Vince Holding Corp.: Form 10-K for the period ended Feb 3, 2024

Overview

We are a global retail company that operates the Vince brand women's and men's ready to wear business. Previously, the Company also owned and operated the Rebecca Taylor and Parker brands until the sale of the respective intellectual property was completed, as discussed below under "Recent Development". We serve our customers through a variety of channels that reinforce the brand images.

We have a select number of wholesale partners who account for a significant portion of our net sales. In fiscal 2023 and fiscal 2022, sales to one wholesale partner, Nordstrom Inc., accounted for more than ten percent of the Company's net sales. These sales represented 20% of fiscal 2023 and 16% of fiscal 2022 net sales, respectively.

We design our products in the U.S. and source the vast majority of our products from contract manufacturers outside the U.S., primarily in Asia.

The Company operates on a fiscal calendar widely used by the retail industry that results in a given fiscal year consisting of a 52 or 53-week period ending on the Saturday closest to January 31.

• References to "fiscal year 2023" or "fiscal 2023" refer to the fiscal year ended February 3, 2024; and
• References to "fiscal year 2022" or "fiscal 2022" refer to the fiscal year ended January 28, 2023.

Fiscal year 2023 consisted of a 53-week period and fiscal year 2022 consisted of a 52-week period.

Our principal executive office is located at 500 5th Avenue, 20th Floor, New York, New York 10110, and our telephone number is (323) 421-5980. Our corporate website address is www.vince.com (http://www.vince.com).

Recent Development

On April 21, 2023, Vince, LLC, the Company's wholly owned indirect subsidiary, entered into an Intellectual Property Asset Purchase Agreement (the "Asset Purchase Agreement"), by and among Vince, LLC, ABG-Vince, LLC (f/k/a ABG-Viking, LLC) ("ABG Vince"), a newly formed indirect subsidiary of Authentic Brands Group, LLC, the Company and ABG Intermediate Holdings 2 LLC, whereby Vince, LLC sold its intellectual property assets related to the business operated under the Vince brand to ABG Vince at closing (the "Asset Sale"). The Company closed the Asset Sale on May 25, 2023.

See Part I, Item 1A. Risk Factors — "Risks Related to Our Business and Industry for additional discussion regarding risks to our business associated with the Asset Sale.

The Brand

Vince

Vince Holding Corp. is a global retail company that operates the Vince brand women’s and men’s ready to wear business. Vince, established in 2002, is a leading global luxury apparel and accessories brand best known for creating elevated yet understated pieces for every day effortless style. As of February 3, 2024, we operate 48 full-price retail stores, 15 outlet stores, the e-commerce site, vince.com, and the subscription service Vince Unfold, vinceunfold.com. Vince is also available through premium wholesale channels globally.

Our wholesale business is comprised of sales to major department stores and specialty stores in the U.S. and in select international markets. We have distribution arrangements with a small number of wholesale partners for non-licensed product which has improved profitability in the wholesale business and enables us to focus on other areas of growth for the brand, particularly in the direct-to-consumer business. We continue to collaborate with our wholesale partners in various areas, including merchandising and logistics to build a more profitable and focused wholesale business.

Our direct-to-consumer business includes our company-operated retail and outlet stores and our e-commerce business. During fiscal 2023, we closed four net retail stores. The direct-to-consumer business also includes our e-commerce website, vince.com, and our subscription service, Vince Unfold, vinceunfold.com.

The following table details the number of Vince retail stores we operated for the past two fiscal years:

Rebecca Taylor

Rebecca Taylor, founded in 1996 in New York City, is a contemporary womenswear line lauded for its signature prints, romantic detailing and vintage inspired aesthetic, reimagined for a modern era. On September 12, 2022, the Company announced its decision to wind down the Rebecca Taylor business. On December 22, 2022, Rebecca Taylor, Inc., the Company's indirectly wholly owned subsidiary, completed the sale of its intellectual property and certain related ancillary assets to RT IPCO, LLC, an affiliate of Ramani Group. See Note 2 "Recent Transactions" to the Consolidated Financial Statements in this Annual Report for additional information.

The Rebecca Taylor collection was previously available through retail stores and outlet stores, through its branded e-commerce site and through its subscription service Rebecca Taylor RNTD, as well as through major department and specialty stores in the U.S. and in select international markets. All Rebecca Taylor retail and outlet stores operated by the Company were closed as of January 28, 2023 and the e-commerce site operated by the Company ceased in December 2022.

The following table details the number of Rebecca Taylor retail stores we operated for the past two fiscal years:

Parker

Parker, founded in 2008 in New York City, is a contemporary women's fashion brand that is trend focused. During the first half of fiscal 2020 the Company decided to pause the creation of new products to focus resources on the operations of the Vince and Rebecca Taylor brands. On February 17, 2023, the Company's indirectly wholly owned subsidiary, Parker Lifestyle, LLC, completed the sale of its intellectual property and certain related ancillary assets to Parker IP Co. LLC, an affiliate of BCI Brands.

The Parker collection was previously available through major department stores and specialty stores worldwide as well as through its e-commerce website.

Business Segments

We serve our customers through a variety of channels that reinforce the brand images. Our diversified channel strategy allows us to introduce our products to customers through multiple distribution points that are presented in three reportable segments: Vince Wholesale, Vince Direct-to-consumer, and Rebecca Taylor and Parker.

(in thousands, except percentages)

Our Vince Wholesale segment is comprised of sales to major department stores and specialty stores in the U.S. and in select international markets. Until the Asset Sale closed, our Vince Wholesale segment also included our licensing business related to our licensing arrangements for our women's and men's footwear line, as well as soft accessories and cold weather goods.

Our Vince Direct-to-consumer segment includes our Vince company-operated retail and outlet stores, our Vince e-commerce business and our subscription service, Vince Unfold.

