resulted in a 
material impact to our consolidated financial statements. 

27 

U.S. generally accepted accounting principles and related accounting pronouncements, implementation 

guidelines and interpretations with regard to a wide range of matters that are relevant to our business involve many 
subjective assumptions, estimates and judgments by our management. Changes in these rules or their interpretation or in 
underlying management assumptions, estimates or judgments could significantly change our reported or expected 
financial performance. The outcome of such changes could include litigation or regulatory actions which could adversely 
affect our financial condition and results of operations. 

We may be unable to maintain same store sales or net sales per square foot, which may cause our results of 
operations to decline. 

The investing public may use same store sales or net sales per square foot projections or results, over a certain 

period of time, such as on a quarterly or yearly basis, as an indicator of our profitability growth. See Item 7, 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations for further discussion of “same 
store sales”. Our same store sales can vary significantly from period to period for a variety of reasons, such as the age of 
stores, temporary store closures, changing economic factors, including those caused by the COVID - 19 pandemic, 
unseasonable weather, pricing, the timing of the release of new merchandise and promotional events and increased 
competition. These factors could cause same store sales or net sales per square foot to decline period to period or fail to 
grow at expected rates, which could adversely affect our results of operations and cause the price of our common stock 
to be volatile during such periods. 

Any inability to balance our private brand merchandise with the third-party branded merchandise that we sell may 
have an adverse effect on our net sales and gross profit. 

In fiscal 2021, sales from our private brand products accounted for approximately 23.7% of our consolidated 

sales including our stores and e-commerce websites. As of March 27, 2021, two of our five top selling brands in the store 
were private brand merchandise. Our private brand merchandise has historically had a higher gross margin than the third-
party branded merchandise that we offer. As a result, we intend to attempt to increase the penetration of our private 
brands in the future. However, carrying our private brands limits the amount of third-party branded merchandise we can 
carry and, therefore, there is a risk that our customers’ perception that we offer many major brands will decline or that 
our suppliers of third-party branded merchandise may decide to discontinue supplying, or reduce the supply of, their 
merchandise. If this occurs, it could have a material adverse effect on net sales and profitability. 

We are subject to payment-related risks that could increase our operating costs, expose us to fraud or theft, subject us 
to potential liability and potentially disrupt our business. 

We accept payments using a variety of methods, including cash, checks, credit and debit cards, including our 

private-label credit card and third-party credit and debit cards, gift cards, and pay-over-time and we may offer new 
payment options over time. Acceptance of these payment methods subjects us to rules, regulations, contractual 
obligations and compliance requirements, including payment network rules and operating guidelines, data security 
standards and certification requirements, and rules governing electronic funds transfers. These requirements may change 
over time or be reinterpreted, making compliance more difficult or costly. 

For certain payment methods, including credit and debit cards, we pay interchange and other fees, which may 

increase over time and raise our operating costs. We rely on third parties to provide payment processing services, 
including the processing of credit cards, debit cards, and other forms of electronic payment. If these companies become 
unable to provide these services to us, or if their systems are compromised, it could potentially disrupt our business. The 
payment methods that we offer also subject us to potential fraud and theft by criminals, who are becoming increasingly 
more sophisticated, seeking to obtain unauthorized access to or exploit weaknesses that may exist in the payment 
systems. If we fail to comply with applicable rules or requirements for the payment methods we accept, or if payment-
related data is compromised due to a breach or misuse of data, we may be liable for costs incurred by payment card 
issuing banks and other third parties or subject to fines and higher transaction fees, or our ability to accept or facilitate 
certain types of payments may be impaired. In addition, our customers could lose confidence in certain payment types, 
which may result in a shift to other payment types or potential changes to our payment systems that may result in higher 
costs. As a result, our business and results of operations could be adversely affected. 

28 

If our management information systems fail to operate or are unable to support our growth, our operations could be 
disrupted. 

We rely upon our management information systems in almost every aspect of our daily business operations. For 

example, our management information systems serve an integral part in enabling us to order merchandise, process 
merchandise at our distribution center and retail stores, perform and track sales transactions, manage personnel, pay 
suppliers and employees, operate our e-commerce businesses and report financial and accounting information to 
management. In addition, we rely on our management information systems to enable us to leverage our costs as we grow. 
If our management information systems fail to operate or are unable to support our growth, our store operations and e-
commerce businesses could be severely disrupted, and we could be required to make significant additional expenditures 
to remediate any such failure. 

We rely on UPS and the United States Postal Service to deliver our e-commerce merchandise to our customers and 
our business could be negatively impacted by disruptions in the operations of these third-party service providers. 

We rely on UPS and the United States Postal Service to deliver our e-commerce merchandise to our customers. 

Relying on these third-party delivery services puts us at risk from disruptions in their operations, such as employee 
strikes, inclement weather, shutdowns or other delays as a result of the COVID - 19 pandemic and their inability to meet 
our shipping demands. If we are forced to use other delivery services, our costs could increase and we may be unable to 
meet shipment deadlines. Moreover, we may be unable to obtain terms as favorable as those received from the 
transportation providers we currently use, which would further increase our costs. In addition, if our products are not 
delivered to our customers on time, our customers may cancel their orders or we may lose business from these customers 
in the future. These circumstances may negatively impact our financial condition and results of operations. 

Use of social media may adversely impact our reputation or subject us to fines or other penalties. 

The use of social media platforms, including blogs, social media websites and other forms of internet-based 

communication, which allow individuals access to a broad audience of consumers and other interested persons, has 
become commonplace. Negative commentary regarding us or the brands that we sell may be posted on social media 
platforms or similar devices at any time and may harm our reputation or business. Consumers value readily available 
information concerning retailers and their goods and services and often act on such information without further 
investigation and without regard to its accuracy. The harm may be immediate without affording us an opportunity for 
redress or correction. In addition, social media platforms provide users with access to such a broad audience that 
collective action against our stores, such as boycotts, can be more easily organized. If such actions were organized, we 
could suffer reputational damage as well as physical damage to our stores and merchandise. 

We also use social media platforms as marketing tools. For example, we maintain Facebook, Instagram, and 

Twitter accounts. As laws and regulations rapidly evolve to govern the use of these platforms and devices, the failure by 
us, our employees or third parties acting at our direction to abide by applicable laws and regulations in the use of these 
platforms and devices could adversely impact our business, financial condition and results of operations or subject us to 
fines or other penalties. 

Our e-commerce businesses subject us to numerous risks that could have an adverse effect on our results of 
operations. 

Our e-commerce businesses and their continued growth subject us to certain risks that could have an adverse 

effect on our results of operations, including: 

• 

• 

• 

diversion of traffic from our stores; 

increased e-commerce competition;   

liability for online content; 

29 

• 

• 

government regulation of the Internet; and 

risks related to the computer systems that operate our e-commerce websites and related support 
systems, including computer viruses, electronic data theft and similar disruptions. 

Our sales could be adversely affected by any disruption or downtime caused by the integration of new software 

or software upgrades. In addition, any data loss caused by such integration or upgrade could have a material adverse 
effect on our financial condition and results of operations. 

As we expand our e-commerce operations, we face the risk of increased losses from credit card fraud. We do 

not carry insurance against the risk of credit card fraud, so under current credit card practices, we may be liable for 
fraudulent credit card transactions even though the associated financial institution has approved payment of the orders. If 
we are unable to deter or control credit card fraud, or if credit card companies require more burdensome terms or refuse 
to accept credit card charges from us, our net income could be reduced. A breach of our e-commerce security measures 
could also reduce demand for our services. 

A breach of our e-commerce security measures could expose us to potential liabilities and could also reduce 

demand for our services. In April 2019 an unknown party attempted to access data on one of our e-commerce sites. We 
investigated the incident and concluded that the attempt was unsuccessful and no personally identifiable information or 
customer data was accessed or exposed. However, there can be no assurance that future similar attempts would not be 
successful. In addition, to the extent the threat of such attempted attacks and the sophistication thereof grows, we may be 
required to devote additional resources to preventative measures. 

Our e-commerce operations may also subject us to taxation in jurisdictions where we currently do not collect 

sales and other similar taxes. See “--We could be required to collect additional sales taxes or be subject to other tax 
liabilities that may increase the costs our clients would have to pay for our products and adversely affect our operating 
results” above. 

In addition, we rely upon email distributions to advertise our stores and e-commerce businesses and use various 
data-mining techniques to effectively target these emails. Spam filters or other blocking applications designed to enable 
consumers to limit incoming email from advertisers may inhibit our ability to effectively reach large audiences of 
existing and potential customers via email. This may adversely affect our ability to generate new business and acquire 
new customers. 

Our sales can significantly fluctuate based upon shopping seasons, which may cause our results of operations to 
fluctuate disproportionately on a quarterly basis. 

Because of a traditionally higher level of sales during the Christmas shopping season, our sales are typically 

higher in the third fiscal quarter than they are in the other fiscal quarters. We also incur significant additional costs and 
expenses during our third fiscal quarter due to increased staffing levels and higher purchase volumes. Accordingly, the 
results of a single fiscal quarter should not be relied on as an indication of our annual results or future performance. In 
addition, any factors that harm our third fiscal quarter results of operations could have a disproportionate effect on our 
results of operations for the entire fiscal year. 

We buy and stock merchandise based upon seasonal weather patterns and therefore unseasonable or extreme weather 
could negatively impact our sales, financial condition and results of operations. 

We buy and stock merchandise for sale based upon expected seasonal weather patterns. If we encounter 

unseasonable weather, such as warmer winters or cooler summers than would be considered typical, these weather 
variations could cause some of our merchandise to be inconsistent with what consumers wish to purchase, causing our 
sales to decline. In addition, weather conditions affect the demand for our products, which in turn has an impact on 
prices. In past years, weather conditions, including unseasonably warm weather in winter months, and extreme weather 
conditions, including snow and ice storms, flood and wind damage, hurricanes, tornadoes, extreme rain and droughts, 
have affected our sales and results of operations both positively and negatively. Furthermore, extended unseasonable 

30 

weather conditions, particularly in California or Texas, will likely have a greater impact on our sales because of our store 
concentration in those regions. Our strategy is to remain flexible and to react to unseasonable and extreme weather 
conditions by adjusting our merchandise assortments and redirecting inventories to stores affected by the weather 
conditions. Should such a strategy not be effective, unseasonable or extreme weather may have a material adverse effect 
on our financial condition and results of operations. 

If we fail to obtain and retain high-visibility sponsorship or endorsement arrangements with celebrities, or if the 
reputation of any of the celebrities that we partner with is impaired, our business may suffer. 

A principal component of our marketing program is to partner with well-known country music artists and other 

celebrities for sponsorship and endorsement arrangements. Although we have partnered with several well-known 
celebrities in this manner, some of these persons may not continue their endorsements, may not continue to succeed in 
their fields or may engage in activities which could bring disrepute on themselves and, in turn, on us and our brand 
image and products. We also may not be able to attract and partner with new celebrities that may emerge in the future. 
Competition for endorsers is significant and adverse publicity regarding us or our industry could make it more difficult 
to attract and retain endorsers. Any of these failures by us or the celebrities that we partner with could adversely affect 
our business and revenues. 

Our management information systems and databases could be disrupted by system security failures, cyber threats or 
by the failure of, or lack of access to, our Enterprise Resource Planning system. These disruptions could negatively 
impact our sales, increase our expenses, subject us to liability and/or harm our reputation. 

Hackers, computer programmers and internal users may be able to penetrate our network security and create 

system disruptions, cause shutdowns and misappropriate our confidential information or that of our employees and third 
parties, including our customers. Therefore, we could incur significant expenses addressing problems created by security 
breaches to our network. This risk is heightened because we collect and store customer information for marketing 
purposes, as well as debit and credit card information. We must, and do, take precautions to secure customer information 
and prevent unauthorized access to our database of confidential information. However, if unauthorized parties, including 
external hackers or computer programmers, gain access to our database, they may be able to steal this confidential 
information. Our failure to secure this information could result in costly litigation, adverse publicity or regulatory action, 
or result in customers discontinuing the use of debit or credit cards in our stores, or customers not shopping in our stores 
or on our e-commerce websites altogether. These consequences could have a material adverse effect on our financial 
condition and results of operations. In addition, sophisticated hardware and operating system software and applications 
that we procure from third parties may contain defects in design or manufacture that could unexpectedly interfere with 
our operations. The cost to alleviate security risks and defects in software and hardware and to address any problems that 
occur could negatively impact our sales, distribution and other critical functions, as well as our financial results. 

In recent years, there has been increasing regulatory enforcement and litigation activity in the area of privacy, 

data protection and information security in various states in which we operate. On June 28, 2018, the California governor 
signed into law the comprehensive California Consumer Privacy Act of 2018 (the “CCPA”), which became effective on 
January 1, 2020. The CCPA requires certain companies to satisfy new requirements regarding the handling of personal 
and sensitive data, including its use, protection and the ability of California residents whose data is stored to know 
specifically what data types each company has collected on them and, if they so choose, the right to demand that such 
companies delete their data. Failure to comply with the CCPA requirements could result in civil penalties. The CCPA 
also provides a private right of action that allows consumers to seek, either individually or as a class, statutory or actual 
damages and injunctive and other relief, if their sensitive personal information is subject to unauthorized access and 
exfiltration, theft or disclosure as a result of a business's failure to implement and maintain required reasonable security 
procedures. New legislation or regulation such as the CCPA, including any potential comprehensive federal privacy 
legislation, as well as any associated inquiries or investigations or any other government actions, could be costly to 
comply with, result in negative publicity, increase our operating costs, require significant management time and 
attention, and subject us to remedies that may harm our business, including fines or demands or orders that we modify or 
cease existing business practices. 

31 

We operate Aptos Retail on a software-as-a-service platform, and we use this system for integrated point-of-

sale, merchandising, planning, sales audit, customer relationship management, inventory control, loss prevention, 
purchase order management and business intelligence. Accordingly, we depend on this system, and the third-party 
provider of this service, for many aspects of our operations. If this service provider or this system fails, or if we are 
unable to continue to have access to this system on commercially reasonable terms, or at all, our operations would be 
severely disrupted until an equivalent system could be identified, licensed or developed, and integrated into our 
operations. This disruption would have a material adverse effect on our business. 

Our failure to maintain adequate internal controls over our financial and management systems may cause errors in 
our financial reporting. These errors may cause a loss of investor confidence and result in a decline in the price of 
our common stock. 

Our public company reporting obligations and our anticipated growth may place additional burdens on our 

financial and management systems, internal controls and employees. As a public company, we are required to maintain 
internal control over financial reporting. Pursuant to Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, we are required to file a 
report by management on the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting. 

Maintaining internal controls is time consuming and costly. If we identify any material weaknesses or 

deficiencies that aggregate to a material weakness in our internal controls, we will have to implement appropriate 
changes to these controls, which may require specific compliance training for our directors, officers and employees, 
require the hiring of additional finance, accounting, legal and other personnel, entail substantial costs to modify our 
existing accounting systems and take a significant period of time to complete. Such changes may not, however, be 
effective in maintaining the adequacy of our internal controls, and any failure to maintain that adequacy, or consequent 
inability to produce accurate financial statements on a timely basis, could increase our operating costs and could 
materially impair our ability to operate our business. If we are unable to maintain effective internal control over financial 
reporting, including because of an inability to remediate any such material weakness, if our management is unable to 
report that our internal control over financial reporting is effective when required, investors may lose confidence in the 
accuracy and completeness of our financial reports and the market price of our common stock could be negatively 
affected. As a result, our failure to maintain effective internal controls could result in us being subject to regulatory 
action and a loss of investor confidence in the reliability of our financial statements, both of which in turn could cause 
the market value of our common stock to decline and affect our ability to raise capital. 

If we are unable to protect our intellectual property rights, our financial results may be negatively impacted. 

Our success depends in large part on our brand image. Our name, logo, domain name and our private brands 

and other intellectual property are valuable assets that differentiate us from our competitors. We currently rely on a 
combination of copyright, trademark, trade dress and unfair competition laws to establish and protect our intellectual 
property rights, but the steps taken by us to protect our proprietary rights may be inadequate to prevent infringement of 
our trademarks and proprietary rights by others, including imitation and misappropriation of our brand. Additional 
obstacles may arise as we expand our product lines and geographic scope. Moreover, litigation may be necessary to 
protect or enforce these intellectual property rights, which could result in substantial costs and diversion of our resources, 
causing a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. The 
unauthorized use or misappropriation of our intellectual property or our failure to protect our intellectual property rights 
could damage our brand image and the goodwill we have created, which could cause our sales to decline. 

We have not registered any of our intellectual property outside of the U.S. with the exception of the Boot Barn 

tradenames which are registered in China and Hong Kong. We cannot prohibit other companies from using our other 
trademarks in foreign countries. Use of these other trademarks in foreign countries could negatively impact our identity 
in the U.S. and cause our sales to decline. 

We may be subject to liability if we, or our suppliers, infringe upon the intellectual property rights of third parties. 

We may be subject to claims that our activities or the products that we sell infringe upon the intellectual 

property rights of others. Any such claims can be time consuming and costly to defend, and may divert our 

32 

management’s attention and resources, even if the claims are meritless. If we were to be found liable for any such 
infringement, we could be required to enter into costly settlements or license agreements and could be subject to 
injunctions preventing further infringement. Such infringement claims could harm our brand image. In addition, any 
payments that we are required to make and any injunction with which we are required to comply as a result of such 
infringement actions could adversely affect our financial results. 

We purchase merchandise from suppliers that may be subject to design copyrights or design patents, or 
otherwise may incorporate protected intellectual property. We are not involved in the manufacture of any of the 
merchandise we purchase from our suppliers for sale to our customers, and we do not independently investigate whether 
these suppliers legally hold intellectual property rights to merchandise that they are manufacturing or distributing. As a 
result, we rely upon the suppliers’ representations set forth in our purchase orders and supplier agreements concerning 
their right to sell us the products that we purchase from them. If a third party claims to have licensing rights with respect 
to merchandise we purchased from a supplier, or if we acquire unlicensed merchandise, we could be obligated to remove 
such merchandise from our stores, incur costs associated with destruction of such merchandise if the distributor or 
supplier is unwilling or unable to reimburse us and be subject to liability under various civil and criminal causes of 
action, including actions to recover unpaid royalties and other damages and injunctions. Any of these results could harm 
our brand image and have a material adverse effect on our business and growth. 

Litigation costs and the outcome of litigation could have a material adverse effect on our business. 

Our business is characterized by a high volume of customer traffic and by transactions involving a wide variety 

of product selections, each of which exposes us to a high risk of consumer litigation. From time to time we may be 
subject to litigation claims through the ordinary course of our business operations regarding, but not limited to, 
employment matters, compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, footwear, apparel and accessory 
safety standards, security of customer and employee personal information, contractual relations with suppliers, marketing 
and infringement of trademarks and other intellectual property rights. Additionally, as a result of COVID - 19, we may 
have increased litigation exposure if an employee or customer believes they contracted the COVID - 19 virus in one of 
our stores. Litigation to defend ourselves against claims by third parties, or to enforce any rights that we may have 
against third parties, may be necessary, which could result in substantial costs and diversion of our resources, causing a 
material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.   

Issues with merchandise safety could damage our reputation, sales and financial results. 

Various governmental authorities in the jurisdictions where we do business regulate the safety of the 
merchandise we sell to consumers. Regulations and standards in this area, including those related to the U.S. Consumer 
Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008, state regulations like California's Proposition 65, and similar legislation, 
impose restrictions and requirements on the merchandise we sell in our stores and through e-commerce. These 
regulations change from time to time as new federal, state or local regulations are enacted. If we or our vendors are 
unable to comply with regulatory requirements on a timely basis or at all, significant fines or penalties could be incurred 
or we could have to curtail some aspects of our sales or operations, which could have a material adverse effect on our 
business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. 

We rely on our vendors to provide quality merchandise that complies with applicable product safety laws and 

other applicable laws, but they may not comply with their obligations to do so. Although our arrangements with our 
vendors frequently provide for indemnification for product liabilities, the vendors may fail to honor those obligations to 
an extent we consider sufficient or at all. Issues with the safety of merchandise or customer concerns about such issues, 
regardless of our fault, could cause damage to our reputation and could result in lost sales, uninsured product liability 
claims or losses, merchandise recalls and increased costs, and regulatory, civil or criminal fines or penalties, any of 
which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. 

Union attempts to organize our employees could negatively affect our business. 

Currently, none of our employees are represented by a union. However, if some or all of our workforce were to 
unionize and the terms of the collective bargaining agreement were significantly different from our current compensation 

33 

arrangements, it could increase our costs and adversely impact our profitability. Moreover, participation in labor unions 
could put us at increased risk of labor strikes and disruption of our operations. Responding to unionization attempts may 
distract management and our workforce. Any of these changes could adversely affect our business, financial condition, 
results of operations or cash flows. 

Violations of or changes in laws, including employment laws and laws related to our merchandise, could make 
conducting our business more expensive or change the way we do business. 

We are subject to numerous regulations, including labor and employment, customs, truth-in-advertising, 

consumer protection, environmental and occupational safety requirements and zoning and occupancy laws and 
ordinances that regulate retailers generally, that govern the importation, promotion and sale of merchandise and/or that 
regulate the operation of stores and warehouse facilities. If these regulations were violated by our management, 
employees or suppliers, the costs of certain goods could increase, or we could experience delays in shipments of our 
goods, be subject to fines or penalties or suffer reputational harm, which could reduce demand for our merchandise and 
hurt our business and results of operations. 

Similarly, changes in laws could make operating our business more expensive or require us to change the way 
we do business. In addition, changes in product safety or other consumer protection laws could lead to increased costs 
for certain merchandise, or additional labor costs associated with readying merchandise for sale. It may be difficult for us 
to foresee regulatory changes impacting our business and our actions needed to respond to changes in the law could be 
costly and may negatively impact our operations. 

We may engage in strategic transactions that could negatively impact our liquidity, increase our expenses and present 
significant distractions to our management. 

We have made strategic acquisitions in the past and may in the future consider strategic transactions and 

business arrangements, including, but not limited to, acquisitions, asset purchases, partnerships, joint ventures, 
restructurings, divestitures and investments. The success of such a transaction is based on our ability to make accurate 
assumptions regarding the valuation, operations, growth potential, integration and other factors relating to the respective 
business. Acquisitions may result in difficulties in assimilating acquired companies and may result in the diversion of 
our capital and our management’s attention from other business issues and opportunities. We may be unable to 
successfully integrate operations that we acquire, including their personnel, financial systems, distribution, operations 
and general operating procedures. Any such transaction may require us to incur non-recurring or other charges, may 
increase our near and long-term expenditures and may pose significant integration challenges or disrupt our management 
or business, which could harm our operations and financial results. 

Terrorism or civil unrest could negatively affect our business. 

Terrorist attacks, threats of terrorist attacks or civil unrest involving public areas could cause people to avoid 

visiting some areas where our stores are located. Further, armed conflicts or acts of war throughout the world may create 
uncertainty, causing consumers to spend less on discretionary purchases, including on footwear, apparel and accessories, 
or disrupt our ability to obtain merchandise for our stores. Such decreases in consumer spending or disruptions in our 
ability to obtain merchandise would likely decrease our sales and materially adversely affect our financial condition and 
results of operations. 

If our goodwill, intangible assets or long-lived assets become impaired, we may be required to record a significant 
charge to earnings. 

We have a significant amount of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets. Our goodwill balance as of 

March 27, 2021 was $197.5 million as a result of recent acquisitions. Our intangible asset balance as of March 27, 2021 
was $60.9 million. We test goodwill and intangible assets for impairment at least annually or more frequently if 
indicators of impairment exist. Long-lived assets are tested for impairment only if indicators of impairment exist, such as 
significant negative industry or general economic trends (including the impact of COVID - 19). Goodwill, intangible 
assets and long-lived assets are considered to be impaired when the net book value of the asset exceeds its estimated fair 

34 

value. An impairment of a significant portion of our goodwill, intangible assets or long-lived assets could materially 
adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations. 

Risks Related To Ownership of Our Common Stock 

The market price and trading volume of our common stock have been and may continue to be volatile, which could 
result in rapid and substantial losses for our stockholders, and you may lose all or part of your investment. 

The market for specialty retail stocks can be highly volatile. Since our IPO in October 2014 through May 10, 
2021, our common stock has traded as high as $75.65 and as low as $5.20. An active, liquid and orderly market for our 
common stock may not be sustained, which could depress the trading price of our common stock or cause it to be highly 
volatile or subject to wide fluctuations. The market price of our common stock has and may continue to fluctuate or may 
decline significantly in the future and you could lose all or part of your investment. Some of the factors that could 
negatively affect our share price or result in fluctuations in the price or trading volume of our common stock include: 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

variations in our quarterly or annual financial results and operating performance and the performance of our 
competitors; 

publication of research reports or recommendations by securities or industry analysts about us, our 
competitors or our industry, or a lack of such securities analyst coverage; 

our failure or our competitors’ failure to meet analysts’ projections or guidance; 

downgrades by any securities analysts who follow our common stock; 

our levels of same store sales; 

sales or anticipated sales of large blocks of our common stock; 

changes to our management team; 

regulatory developments negatively affecting our industry; 

changes in stock market valuations of our competitors; 

the development and sustainability of an active trading market for our common stock; 

the public’s response to press releases or other public announcements by us or third parties, including our 
filings with the SEC; 

the performance and successful integration of any new stores that we open or acquire; 

actions by competitors; 

announcements by us or our competitors of new product offerings or significant acquisitions; 

short selling of our common stock by investors; 

limited “public float” in the hands of a small number of persons whose sales or lack of sales of our 
common stock could result in positive or negative pricing pressure on the market price for our common 
stock; 

35 

• 

• 

fluctuations in the stock markets generally and in the market for shares in the retail sector particularly; and 

changes in general market and economic conditions, including as a result of the widespread impact of the 
COVID - 19 pandemic. 

