Lowe's reported solid fourth-quarter results driven by its Total Home strategy resonating with Pro and DIY customers, leading to increased total sales and comparable sales growth. Despite a pressured housing market, the company is focused on productivity initiatives and confident in its ability to gain market share.
Total sales increased to $20.6 billion, up from $18.6 billion in the prior-year quarter.
positiveComparable sales increased 1.3%, driven by growth in Pro, online, and home services sales, as well as strong holiday performance.
positiveDiluted EPS of $1.78, with adjusted diluted EPS of $1.98, representing a 2.6% increase year-over-year.
positiveCompany returned $2.6 billion to shareholders through dividends for the fiscal year.
positiveOperating income as a percentage of sales (operating margin) is expected to be 11.2% to 11.4% for FY2026, a decrease from the 11.77% reported for FY2025.
attentionThe company recognized $149 million in pre-tax expenses associated with the acquisitions of Foundation Building Materials (FBM) and Artisan Design Group (ADG) in Q4 FY2025.
attentionMerchandise inventory - net was $17,300 million as of Jan 30, 2026, a slight decrease from $17,409 million in the prior year, but still a significant portion of assets.
attentionFull Year 2026 comparable sales are expected to be flat to up 2% compared to the prior year, indicating a slowdown from the 1.3% growth in Q4 FY2025.
attentionMargin expansion indicates improving profitability and operational efficiency. Measured in basis points (bps): 100 bps = 1.0%.
Forward-looking guidance is subject to change and does not constitute a guarantee. Actual results may differ materially from these estimates.
Special items are non-recurring events that may distort period-over-period comparisons. Analysts typically adjust for these when calculating normalized earnings.
We delivered strong results this quarter, as our Total Home strategy is resonating with both our Pro and DIY customers, which was evident during a great holiday season.
Given our outperformance this quarter, we awarded $125 million in discretionary bonuses to our frontline associates in recognition of their hard work and outstanding customer service.
While the housing macro remains pressured, we are focused on directing what is within our control, which includes our ongoing productivity initiatives.
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Operational metrics provide insight into business drivers and customer engagement beyond traditional financial measures.