J.Jill reports sales decline and profit pressure for fiscal 2025

US womenswear retailer J.Jill has reported a decline in financial performance for the fourth quarter and full fiscal year ended January 31, 2026. Despite a downturn in overall sales and operating margins, the board of directors has declared a 12.5 percent increase in its quarterly cash dividend, signaling confidence in its long-term operational strategy.

Annual net sales fall 2.3 percent amid tariff pressures

For the full year ended January 31, 2026, the company recorded net sales of 596.50 million dollars, representing a 2.3 percent decrease from the 610.90 million dollars reported in the year ended February 1, 2025. Total company comparable sales, which include comparable store and direct-to-consumer (D2C) performance, fell by 3.1 percent year-over-year.

Profitability was impacted by significant external costs, notably incremental tariff expenses totaling approximately 7.50 million dollars for the fiscal year. Gross profit reached 409.70 million dollars, with a gross margin of 68.7 percent compared to 70.4 percent in the previous year. Net income for the fiscal year stood at 27.90 million dollars, down from 39.50 million dollars in the prior period.

J.Jill president and chief executive officer, Mary Ellen Coyne, noted that the company has focused on testing new product assortments and customer acquisition strategies throughout 2025.

“We remain focused on the important work required to position the business for sustainable growth,” Coyne stated. “Enabled by our disciplined operating model, we remain confident that the evolution of our product and marketing efforts will enhance and broaden the appeal and awareness of our incredible brand.”

Fiscal 2026 outlook and expansion plans

J.Jill concluded the year with 256 stores, having opened nine new locations and closed five. For the upcoming fiscal 2026, the company anticipates net sales to range from flat to a decline of 2 percent.

The outlook incorporates an expected 15.00 million dollars in incremental tariff costs and a planned capital expenditure of approximately 25.00 million dollars. Management expects to continue its physical expansion with approximately five net new store openings.