Further, securities class action litigation has often been initiated against companies following periods of 
volatility in their stock price. This type of litigation, should it materialize, could result in substantial costs and divert our 
management’s attention and resources, and could also require us to make substantial payments to satisfy judgments or to 
settle litigation. The threat or filing of class action litigation could cause the price of our common stock to decline. 

Anti - takeover provisions in our corporate organizational documents and current credit facility and under Delaware 
law may delay, deter or prevent a takeover of us and the replacement or removal of our management, even if such a 
change of control would benefit our stockholders. 

The anti - takeover provisions under Delaware law, as well as the provisions contained in our corporate 

organizational documents, may make an acquisition of us more difficult. For example: 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

our amended and restated certificate of incorporation includes a provision authorizing our board of 
directors to issue blank check preferred stock without stockholder approval, which, if issued, would 
increase the number of outstanding shares of our capital stock and make it more difficult for a stockholder 
to acquire us; 

our amended and restated bylaws provide that director vacancies and newly created directorships can only 
be filled by an affirmative vote of a majority of directors then in office; 

our amended and restated bylaws require advance notice of stockholder proposals and director 
nominations; 

our amended and restated certificate of incorporation provides that our board of directors may adopt, 
amend, add to, modify or repeal our amended and restated bylaws without stockholder approval; 

our amended and restated bylaws do not permit our stockholders to act by written consent without a 
meeting unless that action is taken with regard to a matter that has been approved by our board of directors 
or requires the approval only of certain classes or series of our stock; 

our amended and restated certificate of incorporation contains a requirement that, to the fullest extent 
permitted by law, certain proceedings against or involving us or our directors, officers or employees must 
be brought exclusively in the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware unless we consent in writing to an 
alternative forum; 

our amended and restated bylaws do not permit our stockholders to call special meetings; and 

the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware, or the DGCL, may prevent any stockholder or 
group of stockholders owning at least 15% of our common stock from completing a merger or acquisition 
of us. 

Our debt instruments also contain provisions that could have the effect of making it more difficult or less 
attractive for a third party to acquire control of us. Our current credit facility provides that a change of control constitutes 
an event of default under such credit facility and would permit the lenders to declare the indebtedness incurred 
thereunder to be immediately due and payable. Our future credit facilities may contain similar provisions. The need to 
repay all such indebtedness may deter potential third parties from acquiring us. 

36 

Under these various provisions in our amended and restated certificate of incorporation, amended and restated 
bylaws and current credit facility, a takeover attempt or third - party acquisition of us, including a takeover attempt that 
may result in a premium over the market price for shares of our common stock, could be delayed, deterred or prevented. 
In addition, these provisions may prevent the market price of our common stock from increasing in response to actual or 
rumored takeover attempts and may also prevent changes in our management. As a result, these anti - takeover and 
change of control provisions may limit the price that investors are willing to pay in the future for shares of our common 
stock. 

If securities or industry analysts do not publish research and reports or publish inaccurate or unfavorable research 
and reports about our business, the price and trading volume of our common stock could decline. 

The trading market for our common stock is influenced by the research and reports that securities or industry 
analysts publish about us or our business. If securities or industry analyst coverage of one or more of the analysts who 
covers us downgrades our common stock or publishes inaccurate or unfavorable research about our business, the price of 
our common stock would likely decline. If one or more of these analysts ceases coverage of us or fails to publish reports 
on us regularly, demand for our common stock could decrease, which could cause the price of our common stock and 
trading volume to decline. 

We do not currently intend to pay cash dividends on our common stock, which may make our common stock less 
desirable to investors and decrease its value. 

We intend to retain all of our available funds for use in the operation and expansion of our business and do not 
anticipate paying any cash dividends on our common stock for the foreseeable future. Any future determination to pay 
cash dividends on our common stock will be at the discretion of our board of directors and will depend upon many 
factors, including our financial condition, results of operations and liquidity, legal requirements and restrictions that may 
be imposed by the terms of our current credit facility and in any future financing instruments. Therefore, you may only 
receive a return on your investment in our common stock if the market price increases above the price at which you 
purchased it, which may never occur. 

Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments 

None. 

Item 2. Properties 

Our Store Support Center, e-commerce operations and distribution centers are located in California and Kansas. 

As of March 27, 2021, our Store Support Center is located in Irvine, California, where we currently occupy an 84,580 
square foot building. The existing lease will expire August 31, 2022, and contains an option to renew for five years 
beyond the current lease term.   

During fiscal 2021, we expanded our Fontana, California distribution center by acquiring the remaining 199,226 

square feet of the building, increasing our overall square footage to 398,471. Our existing lease expires May 31, 2026, 
and contains one option to renew, for an additional period of five years. This location holds inventory to support our 
private brand initiatives, bulk purchasing programs, event sales, and new store openings. 

In Wichita, Kansas, we lease a 133,428 square foot distribution center to support our e-commerce business and 

30,000 square feet of office space. This lease expires August 31, 2035 and contains four additional options to renew, 
each for a period of five years. We also lease an additional freestanding building in Wichita, Kansas, totaling 21,275 
square feet. The building is being used as office and distribution center space to support our e-commerce business. The 
lease expires September 30, 2023 and does not contain an option to renew. 

Most of our stores are occupied under operating leases. The store leases generally have a base lease term of five 
or 10 years, with one or more renewal periods of five years, on average, exercisable at our option. Of the store leases that 
will reach their termination date during fiscal 2022, twenty-one of those leases do not contain an option to automatically 

37 

extend the lease term. We are generally responsible for the payment of property taxes and insurance, utilities and 
common area maintenance fees. 

Item 3. Legal Proceedings 

We are involved, from time to time, in litigation that is incidental to our business. We have reviewed these 

matters to determine if reserves are required for losses that are probable and reasonable to estimate in accordance with 
FASB ASC Topic 450, Contingencies. We evaluate such reserves, if any, based upon several criteria, including the 
merits of each claim, settlement discussions and advice from outside legal counsel, as well as indemnification of 
amounts expended by our insurers or others, if any.   

On May 8, 2019, Sheplers, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, was named as defendant in a 

class-action complaint filed in the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles. Among other things, the 
complaint generally alleges deceptive pricing on merchandise sold in Sheplers’ e-commerce site. The estimated cost of 
the matter has been accrued as of March 27, 2021.   

During the normal course of our business, we have made certain indemnifications and commitments under 
which we may be required to make payments for certain transactions. These indemnifications include those given to 
various lessors in connection with facility leases for certain claims arising from such facility leases, and indemnifications 
to our directors and officers to the maximum extent permitted under the laws of the State of Delaware. The majority of 
these indemnifications and commitments do not provide for any limitation of the maximum potential future payments we 
could be obligated to make, and their duration may be indefinite. We have not recorded any liability for these 
indemnifications and commitments in the consolidated balance sheets as the impact is expected to be immaterial. 

Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures 

Not applicable. 

38 

 
 
PART II 

Item 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity 

Securities 

Our common stock has been listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “BOOT” since 

October 30, 2014, the day after our initial public offering. As of May 10, 2021, we had 2 stockholders of record. The 
number of stockholders of record is based upon the actual number of stockholders registered at such date and does not 
include holders of shares in “street names” or persons, partnerships, associations, corporations or other entities identified 
in security position listings maintained by depositories. 

Dividends 

Since our common stock began trading, we have not declared any cash dividends, and we do not anticipate 

declaring any cash dividends in the foreseeable future. The agreements governing our indebtedness contain restrictions 
on dividends.   

Securities Authorized for Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans 

The information required by this Item is incorporated herein by reference to the Company’s Proxy Statement for 

the 2021 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, which will be filed with the SEC no later than 120 days after the close of the 
fiscal year ended March 27, 2021 (the “2021 Proxy Statement”). 

Stock Performance Graph 

The graph set forth below compares the cumulative stockholder return on our common stock between 
March 26, 2016 and March 27, 2021 to the cumulative return of (i) the NYSE Composite Total Return index and (ii) an 
index of peer and comparable companies as determined by the Company (“Peer Group”). The companies currently 
comprising the Peer Group are: The Buckle, Inc.; Caleres, Inc.; DBI, Inc. (formerly DSW, Inc.); Foot Locker, Inc.; 
Genesco, Inc.; Tractor Supply Co.; Wolverine World Wide, Inc.; and Zumiez, Inc. Cabela’s Inc. and Finish Line, Inc. 
which had previously been part of the Peer Group, were acquired in 2017 and 2018, respectively, and are no longer 
public companies. As a result, Cabela’s Inc. and Finish Line, Inc. have been removed from the Peer Group Index and 
Stock Performance Graph beginning in the fiscal 2019 and fiscal 2020 periods presented, respectively. This graph 
assumes an initial investment of $100 on October 30, 2014 in our common stock, the NYSE Composite Total Return 
index and the Peer Group, and assumes the reinvestment of dividends, if any. The graph also assumes that the initial 
price of our common stock, the NYSE composite Total Return index and the Peer Group on October 30, 2014 were the 
closing prices on that trading day. 

39 

Comparison of Cumulative Total Return 
Assumes Initial Investment of $100 
March 2016 - March 2021 

      March 26, 

Boot Barn Holdings, Inc. 
NYSE Composite—Total Return    
Peer Group 

2016 
  53.52  
  97.53  
  109.27  

April 1, 
2017 
  56.68  
  114.09  
  109.84  

  March 31, 

  March 30, 

  March 28,    March 27, 

2018 
  101.60  
  126.75  
  100.19  

2019 
  168.71  
  132.51  
  135.57  

2020 
  76.62  
  109.07  
  95.40  

2021 
  362.75 
  171.84 
  225.54 

Item 6. Selected Consolidated Financial Data 

The following tables present our selected consolidated financial and other data as of and for the periods 

indicated. We have derived the selected consolidated statement of operations data for the fiscal years ended March 27, 
2021, March 28, 2020, and March 30, 2019, and the selected consolidated balance sheet data as of March 27, 2021, and 
March 28, 2020 from the audited consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of this report. The selected 
consolidated balance sheet data as of March 30, 2019, March, 31, 2018 and April 1, 2017, and the selected consolidated 
statement of operations data for the fiscal years ended March 31, 2018 and April 1, 2017, are derived from audited 
consolidated financial statements that are not included elsewhere in this report. The historical results presented below are 
not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for any future period. 

40 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
You should read the following selected consolidated financial and other data in conjunction with the 
consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes and the information under “Management’s Discussion and 
Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” appearing elsewhere in this report. 

Fiscal Year Ended(1) 

(in thousands, except per share and 
selected store data) 
Consolidated Statement of Operations Data: 
Net sales 
Cost of goods sold 
Gross profit 
Selling, general and administrative expenses 
Income from operations 
Interest expense 
Other income/(loss), net 
Income before income taxes 
Income tax expense   
Net income   
Net income per share: 

Basic shares 
Diluted shares 

Weighted average shares outstanding: 

Basic shares 
Diluted shares 

Other Financial Data (unaudited): 
EBITDA(2) 
Adjusted EBITDA(2) 
Adjusted EBIT(2) 
Capital expenditures 
Selected Store Data (unaudited): 
Same Store Sales growth 
Stores operating at end of period 
Total retail store square footage, end of 
period (in thousands) 
Average store square footage, end of period 
Average net sales per store (in thousands)(3) 

(in thousands) 
Consolidated Balance Sheet Data: 
Cash and cash equivalents 
Working capital(4) 
Total assets 
Total debt, net 
Stockholders’ equity 

 March 27,    March 28,    March 30,   
2020 

2021 

2019 

 March 31,  
2018 

  April 1,   
  2017 

  $  893,491  
   598,612  
   294,879  
   208,553  
    86,326  
  9,442  
  366  
    77,250  
    17,864  
  $   59,386  

$  845,575  
   569,084  
   276,491  
   202,823  
    73,668  
    13,310  
  (45) 
    60,313  
    12,364  
$   47,949  

$  776,854  
   525,420  
   251,434  
   187,112  
    64,322  
    16,331  
  5  
    47,996  
  8,974  
$   39,022  

$   677,949  
    470,034  
    207,915  
    161,660  
  46,255  
  15,076  
 —  
  31,179  
  2,300  
$   28,879  

$  629,816  
   439,930  
   189,886  
   152,068  
    37,818  
    14,699  
 —  
    23,119  
  8,922  
$   14,197  

  $
  $

  2.05  
  2.01  

$
$

  1.68  
  1.64  

$
$

  1.39  
  1.35  

$
$

  1.08  
  1.05  

$
$

  0.54  
  0.53  

    28,930  
    29,477  

    28,583  
    29,220  

    28,092  
    28,813  

  26,744  
  27,528  

    26,459  
    26,939  

  $  110,840  
  $  119,276  
  $   95,128  
  $   28,424  

$   95,006  
$  100,550  
$   79,167  
$   37,195  

$   83,229  
$   87,323  
$   68,421  
$   27,525  

$   63,383  
$   66,030  
$   48,902  
$   24,418  

$   54,528  
$   59,167  
$   42,457  
$   22,293  

  3.1 %    
  273  

  5.0 %    
  259  

  10.0 %    
  240  

  5.2 %    
  226  

  0.3 %  
  219  

  2,854  
    10,455  
  2,602  

  $

  2,722  
    10,508  
  2,684  
$

  2,539  
    10,580  
  2,646  
$

  2,377  
  10,517  
  2,438  

  2,297  
    10,486  
  2,330  
$

$

     March 27,      March 28,      March 30,    March 31,    April 1, 

2021 

2020 

2019 

2018 

2017 

  $    73,148   $    69,563   $    16,614   $ 
   132,363  
   924,711  
   238,922  
   321,693  

  79,652  
   933,581  
   109,781  
   394,891  

   108,786  
   636,075  
   174,264  
   264,164  

  102,119  
  587,941  
  204,206  
  214,606  

  9,016   $ 

  8,035 
  102,803 
  565,581 
  225,853 
  179,909 

(1)  We operate on a fiscal calendar that results in a 52- or 53 - week fiscal year ending on the last Saturday of March unless 

April 1st is a Saturday, in which case the fiscal year ends on April 1st. In a 52 - week fiscal year, each quarter 

41 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
     
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
     
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
     
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
     
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
     
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
includes thirteen weeks of operations; in a 53  - week fiscal year, the first, second and third quarters each include 
thirteen weeks of operations and the fourth quarter includes fourteen weeks of operations. The data presented 
contains references to fiscal 2021, fiscal 2020, fiscal 2019, fiscal 2018, and fiscal 2017, which represent our fiscal 
years ended March 27, 2021, March 28, 2020, March 30, 2019, March 31, 2018 and April 1, 2017, respectively. 
Fiscal 2021, 2020, 2019 and 2018, were each 52 - week periods, and fiscal 2017 was a 53 - week period.   

(2)  EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBIT are financial measures that are not calculated in accordance with 
GAAP. We define EBITDA as net income adjusted to exclude income tax expense, net interest expense and 
depreciation and intangible asset amortization. We define Adjusted EBITDA as EBITDA adjusted to exclude certain 
non-cash expenses, such as stock  - based compensation and the non - cash accrual for future award redemptions, and 
other costs and expenses that are not directly related to our operations, including loss on disposal of assets and 
contract termination costs, store impairment charges, gain/(loss) on adjustment of right-of-use assets and lease 
liabilities and secondary offering costs. Similar to Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted EBIT excludes the aforementioned 
adjustments while maintaining the impact of depreciation and amortization on our financial results. We include 
EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBIT in this report because they are important financial measures used 
by our management, board of directors and lenders to assess our operating performance. See “Item 7—
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—How We Assess the 
Performance of Our Business—EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBIT” for more information about 
management’s use of these measures and why we consider them to be important. EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and 
Adjusted EBIT should not be considered in isolation or as alternatives to net income or any other measure of 
financial performance calculated and presented in accordance with GAAP. Given that EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA 
and Adjusted EBIT are measures not deemed to be in accordance with GAAP and are susceptible to varying 
calculations, our EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBIT may not be comparable to similarly titled 
measures of other companies, including companies in our industry, because other companies may calculate 
EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBIT in a different manner than we calculate these measures. The 
following table presents a reconciliation of EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBIT to our net income, the 
most directly comparable financial measure calculated and presented in accordance with GAAP, for each of the 
periods indicated: 

42 

 
 
(in thousands) 
EBITDA Reconciliation (Unaudited): 
Net income 

Income tax expense 
Interest expense 
Depreciation and intangible asset amortization 

EBITDA 

Non-cash stock-based compensation(a) 
Non-cash accrual for future award redemptions(b) 
Loss on disposal of assets and contract termination 
costs(c) 
Gain/(loss) on adjustment of right-of-use assets and 
lease liabilities(d) 
Store impairment charge(e) 
Secondary offering costs(f) 

Adjusted EBITDA 

Depreciation and intangible asset amortization 

Adjusted EBIT 

Fiscal Year Ended(1) 
March 27,  March 28,  March 30,    March 31,    April 1,    
2019 

2021 

2020 

2017 

2018 

$   59,386   $    47,949   $    39,022   $    28,879  $   14,197 
     17,864  
  8,922 
    14,699 
  9,442  
    16,710 
     24,148  
    54,528 
    110,840  
  3,023 
  7,158  
  85 
  512  

     12,364  
     13,310  
     21,383  
     95,006  
  4,908  
  214  

  8,974  
    16,331  
    18,902  
    83,229  
  2,873  
  567  

  2,300 
     15,076 
     17,128 
     63,383 
  2,248 
  (230)

  87  

  417  

  23  

  252 

  367 

  295  
  384  
 —  

  (186) 
  191  
 —  

 — 
  1,164 
 — 
$  119,276   $   100,550   $    87,323   $    66,030  $   59,167 
     (24,148) 
   (16,710) 
   (18,902) 
$   95,128   $    79,167   $    68,421   $    48,902  $   42,457  

 —  
  455  
  176     

 — 
  83 
  294 

    (21,383) 

    (17,128)

(a)  Represents non - cash compensation expenses related to stock options, restricted stock awards, restricted stock units 

and performance share units granted to certain of our employees and directors. 

(b)  Represents the non - cash accrual for future award redemptions in connection with our customer loyalty program. 

(c)  Represents loss on disposal of assets and contract termination costs from store closures and unused office and 

warehouse space. 

(d)  Represents gain/(loss) on adjustment of right-of-use assets and lease liabilities. 

(e)  Represents store impairment charges recorded in order to reduce the carrying amount of the assets to their estimated 

fair values. 

(f)  Represents professional fees and expenses incurred in connection with secondary offerings conducted in 

January 2018 and May 2018. 

(3)  Average net sales per store is calculated by dividing net sales for the applicable period by the number of stores 

operating at the end of the period. For the purpose of calculating net sales per store, e - commerce sales and certain 
other revenues are excluded from net sales. 

(4)  Working capital is calculated as current assets, excluding cash and cash equivalents, minus current liabilities, 

excluding the current portion of debt under our credit facilities.   

Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations 

You should read the following discussion in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and the 
accompanying notes included elsewhere in this annual report, as well as the information presented under “Selected 
Consolidated Financial Data”. The statements in the following discussion and analysis regarding expectations about 
our future performance, liquidity and capital resources and any other non - historical statements in this discussion and 
analysis are forward - looking statements. These forward - looking statements are subject to numerous risks and 
uncertainties, including, but not limited to, those described under “Risk Factors” and “Forward - Looking Statements” 

43 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
     
     
   
 
     
 
 
  
 
  
  
  
 
  
 
  
  
 
  
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
elsewhere in this annual report. Our actual results could differ materially from those contained in or implied by any 
forward - looking statements. 

Overview 

We are the largest lifestyle retail chain devoted to western and work - related footwear, apparel and accessories 

in the U.S. As of March 27, 2021, we operated 273 stores in 36 states, as well as an e-commerce channel, consisting 
primarily of bootbarn.com, sheplers.com and countryoutfitter.com. Our stores feature a comprehensive assortment of 
brands and styles, coupled with attentive, knowledgeable store associates. Our product offering is anchored by an 
extensive selection of western and work boots and is complemented by a wide assortment of coordinating apparel and 
accessories. Many of the items that we offer are basics or necessities for our customers’ daily lives and typically 
represent enduring styles that are not meaningfully impacted by changing fashion trends. 

We strive to offer an authentic, one - stop shopping experience that fulfills the everyday lifestyle needs of our 
customers, and as a result, many of our customers make purchases in both the western and work wear sections of our 
stores. We target a broad and growing demographic, ranging from passionate western and country enthusiasts, to 
workers seeking dependable, high - quality footwear and clothing. Our broad geographic footprint, which comprises more 
than three times as many stores as our nearest direct competitor that sells primarily western and work wear, provides us 
with significant economies of scale, enhanced supplier relationships, the ability to recruit and retain high quality store 
associates and the ability to reinvest in our business at levels that we believe exceed those of our competition. 

For a discussion of factors that affect the comparability of our results of operations, see “Item 1—Business—

Acquisitions.” 

Growth Strategies and Outlook 

Over the long-term we plan to continue to expand our business, increase our sales growth and profitability and 

enhance our competitive position by executing the following strategies: 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

continuing omni-channel leadership; 

driving same store sales growth; 

building our private brand portfolio; 

expanding our store base; 

enhancing brand awareness; and 

increasing profitability. 

Since the founding of Boot Barn in 1978, we have grown both organically and through successful strategic 
acquisitions of competing chains. We have rebranded and remerchandised the acquired chains under the Boot Barn 
banner, resulting in sales increases over their original concepts. We believe that our business model and scale provide us 
with competitive advantages that have contributed to our consistent financial performance, generating sufficient cash 
flow to support national growth. 

The major global health pandemic caused by COVID - 19 and resulting economic impacts have had and will 

continue to have an impact on our operations, future growth strategies and outlook. Our business and opportunities for 
growth depend on consumer discretionary spending, and as such, our results are particularly sensitive to economic 
conditions and consumer confidence. The extent to which COVID - 19 impacts our operations will depend on future 
developments, which remain uncertain. For further discussion of the uncertainties and business risks associated with 
COVID - 19, see Item 1A, Risk Factors.     

44 

How We Assess the Performance of Our Business 

In assessing the performance of our business, we consider a variety of performance and financial measures. The 

key indicators we use to evaluate the financial condition and operating performance of our business are net sales and 
gross profit. In addition, we also review other important metrics, such as same store sales, new store openings, selling, 
general and administrative (“SG&A”) expenses, EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBIT. See “Item 6, Selected 
Consolidated Financial Data” for our definition of EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBIT, and for a 
reconciliation of our EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBIT to net income, the most directly comparable 
financial measure calculated and presented in accordance with GAAP. See “EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted 
EBIT” below for further discussion of why we present EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBIT.   

Net sales 

Net sales reflect revenue from the sale of our merchandise at retail locations, as well as sales of merchandise 

through our e - commerce websites. We recognize revenue upon the purchase of merchandise by customers at our stores 
and upon delivery of the product in the case of our e - commerce websites. Net sales also include shipping and handling 
fees for e - commerce shipments that have been delivered to our customers. Net sales are net of returns on sales during the 
period as well as an estimate of returns and award redemptions expected in the future stemming from current period 
sales. Revenue from the sale of gift cards is deferred until the gift cards are used to purchase merchandise. 

Our business is moderately seasonal and as a result our revenues fluctuate from quarter to quarter. In addition, 
our revenues in any given quarter can be affected by a number of factors including the timing of holidays and weather 
patterns. The third quarter of our fiscal year, which includes the Christmas shopping season, has historically produced 
higher sales and disproportionately higher operating results than the other quarters of our fiscal year. In fiscal 2021, 
fiscal 2020 and fiscal 2019 we generated approximately 34%, 34% and 33% of our net sales during our third fiscal 
quarter, respectively. In addition, neither the western nor the work component of our business has been meaningfully 
impacted by fashion trends or seasonality historically. We believe that many of our customers are driven primarily by 
utility and brand, and our best - selling styles. 

Same store sales 

The term “same store sales” generally refers to net sales from stores that have been open at least 13 full fiscal 

months as of the end of the current reporting period, although we include or exclude stores from our calculation of same 
store sales in accordance with the following additional criteria: 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

stores that are closed for five or fewer consecutive days in any fiscal month are included in same store 
sales; 

stores that are closed temporarily, but for more than five consecutive days in any fiscal month, are excluded 
from same store sales beginning in the fiscal month in which the temporary closure begins (and for the 
comparable periods of the prior or subsequent fiscal periods for comparative purposes); until the first full 
month of operation once the store re - opens;   

stores that are closed temporarily and relocated within their respective trade areas are included in same 
store sales; 

stores that are permanently closed are excluded from same store sales beginning in the month preceding 
closure (and for the comparable periods of the prior or subsequent fiscal periods for comparative purposes); 
and 

acquired stores are added to same store sales beginning on the later of (a) the applicable acquisition date 
and (b) the first day of the first fiscal month after the store has been open for at least 13 full fiscal months 
regardless of whether the store has been operated under our management or predecessor management. 