Our Rebecca Taylor and Parker segment consisted of our operations to distribute Rebecca Taylor and Parker brand products to major department and specialty stores in the U.S. and select international markets and directly to the consumer through their own branded e-commerce platforms, our Rebecca Taylor retail and outlet stores and through our subscription service, Rebecca Taylor RNTD. On September 12, 2022, the Company announced its decision to wind down the Rebecca Taylor business. On December 22, 2022, the Company's indirectly wholly owned subsidiary, Rebecca Taylor, Inc., completed the sale of its intellectual property and certain related ancillary assets to RT IPCO, LLC, an affiliate of Ramani Group. Substantially all Rebecca Taylor inventory was liquidated as of January 28, 2023. Additionally, all Rebecca Taylor retail and outlet stores operated by the Company were closed as of January 28, 2023 and the e-commerce site operated by the Company ceased in December 2022. On February 17, 2023, the Company's indirectly wholly owned subsidiary, Parker Lifestyle, LLC, completed the sale of its intellectual property and certain related ancillary assets to Parker IP Co. LLC, an affiliate of BCI Brands.

Products

We believe that the Vince brand's differentiated design aesthetic and strong attention to detail and fit allow us to maintain premium pricing, and that the combination of quality and value positions us as an everyday luxury brand that encourages repeat purchases among our customers.

The Vince women's collection includes seasonal collections of luxurious cashmere sweaters, silk blouses, a leather and suede collection that encompasses all classifications, and jackets, dresses, skirts, pants, t-shirts, footwear, outerwear, and accessories. The Vince men's collection includes cashmere sweaters, woven shirts, core and fashion pants, blazers, outerwear, footwear and accessories.

Design and Merchandising

Our creative team is focused on developing and implementing the design direction for the Vince brand. Our design efforts are supported by well-established product development and production teams. We believe continued collaboration between design and merchandising will ensure we respond to consumer preferences and market trends with new innovative product offerings while maintaining the brand's fashion foundation.

Marketing, Advertising and Public Relations

We use marketing, advertising and public relations as critical tools to deliver a consistent and compelling message to consumers. The message and marketing strategies of the Vince brand are cultivated by dedicated creative, design, marketing, visual merchandising, and public relations teams. These teams work closely together to develop and execute campaigns that appeal to both our core and aspirational customers.

To execute our marketing strategies, we engage in a wide range of campaign tactics that include traditional media (such as direct mail, print advertising, cooperative advertising with wholesale partners and outdoor advertising), digital media (such as email, search, social, and display) and experiential campaigns (such as events) to drive traffic, brand awareness, conversion and ultimately sales across all channels. Our marketing strategies also include utilizing a customer data platform from which we are able to achieve improved segmentation and personalization for an enhanced customer experience. In addition, we use social platforms such as Instagram and Facebook as we further invest in leveraging micro and macro influencer networks to increase brand awareness, engage customers and create excitement about loyalty towards the Vince brand. The visits to vince.com also provide an opportunity to grow our customer base and communicate directly with our customers both on line and in stores.

See Part I, Item 1A. Risk Factors — "Risks Related to Our Business and Industry — We may be unable to effectively execute our customer strategy."

Our public relations team conducts a wide variety of press activities to reinforce the brand image and create excitement around the Vince brand. Our apparel has appeared in the pages of major fashion magazines such as Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, Elle, InStyle, GQ, Esquire and WSJ. Well-known trend setters in entertainment and fashion are also regularly seen wearing the brand.

Sourcing and Manufacturing

We do not own or operate any manufacturing facilities. We contract for the purchase of finished goods with manufacturers who are responsible for the entire manufacturing process, including the purchase of piece goods and trim. Although we do not have long-term written contracts with manufacturers, we have long-standing relationships with a diverse base of vendors which we believe to be mutually satisfactory. We work with more than 25 manufacturers across 10 countries, with 79% of our products produced in China in fiscal 2023. For cost and control purposes, we contract with select third-party vendors in the U.S. to produce a small portion of our merchandise.

All of our garments are produced according to our specifications, and we require that all of our manufacturers adhere to strict regulatory compliance and standards of conduct. Our vendors' factories are monitored by our production team to ensure quality control, and they are monitored by independent third-party inspectors we employ for compliance with local manufacturing standards and regulations on an annual basis. We also monitor our vendors' manufacturing facilities regularly, providing technical assistance and performing in-line and final audits to ensure the highest possible quality.

Distribution Facilities

As of February 3, 2024, we operated out of three distribution centers, one located in the U.S., one in Hong Kong and one in Belgium.

Our warehouse in the U.S., located in California, is operated by a third-party logistics provider and includes dedicated space to fulfilling orders to support our wholesale partners, retail locations and e-commerce business and utilizes a warehouse management system that is fully customer and vendor compliant.

Our warehouse in Hong Kong is operated by a third-party logistics provider and supports our wholesale orders for international customers located primarily in Asia.

Our warehouse in Belgium is operated by a third-party logistics provider and supports our Vince wholesale orders for international customers located primarily in Europe and our Vince UK store.

We believe we have sufficient capacity in our domestic and international distribution facilities to support our current and projected business.

Information Systems

During fiscal 2021, we completed the rollout of a new point of sale ("POS") system for the Vince brand to expand our omni-channel capabilities to promote direct-to-consumer growth and enhance the customer engagement and shopping experience. During fiscal 2022, we completed the implementation of a customer data platform and the front-end re-platforming of our Vince e-commerce website. Our continued strategy includes investing in customer facing technologies to further expand our omni-channel capabilities and to further consolidate systems over time to create operational efficiencies and to achieve a common platform across the Company.

See Part I, Item 1A. Risk Factors — "Risks Related to Our Information Technology and Security — We are continuing to adopt, optimize and improve our information technology systems, processes and functions. If these systems, processes, and functions do not operate successfully, our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows could be materially harmed" and Part II, Item 9A. "Controls and Procedures."

