MAAT INDEX

CLAIM #529 · Ross Stores Inc (ROST) · 2022Q3 earnings call · Nov 16, 2022 · due Jan 28, 2023

Domestic freight, we see as slightly neutral, seeing some benefit in rate, but offset by still elevated fuel prices.

Adam Orvos · CFO

PENDING
graded after results covering Jan 28, 2023 are reported

How to check this claim

Look at: Domestic freight cost impact on gross margin, Q4 fiscal year commentary

It came true if: Management characterizes domestic freight as roughly neutral (neither a notable tailwind nor headwind) to Q4 gross margin

Where: Q4 earnings call management commentary / gross margin discussion

In context

e and also particularly our gift giving, because of the imbalances we had from the supply chain congestion, as Michael just alluded to. So we feel between the 2 of those, we'd be able to offer great brands, strong values and a broader assortment. Operator: And our next question comes from the line of Alex Straton with Morgan Stanley. Alexandra Straton: Great. Just as it relates to the updated guidance, perhaps could you kind of talk about what the key swing factors are there that could drive you either to the higher or the lower end of that new range? Adam Orvos: Yes, sure. Alex, this is Adam. So given our guidance of flat to minus 2% comps, we'll have some deleverage impact from sales. Markdowns will be higher than last year in fourth quarter, but not as impactful as in third quarter. Domestic freight, we see as slightly neutral, seeing some benefit in rate, but offset by still elevated fuel prices. Ocean freight will probably be the most tangible tailwind for us. As you remember, last year, we were getting into the period where rates were escalating significantly, demand was high. So that will be a tailwind for us. And then given our outperformance last year and our underperformance this year, incentive costs will be lower in Q4 versus last year. And then finally, depending how the end of the year plays out, we'll likely see some pressure from packaway timing in fourth quarter also. Alexandra Straton: Great. That's super helpful. Maybe could I just follow up on your inventory levels? I think you said they were up low double digits year-over-year exiting the quarter, which seems like a pretty lean level. So maybe could you tell us, do you feel like you have enough heading into the

Verify independently

SEC filings for ROST · Claim quote is verbatim from the 2022Q3 earnings call.