45 

If the criteria described with respect to acquired stores above are met, then all net sales of an acquired store, 

excluding those net sales before our acquisition of that store, are included for the period presented. However, when an 
acquired store is included for the period presented, the net sales of such acquired store for periods before its acquisition 
are included (to the extent relevant) for purposes of calculating “same stores sales growth” and illustrating the 
comparison between the applicable periods. Pre - acquisition net sales numbers are derived from the books and records of 
the acquired company, as prepared prior to the acquisition, and have not been independently verified by us. Beginning on 
their respective dates of acquisition, sales from the acquired Wood’s Boots stores, Lone Star stores, Drysdales stores and 
G.&L. Clothing store have been included in same store sales. 

In addition to retail store sales, same store sales also includes e - commerce sales, e - commerce shipping and 

handling revenue and actual retail store or e - commerce sales returns. We exclude gift card escheatment, provision for 
sales returns and future loyalty award redemptions from sales in our calculation of net sales per store. Sales as a result of 
an e-commerce asset acquisition, such as Country Outfitter, are excluded from same store sales until the 13th full fiscal 
month subsequent to the Company’s acquisition of such assets.   

Measuring the change in year - over - year same store sales allows us to evaluate how our store base is 

performing. Numerous factors affect our same store sales, including: 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

national and regional economic trends; 

our ability to identify and respond effectively to regional consumer preferences; 

changes in our product mix; 

changes in pricing; 

competition; 

changes in the timing of promotional and advertising efforts; 

holidays or seasonal periods; and 

•  weather. 

Opening new stores is an important part of our growth strategy. We opened or acquired 15, 20, and 17 stores in 
fiscal 2021, 2020, and 2019. Included in these added stores are 15, 19, and 12 new stores in fiscal 2021, 2020, and 2019, 
and 0, 1, and 5 acquired stores in fiscal 2021, 2020, and 2019, respectively. We also closed one store, one store, and 
three stores in fiscal 2021, 2020, and 2019, respectively. We anticipate that a percentage of our net sales in the near 
future will come from stores not included in our same store sales calculation. Accordingly, same store sales are only one 
measure we use to assess the success of our business and growth strategy. Some of our competitors and other retailers 
may calculate “same” or “comparable” store sales differently than we do. As a result, data in this annual report regarding 
our same store sales may not be comparable to similar data made available by other retailers. 

New store openings 

New store openings reflect the number of stores, excluding acquired stores, that are opened during a particular 
reporting period. In connection with opening new stores, we incur pre - opening costs. Pre - opening costs consist of costs 
incurred prior to opening a new store and primarily consist of manager and other employee payroll, travel and training 
costs, marketing expenses, initial opening supplies and costs of transporting initial inventory and certain fixtures to store 
locations, as well as occupancy costs incurred from the time that we take possession of a store site to the opening of that 
store. Occupancy costs are included in cost of goods sold and the other pre - opening costs are included in SG&A 
expenses. All of these costs are expensed as incurred. 

46 

New stores often open with a period of high sales levels, which subsequently decrease to normalized sales 

volumes. In addition, we experience typical inefficiencies in the form of higher labor, advertising and other direct 
operating expenses, and as a result, store - level profit margins at our new stores are generally lower during the start - up 
period of operation. The number and timing of store openings have had, and are expected to continue to have, a 
significant impact on our results of operations. In assessing the performance of a new store, we review its actual sales 
against the sales that we projected that store to achieve at the time we initially approved its opening. We also review the 
actual number of stores opened in a fiscal year against the number of store openings that we included in our budget at the 
beginning of that fiscal year. 

Gross profit 

Gross profit is equal to our net sales less our cost of goods sold. Cost of goods sold includes the cost of 
merchandise, obsolescence and shrinkage provisions, store and warehouse occupancy costs (including rent, depreciation 
and utilities), inbound and outbound freight, supplier allowances, occupancy - related taxes, compensation costs for 
merchandise purchasing and warehouse personnel, and other inventory acquisition - related costs. These costs are 
significant and can be expected to continue to increase as we grow. The components of our reported cost of goods sold 
may not be comparable to those of other retail companies, including our competitors. 

Our gross profit generally follows changes in net sales. We regularly analyze the components of gross profit, as 

well as gross profit as a percentage of net sales. Specifically, we examine the initial markup on purchases, markdowns 
and reserves, shrinkage, buying costs, distribution costs and occupancy costs. Any inability to obtain acceptable levels of 
initial markups, or a significant increase in our use of markdowns or in inventory shrinkage, or a significant increase in 
freight and other inventory acquisition costs could have an adverse impact on our gross profit and results of operations. 

Gross profit is also impacted by shifts in the proportion of sales of our private brand products compared to 

third - party brand products, as well as by sales mix shifts within and between brands and between major product 
categories such as footwear, apparel or accessories. 

Selling, general and administrative expenses 

Our selling, general and administrative (“SG&A”) expenses are composed of labor and related expenses, other 
operating expenses, and general and administrative expenses not included in cost of goods sold. Specifically, our SG&A 
expenses include the following: 

•  Labor and related expenses—Labor and related expenses include all store - level salaries and hourly labor 
costs, including salaries, wages, benefits and performance incentives, labor taxes and other indirect labor 
costs. 

•  Other operating expenses—Other operating expenses include all operating costs, including those for 

advertising, pay-per-click, marketing campaigns, operating supplies, utilities, and repairs and maintenance, 
as well as credit card fees and costs of third - party services. 

•  General and administrative expenses—General and administrative expenses comprise expenses associated 
with corporate and administrative functions that support the development and operations of our stores, 
including compensation and benefits, travel expenses, corporate occupancy costs, stock compensation 
costs, legal and professional fees, insurance and other related corporate costs. 

The components of our SG&A expenses may not be comparable to those of our competitors and other retailers. 

We expect our selling, general and administrative expenses will increase in future periods as a result of incremental 
share - based compensation, legal, accounting and other compliance - related expenses and increases resulting from growth 
in the number of our stores. 

47 

EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBIT 

EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBIT are important financial measures used by our management, 
board of directors and lenders to assess our operating performance. We use EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted 
EBIT as key performance measures because we believe that they facilitate operating performance comparisons from 
period to period by excluding potential differences primarily caused by the impact of variations from period to period in 
tax positions, interest expense and depreciation and amortization, as well as, in the case of Adjusted EBITDA, excluding 
certain non - cash expenses, such as stock - based compensation and the non - cash accrual for future award redemptions, 
and other costs and expenses that are not directly related to our operations, including loss on disposal of assets and 
contract termination costs, store impairment charges, gain/(loss) on adjustment of right-of-use assets and lease liabilities, 
and secondary offering costs. Similar to Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted EBIT excludes the aforementioned adjustments 
while maintaining the impact of depreciation and amortization on our financial results. See “Item 6, Selected 
Consolidated Financial Data” for a reconciliation of our EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBIT to net income, 
the most directly comparable financial measure calculated and presented in accordance with GAAP. Because EBITDA, 
Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBIT facilitate internal comparisons of our historical operating performance on a more 
consistent basis, we also use EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBIT for business planning purposes, in 
calculating covenant compliance for our credit facilities, in determining incentive compensation for members of our 
management and in evaluating acquisition opportunities. In addition, we believe that EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and 
Adjusted EBIT and similar measures are widely used by investors, securities analysts, ratings agencies and other parties 
in evaluating companies in our industry as a measure of financial performance and debt - service capabilities. Given that 
EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBIT are measures not deemed to be in accordance with GAAP and are 
susceptible to varying calculations, our EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBIT may not be comparable to 
similarly titled measures of other companies, including companies in our industry, because other companies may 
calculate EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBIT in a different manner than we calculate these measures. 

Fiscal Year 

We operate on a fiscal calendar which results in a 52- or 53  - week fiscal year ending on the last Saturday of 

March unless April 1st is a Saturday, in which case the fiscal year ends on April 1st. In a 52 - week fiscal year, each 
quarter includes thirteen weeks of operations; in a 53 - week fiscal year, the first, second and third quarters each include 
thirteen weeks of operations and the fourth quarter includes fourteen weeks of operations. For ease of reference, we 
identify our fiscal years by reference to the calendar year in which the fiscal year ends. 

Results of Operations 

The following table summarizes key components of our results of operations for the periods indicated, both in 

dollars and as a percentage of our net sales. The following discussion contains references to fiscal 2021, fiscal 2020, and 

48 

fiscal 2019, which represent our fiscal years ended March 27, 2021, March 28, 2020 and March 30, 2019. Fiscal 2021, 
2020 and 2019 were all 52 - week periods.   

(dollars in thousands) 
Consolidated Statements of Operations Data: 
Net sales 
Cost of goods sold 
Gross profit 
Selling, general and administrative expenses 
Income from operations 
Interest expense 
Other income/(loss), net 
Income before income taxes 
Income tax expense 
Net income 

Percentage of Net Sales(1): 
Net sales 
Cost of goods sold 
Gross profit 
Selling, general and administrative expenses 
Income from operations 
Interest expense 
Other income/(loss), net 
Income before income taxes 
Income tax expense 
Net income 

(1)  Percentages may not total 100% due to rounding. 

Fiscal 2021 compared to Fiscal 2020 

Fiscal Year Ended 

March 27, 
2021 

      March 28, 

      March 30, 

2020 

2019 

  $    893,491  
   598,612  
   294,879  
   208,553  
  86,326  
  9,442  
  366  
  77,250  
  17,864  
  59,386  

  $ 

$    845,575  
   569,084  
   276,491  
   202,823  
    73,668  
    13,310  
  (45)  
    60,313  
    12,364  
  47,949  

$ 

$    776,854  
   525,420  
   251,434  
   187,112  
  64,322  
  16,331  
  5  
  47,996  
  8,974  
  39,022  

$ 

  100.0 %   
  67.0 %   
  33.0 %   
  23.3 %   
  9.7 %   
  1.1 %   
 — %   
  8.6 %   
  2.0 %   
  6.6 %   

  100.0 %   
  67.3 %   
  32.7 %   
  24.0 %   
  8.7 %   
  1.6 %   
 — %   
  7.1 %   
  1.5 %   
  5.7 %   

  100.0 %   
  67.6 %   
  32.4 %   
  24.1 %   
  8.3 %   
  2.1 %   
 — %   
  6.2 %   
  1.2 %   
  5.0 %   

Net sales. Net sales in fiscal 2021 increased by $47.9 million, or 5.7%, to $893.5 million compared to 
$845.6 million in fiscal 2020. Consolidated same store sales increased 3.1%. Excluding the impact of the 23.6% increase 
in e-commerce same store sales, same store sales decreased by 1.1%. The decrease in retail store sales was primarily due 
to decreased traffic in our stores in the first half of our fiscal year that resulted from customers staying at home in 
response to the COVID - 19 crisis and temporary store closures. Net sales increased primarily due to incremental sales 
from new stores opened over the past twelve months and the increase in same store sales during fiscal 2021. 

Gross profit. Gross profit increased by $18.4 million, or 6.7%, to $294.9 million in fiscal 2021 from 
$276.5 million in fiscal 2020. As a percentage of net sales, gross profit was 33.0% and 32.7% for fiscal 2021 and fiscal 
2020, respectively. Gross profit increased primarily due to higher sales and an increase in merchandise margin rate. As a 
percentage of net sales, consolidated gross profit increased primarily as a result of a 90 basis point increase in 
merchandise margin rate, partially offset by 60 basis points of deleverage in buying and occupancy costs. The higher 
merchandise margin was driven primarily by better full-price selling, lower shrink and increased exclusive brand 
penetration.   

Selling, general and administrative expenses. SG&A expenses increased by $5.7 million, or 2.8%, to $208.6 

million in fiscal 2021 from $202.8 million in fiscal 2020. As a percentage of net sales, SG&A expenses were 23.3% for 
fiscal 2021 compared to 24.0% for fiscal 2020. SG&A expenses increased primarily as a result of higher store labor and 
increased incentive-based compensation, partially offset by reduced marketing spend. SG&A expenses as a percentage of 
net sales decreased by 70 basis points primarily as a result of expense leverage on higher sales. 

49 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
  
     
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Income from operations. Income from operations increased by $12.7 million, or 17.2%, to $86.3 million for 

fiscal 2021 from $73.7 million for fiscal 2020. As a percentage of net sales, income from operations was 9.7% and 8.7% 
for fiscal 2021 and fiscal 2020, respectively. The change in income from operations was attributable to the factors noted 
above. 

Interest expense. Interest expense decreased by $3.9 million, or 29.1%, to $9.4 million in fiscal 2021 from 
$13.3 million in fiscal 2020. The decrease in interest expense was primarily the result of lower average interest rates 
associated with the debt as compared to fiscal 2020 and a lower average debt balance during the current year. 

Income tax expense. Income tax expense was $17.9 million in fiscal 2021 compared to $12.4 million in fiscal 

2020. Our effective tax rate was 23.1% and 20.5% for fiscal 2021 and fiscal 2020, respectively. The effective tax rate for 
fiscal 2021 is higher than fiscal 2020 primarily due to an increase in the disallowed executive compensation deduction, 
the reversal in fiscal 2020 of a prior-year valuation allowance, and a higher state tax rate in fiscal 2021 compared to 
fiscal 2020.   

Net income. Net income increased by $11.4 million, or 23.9%, to $59.4 million in fiscal 2021 from net income 

of $47.9 million in fiscal 2020. The change in net income was attributable to the factors noted above. 

Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBIT. Adjusted EBITDA increased by $18.7 million, or 18.6%, to $119.3 
million for fiscal 2021 from $100.6 million for fiscal 2020. Adjusted EBIT increased by $16.0 million, or 20.2%, to 
$95.1 million for fiscal 2021 from $79.2 million for fiscal 2020. The increase in Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBIT 
was primarily a result of the year-over-year increase in income from operations driven by an increase in gross profit. 

We have omitted discussion of our fiscal 2020 results where it would be redundant of information previously 

disclosed. For a comparison of our fiscal 2020 versus fiscal 2019 results, please see the discussion previously included in 
Part II, Item 7 of our fiscal 2020 Annual Report on Form 10 - K filed with the SEC on May 22, 2020.   

Liquidity and Capital Resources 

We rely on cash flows from operating activities and our credit facility as our primary sources of liquidity. Our 

primary cash needs are for inventories, operating expenses, occupancy expenses, capital expenditures associated with 
opening new stores and remodeling or refurbishing existing stores, improvements to our distribution facilities, marketing 
and information technology expenditures, debt service and taxes. We have also used cash for acquisitions, the 
subsequent rebranding and integration of the stores acquired in those acquisitions and costs to consolidate the corporate 
offices. In addition to cash and cash equivalents, the most significant components of our working capital are accounts 
receivable, inventories, accounts payable and accrued expenses and other current liabilities. We believe that cash flows 
from operating activities and the availability of cash under our credit facilities or other financing arrangements will be 
sufficient to cover working capital requirements, anticipated capital expenditures and other anticipated cash needs for at 
least the next 12 months. 

Our liquidity is moderately seasonal. Our cash requirements generally increase in our third fiscal quarter as we 
incur additional marketing expenses and increase our inventory in advance of the Christmas shopping season. Our cash 
flows from operations increased in fiscal 2021, primarily as a result of a $58.6 million decrease in cash paid for 
inventories year-over-year and a $44.9 million increase in cash provided by accounts payable and accrued expenses and 
other current liabilities in fiscal 2021 compared to fiscal 2020, due to the timing of payments.   

As of the end of fiscal 2021, we did not have any material capital expenditure commitments. As of March 27, 

2021, we had a total of $111.5 million of debt outstanding, including a zero balance drawn on our $165.0 million 
revolving credit facility. We had $165.0 million of remaining availability under our revolving credit facility and $73.1 
million of cash on hand as of March 27, 2021. Our primary ongoing sources of liquidity include funds provided by 
operations and borrowings under our revolving credit facility. We expect our cash from operations will continue to be 
sufficient to support our operations and anticipated capital expenditures for the foreseeable future. We estimate that our 
capital expenditures in fiscal 2022 will be between $33.0 million to $36.0 million, net of landlord tenant allowances, and 
we anticipate that we will use cash flows from operations to fund these expenditures. 

50 

Current Credit Facility 

June 2015 Wells Fargo Revolver and Golub Term Loan   

On June 29, 2015, we, as guarantor, and our wholly-owned primary operating subsidiary, Boot Barn, Inc., 

refinanced a previous Wells Fargo credit facility with the $125 million syndicated senior secured asset-based revolving 
credit facility for which Wells Fargo Bank, National Association (“June 2015 Wells Fargo Revolver”), is agent, and the 
$200 million syndicated senior secured term loan for which GCI Capital Markets LLC (“2015 Golub Term Loan”) is 
agent. The borrowing base of the June 2015 Wells Fargo Revolver is calculated on a monthly basis and is based on the 
amount of eligible credit card receivables, commercial accounts, inventory, and available reserves. Borrowings under the 
credit agreements were initially used to pay costs and expenses related to the Sheplers Acquisition and the closing of 
such credit agreements, and may be used for working capital and other general corporate purposes.   

Borrowings under the June 2015 Wells Fargo Revolver bear interest at per annum rates equal to, at our option, 
either (i) LIBOR plus an applicable margin for LIBOR loans, or (ii) the base rate plus an applicable margin for base rate 
loans. The base rate is calculated as the highest of (a) the federal funds rate plus 0.5%, (b) the Wells Fargo prime rate and 
(c) one-month LIBOR plus 1.0%. The applicable margin is calculated based on a pricing grid that in each case is linked 
to quarterly average excess availability. For LIBOR loans, the applicable margin ranges from 1.00% to 1.25%, and for 
base rate loans it ranges from 0.00% to 0.25%. We also pay a commitment fee of 0.25% per annum of the actual daily 
amount of the unutilized revolving loans. The interest on the June 2015 Wells Fargo Revolver is payable in quarterly 
installments ending on the maturity date. On May 26, 2017, the Company entered into an amendment to the June 2015 
Wells Fargo Revolver (the “2017 Wells Amendment”), increasing the aggregate revolving credit facility to $135.0 
million and extending the maturity date to the earlier of May 26, 2022 or 90 days prior to the maturity of the 2015 Golub 
Term Loan, which was then scheduled to mature on June 29, 2021. On June 6, 2019, the Company entered into 
Amendment No. 3 to the Credit Agreement (the “2019 Wells Amendment”), further increasing the aggregate revolving 
credit facility to $165.0 million and extending the maturity date to the earlier of June 6, 2024 or 90 days prior to the 
maturity of the 2015 Golub Term Loan, which is currently scheduled to mature on June 29, 2023. The 2019 Wells 
Amendment further made changes to the 2015 Wells Fargo Revolver in connection with the transition away from 
LIBOR as the benchmark rate. The amount outstanding under the June 2015 Wells Fargo Revolver as of March 27, 2021 
and March 28, 2020 was zero and $129.9 million, respectively. Total interest expense incurred in the fiscal year ended 
March 27, 2021 on the June 2015 Wells Fargo Revolver was $1.5 million and the weighted average interest rate for the 
fiscal year ended March 27, 2021 was 1.6%. Total interest expense incurred in the fiscal year ended March 28, 2020 on 
the June 2015 Wells Fargo Revolver was $3.1 million, and the weighted average interest rate for the fiscal year ended 
March 28, 2020 was 3.3%. Total interest expense incurred in the fiscal year ended March 30, 2019 on the June 2015 
Wells Fargo Revolver was $1.8 million, and the weighted average interest rate for the fiscal year ended March 30, 2019 
was 3.4%. 

Borrowings under the 2015 Golub Term Loan bear interest at per annum rates equal to, at our option, either 

(a) LIBOR plus an applicable margin for LIBOR loans with a LIBOR floor of 1.0%, or (b) the base rate plus an 
applicable margin for base rate loans. The base rate is calculated as the greater of (i) the higher of (x) the prime rate and 
(y) the federal funds rate plus 0.5% and (ii) the sum of one-month LIBOR plus 1.00%. The applicable margin is 4.5% for 
LIBOR loans and 3.5% for base rate loans. The principal and interest on the 2015 Golub Term Loan is payable in 
quarterly installments ending on the maturity date, which was originally June 29, 2021 but is now June 29, 2023. 
Quarterly principal payments of $500,000 are due for each quarter; however, on June 2, 2017, the Company prepaid 
$10.0 million on the 2015 Golub Term Loan, which included all of the required quarterly principal payments until the 
maturity date of the loan. On May 15, 2018, the Company made an additional $10.0 million prepayment on the 2015 
Golub Term Loan. On June 6, 2019, the Company entered into the Third Amendment to the 2015 Golub Term Loan (the 
“2019 Golub Amendment”) which extended the maturity date to June 29, 2023. At the time of the Third Amendment, the 
company also prepaid $65.0 million of the term loan facility, reducing the outstanding principal balance to $111.5 
million. The 2019 Golub Amendment further made changes to the 2015 Golub Term Loan in connection with the 
transition away from LIBOR as the benchmark rate. Subsequent to March 27, 2021, on April 26, 2021, the Company 
made a $41.5 million voluntary prepayment on the term loan facility, reducing the outstanding principal balance to $70.0 
million. Total interest expense incurred in the fiscal year ended March 27, 2021 on the 2015 Golub Term Loan was $6.3 
million and the weighted average interest rate for the fiscal year ended March 27, 2021 was 5.7%. Total interest expense 

51 

 
incurred in the fiscal year ended March 28, 2020 on the 2015 Golub Term Loan was $8.5 million, and the weighted 
average interest rate for the fiscal year ended March 28, 2020 was 6.8%. Total interest expense incurred in the fiscal year 
ended March 30, 2019 on the 2015 Golub Term Loan was $12.5 million, and the weighted average interest rate for the 
fiscal year ended March 30, 2019 was 7.0%. 

All obligations under each of the 2015 Golub Term Loan and the June 2015 Wells Fargo Revolver are 
unconditionally guaranteed by us and each of our direct and indirect domestic subsidiaries (other than certain immaterial 
subsidiaries) which are not named as borrowers under the 2015 Golub Term Loan or the June 2015 Wells Fargo 
Revolver, as applicable.   

The priority with respect to collateral under each of the 2015 Golub Term Loan and the June 2015 Wells Fargo 

Revolver is subject to the terms of an intercreditor agreement among the lenders under the 2015 Golub Term Loan and 
the June 2015 Wells Fargo Revolver.   

Each of the June 2015 Wells Fargo Revolver and the 2015 Golub Term Loan contains customary provisions 
relating to mandatory prepayments, restricted payments, voluntary payments, affirmative and negative covenants, and 
events of default. In addition, the terms of the June 2015 Wells Fargo Revolver require the Company to maintain, on a 
consolidated basis, a Consolidated Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio of at least 1.00:1.00 during such times as a covenant 
trigger event shall exist. On May 26, 2017, the Company entered into an amendment to the 2015 Golub Term Loan (the 
“2017 Golub Amendment”). The 2017 Golub Amendment changed the maximum Consolidated Total Net Leverage 
Ratio requirements to 4.00:1.00 as of December 29, 2018 and for all subsequent periods. The June 2015 Wells Fargo 
Revolver and 2015 Golub Term Loan also require the Company to pay additional interest of 2.0% per annum upon 
triggering certain specified events of default set forth therein. For financial accounting purposes, the requirement for the 
Company to pay a higher interest rate upon an event of default is an embedded derivative. As of March 27, 2021, the fair 
value of these embedded derivatives was estimated and was not significant. 

As of March 27, 2021, we were in compliance with the June 2015 Wells Fargo Revolver and the 2015 Golub 

Term Loan covenants. 

Cash Position and Cash Flow 

Cash and cash equivalents were $73.1 million as of March 27, 2021 compared to $69.6 million as of March 28, 

2020. 

The following table presents summary cash flow information for the periods indicated: 

  March 27, 

2021 

Fiscal Year Ended 
     March 28,       March 30, 

2020 
(In thousands) 

2019 

Net cash provided by/(used in): 

Operating activities 
Investing activities 
Financing activities 

Net increase in cash 

Operating activities 

  (28,424) 
    (123,913) 

$    155,922   $    25,317   $    63,260  
  (31,765)  
   (40,166)  
  (23,897)  
    67,798  
  7,598  

  3,585   $    52,949   $ 

  $ 

Cash provided by operating activities consists primarily of net income adjusted for non - cash items including 

depreciation, amortization and stock - based compensation, plus the effect on cash of changes during the year in our assets 
and liabilities. 

Net cash provided by operating activities was $155.9 million for the fiscal year ended March 27, 2021. The 

significant components of cash flows provided by operating activities were net income of $59.4 million, the add-back of 

52 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
  
     
 
   
 
   
 
  
 
non-cash depreciation and amortization expense of $24.1 million, stock-based compensation expense of $7.2 million, 
and amortization of debt issuance fees and debt discount of $0.9 million. Inventories decreased $13.0 million as a result 
of a reduction in purchases due to the COVID - 19 crisis. Accounts payable and accrued expenses and other current 
liabilities increased by $37.4 million due to the timing of payments.   

Net cash provided by operating activities was $25.3 million for the fiscal year ended March 28, 2020. The 

significant components of cash flows provided by operating activities were net income of $47.9 million, the add-back of 
non-cash depreciation and amortization expense of $21.4 million, stock-based compensation expense of $4.9 million, 
and amortization of debt issuance fees and debt discount of $0.9 million. The above was partially offset by an increase in 
inventories of $45.6 million due to the growth of the company and other changes in working capital. 

Investing activities 

Cash used in investing activities consists primarily of purchases of property and equipment but also includes 

funds used to effect business combinations and asset acquisitions made by the Company. 

Net cash used in investing activities was $28.4 million for fiscal 2021, which was primarily attributable to 

capital expenditures related to store construction, improvements to our e-commerce information technology 
infrastructure, and improvements to our distribution facilities.   