Seasonality

The apparel and fashion industry in which we operate is cyclical and, consequently, our revenues are affected by general economic conditions and the seasonal trends characteristic to the apparel and fashion industry. Purchases of apparel are sensitive to a number of factors that influence the level of consumer spending, including economic conditions and the level of disposable consumer income, consumer debt, interest rates and consumer confidence as well as the impact of adverse weather conditions. In addition, fluctuations in the amount of sales in any fiscal quarter are affected by the timing of seasonal wholesale shipments and other events affecting direct-to-consumer sales. As such, the financial results for any particular quarter may not be indicative of results for the fiscal year. We expect such seasonality to continue.

Competition

We face strong competition in each of the product categories and markets in which we compete on the basis of style, quality, price, and brand recognition. Some of our competitors have achieved significant recognition for their brand names or have substantially greater financial, marketing, distribution and other resources compared to us. However, we believe that we have established a sustainable and distinct position in the current marketplace, driven by a product assortment that combines classic and fashion-forward styling, and a pricing strategy that offers customers accessible luxury.

Human Capital

As of February 3, 2024, we had 579 employees, of which 355 were employed in our company-operated retail stores. Except for 8 employees in France, who are covered by collective bargaining agreements pursuant to French law, none of our employees are currently covered by a collective bargaining agreement and we believe our employee relations are good.

Our key human capital measures include associate turnover, pay equity, and professional development as well as safety. We have programs in place to provide associates with feedback on performance and professional development, including our formal annual performance review process. We frequently benchmark our compensation and benefits practices against comparable peers and assess them, so we continue to attract and retain talent throughout our organization.

We strive to maintain an inclusive environment free from discrimination of any kind. Associates have multiple ways to report inappropriate behavior, including through a confidential hotline. All reports of inappropriate behavior are promptly investigated with appropriate action taken to stop such behavior.

Trademarks and Licensing

On April 21, 2023, Vince, LLC, the Company's wholly owned indirect subsidiary, entered into the Asset Purchase Agreement, by and among Vince, LLC, ABG Vince, a newly formed indirect subsidiary of Authentic Brands Group, LLC, the Company and ABG Intermediate Holdings 2 LLC, whereby Vince, LLC sold its intellectual property assets related to the business operated under the Vince brand to ABG Vince at closing. The Company closed the Asset Sale on May 25, 2023 (the “Closing”).

On May 25, 2023, in connection with the Closing, Vince, LLC and ABG Vince entered into a License Agreement (the “License Agreement”), which provides Vince, LLC with a license to use the Licensed Property in the Territory, which is defined as the United States, Canada, Andorra, Austria, Germany, Switzerland, Belgium, Netherlands, Luxembourg, France, Monaco, Liechtenstein, Italy, San Marino, Vatican City, Iceland, Norway, Denmark, Sweden, Finland, Spain, Portugal, Greece, Republic of Cyprus (excluding Northern Cyprus), United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, Singapore, Japan and Korea (the "Core Territory"), together with all other territories (the "Option Territory," together with the Core Territory, the “Territory”), to the Approved Accounts (each as defined in the License Agreement). The Option Territory may be changed unilaterally by ABG Vince at any time after the effective date of the License Agreement. The License Agreement also provides Vince, LLC with a license to operate the Vince e-commerce site, www.vince.com (http://www.vince.com), as well as to operate all retail stores in the Territory. Vince, LLC is required to operate and maintain a minimum of 45 Retail Stores and Shop-in-Shops in the Territory.

Additionally, the License Agreement provides Vince, LLC with a license to use the Licensed Property in the Territory to design, manufacture, promote, market, distribute, and sell ready-to-wear Sportswear Products and Outerwear Products (the "Core Products") and Baby Layettes (the "Option Products," together with the Core Products, the "Licensed Products"), which Option Products may be changed unilaterally by ABG Vince at any time after the effective date of the License Agreement.

The initial term of the License Agreement began on May 25, 2023, the date on which the Closing actually occurred, and ends at the end of the Company's 2032 fiscal year, unless sooner terminated pursuant to the terms of the License Agreement. Vince, LLC has the option to renew the License Agreement on the terms set forth in the License Agreement for eight consecutive periods of ten years each, unless the License Agreement is sooner terminated pursuant to its terms or Vince, LLC is in material breach of the License Agreement and such breach has not been cured within the specified cure period. Vince, LLC may elect not to renew the term for a renewal term.

Vince, LLC is required to pay ABG Vince a royalty on net sales of Licensed Products and committed to an annual guaranteed minimum royalty of $11,000 and annual minimum net sales as specified in the License Agreement, in each case, during the initial term of the License Agreement, except that the guaranteed minimum royalty and minimum net sales for the first contract year during the initial term will be prorated to the period beginning on the Closing Date and ending at the end of the Company's 2023 fiscal year. The annual guaranteed minimum royalty and annual minimum net sales for each subsequent renewal term will be the greater of (i) a percentage as set forth in the License Agreement of the guaranteed minimum net royalty or the minimum net sales (as applicable) of the immediately preceding contract year, and (ii) the average of actual Royalties (as defined in the License Agreement, with respect to the guaranteed minimum royalty) or actual Net Sales (as defined in the License Agreement, with respect to the annual minimum net sales) during certain years as set forth in the License Agreement of the preceding initial term or renewal term (as applicable). Vince, LLC is required to pay royalties comprised of a low single digit percentage of net sales arising from retail and e-commerce sales of Licensed Products and a mid single digit percentage of net sales arising from wholesale sales of such Licensed Products. In the event that the annual guaranteed minimum royalty paid to ABG Vince in any given contract year is greater than the actual royalties earned by ABG Vince in the same contract year, the difference between the royalty actually earned and the annual guaranteed minimum royalty paid is credited for the next two contract years against any amount of royalty earned by ABG Vince in excess of the annual guaranteed minimum royalty paid during each such contract year, if any.

On February 17, 2023, the Company's indirectly wholly owned subsidiary, Parker Lifestyle, LLC, completed the sale of its intellectual property and certain related ancillary assets to Parker IP Co. LLC, an affiliate of BCI Brands.

