Performance was driven by a resilient needs-based model, with consistent demand in core categories like poultry and livestock feed offsetting a cautious consumer environment.
Management attributed the 100 basis point drag on comparable sales to structural headwinds in the companion animal category, specifically declining dog ownership and an under-index in the growing cat and fresh nutrition segments.
Market share gains in the farm and ranch sector reached one of their best levels in the first quarter, even as the broader market slowed.
Consumer behavior reflected trip consolidation and a shift toward essential spending, with tax refunds being used for debt reduction and savings rather than discretionary purchases.
Digital business growth of over 20% was fueled by enhancements to the subscription model and the expansion of the Final Mile delivery network.
New store productivity remained high at 65% to 70%, with a record 40 stores opened in the quarter to drive total net sales growth of 3.6%.
Management expects sequential improvement in comparable sales for the second quarter as seasonal demand ramps up in Northern regions and big-ticket categories like riding mowers gain momentum.
The companion animal category is expected to remain under pressure for the remainder of the year, with guidance assuming flat to slightly negative comps in that segment.
Gross margin is projected to strengthen in the second half of the year as comparisons ease and efficiencies from the new 11th distribution center begin to flow through.
Strategic investments in the pet category include scaling fresh and frozen offerings from 80 stores to 700 stores by year-end to capture higher-growth nutrition segments.
The company plans to convert approximately 700 stores to include dedicated wildlife and recreation departments by year-end, up from the previous target of 500.
Gross margin remains pressured by tariff costs, freight inflation, and a higher mix of digital and delivery-related sales, though management believes these impacts are currently being mitigated through cost management and supply chain efficiencies.
SG&A deleverage of 70 basis points was driven by fixed cost pressure from low comparable sales and the front-loaded timing of new store openings and strategic investments.
The dog population in the U.S. has declined from 96 million in 2023 to approximately 92 million in 2025, creating a persistent headwind for the company’s dog-heavy mix.
Fuel and oil price volatility is being managed with a conservative outlook, with higher costs already incorporated into the reaffirmed full-year guidance.
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