Big Lots (BIG) 3Q17 Results: Beats on EPS, Raises Fourth-Quarter and Full-Year Guidance

Executive Summary

• Big Lots reported 3Q17 adjusted EPS of $0.06, up from $0.04 in the year-ago quarter and above both the $0.04 consensus estimate and company guidance. Total revenues were $1.11 billion, up 0.5% year over year and slightly below the $1.12 billion consensus estimate.
• Comparable store sales rose by 1.0% during the quarter, compared with the 1.6% consensus estimate. Top-performing businesses were home, furniture and consumables.
• The company raised the midpoint of its FY17 adjusted EPS guidance; it now expects adjusted EPS of $4.23–$4.28 versus $4.15–$4.25 previously and the $4.24 consensus estimate. Big Lots expects FY17 comp growth of 1% and a 2% increase in total sales.