Dick’s Sporting Goods cut its full-year sales and profit forecasts on Tuesday, as pressured discretionary spending amid a cautious consumer environment weighed on demand for sporting goods and athletic apparel, sending its shares down 13 per cent in premarket trading. The company now expects annual sales of US$21.9 billion to US$22.2 billion, compared with its earlier forecast of US$22.1 billion to $22.4 billion. “Not only were there fewer launches in the second quarter, but those launches performed below both industry and our expectations,” said Ed Stack, the company’s executive chairman. “As a result, we are taking a more cautious view of the balance of the year,” Stack added. Consumers remain selective with discretionary spending amid inflationary pressures and economic uncertainty, posing risks to demand for sporting goods and athletic apparel. A slowdown in consumer spending and a weakening job market have been weighing on demand for higher-priced athletic gear and outdoor equipment. The company now expects annual earnings per share of US$10.94 to US$11.94, compared with its earlier forecast of US$13.27 to US$14.27. (Reporting by Angela Christy in Bengaluru; Editing by Maju Samuel)