Net cash used in investing activities was $40.2 million for fiscal 2020, which was primarily attributable to $37.2 

million in capital expenditures related to store construction, improvements to our e-commerce information technology 
infrastructure, and improvements to our distribution facilities and $3.7 million for the acquisition of G.&L. Clothing. 

Financing activities 

Cash used in financing activities consists primarily of repayments on our term loan and credit facility. 

Net cash used in financing activities was $123.9 million for fiscal 2021. We reduced our line of credit 

borrowings by $129.9 million and repaid $0.7 million on our debt and capital lease obligations during the period. We 
also received $7.4 million from the exercise of stock options. 

Net cash used in financing activities was $67.8 million for fiscal 2020. We reduced our line of credit 
borrowings by $129.9 million and repaid $65.6 million on our debt and capital lease obligations during the period. We 
also received $5.2 million from the exercise of stock options. 

Other obligations 

Contractual obligations. We enter into long - term contractual obligations and commitments in the normal course 

of business, primarily non - cancelable finance and operating leases. 

As of March 27, 2021, our contractual cash obligations over the next several periods are set forth below. 

(In thousands) 
Finance lease obligations 
Operating lease obligations 
Debt and line of credit   
Interest expense on debt   
Total 

  $ 

Total 
  21,275 
  247,621 
  111,500 
  14,623 
  $   395,019 

$ 

Less Than 1 
Year 
  1,550 
  48,559 
 — 
  6,545 
$    56,654 

Payments Due by Period 
1 - 2 
Years 
  2,931 
  81,553 
  111,500 
  8,078 
$   204,062 

3 - 5 
Years 
  4,230 
  77,482 
 — 
 — 
 $    81,712 

 $ 

$ 

More Than 
5 Years 
$    12,564  
  40,027  
 —  
 —  
$    52,591 

Finance lease obligations primarily relate to the acquisition of two retail stores, two office buildings, one 
distribution center facility and land as part of the Sheplers Acquisition. During fiscal 2020, we amended the lease, 

53 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
extending the lease expiration through fiscal 2036. The remaining finance lease obligations relate to property and 
equipment leases that expire at various dates through fiscal 2024.   

We lease our stores, facilities and certain other equipment under non-cancelable operating leases. These 
operating leases expire at various dates through fiscal 2034, and contain various provisions for rental adjustments, 
including, in certain cases, adjustments based on increases in the Consumer Price Index. They also generally contain 
renewal provisions for varying periods. Our future operating lease obligations would change if we were to exercise these 
renewal provisions or if we were willing to enter into additional operating leases.   

Debt consists of $111.5 million outstanding under our 2015 Golub Term Loan and zero outstanding under our 

June 2015 Wells Fargo Revolver as of March 27, 2021. Our 2015 Golub Term Loan provides for regularly scheduled 
principal payments that began on September 25, 2015. On June 2, 2017, the Company prepaid $10.0 million on the 2015 
Golub Term Loan, which included all of the required quarterly principal payments until the maturity date of the loan. On 
May 15, 2018 and June 6, 2019, the Company made additional prepayments on the 2015 Golub Term Loan of $10.0 
million and $65.0 million, respectively. Payments with respect to the June 2015 Wells Fargo Revolver are due the earlier 
of June 6, 2024 or 90 days prior to the maturity of the 2015 Golub Term Loan, which is currently scheduled to mature on 
June 29, 2023.   

Interest expense on debt consists of scheduled interest payments under our 2015 Golub Term Loan and 

June 2015 Wells Fargo Revolver. The interest expense relating to our 2015 Golub Term Loan was calculated using a 
5.5% interest rate applied to the term loan balance of $111.5 million as of March 27, 2021 and for each period thereafter. 
The interest rate used represents the interest rate on the 2015 Golub Term Loan on the last day of fiscal 2021. The 
interest expense relating to our June 2015 Wells Fargo Revolver was determined using an interest rate of 0.25% applied 
to the unutilized portion of the $165.0 million revolving line of credit on March 27, 2021, the last day of the fiscal year.   

Off - balance sheet arrangements. We are not a party to any off - balance sheet arrangements, except for purchase 

obligations.   

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates 

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires the appropriate application of certain 
accounting policies, some of which require us to make estimates and assumptions about future events and their impact on 
amounts reported in our financial statements. Since future events and their impact cannot be determined with absolute 
certainty, our actual results will inevitably differ from our estimates. 

We believe that the application of our accounting policies, and the estimates inherently required therein, are 

reasonable. Our accounting policies and estimates are re-evaluated on an ongoing basis and adjustments are made when 
facts and circumstances dictate a change. 

The policies and estimates discussed below involve the selection or application of alternative accounting 
policies that are material to our financial statements. With respect to critical accounting policies, even a relatively minor 
variance between actual and expected experience can potentially have a materially favorable or unfavorable impact on 
subsequent results of operations. However, our historical results for the periods presented in our financial statements 
have not been materially impacted by such variances. Our accounting policies are more fully described in Note 2 to our 
consolidated financial statements included in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10 - K. Management has 
discussed the development and selection of these critical accounting policies and estimates with our board of directors. 

We have certain accounting policies that require more significant management judgment and estimates than 

others. These include our accounting policies with respect to revenue recognition, inventories, goodwill, intangible and 
long - lived assets, leases, stock - based compensation and income taxes, which are more fully described below. 

Revenue recognition 

Sales are recognized at the time of purchase by customers at our retail store locations. Sales are recorded net of 
taxes collected from customers. Transfer of control takes place at the point at which the customer receives and pays for 

54 

the merchandise at the register. For e - commerce sales, revenue is recognized when control transfers to the customer, 
which generally occurs upon delivery of the product. On average, customers receive goods within approximately five 
days of being ordered. The estimate of the transit times for these shipments is based on shipping terms and historical 
delivery times. Shipping and handling fees billed to customers for online sales are included in net sales and the related 
shipping and handling costs are classified as cost of goods sold in the consolidated statements of operations. 

We reserve for projected merchandise returns based upon historical experience and various other assumptions 

that we believe to be reasonable. Customers can return merchandise purchased in  - store within 30 days of the original 
purchase date, return merchandise purchased at bootbarn.com and countryoutfitter.com within 60 days of the original 
purchase date, and return sheplers.com merchandise within 90 days of the original purchase date. Merchandise returns 
are often resalable merchandise and the purchase price is generally refunded by issuing the same tender used in the 
original purchase. Merchandise exchanges of the same product and price are not considered merchandise returns and, 
therefore, are not included in the population when calculating our sales returns reserve. We record the impact of 
adjustments to our sales returns reserve quarterly within total net sales. Should the returns rate as a percentage of net 
sales significantly change in future periods, it could have a material impact on our results of operations. 

We maintain a customer loyalty program at the stores and bootbarn.com. Under the program, customers 

accumulate points based on purchase activity. For customers to maintain their active point balance, they must make a 
qualifying purchase of merchandise at least once in a 365 - day period. Once a loyalty program member achieves a certain 
point level, the member earns awards that may be redeemed for credits on merchandise purchases. To redeem awards, 
the member must make a qualifying purchase of merchandise within 60 days of the date the award was granted. 
Unredeemed awards and accumulated partial points are accrued as unearned revenue until redemption or expiration and, 
upon redemption and expiration, as an adjustment to net sales using the relative standalone selling price method. If actual 
redemptions ultimately differ from accrued redemption levels, or if we further modify the terms of the program in a way 
that affects expected redemption value and levels, we could record adjustments to the unearned revenue accrual, which 
would affect net sales. 

We recognize the sales from gift cards, gift certificates and store credits as they are redeemed for merchandise. 

Prior to redemption, we maintain an unearned revenue liability for gift cards, gift certificates and store credits until we 
are released from such liability, including potential obligations arising under state escheatment laws. Our gift cards, gift 
certificates and store credits do not have expiration dates, and unredeemed gift cards, gift certificates and store credits are 
subject to state escheatment laws. Amounts remaining after escheatment are recognized in net sales in the period 
escheatment occurs and the liability is considered to be extinguished. 

Leases 

Operating and finance lease liabilities are recognized at the lease commencement date based on the present 

value of the fixed lease payments using the Company's incremental borrowing rates for its population of leases. Related 
operating and finance lease right-of-use assets are recognized based on the initial present value of the fixed lease 
payments, reduced by cash payments received from landlords as lease incentives, plus any prepaid rent and other direct 
costs from executing the leases. Amortization of both operating and finance lease right-of-use assets is performed on a 
straight-line basis and recorded as part of rent expense in selling, general and administrative expenses on the 
consolidated statements of operations. The interest expense amortization component of the finance lease liabilities is 
recorded within interest expense on the consolidated statements of operations.   

Leases with an initial term of 12 months or less are not recorded on the balance sheet; the Company recognizes 

lease expense for these leases on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Variable lease payments are recognized as 
lease expense as they are incurred.   

Inventories 

Inventories, which consist primarily of general consumer merchandise held for sale, are valued at the lower of 

cost or net realizable value. Cost is determined using the weighted-average cost method (which approximates the first-in, 
first-out method) and includes the cost of merchandise and import related costs, including freight, duty and agent 
commissions. 

55 

 
During each accounting period, we record adjustments to our inventories, which are reflected in cost of goods 
sold, if the cost of specific inventory items on hand exceeds the amount that we expect to realize from the ultimate sale 
or disposal of the inventory. A periodic review of inventory is performed in order to determine if inventory is properly 
stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value. This adjustment calculation requires us to make assumptions and 
estimates, which are based on factors such as average selling cycle and seasonality of merchandise, the historical rate at 
which merchandise has sold below cost during the average selling cycle, and the value and nature of merchandise 
currently priced below original cost. A provision is recorded to reduce the cost of inventories to the estimated net 
realizable values, if appropriate. 

To the extent that management’s estimates differ from actual results, additional markdowns may be required 

that could reduce our gross profit, operating income and the carrying value of inventories. 

We also record an inventory shrinkage reserve calculated as a percentage of net sales for estimated merchandise 

losses for the period between the last physical inventory count and the balance sheet date. These estimates are based on 
historical percentages and can be affected by changes in merchandise mix and changes in shrinkage trends. We perform 
periodic physical inventory counts for our entire chain of stores and our distribution center and adjust the inventory 
shrinkage reserve accordingly. If actual physical inventory losses differ significantly from the estimate, our results of 
operations could be adversely impacted. The inventory shrinkage reserve reduces the value of total inventory and is a 
component of inventories on the consolidated balance sheets. 

Goodwill, intangible and long - lived assets 

Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets. Goodwill is recorded as the difference, if any, between the 
aggregate consideration paid for an acquisition and the fair value of the acquired net tangible and intangible assets. 
Intangible assets with indefinite lives include the Boot Barn trademark that was acquired as part of the recapitalization 
with Freeman Spogli & Co. on December 12, 2011, the Sheplers trademark acquired as part of the Sheplers Acquisition, 
the cost to register the Boot Barn trademark in Hong Kong, and the www.countryoutfitter.com website trademark we 
acquired as part of our asset acquisition in February of fiscal 2017. We test goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible 
assets for impairment at least annually on the first day of the fourth quarter or more frequently if indicators of 
impairment exist, in accordance with the provisions of Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 350, Goodwill 
and Other. This guidance provides us the option to first assess qualitative factors such as macroeconomic conditions, 
industry and market considerations, cost factors, overall financial performance and other relevant entity-specific events 
to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying value. 

GAAP has established guidance for reporting information about a company’s operating segments, including 

disclosures related to a company’s products and services, geographic areas and major customers. We monitor and review 
our segment reporting structure in accordance with authoritative guidance to determine whether any changes have 
occurred that would impact our reportable segments. Our retail stores and e-commerce websites represent two operating 
segments. Given the similar qualitative and economic characteristics of the two operating segments, our retail stores and 
e-commerce websites were aggregated into one reporting segment in accordance with guidance under Financial 
Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 280, Segment Reporting 
(“ASC 280”). As a result of this, our operations represent two reporting units, retail stores and e-commerce, for the 
purpose of our goodwill impairment analysis. 

If, based on a review of qualitative factors it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less 
than its carrying value, we proceed to compare the fair value of the reporting unit with its carrying amount. We evaluate 
the fair value of the reporting unit by using market-based analysis to review market capitalization and by reviewing a 
discounted cash flow analysis using management’s assumptions. We determine the fair value of our reporting unit using 
the income approach and market approach to valuation, as well as other generally accepted valuation methodologies. If 
the carrying amount of the reporting unit exceeds the reporting unit’s fair value, we recognize an impairment loss equal 
to the difference between the carrying amount and the estimated fair value of the reporting unit.   

Definite - lived intangible assets and long - lived assets. Definite - lived intangible assets consist of certain 

trademarks and customer lists. Definite - lived intangible assets are recorded at their fair value as of the acquisition date 
with amortization computed utilizing the straight - line method over the assets’ estimated useful lives, with the exception 

56 

of customer lists, which are amortized based on the estimated attrition rate. The period of amortization for customer lists 
is five years and for definite-lived trademarks is three years. 

Long - lived assets consist of leasehold improvements, machinery and equipment, furniture and fixtures, 
software and vehicles. Long - lived assets are subject to depreciation and amortization. We assess potential impairment of 
our definite - lived intangible assets and long - lived assets whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the 
asset’s carrying value may not be recoverable. Factors that are considered important that could trigger an impairment 
review include a current - period operating or cash flow loss combined with a history of operating or cash flow losses and 
a projection or forecast that demonstrates continuing losses or insufficient income associated with the use of a long - lived 
asset or asset group. Other factors include a significant change in the manner of the use of the asset or a significant 
negative industry or economic trend. This evaluation is performed based on estimated undiscounted future cash flows 
from operating activities compared with the carrying value of the related assets. If the undiscounted future cash flows are 
less than the carrying value, an impairment loss is recognized, measured by the difference between the carrying value 
and the estimated fair value of the assets, with such estimated fair values determined using the best information available 
and in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurements (“ASC 820”). 

We do not believe there is a reasonable likelihood that there will be a material change in the estimates or 
assumptions we use to calculate long - lived asset impairment losses. However, if actual results are not consistent with our 
estimates and assumptions, our operating results could be adversely affected by additional impairment charges. 

Stock - based compensation 

We account for employee stock options, restricted stock awards, restricted stock units and performance share 

units in accordance with relevant authoritative literature. Stock options are granted with exercise prices equal to or 
greater than the market value, as reported on the New York Stock Exchange (or on any other national securities 
exchange on which our common stock is then listed) on the date of grant as authorized by our board of directors. Stock 
options granted have vesting provisions of either four or five years. Stock option grants are generally subject to forfeiture 
if employment terminates prior to vesting. We have selected the Black - Scholes option pricing model for estimating the 
grant date fair value of stock option awards granted. We have considered the retirement and forfeiture provisions of the 
options and utilized the simplified method to estimate the expected life of the options. We base the risk - free interest rate 
on the yield of a zero - coupon U.S. Treasury security with a maturity equal to the expected life of the option from the 
date of the grant. Stock volatility for each grant is measured using the weighted average of historical daily price changes 
of our stock and our competitors’ common stock over the most recent period equal to the expected option term of the 
awards. In determining the appropriateness of the public entities included in the volatility assumption, we considered a 
number of factors, including the entity’s life cycle stage, growth profile, size, financial leverage and products offered. 
The fair value of stock options granted with both service and market vesting conditions is estimated using a Monte Carlo 
simulation model. Stock - based compensation cost is measured at the grant date based on the value of the award and is 
recognized as expense over the requisite service period based on the number of years for which the requisite service is 
expected to be rendered. Forfeitures are recognized as incurred. 

The fair value of our restricted stock awards, restricted stock units and performance share units is the closing 

price of our common stock on the grant date.   

Income taxes 

We account for income taxes in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 740, Income Taxes (“ASC 740”), which 

requires the asset and liability approach for financial accounting and reporting of income taxes. Deferred tax assets and 
liabilities are attributable to differences between financial statement and income tax reporting. Deferred tax assets, net of 
any valuation allowances, represent the future tax return consequences of those differences and for operating loss and tax 
credit carryforwards, which will be deductible when the assets are recovered. Deferred tax assets are reduced by a 
valuation allowance if it is deemed more likely than not that some or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. In 
assessing the realizability of deferred tax assets, we consider whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of 
the deferred tax assets will not be realized. The ultimate realization of deferred tax assets is dependent upon the 
generation of future taxable income during the periods in which those temporary differences become deductible. We 

57 

consider the scheduled reversal of deferred tax liabilities, projected future taxable income and tax planning strategies in 
making this assessment. 

We account for uncertain tax positions in accordance with ASC 740, which clarifies the accounting for 
uncertainty in income taxes recognized in an enterprise’s financial statements. It prescribes a recognition threshold and 
measurement attribute for the financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be 
taken in a tax return. ASC 740 also provides guidance on derecognition, classification, interest and penalties, accounting 
in interim periods, disclosure and transition. Such changes in recognition or measurement might result in the recognition 
of a tax benefit or an additional charge to the tax provision in the period. 

We recognize interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits within the income tax expense line in 

the accompanying statement of operations. See Note 13 to our consolidated financial statements included in Part II, 
Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10 - K for further information regarding our tax disclosures. 

Recent Accounting Pronouncements 

In January 2021, the FASB issued ASU No. 2021 - 01, Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848), which clarifies some 

of its guidance around reference rate reform activities as global market participants undertake efforts to transition from 
using or referencing the London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) and other interbank offered rates to using or 
referencing alternative reference rates. The amendments in this ASU if elected by an entity, are effective immediately. 
Unlike other topics, the provisions of this update are only available until December 31, 2022, by which time the 
reference rate replacement activity is expected to be completed. The Company does not expect the revised standard to 
have an impact on its consolidated financial statements. 

Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements   

In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017 - 04, Intangibles — Goodwill and Other: Simplifying the Test 

for Goodwill Impairment (“ASU 2017 - 04”), which simplifies the accounting for goodwill impairment by eliminating 
step two from the goodwill impairment test. Under this new guidance, if the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds 
its estimated fair value, an impairment charge shall be recognized in an amount equal to that excess, limited to the total 
amount of goodwill allocated to that reporting unit. The amendments in ASU 2017 - 04 are effective prospectively for 
fiscal years and interim periods within those years beginning after December 15, 2019. The standard became effective 
for the Company beginning March 29, 2020, the first day of its fiscal 2021 year. The revised standard did not have a 
material impact on the consolidated financial statements. 

Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risks 

Interest rate risk 

We are subject to interest rate risk in connection with borrowings under our credit facilities, which bear interest 

at variable rates. As of March 27, 2021, we had a zero balance drawn under our revolving credit facility and 
$111.5 million under our term loan facility. The impact of a 1.0% rate change on the outstanding balance as of March 27, 
2021 would be approximately $1.1 million. 

Foreign exchange rate risk 

We currently purchase all of our merchandise through domestic and international suppliers on a U.S. 
dollar - denominated basis. We do not hedge using any derivative instruments and historically have not been impacted by 
changes in exchange rates. 

Impact of inflation 

Our results of operations and financial condition are presented based on historical cost. While it is difficult to 

accurately measure the impact of inflation due to the imprecise nature of the estimates required, we believe that the 
effects of inflation, if any, on our results of operations and financial condition have been immaterial. 

58 

 
Item 8. Consolidated Financial Statements and Supplementary Data 

Boot Barn Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries 
Index to Consolidated Financial Statements 

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm 
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of March 27, 2021 and March 28, 2020  
Consolidated Statements of Operations for the Fiscal Years Ended March 27, 2021, March 28, 2020 and March 30, 

    60 
  62 

2019 

Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity for the Fiscal Years Ended March 27, 2021, March 28, 2020 

and March 30, 2019 

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Fiscal Years Ended March 27, 2021, March 28, 2020 and 

March 30, 2019 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 

  63 

  64 

  65 
  66 

59 

 
 
 
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM 

To the shareholders and the Board of Directors of   
Boot Barn Holdings, Inc. 

Opinion on the Financial Statements   

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Boot Barn Holdings, Inc. and subsidiaries (the 
"Company") as of March 27, 2021 and March 28, 2020, the related consolidated statements of operations, stockholders' 
equity, and cash flows, for each of the three years in the period ended March 27, 2021, and the related notes (collectively 
referred to as the "financial statements"). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, 
the financial position of the Company as of March 27, 2021 and March 28, 2020, and the results of its operations and its 
cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended March 27, 2021, in conformity with accounting principles 
generally accepted in the United States of America. 

We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United 
States) (PCAOB), the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of March 27, 2021, based on criteria 
established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of 
the Treadway Commission and our report dated May 13, 2021, expressed an unqualified opinion on the Company's 
internal control over financial reporting. 

Basis for Opinion   

These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an 
opinion on the Company's financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the 
PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities 
laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB. 

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and 
perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material 
misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material 
misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those 
risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the 
financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made 
by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits 
provide a reasonable basis for our opinion. 

Critical Audit Matter 

The critical audit matter communicated below is a matter arising from the current-period audit of the financial statements 
that was communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that (1) relates to accounts or 
disclosures that is material to the financial statements and (2) involved our especially challenging, subjective, or complex 
judgments. The communication of a critical audit matter does not alter in any way our opinion on the financial 
statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matter below, providing a separate 
opinion on the critical audit matter or on the accounts or disclosures to which it relates. 

Inventories – Refer to Note 2 to the financial statements 

Critical Audit Matter Description 

The Company’s inventories consist primarily of purchased merchandise and are valued at the lower of cost or net 
realizable value. Cost is determined using the weighted-average cost method (which approximates the first-in, first-out 
method) and includes the cost of merchandise and import related costs, including freight, duty and agent commissions. A 

60 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
periodic review of inventory is performed in order to determine if inventory is properly stated at the lower of cost or net 
realizable value. This adjustment calculation requires the Company to make assumptions and estimates, which are based 
on factors such as average selling cycle and seasonality of merchandise, the historical rate at which merchandise has sold 
below cost during the average selling cycle, and the value and nature of merchandise currently priced below original 
cost. A provision is recorded to reduce the cost of inventories to the estimated net realizable values, if appropriate.   

Given the judgments made by management to estimate the net realizable value of inventory, such as estimating 
foreseeable demand, auditing the adjustment to inventory for obsolescence involved a higher degree of auditor judgment 
and the involvement of more senior members of the engagement team in executing, supervising, and reviewing the 
results of the procedures. 

How the Critical Audit Matter Was Addressed in the Audit 

Our audit procedures related to the valuation of inventories included the following, among others: 

•  We tested the effectiveness of controls over the inventory valuation reserve process, including controls over the 
inputs, such as the historical rate at which merchandise has sold below cost during the average selling cycle and 
the value of merchandise currently priced below original cost, that are used in management’s estimate.     

•  We evaluated the appropriateness and consistency of management’s methods and assumptions used in 

developing its estimate of the inventory valuation reserve. 

•  We evaluated the appropriateness, completeness, and accuracy of the specific inputs supporting management’s 
estimate, including the age of on-hand inventory levels, historic inventory trends, and projected future demand. 

•  We tested the mathematical accuracy of the Company’s inventory valuation reserve calculation.   

•  We performed a review of the reserve rate used in the prior year inventory reserve calculation to current year 

sales of aged inventory in order to evaluate management’s ability to accurately estimate the inventory valuation 
reserve.     

/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP 

Costa Mesa, California 
May 13, 2021 

We have served as the Company's auditor since 2012. 

61 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
       
 
 
 
Boot Barn Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries 
Consolidated Balance Sheets 

(In thousands, except per share data) 

Assets 
Current assets: 
Cash and cash equivalents 
Accounts receivable, net 
Inventories 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets 

Total current assets 

Property and equipment, net 
Right-of-use assets, net 
Goodwill 
Intangible assets, net 
Other assets 

Total assets 

Liabilities and stockholders’ equity 
Current liabilities: 
Line of credit 
Accounts payable 
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities 
Short-term lease liabilities 
Total current liabilities 

Deferred taxes 
Long-term portion of notes payable, net 
Long-term lease liabilities 
Other liabilities 

Total liabilities 

Commitments and contingencies (Note 10) 

  March 27,        March 28, 

2021 

2020 

  $    73,148   $ 
  12,771  
       275,760  
  12,777  
       374,456  
       110,444  
      186,827  
       197,502  
  60,885  
  3,467  

  69,563  
  12,087  
     288,717  
  14,284  
     384,651  
     109,603  
  170,243  
     197,502  
  60,974  
  1,738  
  $   933,581   $    924,711  

  $ 
       104,641  
  77,615  
  39,400  
       221,656  
  21,993  
       109,781  
      181,836  
  3,424  
       538,690  

 —   $    129,900  
  95,334  
  52,612  
  34,779  
     312,625  
  19,801  
     109,022  
  160,935  
  635  
     603,018  

Stockholders’ equity: 
Common stock, $0.0001 par value; March 27, 2021 - 100,000 shares authorized, 29,348 
shares issued; March 28, 2020 - 100,000 shares authorized, 28,880 shares issued 
Preferred stock, $0.0001 par value; 10,000 shares authorized, no shares issued or 
outstanding 
Additional paid-in capital 
Retained earnings 
Less: Common stock held in treasury, at cost, 96 and 71 shares at March 27, 2021 and 
March 28, 2020, respectively 
Total stockholders’ equity 
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity 

  3  

  3  

 —  
       183,815  
       213,027  

 —  
     169,249  
     153,641  

  (1,954) 
  (1,200) 
     321,693  
       394,891  
  $   933,581   $    924,711  

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. 