On December 22, 2022, the Company's indirectly wholly owned subsidiary, Rebecca Taylor, Inc., completed the sale of its intellectual property and certain related ancillary assets to RT IPCO, LLC, an affiliate of Ramani Group. See Note 2 "Recent Transactions" to the Consolidated Financial Statements in this Annual Report for additional information.

Available Information

We make available free of charge on our website, vince.com, copies of our Annual Reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, proxy and information statements and all amendments to these reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"), as soon as reasonably practicable after filing such material electronically with, or otherwise furnishing it to, the SEC. The SEC maintains a website at sec.gov that contains reports, proxy and information statements and other information regarding the Company and other companies that electronically file materials with the SEC. The reference to our website address does not constitute incorporation by reference of the information contained on the website, and the information contained on the website is not part of this Annual Report.

The following risk factors should be carefully considered when evaluating our business in addition to the forward-looking statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report. See "Disclosures Regarding Forward-Looking Statements." Any of the following factors could materially adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition. Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or that we currently view as immaterial may also materially adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition. All amounts disclosed are in thousands except shares, per share amounts, percentages, stores, and number of leases.

Risks Related to Our Business and Industry

The failure to maintain our license agreement relating to the Vince brand would cause us to lose all our revenues.

On May 25, 2023, Vince, LLC, the Company's wholly owned indirect subsidiary, sold all its intellectual property assets related to the business operated under the Vince brand to ABG Vince, an indirect subsidiary of Authentic Brands Group, LLC ("Authentic”), pursuant to the Asset Purchase Agreement, entered into by and among Vince, LLC, ABG Vince, the Company and ABG Intermediate Holdings 2 LLC. Simultaneously with the Asset Sale, Vince, LLC entered into a license agreement (as amended from time to time, the "License Agreement") with ABG Vince which provides us with a license to use the Licensed Property in the Territory (as defined in the License Agreement) in the Territory, which is defined as the United States, Canada, Andorra, Austria, Germany, Switzerland, Belgium, Netherlands, Luxembourg, France, Monaco, Liechtenstein, Italy, San Marino, Vatican City, Iceland, Norway, Denmark, Sweden, Finland, Spain, Portugal, Greece, Republic of Cyprus (excluding Northern Cyprus), United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, Singapore, Japan and Korea (the "Core Territory"), together with all other territories (the "Option Territory,” together with the Core Territory, the “Territory”), which Option Territory may be changed unilaterally by ABG Vince at any time after the effective date of the License Agreement. Additionally, we may use in the Territory, the Licensed Property in the Territory to design, manufacture, promote, market, distribute, and sell ready-to-wear sportswear products and outerwear products (the "Core Products") and home décor and baby layettes (the "Option Products," together with the Core Products, the "Licensed Products"), which Option Products may be changed unilaterally by ABG Vince at any time after the effective date of the License Agreement. The License Agreement has an initial term of ten years with eight options to renew for a ten-year period each.

Our revenues are generated solely from sales of products pursuant to the license granted under the License Agreement. We are required under the License Agreement, among other things, to achieve specified minimum net sales, make specified royalty payments, spend specified advertising and promotion expenditures, and maintain a minimum number of retail stores. If we do not satisfy any of the material requirements of the License Agreement, ABG Vince has the right to terminate the license or not renew the License Agreement. The failure to maintain or renew the License Agreement will cause us to lose all our revenues and have a material adverse effect on our results of operations.

Our business is impacted by ABG Vince's expansion of the Vince brand into other categories and territories.

Under the License Agreement, ABG Vince may produce and sell Vince products other than the Licensed Products and operate the Vince brand in Option Territories into which it may decide to enter in the future. ABG Vince may do so by granting additional licenses to other third parties. For example, in August 2023, ABG Vince granted to a third party licensee a license to use the Licensed Property in the Territory to manufacture and distribute men’s tailored clothing and accessories across the US and Canada. We are unable to control the business strategies of ABG Vince relating to the expansion of the Vince brand outside of the license granted to us under the License Agreement, including how those strategies impact our own business strategies, the quality of products produced by other Vince brand licensees as well as how the overall Vince brand image may evolve. If there is a change in the parameters of the Vince brand's design, pricing, distribution, target market or competitive set as a result of the brand's expansion into other categories and territories, we may be unable to maintain our historical product design and marketing direction or appeal to the brand's customer base as originally intended and our results of operations could be materially and adversely affected.

Our business is subject to ABG Vince's approval rights and other actions.

Under the License Agreement, ABG Vince has broad approval rights at its sole good faith discretion, including over, among other things, design direction of Licensed Products and marketing strategies, as well as any addition of new customer accounts and new retail locations. In addition, ABG Vince may remove any customer account that was pre-approved at the time of the closing of the Asset Sale if using its good faith, commercially reasonable judgment, it believes that such account is no longer consistent with the brand positioning for the Licensed Property. If ABG Vince chooses to exercise any of these approval rights, we may be unable to operate our business as intended. Furthermore, as part of the Asset Sale, our license agreements, including our e-commerce website domain name license, were sold to ABG Vince. ABG Vince will be required to maintain such license agreements going forward, and its failure to do so could materially and adversely affect our business and operations. Lastly, Vince, LLC's governance rights as a minority equity holder of ABG Vince are limited and therefore, ABG Vince could choose to take corporate actions that would materially and negatively impact the results of operations of ABG Vince, which could in turn adversely affect the amount of cash available for distribution to Vince, LLC.

Our ability to continue to have the liquidity necessary to service our debt, meet contractual payment obligations, including royalty payments under the License Agreement, and fund our operations depends on many factors, including our ability to generate sufficient cash flow from operations, maintain adequate availability under our 2023 Revolving Credit Facility (as defined below) or obtain other financing.

