FOSL

Zacks Equity Research analysts featured four retail stocks in their blog. Victoria's Secret remains confident in China as its top international growth driver despite moderating international growth. FIGS, Fossil Group, and Boot Barn are highlighted as better-ranked alternatives with varying growth prospects in their respective sectors.

Zumiez (ZUMZ) is pursuing international growth through private-label expansion and distinctive merchandise while addressing weakness in its U.S. business. Europe and Australia net sales rose 2.5% to $35.1 million in Q2 fiscal 2026. The company is implementing premium pricing and expense management to improve margins, though shares have declined 20.4% in three months and the stock trades at a premium valuation of 19.25x forward P/E versus the industry average of 12.97x.

Gap Inc. (GAP) shares surged 25.3% over three months, outperforming the retail sector, driven by strong performance at its Gap and Banana Republic brands, improved merchandise margins, and disciplined inventory management. The company raised its FY26 adjusted EPS outlook to $2.35-$2.45 despite ongoing challenges at Old Navy and Athleta. Gap brand achieved its 11th consecutive quarter of positive comparable sales growth with a 10% increase in Q2, while the stock trades at an attractive 9.22X forward P/E multiple.

Zumiez (ZUMZ) is using data analytics to improve customer insights and marketing effectiveness while working to enhance customer experience through operational changes. However, the company faces headwinds from U.S. sales deceleration driven by footwear softness and declining transactions. Management views the downturn as temporary and is refining merchandise assortments to navigate this transitional period.

Dollar Tree reported Q2 comparable-store sales growth of 3.7%, driven by a 3.3% increase in average ticket and 0.4% rise in traffic. The company expects full-year comp sales growth of 3%-4%, with multi-price penetration reaching 17% of sales. Management believes improved assortments, store standards, and marketing can sustain traffic growth in the second half, though higher freight costs and merchandise inflation could pressure profitability.

American Eagle Outfitters (AEO) reported modest improvements in Q2 FY2026 with 1% revenue growth and declining comparable sales of -1%. The men's business achieved its fourth consecutive quarter of positive comparable sales, while the company is shifting focus toward conversion-driven marketing and inventory rebalancing. Store traffic remains a key metric, with digital channels outperforming physical stores, though trends improved in Q3.