62 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
     
 
   
 
     
 
   
 
    
  
    
  
 
    
  
    
  
     
 
   
 
     
 
   
 
  
    
  
   
 
    
  
 
    
  
 
   
 
 
 
     
 
   
 
 
     
 
   
 
     
 
   
 
    
  
    
  
   
 
 
 
 
Boot Barn Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries 
Consolidated Statements of Operations 

(In thousands, except per share amounts) 

Fiscal Year Ended 
  March 27,    March 28,    March 30,   
2020 

2019 

2021 

Net sales 
Cost of goods sold 
Gross profit 

Selling, general and administrative expenses 

Income from operations 

Interest expense 
Other income/(loss), net 

Income before income taxes 

Income tax expense 
Net income   

Earnings per share: 
Basic shares 
Diluted shares 

Weighted average shares outstanding: 

Basic shares 
Diluted shares 

 $  893,491   $   845,575   $  776,854  
    525,420  
    569,084  
     598,612  
    251,434  
    276,491  
     294,879  
    187,112  
    202,823  
     208,553  
     64,322  
  73,668  
      86,326  
     16,331  
  13,310  
  9,442  
  (45) 
  5  
  366  
     47,996  
  60,313  
      77,250  
      17,864  
  8,974  
  12,364  
 $   59,386   $    47,949   $   39,022  

 $
 $

  2.05   $ 
  2.01   $ 

  1.68   $
  1.64   $

  1.39  
  1.35  

      28,930  
      29,477  

  28,583  
  29,220  

     28,092  
     28,813  

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. 

63 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
    
    
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
   
  
  
 
 
  
  
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
    
 
   
 
   
 
    
 
   
 
   
 
  
  
 
 
 
Boot Barn Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries 
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity 

(In thousands) 

Additional   
Paid-In 
      Shares       Amount       Capital 

Common Stock 

Retained 
      Earnings 

  Treasury Shares 
  Shares       Amount 

Total 

Balance at March 31, 2018 

    Net income 
    Issuance of common stock 
related to stock-based 
compensation 
    Tax withholding for net 
share settlement 
    Stock-based compensation 
expense   

Balance at March 30, 2019 

    Net income 
    Issuance of common stock 
related to stock-based 
compensation 
    Tax withholding for net 
share settlement 
    Stock-based compensation 
expense   

Balance at March 28, 2020 

    Net income 
    Issuance of common stock 
related to stock-based 
compensation 
    Tax withholding for net 
share settlement 
    Stock-based compensation 
expense   

Balance at March 27, 2021 

  27,331   $ 
 —  

  3   $   148,127   $    66,670 
  39,022 
 —  
 —  

  (31)
 — 

$   (194) 
 — 

  $   214,606  
  39,022  

  1,068  

 —  

  8,137  

 —  

 —  

 —  

 — 

 — 

 — 

 — 

  8,137  

  (20)

  (474)

  (474) 

 —  
  28,399   $ 
 —  

  2,873  

 — 
 —  
  3   $   159,137   $   105,692 
  47,949 
 —  
 —  

 — 
  (51)
 — 

 — 
$   (668) 
 —  

  2,873  
  $   264,164  
  47,949  

  481  

 —  

  5,204  

 —  

 —  

 —  

 — 

 — 

 — 

 —  

  5,204  

  (20)

  (532) 

  (532) 

 —  
  28,880   $ 
 —  

  4,908  

 —  
 —  
  3   $   169,249   $   153,641 
  59,386 
 —  
 —  

 —  
  (71)
 — 

 —  
$  (1,200) 
 —  

  4,908  
  $   321,693  
  59,386  

  468  

 —  

  7,408  

 —  

 —  

 —  

 — 

 — 

 — 

 —  

  7,408  

  (25)

  (754) 

  (754) 

 —  
  29,348   $ 

 —  
 —  
  3   $   183,815   $   213,027 

  7,158  

 —  
  (96)

 —  
$  (1,954) 

  7,158  
  $   394,891  

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. 

64 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
   
 
  
 
   
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Boot Barn Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries 
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows 

(In thousands) 

Cash flows from operating activities 
Net income   
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating 
activities: 

Depreciation 
Stock-based compensation 
Amortization of intangible assets 
Amortization of right-of-use assets 
Amortization of debt issuance fees and debt discount 
Loss on disposal of property and equipment 
Gain/(loss) on adjustment of right-of-use assets and lease liabilities 
Damaged asset write-off 
Store impairment charges 
Accretion of above market leases 
Deferred taxes 
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of acquisition: 

Accounts receivable, net 
Inventories 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets 
Other assets 
Accounts payable 
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities 
Other liabilities 
Operating leases 

Net cash provided by operating activities 

Cash flows from investing activities 
Purchases of property and equipment 
Insurance recoveries for property and equipment 
Acquisition of business, net of cash acquired 

Net cash used in investing activities 

Cash flows from financing activities 
(Payments)/borrowings on line of credit - net 
Repayments on debt and finance lease obligations 
Debt issuance fees paid 
Tax withholding payments for net share settlement 
Proceeds from the exercise of stock options 

Net cash (used in)/provided by financing activities 

Net increase in cash and cash equivalents 
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period 
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period 

Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information: 
Cash paid for income taxes 
Cash paid for interest 
Supplemental disclosure of non-cash activities: 
Unpaid purchases of property and equipment 
Equipment acquired through capital lease 

  March 27, 

Fiscal Year Ended 
     March 28,       March 30,   

2021 

2020 

2019 

  $ 

  59,386   $    47,949   $   39,022  

  24,059  
  7,158  
  89  
  34,231  
  884  
  87  
  295  
 —  
  384  
 —  
  2,192  

  21,211  
  4,908  
  172  
  31,091  
  946  
  417  
  (186) 
 —  
  191  
 —  
  2,599  

     18,256  
  2,873  
  646  
 —  
  1,235  
  23  
 —  
  312  
  455  
  (28) 
  4,172  

  8,050  
  12,957  
  1,382  
  (1,729) 
  12,360  
  25,003  
  2,789  
  (33,655) 

  (3,706) 
    (27,702) 
  4,179  
  (254) 
     14,191  
  6,882  
  2,704  
 —  
  $    155,922   $    25,317   $   63,260  

  5,721  
     (45,622) 
  (2,351) 
  (548) 
     (13,810) 
  6,310  
  (3,611) 
    (30,070) 

  (28,424) 
 —  
 —  

    (27,525) 
  184  
  (4,424) 
  $    (28,424)  $   (40,166)  $  (31,765) 

    (37,195) 
  717  
  (3,688) 

    129,900  
     (65,553) 
  (1,221) 
  (532) 
  5,204  

    (129,900) 
  (667) 
 —  
  (754) 
  7,408  

    (21,006) 
    (10,554) 
 —  
  (474) 
  8,137  
  $   (123,913)  $    67,798   $  (23,897) 
  7,598  
  52,949  
  3,585  
  9,016  
  16,614  
  69,563  
  73,148   $    69,563   $   16,614  

  $ 

  $ 
  $ 

  11,458   $    13,391   $

  649  
  8,795   $    11,958   $   14,947  

  $ 
  $ 

  2,642   $ 
 —   $ 

  6,066   $   1,877  
  171  

 —   $

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. 

65 

 
     
 
  
    
    
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
  
  
 
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
  
  
  
 
  
 
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
 
  
 
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
  
 
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
1. Business Operations 

Boot Barn Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 

Boot Barn Holdings, Inc. (the “Company”) was formed on November 17, 2011, and is incorporated in the State 

of Delaware. The equity of the Company consists of 100,000,000 authorized shares and 29,251,626 and 28,809,620 
outstanding shares of common stock as of March 27, 2021 and March 28, 2020, respectively. The shares of common 
stock have voting rights of one vote per share. 

The Company operates specialty retail stores that sell western and work boots and related apparel and 
accessories. The Company operates retail locations throughout the U.S. and sells its merchandise via the Internet. The 
Company operated a total of 273 stores in 36 states as of March 27, 2021, 259 stores in 35 states as of March 28, 2020 
and 240 stores in 33 states as of March 30, 2019. As of the fiscal year ending March 27, 2021, all stores operate under 
the Boot Barn name, with the exception of two stores which operate under the “American Worker” name. 

In December 2019, a novel strain of coronavirus (“COVID - 19”) was reported in Wuhan, China. Since first 

being reported, COVID - 19 spread to numerous countries around the world, including the U.S., resulting in the World 
Health Organization declaring the outbreak a global pandemic on March 11, 2020. COVID - 19 has had and will continue 
to have a significant impact on economic conditions and consumer confidence. There remains significant uncertainty 
around the duration and impact of the COVID - 19 pandemic on the U.S. economy and consumer confidence. These and 
other effects make it more challenging for us to estimate the future performance of our business, particularly over the 
near-to-medium term.   

2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies 

Basis of Presentation 

The Company’s consolidated financial statements, prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally 

accepted in the United States (“GAAP”), include the accounts of the Company and each of its subsidiaries, including 
Boot Barn Holdings, Inc., Boot Barn, Inc., RCC Western Stores, Inc. (“RCC”), Baskins Acquisition Holdings, LLC 
(“Baskins”), Sheplers, Inc. and Sheplers Holding Corporation (collectively with Sheplers, Inc. “Sheplers”). All 
intercompany accounts and transactions among the Company and its subsidiaries have been eliminated in consolidation. 
The vast majority of the Company’s identifiable assets are in the United States. 

Fiscal Year 

The Company reports its results of operations and cash flows on a 52- or 53 - week basis, and its fiscal year ends 

on the last Saturday of March unless April 1st is a Saturday, in which case the fiscal year ends on April 1st. The years 
ended March 27, 2021 (“fiscal 2021”), March 28, 2020 (“fiscal 2020”) and March 30, 2019 (“fiscal 2019”) each 
consisted of 52 weeks. 

Comprehensive Income 

The Company does not have any components of other comprehensive income recorded within its consolidated 
financial statements and, therefore, does not separately present a statement of comprehensive income in its consolidated 
financial statements. 

Segment Reporting 

GAAP has established guidance for reporting information about a company’s operating segments, including 

disclosures related to a company’s products and services, geographic areas and major customers. The Company monitors 
and reviews its segment reporting structure in accordance with authoritative guidance to determine whether any changes 

66 

 
 
have occurred that would impact its reportable segments. The Company’s retail stores and e-commerce websites 
represent two operating segments. Given the similar qualitative and economic characteristics of the two operating 
segments, the Company’s retail stores and e-commerce websites are aggregated into one reporting segment in 
accordance with guidance under Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification 
(“ASC”) Topic 280, Segment Reporting (“ASC 280”). Further, the Company’s operations represent two reporting units, 
retail stores and e-commerce, for the purpose of its goodwill impairment analysis. 

Use of Estimates 

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and 
assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at 
the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting period. 
Among the significant estimates affecting the Company’s consolidated financial statements are those relating to revenue 
recognition, lease accounting, inventories, goodwill, intangible and long - lived assets, stock - based compensation and 
income taxes. Management regularly evaluates its estimates and assumptions based upon historical experience and 
various other factors that management believes to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the 
basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other 
sources. To the extent actual results differ from those estimates, the Company’s future results of operations may be 
affected. 

Cash and Cash Equivalents 

The Company considers all highly liquid investments purchased with an original maturity of three months or 
less to be cash equivalents. Cash equivalents also include receivables from credit card sales. The carrying amounts of 
cash and cash equivalents represent their fair values. 

Accounts Receivable 

The Company’s accounts receivable consists of amounts due from commercial customers for merchandise sold, 
as well as receivables from suppliers under co - operative arrangements. The Company’s allowance for doubtful accounts 
was $0.3 million and $0.1 million in fiscal 2021 and fiscal 2020, respectively. 

Inventories 

Inventory consists primarily of purchased merchandise and is valued at the lower of cost or net realizable value. 

Cost is determined using the weighted-average cost method (which approximates the first-in, first-out method) and 
includes the cost of merchandise and import related costs, including freight, duty and agent commissions. The Company 
assesses the recoverability of inventory through a periodic review of historical usage and present demand. When the 
inventory on hand exceeds the foreseeable demand, the value of inventory that, at the time of the review, is not expected 
to be sold is written down to its estimated net realizable value. 

Debt Issuance Costs and Debt Discounts 

Debt issuance costs are capitalized and amortized to interest expense over the terms of the applicable loan 

agreements using the effective interest method. Those costs related to the issuance of debt are presented as a reduction to 
the principal amount of the debt. Debt issuance costs incurred with the issuance of revolving credit lines are included in 
prepaid expenses and other current assets.   

Debt discounts arise when transaction fees are paid to the lending institution. Debt discounts are recorded as a 

reduction to the principal amount of the debt. Amortization of debt discounts is recorded as an increase to the net 
principal amount of the debt and as a charge to interest expense over the term of the applicable loan agreement using the 
effective interest method. 

67 

Property and Equipment, net 

Property and equipment consists of leasehold improvements, machinery and equipment, furniture and fixtures, 

software and vehicles. Property and equipment is subject to depreciation and is recorded at cost less accumulated 
depreciation. Expenditures for major remodels and improvements are capitalized while minor replacements, maintenance 
and repairs that do not improve or extend the life of such assets are charged to expense. Gains or losses on disposal of 
fixed assets, when applicable, are reflected in operations. Depreciation is computed using the straight - line method over 
the estimated useful lives, ranging from five to ten years. Machinery and equipment is depreciated over five years. 
Furniture and fixtures are depreciated over seven years. Software and vehicles are depreciated over five years. Leasehold 
improvements are depreciated over the shorter of the terms of the leases or ten years. 

Goodwill and Indefinite - Lived Intangible Assets 

Goodwill is recorded as the difference between the aggregate consideration paid for an acquisition and the fair 
value of the acquired net tangible and intangible assets. Goodwill is tested for impairment at least annually as of the first 
day of the fourth fiscal quarter or more frequently if indicators of impairment exist, in accordance with the provisions of 
ASC Topic 350, Goodwill and Other. This guidance provides the option to first assess qualitative factors such as 
macroeconomic conditions, industry and market considerations, cost factors, overall financial performance and other 
relevant entity-specific events to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less 
than its carrying value.   

GAAP has established guidance for reporting information about a company’s operating segments, including 

disclosures related to a company’s products and services, geographic areas and major customers. The Company monitors 
and reviews its segment reporting structure in accordance with authoritative guidance to determine whether any changes 
have occurred that would impact its reportable segments, as well as the Company’s reporting units. As previously stated 
above, the Company’s operations represent two reporting units, retail stores and e-commerce, for the purpose of its 
goodwill impairment analysis.   

If, based on a review of qualitative factors it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less 
than its carrying value, we proceed to compare the fair value of the reporting unit with its carrying amount. We evaluate 
the fair value of the reporting unit by using market-based analysis to review market capitalization and by reviewing a 
discounted cash flow analysis using management’s assumptions. We determine the fair value of our reporting unit using 
the income approach and market approach to valuation, as well as other generally accepted valuation methodologies. If 
the carrying amount of the reporting unit exceeds the reporting unit’s fair value, we recognize an impairment loss equal 
to the difference between the carrying amount and the estimated fair value of the reporting unit. The Company concluded 
that there was no impairment of goodwill during fiscal 2021, 2020, or 2019. 

Intangible assets with indefinite lives, which include the Boot Barn, Sheplers and Country Outfitter trademarks, 

are not amortized but instead are measured for impairment at least annually, or when events indicate that impairment 
may exist. The Company calculates impairment as the excess of the carrying value of indefinite - lived intangible assets 
over their estimated fair value. If the carrying value exceeds the estimate of fair value, an impairment charge is recorded. 
The Company concluded there was no impairment of intangible assets with indefinite lives during fiscal 2021, 2020, or 
2019. 

Definite - Lived Intangible Assets 

Definite - lived intangible assets consist of certain trademarks and customer lists. Definite - lived intangible assets 

are amortized utilizing the straight - line method over the assets’ estimated useful lives, with the exception of customer 
lists, which are amortized based on the estimated attrition rate. The period of amortization for customer lists and definite-
lived trademarks is five years and three years, respectively. 

Long - Lived Assets 

Long - lived assets consist of property and equipment and definite - lived intangible assets. The Company assesses 

potential impairment of its long - lived assets whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that an asset or asset 

68 

group’s carrying value may not be recoverable. Factors that are considered important that could trigger an impairment 
review include a current period operating or cash flow loss combined with a history of operating or cash flow losses and 
a projection or forecast that demonstrates continuing losses or insufficient income associated with the use of a long - lived 
asset or asset group. Other factors include a significant change in the manner of the use of the asset or a significant 
negative industry or economic trend. This evaluation is performed based on estimated undiscounted future cash flows 
from operating activities compared with the carrying value of the related assets. If the undiscounted future cash flows are 
less than the carrying value, an impairment loss is recognized, measured by the difference between the carrying value, 
and the estimated fair value of the assets, with such estimated fair values determined using the best information available 
and in accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurements. 
During fiscal 2021, the Company recorded asset impairment charges of $0.7 million related to its stores. These long-
lived asset impairment charges relate to right-of-use assets and property, plant and equipment associated with the 
Company’s stores. During fiscal 2020, the Company recorded an asset impairment charge of $0.2 million related to one 
of its stores. During fiscal 2019, the Company recorded asset impairment charges of less than $0.5 million related to 
three of its stores. The fair values of these locations were calculated based on the projected discounted cash flows at a 
similar rate that would be used by market participants in valuing these assets or prices of similar assets.   

Stock - Based Compensation 

Stock - based compensation is accounted for under FASB ASC Topic 718, Compensation—Stock Compensation 

(“ASC 718”). The Company accounts for all stock - based compensation transactions using a fair - value method and 
recognizes the fair value of each award as an expense over the service period. The Company estimates the fair value of 
stock options granted using the Black - Scholes option - pricing model. The use of the Black - Scholes model requires a 
number of estimates, including the expected option term, the expected volatility in the price of the Company’s common 
stock, the risk - free rate of interest and the dividend yield on the Company’s common stock. The fair value of stock 
options granted with both service and market vesting conditions is estimated using a Monte Carlo simulation model. The 
fair value of the Company’s restricted stock awards, restricted stock units and performance share units is the closing 
price of the Company’s common stock on the grant date. The consolidated financial statements include amounts that are 
based on the Company’s best estimates and judgments. The Company classifies compensation expense related to these 
awards in the consolidated statements of operations based on the department to which the recipient reports. 

Revenue Recognition 

Revenue is recorded for store sales upon the purchase of merchandise by customers. Transfer of control takes 

place at the point at which the customer receives and pays for the merchandise at the register. E-commerce sales are 
recorded when control transfers to the customer, which generally occurs upon delivery of the product. Shipping and 
handling revenues are included in total net sales. Shipping costs incurred by the Company are included as cost of goods 
sold. Sales taxes that are collected in connection with revenue transactions are withheld and remitted to the respective 
taxing authorities. As such, these taxes are excluded from revenue. 

69 

 
 
Revenue is recorded net of estimated and actual sales returns and deductions for coupon redemptions, estimated 

future award redemption and other promotions. The sales returns reserve reflects an estimate of sales returns based on 
projected merchandise returns determined through the use of historical average return percentages. The total reserve for 
returns was $2.8 million, $1.6 million, and $1.8 million as of fiscal 2021, 2020, and 2019, respectively and is recorded in 
accrued expenses and other current liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. The Company accounts 
for the asset and liability separately on a gross basis. The following table provides a reconciliation of the activity related 
to the Company’s sales returns reserve: 

Sales Returns Reserve 

(In thousands) 
Beginning balance 
Provisions 
Sales returns 
Ending balance 

Fiscal Year Ended 
  March 27,    March 28,    March 30,   
2020 
  1,761   $   1,587  
     39,026  
    (38,852) 
  1,648   $   1,761  

2021 
  $   1,648   $ 
     28,751  
    (27,609) 
  $   2,790   $ 

     43,664  
    (43,777) 

2019 

The Company maintains a customer loyalty program. Under the program, customers accumulate points based 

on purchase activity. For customers to maintain their active point balance, they must make a qualifying purchase of 
merchandise at least once in a 365 - day period. Once a loyalty program member achieves a certain point level, the 
member earns awards that may be redeemed for credits on merchandise purchases. To redeem awards, the member must 
make a qualifying purchase of merchandise within 60 days of the date the award was granted. Unredeemed awards and 
accumulated partial points are accrued as unearned revenue until redemption or expiration and, upon redemption and 
expiration, as an adjustment to net sales using the relative standalone selling price method. The unearned revenue for this 
program is recorded in accrued expenses and other current liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets and was $2.5 
million, $2.1 million, and $1.9 million as of March 27, 2021, March 28, 2020, and March 30, 2019, respectively. The 
following table provides a reconciliation of the activity related to the Company’s customer loyalty program: 

Customer Loyalty Program 

(In thousands) 
Beginning balance 

Current year provisions 
Current year award redemptions 

Ending balance 

Fiscal Year Ended 
  March 27,   March 28,   March 30,  

2019 

2021 

2020 
  $   2,076   $   1,936   $   1,705  
     5,433  
     6,468  
    (5,202)  
    (6,328)  
  $   2,485   $   2,076   $   1,936  

     6,934  
    (6,525)  

Proceeds from the sale of gift cards are deferred until the customers use the cards to acquire merchandise. Gift 

cards, gift certificates and store credits do not have expiration dates, and unredeemed gift cards, gift certificates and store 
credits are subject to state escheatment laws. Amounts remaining after escheatment are recognized in net sales in the 
period escheatment occurs and the liability is considered to be extinguished. The Company defers recognition of a 
layaway sale and its related profit to the accounting period when the customer receives the layaway merchandise. Income 
from the redemption of gift cards, gift card breakage, and the sale of layaway merchandise is included in net sales. The 
following table provides a reconciliation of the activity related to the Company’s gift card program:     

Gift Card Program 

(In thousands) 
Beginning balance 

Current year issuances 
Current year redemptions 
Current year breakage 

Ending balance 

70 

Fiscal Year Ended 

  March 27,    March 28,    March 30, 

2021 

2020 

2019 

  $    10,118   $   8,796   $   7,857 
     14,112 
    (12,341)
  (832)
  $    11,569   $   10,118   $   8,796 

     16,745  
    (14,874) 
  (549) 

     18,905  
    (16,614) 
  (840) 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
    
     
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
 
 
    
    
    
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
 
    
     
    
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Disaggregated Revenue   

The Company disaggregates net sales into the following major merchandise categories:   

% of Net Sales 
Footwear 
Apparel 
Hats, accessories and other 
Total 

March 27, 2021 
53%  
32%  
15%  
100%  

Fiscal Year Ended 
  March 28, 2020 
51%  
34%  
15%  
100%  

  March 30, 2019 
52% 
34% 
14% 
100% 

The Company also disaggregates net sales between stores and e-commerce: 

% of Net Sales 
Stores 
E-commerce 
Total 

Cost of Goods Sold 

March 27, 2021 
81%  
19%  
100%  

Fiscal Year Ended 
  March 28, 2020 
84%  
16%  
100%  

  March 30, 2019 
83% 
17% 
100% 

Cost of goods sold includes the cost of merchandise, obsolescence and shrink provisions, store and warehouse 

occupancy costs (including rent, depreciation and utilities), inbound and outbound freight, supplier allowances, 
occupancy - related taxes, compensation costs for merchandise purchasing and warehouse personnel and other inventory 
acquisition - related costs. 

Store Opening Costs 

Store opening costs consist of costs incurred prior to opening a new store and primarily consist of manager and 
other employee payroll, travel and training costs, marketing expenses, initial opening supplies and costs of transporting 
initial inventory and certain fixtures to store locations, as well as occupancy costs incurred from the time that we take 
possession of a store site to the opening of that store. Occupancy costs are included in cost of goods sold and the other 
store opening costs are included in selling, general and administrative (“SG&A”) expenses. All of these costs are 
expensed as incurred. 

Advertising Costs 

Certain advertising costs, including pay-per-click, direct mail, television and radio promotions, event 

sponsorship, in - store photographs and other promotional advertising are expensed when the marketing campaign 
commences. The Company had prepaid advertising costs of $0.8 million and $0.2 million as of March 27, 2021 and 
March 28, 2020, respectively. All other advertising costs are expensed as incurred. The Company recognized $24.1 
million, $28.0 million, and $27.7 million in advertising costs during fiscal 2021, 2020, and 2019, respectively. 

Leases 

Prior to the adoption of ASU No. 2016 - 02, Leases (“ASC 842”), the Company recognized rent expense for 

operating leases on a straight - line basis (including the effect of reduced or free rent and rent escalations) over the lease 
term. The difference between the cash paid to the landlord and the amount recognized as rent expense on a straight - line 
basis was recognized as an adjustment to deferred rent in the consolidated balance sheets. Cash reimbursements received 
from landlords for leasehold improvements and other cash payments received from landlords as lease incentives were 
recorded as deferred rent and amortized using the straight - line method over the lease term as an offset to rent expense. 
Contingent rent, determined based on a percentage of sales in excess of specified levels, was recognized as rent expense 
when the achievement of the specified sales that triggers the contingent rent was probable. 