Our ability to timely service our indebtedness, meet contractual payment obligations, including royalty payments under the License Agreement, and to fund our operations will depend on our ability to generate sufficient cash, either through cash flows from operations, borrowing availability under the 2023 Revolving Credit Facility or other financing. While we expect to meet our monthly Excess Availability (as defined in the 2023 Revolving Credit Facility Agreement) covenant and believe that our other sources of liquidity will generate sufficient cash flows to meet our obligations for the next twelve months, the foregoing expectation is dependent on a number of factors, including, among others, our ability to generate sufficient cash flow from operations, our ongoing ability to manage our operating obligations, the results of any future inventory valuations and the potential borrowing restrictions imposed by our lenders based on their credit judgment, which could materially and negatively impact our borrowing capacity, the wind down of the Rebecca Taylor business, as well as macroeconomic factors. In the event that we are unable to timely service our debt, meet other contractual payment obligations or fund our other liquidity needs, we may need to refinance all or a portion of our indebtedness before maturity, seek waivers of or amendments to our contractual obligations for payment, reduce or delay scheduled expansions and capital expenditures, liquidate inventory through additional discounting, sell material assets or operations or seek other financing opportunities. There can be no assurance that these options would be readily available to us and our inability to address our liquidity needs could materially and adversely affect our operations and jeopardize our business, financial condition and results of operations, including a default under the 2023 Revolving Credit Facility which could result in all amounts outstanding under such facility becoming immediately due and payable.

Our operations are restricted by our credit facilities.

Our credit facility contains significant restrictive covenants. The 2023 Revolving Credit Facility includes covenants that may impair our financing and operational flexibility and make it difficult for us to react to market conditions and satisfy our ongoing capital needs and unanticipated cash requirements.

Specifically, such covenants significantly restrict our ability and, if applicable, the ability of our subsidiaries to, among other things: incur additional debt; make certain investments and acquisitions; enter into certain types of transactions with affiliates; use assets as security in other transactions; pay dividends; sell certain assets or merge with or into other companies; guarantee the debt of others; enter into new lines of businesses; make capital expenditures; prepay, redeem, or exchange our debt; and form any joint ventures or subsidiary investments.

Our ability to comply with the covenants and other terms of our debt obligations will depend on our future operating performance. If we fail to comply with such covenants and terms, and are unable to cure such failure under the terms of our credit facilities, if applicable, we would be required to obtain additional waivers from our lenders to maintain compliance with our debt obligations. If we are unable to obtain any necessary waivers and the debt is accelerated, a material adverse effect on our financial condition and future operating performance would likely result.

We may not be able to realize the benefits of our strategic initiatives.

Our business growth depends on the successful execution of our strategic initiatives of our business. The success of our strategic initiatives depends on a number of factors, including our ability to execute and realize the enhanced profitability expectations of our planned transformation program, position our retail and e-commerce businesses for further strategic growth, particularly through enhancement of our customer data platform to drive greater loyalty and conversion and capture broader customer base, expand our presence internationally including in Asia and Europe, grow men's business, our ability to properly identify appropriate future growth opportunities, and other macroeconomic impacts on our business. There can be no assurance that the strategic initiatives would produce intended positive results, particularly as we adapt to the new operational landscape as a result of the Asset Sale and the entry into the License Agreement. If we are unable to realize the benefits of the strategic initiatives, our financial conditions, results of operations and cash flows could be materially and adversely affected.

We may be unable to improve our profitability.

We expect a negative impact on our operating and net income resulting from the royalty payments under the License Agreement as well as the loss of our footwear and soft accessories licenses as a result of the Asset Sale. We plan to offset such negative impact by driving margin expansion through disciplined cost management and reduced promotional activity, particularly through our transformation program. There is no assurance that we will be successful in implementing this strategy as such success depends on a number of factors, such as our ability to properly identify and execute cost management initiatives and macroeconomic factors that could impact our promotional cadence. If we are unable to implement the strategy to drive margin expansion, we may not be able to offset the negative impact on our financial results and our profitability may not improve as intended.

We may be unable to effectively execute our customer strategy.

One of our strategic priorities is to utilize a customer data platform and marketing strategy from which we will be able to drive customer initiatives underpinned by data and technology, creating improved segmentation and personalization for an enhanced customer experience both domestically and internationally. This will require significant investment in technology and infrastructure, as well as an increased reliance on leveraging micro and macro influencer networks to increase brand awareness and loyalty through social media and the digital dissemination of advertising campaigns. We must keep up to date with other competitive technology trends, including the use of innovative technology, creative and attractive user interfaces, and other e-commerce marketing tools such as paid search and mobile applications, among others, which may increase our costs as well as our exposure to legal and reputational liability for online content, but may not succeed in increasing sales or attracting new customers. Any failure on our part to effectively execute on our strategy to enhance our customers' experience and realize the expected return on our investment in these initiatives could negatively affect sales as well as the reputation of the brands, which could adversely impact our growth and profitability.

Our limited operating experience and brand recognition in international markets may delay our expansion strategy and cause our business and growth to suffer.

We face risks with respect to our strategy to expand internationally, including our efforts to further expand our business in Asia and Europe through company-operated locations, wholesale arrangements as well as with international partners. Our current operations are based largely in the U.S., with international wholesale sales representing approximately 8% of net sales for fiscal 2023. Therefore, we have a limited number of customers and experience in operating outside of the U.S. We also do not have extensive experience with regulatory environments and market practices outside of the U.S. and cannot guarantee that we will be able to penetrate or successfully operate in any market outside of the U.S. Many of these markets also have different operational characteristics, including employment and labor regulations, transportation, logistics, real estate (including lease terms) and local reporting or legal requirements, and the impact on the international markets remains unclear. In addition, pursuant to the License Agreement, our exclusive license to operate the Vince brand may be limited by the terms of the License Agreement. Some of the regions in which we currently operate are designated as Option Territories, including the Middle East and Latin America. If Authentic chooses to operate in these Option Territories, we become unable to directly operate in those areas.

