Williams-Sonoma Inc., No. 25 in the newly released Internet Retailer 2018 Top 1000, reported that net revenues from e-commerce sales were up 11.2% for the first quarter, which ended April 29. Those online sales accounted for 53.7% of the retailer’s total revenue for the quarter, or about $646 million, up from 52.2% of total revenue for the first quarter last year. Online operations also were more profitable for the housewares seller, with operating margins for the e-commerce channel up to 23.0% versus 22.7% last year.
The retailer also announced it is expanding omnichannel plans. In the second quarter, it will offer shoppers the option to buy online pick up in store at Pottery Barn and West Elm stores after the company reported strong demand at Williams-Sonoma and Pottery Barn Kids locations, according to a transcript from Seeking Alpha.
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L Brands Inc. (No. 26) reported a 24% first-quarter rise in direct sales, which are largely online, across flagship brands Victoria’s Secret and Bath & Body Works. Together, the brands generated $465.3 million in revenue through direct sales, compared to $376.1 million during last year’s first quarter. However, margin growth slowed as delivery expenses rose alongside e-commerce penetration.
- Target Corp. (No. 17) reported a 28% increase in online sales year over year for the first quarter. However, those sales dug into profits as the retailer slashed delivery fees and introduced a two-day shipping program using stores as fulfillment centers. Total sales were up 3.5% to $16.6 billion.
- Urban Outfitters Inc. (No. 39) reported 13% growth in the largely online wholesale channel for the first quarter, outperforming stores. The retailer didn’t break down exact figures, but said that average order value, sessions and conversion rates were all up.
- Gap Inc. (No. 20) is pushing ahead with more omnichannel projects. The company is rolling out its buy online pick up in store program at Old Navy this year. That brand has the lowest online penetration of any Gap brands, but the apparel retailer sees a 20% return on investments in e-commerce.
- Foot Locker Inc. (No. 44) reported slower growth overall for the quarter, but the footwear retailer reported profit and sales that topped analysts’ estimates last quarter, citing improved inventory measures.
- Stein Mart Inc. (No 648) reported that e-commerce sales made up 5% of the off-price retailer’s total revenue during the first quarter, up 85% over the first quarter last year to $16.3 million.