71 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
      
      
      
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
      
      
      
 
 
 
 
 
Subsequent to the adoption of ASC 842 on March 31, 2019, the first day of fiscal 2020, operating and finance 
lease liabilities are recognized at the lease commencement date based on the present value of the fixed lease payments 
using the Company's incremental borrowing rates for its population of leases. As a result of the adoption of the new 
accounting standard, the Company elected transition-related practical expedients as accounting policies which allowed it 
to not reassess, as of the adoption date, (1) whether any expired or existing contracts are or contain leases, (2) the 
classification of any expired or existing leases, and (3) if previously capitalized initial direct costs qualify for 
capitalization under ASC 842. The Company elected the practical expedient option to not separate lease and non-lease 
components for all of its leases, and also elected the short-term lease recognition exemption that keeps leases with an 
initial term of 12 months or less excluded from balance sheet capitalization. This results in recognizing those lease 
payments in the consolidated statements of operations on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Related operating and 
finance lease right-of-use assets are recognized based on the initial present value of the fixed lease payments, reduced by 
cash payments received from landlords as lease incentives, plus any prepaid rent and other direct costs from executing 
the leases. Amortization of both operating and finance lease right-of-use assets is performed on a straight-line basis and 
recorded as part of rent expense in cost of goods sold and selling, general and administrative expenses on the 
consolidated statements of operations. The interest expense amortization component of the finance lease liabilities is 
recorded within interest expense on the consolidated statements of operations.   

Leases with an initial term of 12 months or less are not recorded on the balance sheet; the Company recognizes 

lease expense for these leases on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Variable lease payments are recognized as 
lease expense as they are incurred.   

Income Taxes 

The Company accounts for income taxes in accordance with ASC Topic 740, Income Taxes (“ASC 740”), 
which requires the asset and liability approach for financial accounting and reporting of income taxes. Deferred tax 
assets and liabilities are attributable to differences between financial statement and income tax reporting. Deferred tax 
assets, net of any valuation allowances, represent the future tax return consequences of those differences and for 
operating loss and tax credit carryforwards, which will be deductible when the assets are recovered. Deferred tax assets 
are reduced by a valuation allowance if it is deemed more likely than not that some or all of the deferred tax assets will 
not be realized. In assessing the realizability of deferred tax assets, the Company considers whether it is more likely than 
not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. The ultimate realization of deferred tax assets 
is dependent upon the generation of future taxable income during the periods in which those temporary differences 
become deductible. The Company considers the scheduled reversal of deferred tax liabilities, projected future taxable 
income and tax planning strategies in making this assessment. 

The Company accounts for uncertain tax positions in accordance with ASC 740, which clarifies the accounting 

for uncertainty in income taxes recognized in an enterprise’s financial statements. It prescribes a recognition threshold 
and measurement attribute for the financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to 
be taken in a tax return. ASC 740 also provides guidance on derecognition, classification, interest and penalties, 
accounting in interim periods, disclosure and transition. Such changes in recognition or measurement might result in the 
recognition of a tax benefit or an additional charge to the tax provision in the period. 

The Company recognizes interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits within the income tax 

expense line in the consolidated statements of operations. Accrued interest and penalties, if incurred, are included within 
accrued expenses and other current liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets. There were no accrued interest or 
penalties for the fiscal years ended March 27, 2021 or March 28, 2020. 

Per Share Information 

Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing net income by the weighted average number of outstanding 

shares of common stock. In computing diluted earnings per share, the weighted average number of common shares 
outstanding is adjusted to reflect the effect of potentially dilutive securities such as stock options and restricted stock. In 
accordance with ASC 718, the Company utilizes the treasury stock method to compute the dilutive effect of stock 
options, restricted stock awards, restricted stock units and performance share units. 

72 

Fair Value of Certain Financial Assets and Liabilities 

The Company follows FASB ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures, (“ASC 820”) which 

requires disclosure of the estimated fair value of certain assets and liabilities defined by the guidance as financial 
instruments. The Company’s financial instruments consist principally of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, 
accounts payable and debt. ASC 820 defines the fair value of financial instruments as the price that would be received 
from the sale of an asset or paid to transfer a liability in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or 
liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. ASC 820 establishes a 
three - level hierarchy for disclosure that is based on the extent and level of judgment used to estimate the fair value of 
assets and liabilities. 

•  Level 1 uses unadjusted quoted prices that are available in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.   

•  Level 2 uses inputs other than quoted prices included in Level 1 that are either directly or indirectly 

observable through correlation with market data. These include quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities 
in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active; 
and inputs to valuation models or other pricing methodologies that do not require significant judgment 
because the inputs used in the model, such as interest rates, incremental borrowing rates and volatility, can 
be corroborated by readily observable market data. 

•  Level 3 uses one or more significant inputs that are unobservable and supported by little or no market 

activity, and reflect the use of significant management judgment. Level 3 assets and liabilities include those 
whose fair value measurements are determined using pricing models, discounted cash flow methodologies 
or similar valuation techniques and significant management judgment or estimation. The Company’s 
Level 3 assets include certain acquired businesses and the evaluation of store impairment. 

Cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable and accounts payable are classified according to the lowest level 

input that is significant to the fair value measurement. As a result, the asset or liability could be classified as Level 2 or 
Level 3 even though there may be certain significant inputs that are readily observable. The Company believes that the 
recorded values of its financial instruments approximate their current fair values because of their nature and respective 
relatively short maturity dates or duration. 

Although market quotes for the fair value of the outstanding debt arrangements discussed in Note 8 “Revolving 
credit facilities and long - term debt” are not readily available, the Company believes its carrying value approximates fair 
value due to the variable interest rates, which are Level 2 inputs. There were no material financial assets or liabilities 
requiring fair value measurements as of March 27, 2021 on a recurring basis. 

Concentration of Credit Risk 

Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to credit risk consist principally of cash and cash 

equivalents. At times, such amounts held at banks may be in excess of Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation insurance 
limits, and the Company mitigates such risk by utilizing multiple banks. 

Supplier Concentration Risk 

The Company purchases merchandise inventories from several hundred suppliers worldwide. Sales of products 

from the Company’s three largest suppliers totaled approximately 33% of net sales in fiscal 2021, 36% of net sales in 
fiscal 2020, and approximately 39% of net sales in fiscal 2019. 

73 

Recent Accounting Pronouncements 

In January 2021, the FASB issued ASU No. 2021 - 01, Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848), which clarifies some 

of its guidance around reference rate reform activities as global market participants undertake efforts to transition from 
using or referencing the London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) and other interbank offered rates to using or 
referencing alternative reference rates. The amendments in this ASU if elected by an entity, are effective immediately. 
Unlike other topics, the provisions of this update are only available until December 31, 2022, by which time the 
reference rate replacement activity is expected to be completed. The Company does not expect the revised standard to 
have an impact on its consolidated financial statements. 

Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements   

In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017 - 04, Intangibles — Goodwill and Other: Simplifying the Test 

for Goodwill Impairment, which simplifies the accounting for goodwill impairment by eliminating step two from the 
goodwill impairment test. Under this new guidance, if the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds its estimated fair 
value, an impairment charge shall be recognized in an amount equal to that excess, limited to the total amount of 
goodwill allocated to that reporting unit. The amendments in this ASU are effective prospectively for fiscal years and 
interim periods within those years beginning after December 15, 2019. The standard became effective for the Company 
beginning March 29, 2020, the first day of its fiscal 2021 year. The revised standard did not have a material impact on 
the consolidated financial statements. 

3. Asset Acquisitions and Business Combinations 

Asset Acquisitions 

Drysdales, Inc.   

On July 3, 2018, Boot Barn, Inc. completed the acquisition of assets from Drysdales, Inc. (“Drysdales”), a 

retailer with two stores in Tulsa, Oklahoma. As part of the transaction, Boot Barn, Inc. purchased the inventory, entered 
into new leases with the stores’ landlord, offered employment to the Drysdales team at both store locations and assumed 
certain customer credits. The primary reason for the acquisition of Drysdales was to further expand the Company’s retail 
operations in Oklahoma. The cash consideration paid was $3.8 million.   

In allocating the purchase price, the Company recorded all assets acquired and liabilities assumed at fair value. 

As the acquisition did not meet the definition of a business combination under FASB ASC Topic 805, Business 
Combinations, the Company accounted for the transaction as an asset acquisition. In an asset acquisition, goodwill is not 
recognized, but rather any excess consideration transferred over the fair value of the net assets acquired is allocated on a 
relative fair value basis to the identifiable net assets.    

The Company determined the estimated fair values using Level 3 inputs after review and consideration of 

relevant information, including quoted market prices and estimates made by management. The inventory was valued 
using the comparative sales method and the customer credits were valued using the cost approach. Based on the fair 
value analysis of the net assets acquired and liabilities assumed, the inventory was valued at $4.2 million, and the 
customer credits were valued at $0.4 million. 

Wood’s Boots   

On September 11, 2017, Boot Barn, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, completed the acquisition 

of assets from Wood’s Boots, a four-store family-owned retailer with stores in Midland and Odessa, Texas. As part of 
the transaction, Boot Barn, Inc. purchased the inventory, entered into new leases with the stores’ landlord, offered 
employment to the Wood’s Boots team at all four store locations and assumed certain customer credits. The cash 
consideration paid was $2.7 million.   

74 

 
In allocating the purchase price, the Company recorded all assets acquired and liabilities assumed at fair value. 

As the acquisition did not meet the definition of a business combination under FASB ASC Topic 805, Business 
Combinations, the Company accounted for the transaction as an asset acquisition. In an asset acquisition, goodwill is not 
recognized, but rather any excess consideration transferred over the fair value of the net assets acquired is allocated on a 
relative fair value basis to the identifiable net assets.    

The Company determined the estimated fair values using Level 3 inputs after review and consideration of 

relevant information, including quoted market prices and estimates made by management. The inventory was valued 
using the comparative sales method. Based on the fair value analysis of the net assets acquired and liabilities assumed, 
the inventory was valued at $2.8 million, and the customer credits were valued at less than $0.1 million.   

Business Combinations 

G.&L. Clothing, Inc.   

On August 26, 2019, Boot Barn, Inc. completed the acquisition of G.&L. Clothing, Inc. (“G.&L. Clothing”), an 

individually-owned retailer operating one store in Des Moines, Iowa. As part of the transaction, Boot Barn, Inc. 
purchased the inventory, entered into new leases with the store’s landlord and offered employment to the G.&L. Clothing 
team. The primary reason for the acquisition of G.&L. Clothing was to further expand the Company’s retail operations in 
Iowa. The cash consideration paid for the acquisition was $3.7 million. 

In allocating the purchase price, the Company recorded all assets acquired and liabilities assumed at fair value. 
The total fair value of consideration transferred for the acquisition was allocated to the net tangible and intangible assets 
based upon their estimated fair values as of the date of the acquisition of G.&L. Clothing. The excess of the purchase 
price over the net tangible and intangible assets was recorded as goodwill. The goodwill and intangible assets are 
deductible for income tax purposes.   

The Company determined the estimated fair values using Level 3 inputs after review and consideration of 

relevant information, including quoted market prices and estimates made by management. The inventory was valued 
using the comparative sales method. Property and equipment, net, customer list and merchandise credits and other 
current liabilities were valued under either the cost or income approach. The following table summarizes the estimated 
fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed as of the acquisition date based on the purchase price allocation: 

(in thousands) 
Assets acquired: 
Inventory 
Property & equipment, net 
Customer list 
Right-of-use asset, net 
Goodwill 

Total assets acquired 

Liabilities assumed: 

Merchandise credits and other current liabilities 
Short-term lease liability 
Long-term lease liability 
Total liabilities assumed 

Net assets acquired 

Lone Star Western & Casual LLC 

At August 26, 2019 

  2,361 
  64 
  345 
  1,946 
  1,644 
  6,360 

  169 
  129 
  2,374 
  2,672 
  3,688 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

On April 24, 2018, Boot Barn, Inc. completed the acquisition of Lone Star Western & Casual LLC (“Lone 

Star”), an individually owned retail company with three stores in Waxahachie, Corsicana and Athens, Texas. As part of 
the transaction, Boot Barn, Inc. purchased the inventory, entered into new leases with the stores’ landlord and offered 

75 

 
 
 
 
     
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
employment to the Lone Star team at all three store locations. The primary reason for the acquisition of Lone Star was to 
further expand the Company’s retail operations in Texas. The cash consideration paid for the acquisition was $4.4 
million.   

In allocating the purchase price, the Company recorded all assets acquired and liabilities assumed at fair value. 
The total fair value of consideration transferred for the acquisition was allocated to the net tangible and intangible assets 
based upon their estimated fair values as of the date of the acquisition of Lone Star. The excess of the purchase price 
over the net tangible and intangible assets was recorded as goodwill. The goodwill and intangible assets are deductible 
for income tax purposes. 

The Company determined the estimated fair values using Level 3 inputs after review and consideration of 

relevant information, including quoted market prices and estimates made by management. The inventory was valued 
using the comparative sales method. Property and equipment, net, below and above-market leases and customer credits 
were valued under either the cost or income approach. The following table summarizes the estimated fair values of the 
assets acquired and liabilities assumed as of the acquisition date based on the purchase price allocation:   

Assets acquired: 
Inventory 
Property & equipment, net 
Below-market lease 
Goodwill 

Total assets acquired 

Liabilities assumed: 

Other liability - merchandise credits 
Above-market lease 

Total liabilities assumed 

Net Assets acquired 

At June 30, 2018 
(in thousands) 

  1,872 
  42 
  92 
  2,763 
  4,769 

  69 
  276 
  345 
  4,424 

   $ 

  $ 

  $ 

  $ 

The change in the carrying amount of goodwill is as follows (in thousands): 

Balance as of March 30, 2019 

Goodwill as a result of the G.&L. Clothing Inc. Acquisition 

Balance as of March 28, 2020 

Activity 

Balance as of March 27, 2021 

  $    195,858    
  1,644  
  197,502  
 —  
  $    197,502  

76 

 
 
 
 
     
 
 
     
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
4. Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets 

Prepaid expenses and other current assets consisted of the following (in thousands): 

     March 27,      March 28,   

2021 

2020 

Prepaid advertising 
Prepaid insurance 
Income tax receivable 
Debt issuance costs 
Prepaid merchandise 
Other 

Total prepaid expenses and other current assets 

5. Property and Equipment, Net 

Property and equipment, net, consisted of the following (in thousands): 

Land 
Buildings 
Leasehold improvements 
Machinery and equipment 
Furniture and fixtures 
Construction in progress 
Vehicles 

Less: Accumulated depreciation 
Property and equipment, net 

  $ 

  831   $ 

  239  
  1,033  
  5,172  
  376  
  5,446  
  2,018  
  $   12,777   $   14,284  

  1,292  
 —  
  251  
  7,482  
  2,921  

      March 27,        March 28,   

2021 

2020 

  $

 —   $ 
 —  
  71,967  
     31,404  
     76,785  
  5,364  
  1,024  
    186,544  
     (76,100) 

 —  
 —  
  59,717  
  31,767  
  69,143  
  9,738  
  1,367  
    171,732  
     (62,129) 
  $  110,444   $   109,603  

Depreciation expense was $24.1 million, $21.2 million, and $18.3 million for fiscal years 2021, 2020, and 2019, 

respectively. Beginning in fiscal 2021, as a result of the adoption of ASC 842, amortization related to assets under 
finance leases is included in cost of goods sold rather than depreciation expense (see Note 11 “Leases”). Additionally, as 
a result of the adoption of ASC 842, land and buildings that were previously classified as property and equipment, net, 
were reclassified to finance lease right-of-use assets beginning in fiscal 2020. 

6. Intangible Assets, Net 

Net intangible assets consisted of the following: 

March 27, 2021 

Customer lists 
Trademarks—definite lived 

Total definite lived 

Trademarks—indefinite lived 
Total intangible assets 

Gross 

  Carrying    Accumulated  
      Amount      Amortization     

     Weighted  
  Average   
    Useful Life  
(in thousands, except for weighted average useful life)  
  5.0  
  3.0  

Net 

  $

  345   $ 
  15  
  360  
    60,677  
  $  61,037   $ 

  (137)  $
  (15) 
  (152) 
 —  

  208   
 —  
  208  
    60,677  
  (152)  $  60,885  

77 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
     
    
  
 
  
  
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
     
     
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
  
  
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
     
      
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
Customer lists 
Below-market leases 
Trademarks—definite lived 

Total definite lived 

Trademarks—indefinite lived 
Total intangible assets 

March 28, 2020 

Gross 

  Carrying    Accumulated  
      Amount      Amortization     

  Weighted  
  Average   
    Useful Life  
(in thousands, except for weighted average useful life)  
  5.0  
 —  
  3.0  

Net 

  $

  345   $ 
 —  
  15  
  360  
    60,677  
  $  61,037   $ 

  (54)  $
 —  
  (9) 
  (63) 
 —  

  291   
 —  
  6  
  297  
    60,677  
  (63)  $  60,974  

Amortization expense for intangible assets totaled $0.1 million, $0.2 million, and $0.6 million for fiscal 2021, 

2020, and 2019, respectively, and is included in selling, general and administrative expenses. 

As of March 27, 2021, estimated future amortization of intangible assets was as follows: 

Fiscal year 
2022 
2023 
2024 
2025 
2026 
Thereafter 
Total 

     (in thousands)   
  72   
  $ 
  62  
  54  
  20  
 —  
 —  
  208  

  $ 

7. Accrued Expenses and Other Current Liabilities 

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities consisted of the following (in thousands): 

Accrued compensation 
Deferred revenue 
Sales tax liability 
Income taxes payable 
Accrued occupancy expense 
Accrued interest 
Inventory reserve - returns 
Sales reward redemption liability 
Accrued property and equipment 
Other 

Total accrued expenses and other current liabilities 

8. Revolving Credit Facilities and Long-Term Debt   

     March 27,      March 28,  

2021 

2020 

  $  23,537   $  12,858  
    11,112  
  6,465  
 —  
  3,497  
  284  
  1,648  
  2,076  
  4,347  
    10,325  
  $  77,615   $  52,612  

    14,422  
    10,713  
  3,075  
  4,394  
  133  
  2,790  
     2,485  
  2,530  
    13,536  

On June 29, 2015, the Company, as guarantor, and its wholly-owned primary operating subsidiary, Boot Barn, 

Inc., refinanced the $150.0 million credit facility with Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. (“February 2015 Wells Fargo Credit 
Facility”) with the $125.0 million June 2015 Wells Fargo Revolver and the $200.0 million 2015 Golub Term Loan. The 
borrowing base of the June 2015 Wells Fargo Revolver is calculated on a monthly basis and is based on the amount of 
eligible credit card receivables, commercial accounts, inventory, and available reserves. Borrowings under the credit 
agreements were initially used to pay costs and expenses related to the Sheplers Acquisition and the closing of such 
credit agreements, and may be used for working capital and other general corporate purposes.   

78 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
     
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
Borrowings under the June 2015 Wells Fargo Revolver bear interest at per annum rates equal to, at the 
Company’s option, either (i) London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) plus an applicable margin for LIBOR loans, or 
(ii) the base rate plus an applicable margin for base rate loans. The base rate is calculated as the highest of (a) the federal 
funds rate plus 0.5%, (b) the Wells Fargo prime rate and (c) one-month LIBOR plus 1.0%. The applicable margin is 
calculated based on a pricing grid that in each case is linked to quarterly average excess availability. For LIBOR loans, 
the applicable margin ranges from 1.00% to 1.25%, and for base rate loans it ranges from 0.00% to 0.25%. The 
Company also pays a commitment fee of 0.25% per annum of the actual daily amount of the unutilized revolving loans. 
The interest on the June 2015 Wells Fargo Revolver is payable in quarterly installments ending on the maturity date. On 
May 26, 2017, the Company entered into an amendment to the June 2015 Wells Fargo Revolver (the “2017 Wells 
Amendment”), increasing the aggregate revolving credit facility to $135.0 million and extending the maturity date to the 
earlier of May 26, 2022 or 90 days prior to the previous maturity of the 2015 Golub Term Loan, which was then 
scheduled to mature on June 29, 2021. On June 6, 2019, the Company entered into Amendment No. 3 to the Credit 
Agreement (the “2019 Wells Amendment”), further increasing the aggregate revolving credit facility to $165.0 million 
and extending the maturity date to the earlier of June 6, 2024 or 90 days prior to the maturity of the 2015 Golub Term 
Loan, which is currently scheduled to mature on June 29, 2023. The 2019 Wells Amendment further made changes to the 
2015 Wells Fargo Revolver in connection with the transition away from LIBOR as the benchmark rate. The amount 
outstanding under the June 2015 Wells Fargo Revolver as of March 27, 2021 and March 28, 2020 was zero and $129.9 
million, respectively. Total interest expense incurred in the fiscal year ended March 27, 2021 on the June 2015 Wells 
Fargo Revolver was $1.5 million, and the weighted average interest rate for the fiscal year ended March 27, 2021 was 
1.6%. Total interest expense incurred in the fiscal year ended March 28, 2020 on the June 2015 Wells Fargo Revolver 
was $3.1 million, and the weighted average interest rate for the fiscal year ended March 28, 2020 was 3.3%. Total 
interest expense incurred in the fiscal year ended March 30, 2019 on the June 2015 Wells Fargo Revolver was $1.8 
million, and the weighted average interest rate for the fiscal year ended March 30, 2019 was 3.4%. 

Borrowings under the 2015 Golub Term Loan bear interest at per annum rates equal to, at the Company’s 

option, either (a) LIBOR plus an applicable margin for LIBOR loans with a LIBOR floor of 1.0%, or (b) the base rate 
plus an applicable margin for base rate loans. The base rate is calculated as the greater of (i) the higher of (x) the prime 
rate and (y) the federal funds rate plus 0.5% and (ii) the sum of one-month LIBOR plus 1.0%. The applicable margin is 
4.5% for LIBOR loans and 3.5% for base rate loans. The principal and interest on the 2015 Golub Term Loan is payable 
in quarterly installments ending on the maturity date which was originally June 29, 2021 but is now June 29, 2023. 
Quarterly principal payments of $500,000 are due for each quarter; however, on June 2, 2017, the Company prepaid 
$10.0 million on the 2015 Golub Term Loan, which included all of the required quarterly principal payments until the 
maturity date of the loan. On May 15, 2018, the Company made an additional $10.0 million prepayment on the 2015 
Golub Term Loan. On June 6, 2019, the Company entered into the Third Amendment to the 2015 Golub Term Loan (the 
“2019 Golub Amendment”) which extended the maturity date to June 29, 2023. At the time of the Third Amendment, the 
Company also prepaid $65.0 million of the term loan facility, reducing the outstanding principal balance to $111.5 
million. The 2019 Golub Amendment further made changes to the 2015 Golub Term Loan in connection with the 
transition away from LIBOR as the benchmark rate. Subsequent to March 27, 2021, on April 26, 2021, the Company 
made a $41.5 million voluntary prepayment on the term loan facility, reducing the outstanding principal balance to $70.0 
million. Total interest expense incurred in the fiscal year ended March 27, 2021 on the 2015 Golub Term Loan was $6.3 
million, and the weighted average interest rate for the fiscal year ended March 27, 2021 was 5.7%. Total interest expense 
incurred in the fiscal year ended March 28, 2020 on the 2015 Golub Term Loan was $8.5 million, and the weighted 
average interest rate for the fiscal year ended March 28, 2020 was 6.8%. Total interest expense incurred in the fiscal year 
ended March 30, 2019 on the 2015 Golub Term Loan was $12.5 million, and the weighted average interest rate for the 
fiscal year ended March 30, 2019 was 7.0%. 

All obligations under each of the 2015 Golub Term Loan and the June 2015 Wells Fargo Revolver are 
unconditionally guaranteed by the Company and each of its direct and indirect domestic subsidiaries (other than certain 
immaterial subsidiaries) which are not named as borrowers under the 2015 Golub Term Loan or the June 2015 Wells 
Fargo Revolver, as applicable.   

The priority with respect to collateral under each of the 2015 Golub Term Loan and the June 2015 Wells Fargo 

Revolver is subject to the terms of an intercreditor agreement among the lenders under the 2015 Golub Term Loan and 
the June 2015 Wells Fargo Revolver.   

79 

Each of the June 2015 Wells Fargo Revolver and the 2015 Golub Term Loan contains customary provisions 
relating to mandatory prepayments, restricted payments, voluntary payments, affirmative and negative covenants, and 
events of default. In addition, the terms of the June 2015 Wells Fargo Revolver require the Company to maintain, on a 
consolidated basis, a Consolidated Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio (as defined in the June 2015 Wells Fargo Revolver) of 
at least 1.00:1.00 during such times as a covenant trigger event shall exist. On May 26, 2017, the Company entered into 
an amendment to the 2015 Golub Term Loan (the “2017 Golub Amendment”). The 2017 Golub Amendment changed the 
maximum Consolidated Total Net Leverage Ratio (as defined in the 2015 Golub Term Loan) requirements to 4.00:1.00 
as of December 29, 2018 and for all subsequent periods. The June 2015 Wells Fargo Revolver and 2015 Golub Term 
Loan also require the Company to pay additional interest of 2.0% per annum upon triggering certain specified events of 
default set forth therein. For financial accounting purposes, the requirement for the Company to pay a higher interest rate 
upon an event of default is an embedded derivative. As of March 27, 2021, the fair value of these embedded derivatives 
was estimated and was not significant.   

As of March 27, 2021, we were in compliance with the June 2015 Wells Fargo Revolver and the 2015 Golub 

Term Loan covenants. 

Debt Issuance Costs and Debt Discount 

Debt issuance costs totaling $1.2 million were incurred under the June 2015 Wells Fargo Revolver, 2017 Wells 

Amendment and 2019 Wells Amendment and are included as assets on the consolidated balance sheets in prepaid 
expenses and other current assets. Total unamortized debt issuance costs were $0.3 million and $0.4 million as of 
March 27, 2021 and March 28, 2020, respectively. These amounts are being amortized to interest expense over the term 
of the June 2015 Wells Fargo Revolver.   