In fiscal 2021, we commenced a strategy to expand our international retail and e-commerce presence in China and a select list of neighboring countries in Asia via a joint venture arrangement. We are in the initial stages of establishing this relationship and there can be no guarantee that it will materialize. Further, we may face counterparty and/or operational risks as this joint venture arrangement makes us susceptible to the actions of our third-party partner. Our joint venture partner may have views that differ or conflict with ours, such as the timing of new store openings and the pricing of our products, or our partner may become bankrupt, which may as a practical matter subject us to our partner's liabilities in connection with the joint venture. Although we have sought and generally will seek to maintain sufficient control of any investment to permit our objectives to be achieved, we might not be able to take certain actions without the approval of our partners. Reliance on joint venture relationships and our partners exposes us to increased risk that our joint ventures will not be successful and will result in competitive harm to the brand image that could cause our expansion efforts, profitability and results of operations to suffer.

One of our strategic initiatives is to focus on our direct-to-consumer business, which includes opening retail stores in select locations under more favorable and shorter lease terms and operating and maintaining our new and existing retail stores successfully. If we are unable to execute this strategy in a timely manner, or at all, our financial condition and results of operations could be materially and adversely affected.

As part of our strategy to increase focus on our direct-to-consumer business, we continue to seek retail opportunities in targeted streets or malls with desirable size and adjacencies, typically near luxury retailers that we believe are consistent with our key customers' demographics and shopping preferences, and seek to negotiate more favorable leases including shorter terms. The success of this strategy depends on a number of factors, including the identification of suitable markets and sites, negotiation of acceptable lease terms while securing those favorable locations, including desired term, rent and tenant improvement allowances, and if entering a new market, the timely achievement of brand awareness and proper evaluation of the market particularly for locations with shorter term, affinity and purchase intent in that market, as well as our business condition in funding the opening and operations of stores. In addition, under the License Agreement, we are required to maintain a minimum number of retail locations as well as obtain prior approval from ABG Vince with respect to new retail locations which may be provided at its sole good faith discretion. We may be unable to execute this strategy as intended if ABG Vince chooses to withhold such approval. Furthermore, we may not be able to maintain the successful operation of our retail stores if the areas around our existing retail locations undergo changes that result in reductions in customer foot traffic or otherwise render the locations unsuitable, such as economic downturns in the area, changes in demographics and customer preferences, and the closing or decline in popularity of adjacent stores.

As of February 3, 2024, we operated 63 stores, including 47 company-operated Vince full-price stores and 15 company-operated Vince outlet stores throughout the United States and one company-operated Vince full price store in the United Kingdom.

During fiscal 2022, we recorded non-cash asset impairment charges of $1,880 within Impairment of long-lived assets on the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income(Loss) related to the impairment of property and equipment and operating lease right-of-use assets of certain retail stores with carrying values that were determined not to be recoverable and exceeded their fair value. We may in the future record further impairments of these assets.

We are subject to risks associated with leasing retail and office space, are historically subject to long-term non-cancelable leases and are required to make substantial lease payments under our operating leases, and any failure to make these lease payments when due would likely harm our business, profitability and results of operations.

We do not own any of our stores or our offices, including our New York, Los Angeles or Paris offices and showroom spaces, but instead lease all of such space under operating leases. Substantially all of our leases require a fixed annual rent, and most require the payment of additional rent if store sales exceed a negotiated amount. Most of our leases are “net” leases, which require us to pay the cost of insurance, taxes, maintenance, and utilities. Some of our leases are subject to initial terms that are as long as 10 years, and we generally cannot cancel these leases solely at our option. Additionally, certain of our leases allow the lessor to terminate the lease if we do not achieve a specified gross sales threshold. There can be no assurance that we will be able to achieve these required thresholds and in the event we are not able to do so, we may be forced to find an alternative store location and may not be successful in doing so. Any loss of our store locations due to underperformance may harm our results of operations, stock price and reputation.

Payments under these leases account for a significant portion of our selling, general and administrative expenses. For example, as of February 3, 2024, we were a party to 67 operating leases associated with our retail stores and our office and showroom spaces requiring future minimum lease payments of $22,006 in the aggregate through fiscal 2024 and $84,140 thereafter. Any new retail stores leased by us under operating leases will further increase our operating lease expenses, and some of those stores may require significant capital expenditures. We depend on cash flows from operations to pay our lease expenses and to fulfill our other cash needs. If our business does not generate sufficient cash flow from operating activities, and sufficient funds are not otherwise available to us from borrowings under our credit facilities or from other sources, we may not be able to service our operating lease expenses, grow our business, respond to competitive challenges or fund our other liquidity and capital needs, which would harm our business. In addition, we may remain obligated under the applicable lease for, among other things, payment of the base rent for the remaining lease term, even after the space is exited or otherwise closed (such as our temporary store closures resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic). Such costs and obligations related to the early or temporary closure of our stores or termination of our leases could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, and financial condition.

If an existing or future store is not profitable, and we decide to close it, we may nonetheless be committed to perform our obligations under the applicable lease including, among others, paying the base rent for the balance of the lease term if we cannot negotiate a mutually acceptable termination payment. In fiscal 2024, 15 of our existing store leases will expire, many for which we have already extended or secured an alternative location. As our leases expire, we may fail to negotiate renewals, either on commercially acceptable terms or at all, or to find a suitable alternative location, which could cause us to close stores in desirable locations or in the case of office leases, incur costs in relocating our office space.

A substantial portion of our revenue is derived from a small number of large wholesale partners, and the loss of any of these wholesale partners could substantially reduce our total revenue.

