Dollar General Tops Estimates

Dollar General ($DG@US) reported third-quarter sales growth of 3.9% at $8.52 billion, beating the analyst consensus of $8.49 billion. Its EPS of $2.09 also beat the estimate of $2.01. Same-store sales increased 11.6% on a 2-year stack basis, and the net sales increase was primarily driven by positive sales contributions from new stores. The gross profit margin for the quarter decreased just over 30%, and the operating margin was 7.8%. On December 1, the company’s board increased the authorization under the share repurchase program by $2 billion. Dollar General plans to accelerate the pace of new store openings, targeting a total of approximately 1,000 pOpshelf locations by the end of 2025. The pOpshelf concept is aimed toward wealthier, suburban shoppers. The stores carry home goods, seasonal decor, and party supplies, including items from Dollar General’s private brands. The company also reiterated its plans to execute 2,900 real estate projects in fiscal year 2021, including more than 1,000 new store openings, 1,750 store remodels and 100 store relocations. Dollar General shares are trading lower by 3.45% at $215.11 at premarket this morning.