Debt issuance costs and debt discount totaling $7.1 million were incurred under the 2015 Golub Term Loan, 

2017 Golub Amendment and 2019 Golub Amendment and are included as a reduction of the non-current note payable on 
the consolidated balance sheets. Total unamortized debt issuance costs and debt discount were $1.7 million and $2.5 
million as of March 27, 2021 and March 28, 2020, respectively. These amounts are being amortized to interest expense 
over the term of the 2015 Golub Term Loan.   

The following sets forth the balance sheet information related to the term loan:   

(in thousands) 
Term Loan 
Unamortized value of the debt issuance costs and debt discount 
Net carrying value 

     March 27,        March 28,   

2021 

2020 

  $  111,500   $   111,500  
  (2,478) 
  $  109,781   $   109,022  

  (1,719) 

Total amortization expense of $0.9 million, $0.9 million and $1.2 million related to the June 2015 Wells Fargo 
Revolver and 2015 Golub Term Loan is included as a component of interest expense in the fiscal years ended March 27, 
2021, March 28, 2020 and March 30, 2019. 

80 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Aggregate contractual maturities 

Aggregate contractual maturities for the Company’s long-term debt as of March 27, 2021 are as follows: 

Fiscal Year 
2022 
2023 
2024 
2025 
2026 
Total 

9. Stock-Based Compensation 

Equity Incentive Plans 

  $

  (in thousands)   
 —  
 —  
  111,500  
 —  
 —  
  111,500  

  $

On January 27, 2012, the Company approved the 2011 Equity Incentive Plan (the “2011 Plan”). The 2011 Plan 

authorized the Company to issue options to employees, consultants and directors exercisable for up to a total of 
3,750,000 shares of common stock. As of March 27, 2021, all awards granted by the Company under the 2011 Plan have 
been nonqualified stock options. Options granted under the 2011 Plan have a life of 10 years and vest over service 
periods of five years or in connection with certain events as defined by the 2011 Plan. 

On October 19, 2014, the Company approved the 2014 Equity Incentive Plan, which was amended as of 

August 24, 2016 (as amended, the “2014 Plan”). Following the approval of the 2014 Plan, no further grants have been 
made under the 2011 Plan. The 2014 Plan authorizes the Company to issue awards to employees, consultants and 
directors for up to a total of 3,600,000 shares of common stock, par value $0.0001 per share. As of March 27, 2021, all 
awards granted by the Company under the 2014 Plan to date have been nonqualified stock options, restricted stock 
awards, restricted stock units or performance share units. Options granted under the 2014 Plan have a life of eight to ten 
years and vest over service periods of four or five years or in connection with certain events as defined by the 2014 Plan 
and as determined by the Compensation Committee of our board of directors. Restricted stock awards granted under the 
2014 Plan vest over one or four years, as determined by the Compensation Committee of our board of directors. 
Restricted stock units granted under the 2014 Plan vest over service periods of one, four or five years, as determined by 
the Compensation Committee of our board of directors. Performance share units are subject to the vesting criteria 
discussed further below.   

On August 26, 2020, the Company approved the 2020 Equity Incentive Plan (the “2020 Plan”). Following the 

approval of the 2020 Plan, no further grants have been made under the 2014 Plan. The 2020 Plan authorizes the 
Company to issue awards to employees and directors for up to a total of 2,000,000 shares of common stock. As of 
March 27, 2021 no awards had been granted under the 2020 Plan. 

Stock Options 

On May 20, 2019, the Company granted its Chief Executive Officer ("CEO") an option to purchase 227,273 

shares of common stock under the 2014 Plan. This option contains both service and market vesting conditions. Vesting 
of this option is contingent upon the market price of the Company's common stock achieving three stated price targets 
for 30 consecutive trading days through the fourth anniversary of the date of grant. If the first market price target is met, 
33% of the option granted will cliff vest on the fourth anniversary of the date of grant, with an additional 33% of the 
option vesting if the second market price target is met, and the last 34% of the option vesting if the final market price 
target is met. During fiscal 2020, the first market price target was met, and as such, 33% of the option or 75,000 shares 
will cliff vest on the fourth anniversary of the date of grant, subject to the applicable service conditions. During fiscal 
2021, the second and third market price targets were met, and as such, the final 67% of the option or 152,273 shares will 
cliff vest on the fourth anniversary of the date of grant, subject to the applicable service conditions. The total grant date

81 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
    
    
    
   
 
 
fair value of this option was $2.0 million, with a grant date fair value of $8.80 per share. The Company is recognizing the 
expense relating to this stock option on a straight-line basis over the four-year service period. The exercise price of this 
award is $28.63 per share. The fair value of the option was estimated using a Monte Carlo simulation model. The 
following significant assumptions were used as of May 20, 2019, the date of grant: 

Stock price 
Exercise price 
Expected option term 
Expected volatility 
Risk-free interest rate 
Expected annual dividend yield 

     $ 
  $ 

  28.63   
  28.63  

  7.0 years 
  35.3 % 
2.3 % 
0 % 

During fiscal 2021, the Company granted certain members of management options to purchase a total of 

287,373 shares under the 2014 Plan. The total grant date fair value of stock options granted during fiscal 2021 was $3.1 
million, with grant date fair values of $10.40 to $12.71 per share. The Company is recognizing the expense relating to 
these stock options on a straight-line basis over the four-year service period of the awards. The exercise price of these 
awards ranges from $20.94 to $24.08 per share. 

During fiscal 2020, the Company granted certain members of management options to purchase a total of 

126,952 shares under the 2014 Plan. The total grant date fair value of stock options granted during fiscal 2020 was $1.4 
million, with grant date fair values ranging from $7.22 to $11.19 per share. The Company is recognizing the expense 
relating to these stock options on a straight-line basis over the four-year service period of the awards. The exercise prices 
of these awards range between $19.23 and $28.63 per share. 

During fiscal 2019, the Company granted certain members of management options to purchase a total of 

294,691 shares under the 2014 Plan. The total grant date fair value of stock options granted during fiscal 2019 was $2.7 
million, with grant date fair values ranging from $8.63 to $11.11 per share. The Company is recognizing the expense 
relating to these stock options on a straight-line basis over the four-year service period of the awards. The exercise prices 
of these awards range between $22.85 and $29.73 per share. 

Stock option awards with service vesting conditions are measured at fair value on the grant date using the 
Black - Scholes option valuation model. Key input assumptions used to estimate the fair value of stock options include the 
exercise price of the award, the expected option term, expected volatility of the Company’s stock price over the option’s 
expected term, the risk - free interest rate over the option’s expected term and the Company’s expected annual dividend 
yield, if any. The Company issues shares of common stock when options are exercised. 

82 

 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
The fair values of stock options granted in fiscal 2021, 2020, and 2019 were estimated on the grant dates using 

the following assumptions: 

March 27, 
2021 

Expected option term(1) 
Expected volatility factor(2) 
Risk-free interest rate(3) 
Expected annual dividend yield 

  57.0 % 
  0.3 % 

  6.3 years   

-    58.4 %   
  0.4 %   
- 
0 % 

Fiscal Year Ended 
March 28, 
2020 
- 
- 
- 

  6.3 
  35.3 % 
  0.5 % 

  7.0 years    
  38.1 %   
  2.3 %   
0 % 

March 30, 
2019 

  36.1 % 
  2.2 % 

- 
- 

  5.3 years   
  37.7 %   
  2.8 %   
0 % 

(1)  The Company has limited historical information regarding the expected option term. Accordingly, the Company 

determined the expected life of the options using the simplified method. 

(2)  Stock volatility for each grant is measured using the weighted average of historical daily price changes of the 

Company’s stock and its competitors’ common stock over the most recent period equal to the expected option term 
of the Company’s awards. 

(3)  The risk - free interest rate is determined using the rate on treasury securities with the same term. 

Intrinsic value for stock options is defined as the difference between the market price of the Company’s 
common stock on the last business day of the fiscal year and the weighted average exercise price of in - the - money stock 
options outstanding at the end of each fiscal period. The following table summarizes the stock award activity for the 
fiscal year ended March 27, 2021: 

  Grant Date   
  Weighted 
Average 

      Weighted 
Average 
Remaining 

  Contractual   

Stock 

     Options 

     Exercise Price     Life (in Years)     

Aggregate 
Intrinsic 
Value 
(in thousands)  

Outstanding at March 28, 2020 
Granted 
Exercised 
Cancelled, forfeited or expired 
Outstanding at March 27, 2021 
Vested and expected to vest after March 27, 2021 
Exercisable at March 27, 2021 

     1,221,223   $ 
  287,373   $ 
  (387,950)  $ 
  (8,727)  $ 
     1,111,919   $ 
     1,111,919   $ 
  158,990   $ 

  19.96  
  22.50  
  19.09  
  17.91  
  20.94   
  20.94   
  17.16   

  $ 

  12,771  

  6.7   $ 
  6.7   $ 
  4.3   $ 

  47,102  
  47,102  
  7,335  

A summary of the status of non-vested stock options as of March 27, 2021 and changes during fiscal 2021 is 

presented below: 

Nonvested at March 28, 2020 
Granted 
Vested 
Nonvested shares forfeited 
Nonvested at March 27, 2021 

Restricted Stock Units 

Shares 

     Weighted-  
  Average   
  Grant Date  
     Fair Value  
  931,257   $ 
  6.90  
  287,373   $    10.92  
  6.01  
  7.39  
  8.36  

     (258,207)  $ 
  (7,494)  $ 
  952,929   $ 

During fiscal 2021, the Company granted 175,527 restricted stock units to various directors and employees 

under the 2014 Plan. The shares granted vest in four equal annual installments beginning on the grant date, provided that 

83 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
     
     
     
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
      
     
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
 
 
 
 
 
    
  
  
  
  
 
the respective award recipient continues to be employed by the Company through each of those dates (subject to certain 
exceptions). The shares granted to the Company’s directors vest on the first anniversary of the date of grant. The grant 
date fair value of these awards for fiscal 2021 totaled $3.7 million. The Company is recognizing the expense relating to 
these awards on a straight-line basis over the service period of each award, commencing on the date of grant. 

During fiscal 2020, the Company granted 95,985 restricted stock units to various directors and employees under 

the 2014 Plan. The units granted to employees vest in four equal annual installments beginning on the grant date, 
provided that the respective award recipient continues to be employed by the Company through each of those dates. The 
units granted to the Company’s directors vest on the first anniversary of the date of grant, provided that the respective 
award recipient continues service with the Company through the vesting date. The grant date fair value of these awards 
for fiscal 2020 totaled $2.7 million. The Company is recognizing the expense relating to these awards on a straight-line 
basis over the service period of each award, commencing on the date of grant.   

During fiscal 2019, the Company granted 86,996 restricted stock units to various directors and employees under 

the 2014 Plan. The units granted to employees vest in five equal annual installments beginning on the grant date, 
provided that the respective award recipient continues to be employed by the Company through each of those dates. The 
units granted to the Company’s directors vest on the first anniversary of the date of grant, provided that the respective 
award recipient continues service with the Company through the vesting date. The grant date fair value of these awards 
for fiscal 2019 totaled $2.2 million. The Company is recognizing the expense relating to these awards on a straight-line 
basis over the service period of each award, commencing on the date of grant.   

Performance Share Units 

During fiscal 2020, the Company granted 38,546 performance share units to various employees under the 2014 

Plan with a grant date fair value of $28.63 per share.   

The performance share units granted are stock-based awards in which the number of shares ultimately received 

depends on the Company's performance against its cumulative earnings per share target over a three-year performance 
period beginning March 31, 2019 and ending March 26, 2022. These performance metrics were established by the 
Company at the beginning of the performance period. At the end of the performance period, the number of performance 
shares to be issued is fixed based upon the degree of achievement of the performance goals. If the cumulative three-year 
performance goals are below the threshold level, the number of performance units to vest will be 0%, if the performance 
goals are at the threshold level, the number of performance units to vest will be 50% of the target amounts, if the 
performance goals are at the target level, the number of performance units to vest will be 100% of the target amounts, 
and if the performance goals are at the maximum level, the number of performance units to vest will be 200% of the 
target amounts, each subject to continued service by the applicable award recipient through the last day of the 
performance period (subject to certain exceptions). If performance is between threshold and target goals or between 
target and maximum goals, the number of performance units to vest will be determined by linear interpolation. The 
number of shares ultimately issued can range from 0% to 200% of the participant's target award. 

The grant date fair value of the performance share units granted during fiscal 2021 was initially measured using 

the Company's closing stock price on the date of grant with the resulting stock compensation expense recognized on a 
straight-line basis over the three-year vesting period. The expense recognized over the vesting period is adjusted up or 
down on a quarterly basis based on the anticipated performance level during the performance period. If the performance 
metrics are not probable of achievement during the performance period, stock compensation expense would be reversed. 
The awards are forfeited if the threshold performance goals are not achieved as of the end of the performance period. 

During fiscal 2021 and fiscal 2019, the Company did not grant any performance share units. 

Stock-Based Compensation Expense 

Stock - based compensation expense was $7.2 million, $4.9 million, and $2.9 million for fiscal 2021, 2020, and 

2019, respectively. Stock-based compensation expense of $1.2 million, $0.9 million, and $0.4 million was recorded in 
cost of goods sold in the consolidated statements of operations for fiscal 2021, 2020, and 2019, respectively. All other 

84 

stock-based compensation expense is included in selling, general and administrative expenses in the consolidated 
statements of operations. 

As of March 27, 2021, there was $4.5 million of total unrecognized stock-based compensation expense related 
to unvested stock options, with a weighted-average remaining recognition period of 2.25 years. As of March 27, 2021, 
there was $3.7 million of total unrecognized stock-based compensation expense related to restricted stock units, with a 
weighted-average remaining recognition period of 2.44 years. As of March 27, 2021, there was $0.6 million of total 
unrecognized stock-based compensation expense related to performance share units, with a weighted-average remaining 
recognition period of 1.15 years.   

10. Commitments and Contingencies 

The Company is involved, from time to time, in litigation that is incidental to its business. The Company has 
reviewed these matters to determine if reserves are required for losses that are probable and reasonable to estimate in 
accordance with FASB ASC Topic 450, Contingencies. The Company evaluates such reserves, if any, based upon 
several criteria, including the merits of each claim, settlement discussions and advice from outside legal counsel, as well 
as indemnification of amounts expended by the Company’s insurers or others, if any.   

On May 8, 2019, Sheplers, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, was named as defendant in a 

class-action complaint filed in the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles. Among other things, the 
complaint generally alleges deceptive pricing on merchandise sold in Sheplers’ e-commerce site. The estimated cost of 
the matter has been accrued as of March 27, 2021.   

During the normal course of its business, the Company has made certain indemnifications and commitments 
under which the Company may be required to make payments for certain transactions. These indemnifications include 
those given to various lessors in connection with facility leases for certain claims arising from such facility leases, and 
indemnifications to directors and officers of the Company to the maximum extent permitted under the laws of the State 
of Delaware. The majority of these indemnifications and commitments do not provide for any limitation of the maximum 
potential future payments the Company could be obligated to make, and their duration may be indefinite. The Company 
has not recorded any liability for these indemnifications and commitments in the consolidated balance sheets as the 
impact is expected to be immaterial. 

11. Leases 

The Company does not own any real estate. Instead, most of its retail store locations are occupied under 
operating leases. The store leases generally have a base lease term of five or 10 years, with one or more renewal periods 
of five years, on average, exercisable at the Company’s option. The Company is generally responsible for the payment of 
property taxes and insurance, utilities and common area maintenance fees. Some leases also require additional payments 
based on percentage of sales. Lease terms include the non-cancellable portion of the underlying leases along with any 
reasonably certain lease periods associated with available renewal periods, termination options and purchase options.   

Operating and finance lease liabilities are recognized at the lease commencement date based on the present 

value of the fixed lease payments using the Company's incremental borrowing rates for its population of leases. Related 
operating and finance lease ROU assets are recognized based on the initial present value of the fixed lease payments, 
reduced by cash payments received from landlords as lease incentives, plus any prepaid rent and other direct costs from 
executing the leases. Amortization of both operating and finance lease ROU assets is performed on a straight-line basis 
and recorded as part of rent expense in cost of goods sold and selling, general and administrative expenses on the 
consolidated statements of operations. The interest expense amortization component of the finance lease liabilities is 
recorded within interest expense on the consolidated statements of operations. ROU assets are tested for impairment in 
the same manner as long-lived assets. During fiscal 2021, the Company recorded ROU asset impairment charges of $0.3 
million related to its stores. During both fiscal 2020 and 2019, the Company did not record any ROU asset impairment 
charges related to its stores. 

85 

Leases with an initial term of 12 months or less are not recorded on the balance sheet; the Company recognizes 

lease expense for these leases on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Variable lease payments are recognized as 
lease expense as they are incurred.   

In April 2020, the FASB issued guidance allowing entities to make a policy election whether to account for 

lease concessions related to the COVID - 19 pandemic as lease modifications. The election applies to any lessor-provided 
lease concession related to the impact of the COVID - 19 pandemic, provided the concession does not result in a 
substantial increase in the rights of the lessor or in the obligations of the lessee. In fiscal 2021, the Company received 
non-substantial concessions from certain landlords in the form of rent deferrals and abatements related to the COVID - 19 
pandemic. The Company elected to not account for these rent concessions as lease modifications. As such, 
approximately $4.4 million of short-term rent deferrals agreed upon with the Company’s landlords has been included in 
the accounts payable financial statement line item as of March 27, 2021. The recognition of rent concessions did not 
have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements as of March 27, 2021. 

ROU assets and lease liabilities as of March 27, 2021 consist of the following: 

Balance Sheet Classification 

March 27, 2021 
(in thousands) 

Assets 
Finance lease assets 
Operating lease assets 
          Total lease assets 

Liabilities 
Current 
Finance   
Operating 
          Total short-term lease 
liabilities 

  Right-of-use assets, net 
  Right-of-use assets, net 

Short-term lease liabilities 
Short-term lease liabilities 

Non-Current 
Finance   
Operating 
          Total long-term lease liabilities  
          Total lease liabilities 

  Long-term lease liabilities 
  Long-term lease liabilities 

Total lease costs for the fiscal year ended March 27, 2021 were: 

Statement of Operations Classification 

(in thousands) 
Finance lease cost 
          Amortization of right-of-
use assets 
          Interest on lease liabilities    Interest expense 
Total finance lease cost 

  Cost of goods sold 

Operating lease cost 
Operating lease cost 
Short-term lease cost 
Variable lease cost 
Sublease income 
        Total lease cost 

  Cost of goods sold 
  $ 
  Selling, general and administrative expenses    
  Selling, general and administrative expenses    
  Selling, general and administrative expenses    
  Cost of goods sold 

  $ 

86 

  $ 

  $ 

  $ 

  8,036 
  178,791 
  186,827 

  1,164 
  38,236 

  $ 

  39,400 

  $ 

  $ 
  $ 

  13,507 
  168,329 
  181,836 
  221,236 

  Fiscal Year Ended 
    March 27, 2021 

  $ 

  $ 

  848 
  795 
  1,643 

  43,820 
  1,102 
  2,085 
  2,192 
  (572)
  50,270 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
     
   
   
 
   
     
   
   
The following table summarizes future lease payments as of March 27, 2021: 

Fiscal Year 
2022 
2023 
2024 
2025 
2026 
Thereafter 
Total 
Less: Imputed interest 
Present value of net lease payments 

The following table includes supplemental lease information: 

Supplemental Cash Flow Information (dollars in thousands) 
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities 
        Operating cash flows from operating leases 
        Operating cash flows from finance leases 
        Financing cash flows from finance leases 

Lease liabilities arising from new right-of-use assets 
        Operating leases 
        Finance leases 

Weighted average remaining lease term (in years) 
        Operating leases 
        Finance leases 

Weighted average discount rate 
        Operating leases 
        Finance leases 

12. Defined Contribution Plan 

  $ 

(in thousands)   

  Operating Leases  Finance Leases
(in thousands) 
  1,550 
  1,484 
  1,447 
  1,396 
  1,410 
  13,988 
  21,275 
  (6,604)
  14,671 

  48,559   $ 
  43,682     
  37,871     
  32,404    
  26,456    
  58,649     
  247,621    
  (41,056)   
  206,565   $ 

  $ 

Fiscal Year Ended 
March 27, 2021 

$ 

$ 

$ 
$ 

  45,078  
  2  
  1,781  
  46,861  

  64,669  
  2,733  

  6.3  
  14.1  

  5.6 % 
  12.1 % 

The Boot Barn 401(k) Plan (the “401(k) Plan”) is a qualified plan under Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue 
Code. The 401(k) Plan provides a matching contribution for all employees that work a minimum of 1,000 hours per year. 
Contributions to the plan are based on certain criteria as defined in the agreement, governing the 401(k) Plan. 
Participating employees are allowed to contribute up to the statutory maximum set by the Internal Revenue Service. The 
Company provides a safe harbor matching contribution that matches 100% of employee contributions up to 3% of their 
respective wages and then 50% of further contributions up to 5% of their respective wages. Contributions to the plan and 
charges to selling, general and administrative expenses were $1.3 million, $1.3 million, and $0.9 million for fiscal 2021, 
2020, and 2019, respectively. 

87 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
    
   
   
    
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
13. Income Taxes 

Income tax expense consisted of the following: 

(in thousands) 
Current: 
Federal 
State 
Foreign 

Total current 

Deferred: 
Federal 
State 
Foreign 

Total deferred 

Total income tax expense 

Fiscal Year Ended 
  March 27,   March 28,   March 30,  

2021 

2020 

2019 

  $  12,761   $   7,619   $   2,728  
     2,057  
 —  
     4,785  

     2,912  
 —  
    15,673  

     2,150  
 —  
     9,769  

     1,614  
  577  
 —  
     2,191  

     4,056  
  133  
 —  
     4,189  
  $  17,864   $  12,364   $   8,974  

     3,149  
  (554) 
 —  
     2,595  

The reconciliation between the Company’s effective tax rate on income from operations and the statutory tax 

rate is as follows: 

Expected provision at statutory U.S. federal tax rate 
State and local income taxes, net of federal tax benefit 
Change in state rate 
Federal rate change 
Permanent items 
Excess tax benefit of stock-based compensation 
IRC Section 162(M) 
Valuation allowance 
Other 

Effective tax rate 

Fiscal Year Ended 

  March 27,   March 28,   March 30, 

2021 
  21.0 %  
  4.1  
 —  
 —  
  0.1  
  (3.5) 
  1.9  
 —  
  (0.4) 
  23.2 %  

2020 
  21.0 %   
  3.6  
 —  
 —  
  0.2  
  (3.5) 
  0.9  
  (0.7) 
  (1.0) 
  20.5 %   

2019 
  21.0 %   
  3.9  
 —  
 —  
  0.3  
  (7.6) 
  0.6  
  (0.1) 
  0.6  
  18.7 %   

Differences between the effective tax rate and the statutory rate relate primarily to excess tax benefits due to 

income tax accounting for share-based compensation, IRC Section 162(M) and state taxes.   

88 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
 
 
    
     
    
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
 
 
 
    
     
     
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
Deferred taxes reflect the net tax effects of the temporary differences between the carrying amount of assets and 
liabilities for financial reporting and the amount used for income tax purposes. Significant components of the Company’s 
net deferred tax liabilities as of March 27, 2021 and March 28, 2020 consisted of the following (in thousands): 

      March 27        March 28,   

2021 

2020 

Deferred tax assets: 

State taxes 
Accrued liabilities 
Award program liabilities 
Deferred revenue 
Inventory 
Stock options 
Net operating loss carryforward 
Long-term lease liabilities 
Other, net 

Total deferred tax assets 
Deferred tax liabilities: 

Depreciation and amortization 
Prepaid expenses 
Right-of-use assets 

Total deferred tax liabilities 
Valuation allowance 
Net deferred tax liabilities 

  $

  327   $

  2,393  
  265  
  1,548  
  4,319  
  1,711  
  748  
  45,499  
  1,516  
     58,326  

  266  
  2,053  
  220  
  1,959  
  3,783  
  1,249  
  826  
  42,554  
  1,267  
     54,177  

    (34,752) 
  (401) 
    (45,166) 
    (80,319) 
 —  

    (31,346) 
  (313) 
    (42,319) 
    (73,978) 
 —  
  $  (21,993)  $  (19,801) 

As of March 27, 2021, the Company had net operating loss carryforwards for federal and state tax purposes of 

zero and $16.1 million, respectively. Net operating losses generated in years beginning prior to January 1, 2018 will 
begin to expire at various dates beginning in 2023.   

Valuation allowances are established, when necessary, to reduce deferred income tax assets to the amounts 

expected to be realized. To this end, the Company has considered and evaluated its sources of taxable income, including 
forecasted future taxable income, and the Company has concluded that a valuation allowance is not necessary at 
March 27, 2021.   

The Company applies ASC 740, which contains a two - step approach to recognizing and measuring uncertain 

tax positions. The first step is to evaluate the tax position for recognition by determining if the weight of available 
evidence indicates it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained on audit, including resolution of related 
appeals or litigation processes, if any. The second step is to measure the tax benefit as the largest amount that is more 
than 50% likely of being realized upon ultimate settlement. The Company considers many factors when evaluating and 
estimating its tax positions and tax benefits, which may require periodic adjustments. At March 27, 2021 and March 28, 
2020, no material amounts were recorded for any uncertain tax positions. 