We historically had and continue to have a small number of wholesale partners who account for a significant portion of our net sales. Our consolidated net sales to the full-price, off-price and e-commerce operations of our largest wholesale partner comprised 20% of our total revenue for fiscal 2023. We do not have formal written agreements with any of our wholesale partners and purchases generally occur on an order-by-order basis. A decision by any of our major wholesale partners, whether motivated by marketing strategy, competitive conditions, financial difficulties or otherwise, to significantly decrease the amount of merchandise purchased from us, or to change their manner of doing business with us, could substantially reduce our revenue and have a material adverse effect on our profitability. In addition, due to the concentration of and/or ownership changes in our wholesale partner base, our results of operations could be adversely affected if any of these wholesale partners fails to satisfy its payment obligations to us when due or no longer takes part in the distribution arrangements. These changes could also decrease our opportunities in the market and decrease our negotiating strength with our wholesale partners. Furthermore, under the License Agreement, ABG Vince may remove any customer account that was pre-approved at the time of the closing of the Asset Sale if it believes using its good faith, commercially reasonable judgment, that such account is no longer consistent with the brand positioning for the Licensed Property or reject at its sole good faith discretion any new customer account we submit for its approval. If we lose any of our existing wholesale partners as a result of ABG Vince's decision to remove them, or if we are unable to expand our wholesale partnership or any addition of new wholesale partners is rejected by ABG Vince, our results of operations could be significantly and negatively impacted. These factors could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and operating results.

If we are unable to accurately forecast customer demand for our products, our results of operations could be materially impacted.

We stock our stores, and provide inventory to our wholesale partners, based on our or their estimates of future demand for particular products. Our inventory management and planning team determines the number of pieces of each product that we will order from our manufacturers based upon past sales of similar products, sales trend information and anticipated demand at our suggested retail prices. Our ability to accurately forecast demand for our products could be affected by many factors, including an increase or decrease in demand for our products or for products of our competitors, product introductions by competitors, unanticipated changes in general market conditions, and weakening of economic conditions or consumer confidence in future economic conditions. We cannot guarantee that we will be able to match supply with demand in all cases in the future, to produce sufficient levels of desirable product or to forecast demand accurately. If we fail to accurately forecast customer demand, we may experience excess inventory levels or a shortage of products. Inventory levels in excess of customer demand may result in inventory write-downs or write-offs and the sale of excess inventory at discounted prices, which would negatively impact our gross margin, as was the case in fiscal 2022. Conversely, if we underestimate customer demand for our products, our manufacturers may not be able to deliver products to meet our requirements, and this could harm our business. There can be no assurance that we will be able to successfully manage our inventory at a level appropriate for future customer demand.

General economic conditions in the U.S. and other parts of the world, including a weakening of the economy and restricted credit markets, can affect consumer confidence and consumer spending patterns.

The success of our operations depends on consumer spending. Consumer spending is impacted by a number of factors, including actual and perceived economic conditions affecting disposable consumer income, customer traffic within shopping and selling environments, business conditions, interest rates and availability of credit and tax rates in the general economy and in the international, regional and local markets in which our products are sold, including those resulting from inflation and other macroeconomic pressures in the United States and the global economy (including rising interest rates, fears of recession and continued market volatility and instability in the banking sector), health epidemics or pandemics, climate change, and catastrophic events, such as war (including the armed conflicts between Ukraine and Russia and in the Middle East) and the related governmental and non-governmental global responses to such conflict), terrorist attacks, civil unrest, and other acts of violence. A worsening of the economy may negatively affect consumer and wholesale purchases of our products and could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial conditions.

We have identified a material weakness in our internal control over financial reporting that could, if not remediated, result in material misstatements in our financial statements.

A material weakness continued to exist relating to our internal control over financial reporting which was previously identified in fiscal 2016. A material weakness is a deficiency, or a combination of deficiencies, in internal control over financial reporting such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of an entity's financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis. The material weakness will not be remediated until all necessary internal controls have been implemented, tested and determined to be operating effectively. In addition, we may need to take additional measures to address such material weakness or modify the planned remediation steps, and we cannot be certain that the measures we have taken, and expect to take, to improve our internal controls will be sufficient to address the issues identified, to ensure that our internal controls are effective or to ensure that the identified material weakness will not result in a material misstatement of our consolidated financial statements. Moreover, other material weaknesses or deficiencies may develop or be identified in the future. If we are unable to correct material weaknesses or deficiencies in internal controls in a timely manner, our ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information accurately and within the time periods specified in the rules and forms of the SEC, will be adversely affected. This failure could negatively affect the market price and trading liquidity of our common stock, cause investors to lose confidence in our reported financial information, subject us to civil and criminal investigations and penalties, and otherwise materially and adversely impact our business and financial condition.

For so long as we remain a "non-accelerated filer" under the rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission, our independent registered public accounting firm is not required to deliver an annual attestation report on the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting. We will cease to be a non-accelerated filer if either (i) the aggregate market value of our outstanding common stock held by non-affiliates as of the last business day of our most recently completed second fiscal quarter (our "public float") is $75,000 or more and our annual revenues for the most recently completed fiscal year are $100,000 or more or (ii) our public float is $700,000 or more, in which case we would become subject to the requirement for an annual attestation report by our independent registered public accounting firm on the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting.

Failure to comply with laws and regulations could adversely impact our business.

We are subject to numerous domestic and international laws, regulations and advisories, including labor and employment, environmental, wage and hour, customs, truth- in-advertising, consumer protection, data and privacy protection, and zoning and occupancy laws and ordinances that regulate retailers generally or govern the importation, promotion and sale of merchandise and the operation of stores and warehouse facilities. If these regulations were violated by our management, employees, vendors, independent manufacturers or partners, the costs of certain goods could increase, or we could experience delays in shipments of our products, be subject to fines or penalties, or suffer reputational harm, which could reduce demand for our merchandise and hurt our business and results of operations. In addition we are subject to laws and regulations related to us being a public company, including the rules and regulations of the SEC and the NYSE. Any violation of or not meeting compliance standards under such laws and regulations could impact our status as a public company, including our ability to continue being listed on the NYSE. Moreover, changes in product safety or other consumer protection laws could lead to increased costs to us for certain merchandise, or additional labor costs associated with readying merchandise for sale. It is often difficult for us to plan and prepare for potential changes to applicable laws and future actions or payments related to such changes could be material to us.

Increased scrutiny from investors, regulators and others regarding our approach to sustainability matters and environmental, social and governance (“ESG”) practices could result in additional costs or risks that adversely impact our business operations, including our reputation and our financial results.

