March Malls: Kate Spade Vs. Michael Kors Vs. Coach

Retail channel checks indicate that trends over the first three weeks of March had improved only were “minimally” from those witnessed in February, Wedbush’s Morry Brown said in a report. He added that while promotions were “broadly higher” year-over-year throughout malls, sales remained weak and highly volatile, with conversion rates being low and inventories a concern area.

Easter is on April 16 this year, versus March 27 in 2016. While this shift would drive sales in April, brands would be able to boost late-quarter sales only at the cost of margins, Brown commented.

Key Takeaways For Handbags

The handbag landscape continues to be challenging, with the performance of Kate Spade & Co KATE being the best.

Kate Spade: “KATE appeared to maintain promotional discipline in the face of mall traffic headwinds,” the analyst mentioned. Kate Spade’s Moroccan themed collection and Isobel bags benefited from a positive reception and the brand’s “superior in store experience” likely boosted sales.

Michael Kors Holdings Ltd KORS: Promotions rose year-over-year. “We do not believe the Spring Style Event generated meaningful traffic into Kors boutiques…We believe inventories in the department store channel continue to be elevated,” Brown wrote.

Coach Inc COH: Although Coach’s Private Event was extended by two additional days, it was made public only at select locations. Selena Gomez was announced as the brand ambassador in December 2016 and she would be appearing in Coach’s Fall 2017 fashion campaign. “We believe this collaboration can be a positive for the Coach brand,” Brown said.

Ratings And Price Targets

• Kate Spade: Outperform, price target of $19
• Michael Kors: Neutral, PT at $36
• Coach: Neutral, PT at $38

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