What happened
Shares of Hanesbrands (HBI 7.69%) gained 19.6% in value last month, according to data provided by S&P Global Market Intelligence.
Weak operating performance and concerns about the global economy drove Hanesbrands stock down 40% in 2018. But the sell-off might have gone too far, as there was positive news about the strength of sales in the retail industry during the holidays, which helped to prop up the stock in January.
IMAGE SOURCE: CHAMPION.COM.
So what
Supporting the stock's gain last month were reports that retail sales during the holiday quarter were the best in six years. However, Hanesbrands' innerwear segment performed poorly in 2018. The business of selling socks and underwear is highly competitive, especially with retailers like Target investing in private-label brands.
But a strong holiday shopping season may have benefited Hanesbrands' Champion athletic wear brand, which is where the company is pinning its future growth. Champion sales were up 30% year over year in the third quarter, and up 40% excluding sales to mass retailers.
Now what
A strong consumer spending backdrop during the fourth quarter might keep the momentum going for Champion. Investors will know more when Hanesbrands reports earnings results on Thursday, Feb. 7.
Analysts expect the company to grow revenue 3.9% year over year to $1.71 billion in the fourth quarter. Adjusted earnings per share are expected to decline to $0.46 compared to $0.52 in the year-ago quarter.
Check out the latest Hanesbrands earnings call transcript.
