Dollar General (NYSE: DG) 4Q18 Results: Beats on Comps, Light 2019 Earnings Guidance, Expects to Open 975 Stores in 2019

Executive Summary

• Dollar General reported 4Q18 revenues of $6.65 billion, up 8.5% year over year and in line with the consensus estimate. EPS was $1.83, down 29.9% year over year and missing the $1.89 consensus estimate, even adding back a $0.04 charge.
• Comps increased 4.0%, beating the 2.6% consensus estimate.
• The company guided for 2019 revenue growth of 7%, 2.5% comps an EPS of $6.30-6.50 (up 5-9%), below the $6.64 consensus estimate. Dollar General plans to open 975 new stores, remodel 1,000 mature stores, and relocate 100 stores in 2019.