The Company’s policy is to recognize interest and penalties accrued on any unrecognized tax benefits as a 

component of income tax expense. To the extent that accrued interest and penalties do not ultimately become payable, 
amounts accrued will be reduced and reflected as a reduction of the overall income tax provision in the period that such 
determination is made. The Company does not have any accrued interest or penalties associated with any unrecognized 
tax benefits as of March 27, 2021 and March 28, 2020. 

The Company does not anticipate a significant change in its uncertain tax benefits over the next 12 months.     

The major jurisdictions in which the Company files income tax returns include the U.S. federal jurisdiction, as 
well as various state jurisdictions within the U.S. The Company’s fiscal years 2016 through 2020 returns are subject to 
examination by the U.S. federal and various state tax authorities.   

89 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
     
     
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
  
  
 
  
  
 
  
  
 
  
  
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
On March 27, 2020, the United States enacted the CARES Act which provides certain income tax benefits 

including the ability to carryback federal NOLs generated in 2018 through 2020 for an extended five-year period. It also 
increased the limitation for the deduction of interest expense from 30 percent to 50 percent of modified taxable income. 
The CARES Act also provides other economic benefits such as allowing employers to defer payment of the employer’s 
portion of payroll taxes for 2020 and a refundable employee retention credit of up to $5,000 per eligible employee 
wages. The CARES act did not have a material impact on the Company’s financial statements. 

On December 27, 2020, the United States enacted the Consolidated Appropriations Act which extended many 

of the benefits of the CARES Act that were scheduled to expire. The Company is evaluating the impact of the 
Consolidated Appropriations Act on its consolidated financial statements and related disclosures. 

14. Related Party Transactions 

The Company had capital expenditures with Floor & Decor Holdings, Inc., a specialty retail vendor in the 
flooring market. These capital expenditures amounted to $0.4 million, $0.8 million, and $0.5 million in fiscal 2021, 
fiscal 2020, and fiscal 2019, respectively, and were recorded as property and equipment, net on the consolidated balance 
sheets. Certain members of the Company’s board of directors either currently serve on the board of directors or as an 
executive officer at Floor & Decor Holdings, Inc.   

John Grijalva, the husband of Ms. Grijalva, Chief Merchandising Officer, works as an independent sales 
representative primarily for Dan Post Boot Company, Outback Trading Company, LTD and KS Marketing LLC. 
Mr. Grijalva conducts his business as an independent sales representative through a limited liability company of which 
he and Ms. Grijalva are members. We purchased merchandise from these suppliers in the aggregate approximate 
amounts of $13.8 million, $17.8 million, and $15.4 million in fiscal 2021, fiscal 2020, and fiscal 2019, respectively. 
Mr. Grijalva was paid commissions by the Company of approximately $1.0 million, $1.2 million, and $1.1 million in 
fiscal 2021, fiscal 2020 and fiscal 2019, respectively, a portion of which were passed on to other sales representatives 
working for Mr. Grijalva.   

15. Earnings Per Share 

Earnings per share is computed under the provisions of FASB ASC Topic 260, Earnings Per Share. Basic 

earnings per share is computed based on the weighted average number of outstanding shares of common stock during the 
period. Diluted earnings per share is computed based on the weighted average number of shares of common stock plus 
the effect of dilutive potential common shares outstanding during the period using the treasury stock method, whereby 
proceeds from such exercise and unamortized compensation, if any, on share-based awards are assumed to be used by 
the Company to purchase the shares of common stock at the average market price during the period. The dilutive effect 
of stock options and restricted stock is applicable only in periods of net income. Performance share units and market-
based stock option awards are excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings per share until their respective 
performance or market criteria has been achieved. 

90 

The components of basic and diluted earnings per share of common stock, in aggregate, for fiscal 2021, 2020, 

and 2019 are as follows: 

(in thousands, except per share data) 
Net income   

Weighted average basic shares outstanding 
Dilutive effect of options and restricted stock 
Weighted average diluted shares outstanding 

Basic earnings per share 
Diluted earnings per share 

Fiscal Year Ended 

  March 27,   March 28,   March 30, 

2021 

2020 

2019 

  $  59,386   $   47,949   $  39,022 

    28,930  
  547  
    29,477  

    28,583  
  637  
    29,220  

    28,092 
  721 
    28,813 

  $
  $

  2.05   $ 
  2.01   $ 

  1.68   $
  1.64   $

  1.39 
  1.35 

Options to purchase approximately 322,078, 360,079, and 483,050 shares of common stock during the fiscal 

years ended March 27, 2021, March 28, 2020 and March 30, 2019 were outstanding, but were not included in the 
computation of weighted average diluted common shares outstanding as the effect of doing so would have been anti-
dilutive. 

16. Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited) 

The tables below set forth selected quarterly financial data for each of the last two fiscal years. 

Fiscal 2021 

Fiscal 2020 

(in thousands, except per 
share data) 
Net sales 

Gross profit 

Income from operations 
Net income/(loss) 

Earnings/(loss) per share:     
$ 
$ 

Basic shares 
Diluted shares 

Weighted average shares 
outstanding: 

Fourth 
   quarter 
$ 258,872  $ 302,338  $  184,515  $  147,766  $  188,628  $  283,997  $  187,183  $  185,767 

Third 
   quarter 

Second 
   quarter 

Fourth 
   quarter 

Third 
   quarter 

Second 
   quarter 

   quarter 

   quarter 

First 

First 

  92,379  

  32,860    
  24,552    

106,809 
  41,626    
  29,566    

  55,490  

  40,201  

  57,961  

  97,036  

  59,338  

  62,156 

  10,042    
  5,758    

  1,798    
  (490)   

  9,696    
  5,729    

  34,977    
  24,819    

  12,934    
  7,680    

  16,061 
  9,721 

  0.84  $ 
  0.82  $ 

  1.02  $ 
  1.00  $ 

  0.20  $ 
  0.20  $ 

  (0.02) $ 
  (0.02) $ 

  0.20  $ 
  0.20  $ 

  0.87  $ 
  0.85  $ 

  0.27  $ 
  0.26  $ 

  0.34 
  0.33 

Basic shares 
Diluted shares 

  29,122    
  30,033    

  28,912   
  29,581   

  28,860   
  29,223   

  28,826   
  28,826   

  28,786   
  29,310   

  28,665   
  29,367   

  28,502   
  29,161   

  28,380 
  29,025 

91 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
     
 
  
    
     
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure 

None. 

Item 9A. Controls and Procedures 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures 

We maintain a system of disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a - 15(e) and 15d - 15(e) under 

the Exchange Act) designed to ensure that the information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or 
submit under the Exchange Act, is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the 
rules and forms of the SEC, and is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our Chief Executive 
Officer (our principal executive officer) and our Chief Financial Officer (our principal financial officer and principal 
accounting officer), as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. 

Our management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, has 
evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures under the Exchange Act as of March 27, 2021, the 
end of the period covered by this Annual Report on Form 10 - K. Based upon that evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer 
and Chief Financial Officer concluded that, as of March 27, 2021, our disclosure controls and procedures were effective. 

Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting 

We are responsible for establishing and maintaining internal control over financial reporting (as defined in 

Rules 13a - 15(f) and 15d - 15(f) under the Exchange Act). Internal control over financial reporting is designed to provide 
reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for 
external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. Because of its inherent limitations, 
internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of 
the effectiveness of the internal control over financial reporting to future periods are subject to the risk that the controls 
may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or 
procedures may deteriorate. 

Our management, under the supervision and with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief 
Financial Officer, assessed the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of March 27, 2021. In 
making this assessment, our management used the Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013) as issued by the 
Committee of Sponsoring Organizations (COSO) of the Treadway Commission. Based on this assessment, management 
concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective as of March 27, 2021.   

The effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of March 27, 2021 has been audited by 

Deloitte & Touche LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their report which appears 
immediately below. 

92 

 
 
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM 

To the shareholders and the Board of Directors of   
Boot Barn Holdings, Inc. 

Opinion on Internal Control over Financial Reporting 

We have audited the internal control over financial reporting of Boot Barn Holdings, Inc. and subsidiaries (the 
“Company”) as of March 27, 2021, based on criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework (2013) 
issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). In our opinion, the 
Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of March 27, 2021, 
based on criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework (2013) issued by COSO. 
We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United 
States) (PCAOB), the consolidated financial statements as of and for the year ended March 27, 2021, of the Company 
and our report dated May 13, 2021, expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial statements. 

Basis for Opinion 

The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its 
assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management’s 
Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the 
Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We are a public accounting firm registered with 
the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal 
securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB. 

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and 
perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was 
maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial 
reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness 
of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the 
circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion. 

Definition and Limitations of Internal Control over Financial Reporting 

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding 
the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with 
generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies 
and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the 
transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are 
recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting 
principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of 
management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely 
detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the 
financial statements. 

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. 
Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become 
inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may 
deteriorate. 

/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP 

Costa Mesa, California 
May 13, 2021 

93 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarterly period 

ended March 27, 2021 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control 
over financial reporting. 

Item 9B. Other Information 

None. 

94 

 
 
Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance 

PART III 

The information required by this item will be contained in our 2021 Proxy Statement, which is expected to be 

filed not later than 120 days after the end of our fiscal year ended March 27, 2021, and is incorporated herein by 
reference. 

In addition, our Board of Directors has adopted a Code of Business Ethics that applies to all of our directors, 

employees and officers, including our Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer and Principal Accounting 
Officer. The current version of the Code of Business Ethics is available on our website under the Investor Relations 
section at www.bootbarn.com. In accordance with the rules adopted by the SEC and the New York Stock Exchange, we 
intend to promptly disclose any amendments to certain provisions of the Code of Business Ethics, or waivers of such 
provisions granted to executive officers and directors, on our website under the Investor Relations section at 
www.bootbarn.com. The information contained on or accessible through our website is not incorporated by reference 
into this Annual Report on Form 10 - K. 

Item 11. Executive Compensation 

The information required by this Item will be set forth in the 2021 Proxy Statement and is incorporated herein 

by reference. 

Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters 

The information required by this Item will be set forth in the 2021 Proxy Statement and is incorporated herein 

by reference. 

Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence 

The information required by this Item will be set forth in the 2021 Proxy Statement and is incorporated herein 

by reference. 

Item 14. Principal Accountant Fees and Services 

The information required by this Item will be set forth in the 2021 Proxy Statement and is incorporated herein 

by reference. 

Item 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules 

Financial Statements and Financial Statement Schedules 

PART IV 

See “Index to Consolidated Financial Statements” in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10 - K. 
Financial statement schedules have been omitted because they are not required or are not applicable or because the 
information required in those schedules either is not material or is included in the consolidated financial statements or the 
accompanying notes. 

Exhibits 

The exhibits listed below are filed or incorporated by reference as part of this Annual Report on Form 10 - K. 

95 

 
 
 
Exhibit 
Number 

2.1(1)

Agreement and Plan of Merger by and among Boot Barn, Inc., Rodeo Acquisition Corp., Sheplers 
Holding Corporation and Gryphon Partners III, L.P. as Guarantor and the Sellers’ Representative, dated as 
of May 29, 2015 

Description 

3.1(2)  Second Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Registrant 
3.2(3)  Amended and Restated Bylaws of the Registrant 

3.2.1(4)  Amendment, effective March 23, 2015, to Amended and Restated Bylaws of the Registrant 

4.1(3)  Specimen Common Stock Certificate 
4.2(3)

Form of Registration Rights Agreement, by and among Boot Barn Holdings, Inc. and the stockholders 
listed therein 

4.3(14)  Description of Capital Stock 
10.1†(5)  Amended and Restated Boot Barn Holdings, Inc. 2014 Equity Incentive Plan 
10.2†(3)

10.3†(6)

10.4†(3)

Form of Restricted Stock Award Agreement under the Boot Barn Holdings, Inc. 2014 Equity Incentive 
Plan 
Form of Restricted Stock Unit Issuance Agreement under the Boot Barn Holdings, Inc. 2014 Equity 
Incentive Plan 
Form of Restricted Stock Award Agreement, by and between Boot Barn Holdings, Inc. and Brenda 
Morris 

10.5†(3)  Form of Stock Option Agreement, by and between Boot Barn Holdings, Inc. and James G. Conroy 
10.6†(3)  Boot Barn Holdings, Inc. 2011 Equity Incentive Plan 
10.7†(3)  Boot Barn Holdings, Inc. 2007 Stock Incentive Plan 
10.8†(17)  Boot Barn Holdings, Inc. 2020 Equity Incentive Plan 
10.9†(17)  Boot Barn Holdings, Inc. Amended and Restated Cash Incentive Plan for Executives 
10.10†(7)

Amended and Restated Employment Agreement, dated April 7, 2015, by and between Boot Barn, Inc. and 
James G. Conroy 
Continued Employment Agreement, effective as of January 26, 2015, by and between Boot Barn, Inc. and 
Paul Iacono 
Employment Agreement, effective as of May 11, 2014, by and between Boot Barn, Inc. and Laurie 
Grijalva 

10.11†(8)

10.12†(2)

10.13†(2)  Letter Agreement, dated July 2, 2014, by and between Boot Barn, Inc. and Laurie Grijalva 
10.14†(8)

Employment Agreement, effective as of January 26, 2015, by and between Boot Barn, Inc. and Gregory 
V. Hackman 

10.15†(8)  Form of Stock Option Agreement, by and between Boot Barn Holdings, Inc. and Gregory V. Hackman 
10.16†(9)  Boot Barn Holdings, Inc. Cash Incentive Plan for Executives 

10.17(3)

10.18+(3)

10.19+(3)

NSB Software as a Service Master Agreement, dated February 26, 2008, by and between Boot Barn, Inc. 
and NSB Retail Solutions Inc. 
Carrier Agreement P720025535 01, effective as of September 30, 2013, by and between Boot Barn, Inc. 
and United Parcel Service Inc., including all Addendums thereto 
Carrier Agreement P780025560 02, effective as of September 30, 2013, by and between Boot Barn, Inc. 
and United Parcel Service Inc., including all Addendums thereto 

10.20 (3)  Form of Amended and Restated Indemnification Agreement 

10.21+(10)

10.21.1+(12)

10.21.2(13)

Credit Agreement dated as of June 29, 2015, by and among Boot Barn Holdings, Inc., Boot Barn, Inc., 
GCI Capital Markets LLC, as Administrative Agent, Sole Lead Arranger, Sole Bookrunner and 
Syndication Agent, and the other Lenders named therein. 
First Amendment to Credit Agreement and Collateral Agreement dated as of May 26, 2017, by and 
among Boot Barn Holdings, Inc., Boot Barn, Inc., Golub Capital Markets LLC, as Administrative Agent, 
Sole Lead Arranger, Sole Bookrunner and Syndication Agent, and the other Lenders named therein.   
Second Amendment to Credit Agreement dated as of February 19, 2019, by and among Boot Barn 
Holdings, Inc., Boot Barn, Inc., Golub Capital Markets LLC, as Administrative Agent, Sole Lead 
Arranger, Sole Bookrunner and Syndication Agent, and the other Lenders named therein. 

96 

 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Exhibit 
Number 
10.21.3(15)

10.22(10)

10.23+(10)

10.24(10)

10.25(10)

10.26(10)

10.26.1(11)

10.26.2+(12)

10.26.3(15)

10.27(10)

10.28(10)

10.29(10)

10.30(10)

10.31(14)

Description 
Third Amendment to Credit Agreement dated as of June 6, 2019, by and among Boot Barn Holdings, Inc., 
Boot Barn, Inc., Sheplers Holding Corporation, Sheplers, Inc., Golub Capital Markets LLC, as 
Administrative Agent, Sole Lead Arranger, Sole Bookrunner and Syndication Agent, and the other 
Lenders named therein. 
Guaranty Agreement dated as of June 29, 2015, by and among Boot Barn, Inc. as Borrower, Boot Barn 
Holdings, Inc. and certain Subsidiaries of Boot Barn Holdings, Inc. as Guarantors, in favor of GCI Capital 
Markets LLC, as Administrative Agent. 
Collateral Agreement dated as of June 29, 2015, by and among Boot Barn Holdings, Inc., Boot Barn, Inc. 
and certain of its Subsidiaries as Grantors, in favor of GCI Capital Markets LLC, as Administrative 
Agent. 
Trademark Security Agreement dated as of June 29, 2015 by Sheplers, Inc., in favor of GCI Capital 
Markets LLC, as Administrative Agent. 
Trademark Security Agreement dated as of June 29, 2015 by Boot Barn, Inc., in favor of GCI Capital 
Markets LLC, as Administrative Agent. 
Credit Agreement dated as of June 29, 2015, by and among Boot Barn Holdings, Inc., Boot Barn, Inc., 
Sheplers Holding Corporation, Sheplers, Inc., Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Administrative 
Agent, Swingline Lender and Issuing Lender, and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Sole Lead 
Arranger and Sole Bookrunner, and the other Lenders named therein. 
Amendment No. 1, dated as of January 25, 2017, to Credit Agreement dated as of June 29, 2015, by and 
among Boot Barn Holdings, Inc., Boot Barn, Inc., Sheplers Holding Corporation, Sheplers, Inc., Wells 
Fargo Bank, National Association, as Administrative Agent, Swingline Lender and Issuing Lender, and 
Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Sole Lead Arranger and Sole Bookrunner, and the other 
Lenders named therein. 
Amendment No. 2, dated as of May 26, 2017, to Credit Agreement and Amendment No. 1, dated as of 
May 26, 2017, to Collateral Agreement, in each case dated as of June 29, 2015, by and among Boot Barn 
Holdings, Inc., Boot Barn, Inc., Sheplers Holding Corporation, Sheplers, Inc., Wells Fargo Bank, National 
Association, as Administrative Agent, Swingline Lender and Issuing Lender, and Wells Fargo Bank, 
National Association, as Sole Lead Arranger and Sole Bookrunner, and the other Lenders named therein. 
Amendment No. 3, dated as of June 6, 2019, to Credit Agreement by and among Boot Barn Holdings, 
Inc., Boot Barn, Inc., Sheplers Holding Corporation, Sheplers, Inc., Wells Fargo Bank, National 
Association, as Administrative Agent, Swingline Lender and Issuing Lender, and Wells Fargo Bank, 
National Association, as Sole Lead Arranger and Sole Bookrunner, and the other Lenders named therein. 
Guaranty Agreement dated as of June 29, 2015 by and among Boot Barn, Inc. and Sheplers, Inc. as 
Borrowers, Boot Barn Holdings, Inc., Sheplers Holdings Corporation and certain of their Subsidiaries as 
Guarantors, in favor of Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Administrative Agent. 
Collateral Agreement dated as of June 29, 2015, by and among Boot Barn Holdings, Inc., Boot Barn, Inc., 
Sheplers Holding Corporation, Sheplers, Inc. and certain of their Subsidiaries as Grantors, in favor of 
Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Administrative Agent. 
Trademark Security Agreement, dated as of June 29, 2015, by Sheplers, Inc., in favor of Wells Fargo 
Bank, National Association, as Administrative Agent. 
Trademark Security Agreement, dated as of June 29, 2015, by Boot Barn, Inc., in favor of Wells Fargo 
Bank, National Association, as Administrative Agent. 
Employment Agreement, effective on or around April 2, 2018, by and between Boot Barn, Inc. and John 
Hazen. 

10.32.1(14)

10.32(14)  Employment Agreement, effective on May 5, 2014, by and between Boot Barn, Inc. and Michael A. Love. 
Supplemental Employment Letter Agreement, effective on April 1, 2017, by and between Boot Barn, Inc. 
and Michael A. Love.   
Supplemental Employment Letter Agreement, effective on or around June 12, 2018, by and between Boot 
Barn, Inc. and Michael A. Love.   

10.32.2(14)

97 

 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Exhibit 
Number 
10.33(16)

10.34(16)

10.35(16)

Description 

Notice and Consent to Temporary Salary Adjustment, dated as of April 7, 2020, between Boot Barn 
Holdings, Inc. and James G. Conroy. 
Notice and Consent to Temporary Salary Adjustment, dated as of April 7, 2020, between Boot Barn 
Holdings, Inc. and Laurie Grijalva. 
Form of Notice and Consent to Temporary Salary Adjustment, dated as of April 7, 2020, between Boot 
Barn Holdings, Inc. and each of Gregory V. Hackman, John Hazen and Michael A. Love. 

32.2

21.1  List of subsidiaries 
23.1  Consent of Deloitte & Touche LLP 
31.1  Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes - Oxley Act of 2002 
31.2  Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes - Oxley Act of 2002 
Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 as adopted pursuant to 
32.1
Section 906 of the Sarbanes - Oxley Act of 2002 
Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 as adopted pursuant to 
Section 906 of the Sarbanes - Oxley Act of 2002 
Pursuant to Rules 405 and 406 of Regulation S-T, the following information from the Company’s Annual 
Report on Form 10 - K for the fiscal year ended March 27, 2021 is formatted in iXBRL (Inline eXtensible 
Business Reporting Language): (i) the Consolidated Balance Sheets; (ii) the Consolidated Statements of 
Operations; (iii) the Consolidated Statement of Stockholders’ Equity; (iv) the Consolidated Statements of 
Cash Flows and (v) Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements. 
The cover page from the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10 - K for the fiscal year ended March 27, 
2021, formatted in iXBRL in Exhibit 101. 

104

101

† 

Indicates management contract or compensation plan. 

+  Portions of this exhibit (indicated by asterisks) have been omitted pursuant to a request for confidential treatment 

and the omitted portions have been filed separately with the SEC. 

(1)  Incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8 - K filed on June 3, 2015.   

(2)  Incorporated by reference to our Quarterly Report on Form 10 - Q filed on December 9, 2014. 

(3)  Incorporated by reference to our Registration Statement on Form S - 1, File No. 333 - 199008. 

(4)  Incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8 - K filed on March 26, 2015. 

(5)  Incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8 - K filed on August 25, 2016.   

(6)  Incorporated by reference to our Quarterly Report on Form 10 - Q filed on August 4, 2015.   

(7)  Incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8 - K filed on April 8, 2015. 

(8)  Incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8 - K filed on January 9, 2015. 

(9)  Incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8 - K filed on August 31, 2017. 

(10) Incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8 - K filed on July 2, 2015. 

(11) Incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8 - K filed on January 27, 2017. 

98 

 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(12) Incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8 - K filed on June 1, 2017.     

(13) Incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8 - K filed on February 21, 2019.   

(14) Incorporated by reference to our Annual Report on Form 10 - K filed on May 24, 2019.   

(15) Incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8 - K filed on June 6, 2019. 

(16) Incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8 - K filed on April 9, 2020. 

(17) Incorporated by reference to our Current Report on Form 8 - K filed on September 1, 2020. 

99 

 
 
 
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has 

duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized. 

SIGNATURES 

Date: May 13, 2021 

BOOT BARN HOLDINGS, INC. 

By: /s/ JAMES G. CONROY 
  Name:  James G. Conroy 

Title:  President, CEO and Director 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the 

following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated. 

Signature 

Title 

Date 

/s/ JAMES G. CONROY 
James G. Conroy 

  President, CEO and Director (Principal Executive 

Officer) 

May 13, 2021 

/s/ GREGORY V. HACKMAN 

  Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer, Chief 

Gregory V. Hackman 

/s/ GREG BETTINELLI 
Greg Bettinelli 

/s/ CHRIS BRUZZO 
Chris Bruzzo 

/s/ GENE EDDIE BURT 
Gene Eddie Burt 

/s/ LISA G. LAUBE 
Lisa G. Laube 

/s/ BRENDA I. MORRIS 
Brenda I. Morris 

/s/ ANNE MACDONALD 
Anne MacDonald 

/s/ PETER STARRETT 
Peter Starrett 

/s/ BRADLEY M. WESTON 
Bradley M. Weston 

Financial Officer and Secretary (Principal Financial 
Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) 

May 13, 2021 

May 13, 2021 

May 13, 2021 

May 13, 2021 

May 13, 2021 

May 13, 2021 

May 13, 2021 

May 13, 2021 

May 13, 2021 

Director 

Director 

Director 

Director 

Director 

Director 

Director 

Director 

100 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
     
     
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
EXECUTIVE OFFICERS

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

CORPORATE INFORMATION

James G. Conroy
President and Chief Executive Officer

Gregory V. Hackman
Executive Vice President, Chief Operating 
Officer, Chief Financial Officer and Secretary
Laurie Grijalva
Chief Merchandising Officer

John Hazen
Chief Digital Officer

Michael A. Love
Senior Vice President, Stores

Peter Starrett
James G. Conroy
Greg Bettinelli
Chris Bruzzo
Eddie Burt
Lisa G. Laube
Anne MacDonald
Brenda I. Morris
Brad Weston

Corporate Address
15345 Barranca Parkway
Irvine, CA 92618
www.bootbarn.com

Ticker Symbol
NYSE: BOOT

Transfer Agent
Computershare
462 South 4th Street, Suite 1600
Louisville, KY 40202
877.373.6374
www-us.computershare.com/
investor/contact

Independent Registered 
Public Accounting Firm
Deloitte & Touche LLP
695 Town Center Dr. Ste 1000
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
714.436.7100

Investor Relations
investor.bootbarn.com

BOOT BARN STORE PORTFOLIO
273 Stores in 36 States1

E-commerce sales in all 50 states and 
more than 100 countries worldwide1

1 Data for Fiscal 2021.