Increasingly, regulators, customers, investors, employees and other stakeholders are focusing on sustainability matters and ESG practices and related disclosures. The emergence of new and more stringent legislation, regulation and oversight related to sustainability and ESG practices (such as the marketing of goods and business practices, and corresponding mandatory and voluntary public reporting and disclosures related to such practices, including the SEC’s recent climate-related reporting requirements) are likely to result in increased costs and expenses and increased management time and attention spent monitoring, complying with or meeting sustainability and ESG-related requirements and expectations, which could impact our business operations, including our financial results. For example, developing and acting on sustainability and ESG-related initiatives, including design, sourcing and operations decisions, and collecting, measuring and reporting related data and metrics can be costly, difficult and time-consuming. Furthermore, the Company’s approach to sustainability matters and ESG practices may be based on assumptions and standards for measuring progress that are still evolving, internal controls and processes that are developing, and reporting standards that may be subject to change in the future. Failure or perceived failure to adapt to or sufficiently comply with evolving or expanding regulatory requirements or stakeholder expectations and standards could further increase costs and expenses, including through potential regulatory enforcement and consumer actions, and could negatively impact the Company’s reputation, consumer patronage and, in turn, our results of operations.

Intense competition in the apparel and fashion industry could reduce our sales and profitability.

As a fashion company, we face intense competition from other domestic and foreign apparel, footwear and accessories manufacturers and retailers. Competition has and may continue to result in pricing pressures, reduced profit margins, lost market share or failure to grow our market share, any of which could substantially harm our business and results of operations. Some of our competitors have more established relationships with a broader set of suppliers, greater brand recognition and greater financial, research and development, marketing, distribution and other resources than we do. These capabilities of our competitors may allow one or more of them to better withstand downturns in the economy or apparel and fashion industry. Any increased competition, or our failure to adequately address any of these competitive factors which we have seen from time to time, could result in reduced sales, which could adversely affect our business, financial condition, and operating results.

Competition, along with such other factors as consolidation within the retail industry and changes in consumer spending patterns, could also result in significant pricing pressure and cause the sales environment to be more promotional, as it has been in recent years, impacting our financial results. For instance, we operated through a highly promotional sales environment during fiscal 2022 which had a negative impact on our operating results. If promotional pressure remains intense, either through actions of our competitors or through customer expectations, this may cause a further reduction in our sales and gross margins and could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and operating results.

We may not successfully manage the transition associated with the appointment of the Interim Chief Executive Officer, and a permanent Chief Executive Officer when identified, which could have an adverse impact on us.

On March 26, 2024, Jonathan Schwefel resigned from his positions as Chief Executive Officer of the Company and member of the Board. In connection with Mr. Schwefel’s resignation, the Board appointed David Stefko, a current member of the Board and former Chief Financial Officer of the Company, to serve as our Interim Chief Executive Officer. The Board is in the process of identifying a permanent Chief Executive Officer.

The effectiveness of our Interim Chief Executive Officer and our senior leadership team generally, following the transition, and the transition to the permanent Chief Executive Officer when identified, could have a significant impact on our ability to operate the business effectively. The failure to ensure a smooth transition, including required knowledge transfers, could negatively affect our results of operations and financial condition as well as our ability to execute our business strategies.

If we lose any key personnel, are unable to attract key personnel, or assimilate and retain our key personnel, we may not be able to successfully operate or grow our business.

Our continued success is dependent on our ability to attract, assimilate, retain, and motivate qualified management, designers, administrative talent, and sales associates to support existing operations and future growth. Competition for qualified talent in the apparel and fashion industry is intense, and we compete for these individuals with other companies that in many cases have greater financial and other resources. The loss of the services of any members of senior management or board of directors or the inability to attract and retain qualified executives or members of our board of directors could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition. In addition, we will need to continue to attract, assimilate, retain, and motivate highly talented employees with a range of other skills and experience. Competition for employees in our industry, especially at the store management levels, is intense and we may from time to time experience difficulty in retaining our associates or attracting the additional talent necessary to support the growth of our business. We will also need to attract, assimilate, and retain other professionals across a range of disciplines, including design, production, sourcing, and international business, as we develop new product categories and continue to expand our international presence.

Our operating results may be subject to seasonal and quarterly variations in our net revenue and income from operations.

The apparel and fashion industry in which we operate is cyclical and, consequently, our revenues are affected by general economic conditions and the seasonal trends characteristic to the apparel and fashion industry. Purchases of apparel are sensitive to a number of factors that influence the level of consumer spending, including economic conditions and the level of disposable consumer income, consumer debt, interest rates, consumer confidence as well as the impact from adverse weather conditions. In addition, fluctuations in the amount of sales in any fiscal quarter are affected by the timing of seasonal wholesale shipments and other events affecting direct-to-consumer sales; as such, the financial results for any particular quarter may not be indicative of results for the fiscal year.

Any future seasonal or quarterly fluctuations in our results of operations may not match the expectations of market analysts and investors to assess the longer- term profitability and strength of our business at any particular point, which could lead to increased volatility in our stock price.

Our goodwill could become further impaired, which may require us to take significant non-cash charges against earnings.

In accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board ASC Topic 350 Intangibles-Goodwill and Other ("ASC 350"), goodwill is tested for impairment at least annually and in an interim period if a triggering event occurs. Determining the fair value of goodwill is judgmental in nature and requires the use of significant estimates and assumptions, including estimates of projected revenues, EBITDA margins, long-term growth rates, working capital and discount rates, among others. We base our estimates on assumptions we believe to be reasonable, but which are unpredictable and inherently uncertain. Actual future results may differ from those estimates. It is possible that our current estimates of future operating results could change adversely and impact the evaluation of the recoverability of the remaining carrying value of goodwill, the impact of which could be material. There can be no assurances that we will not be required to record further charges in our financial statements, which would negatively impact our results of operations during the period in which any impairment of our goodwill is determined.

Our competitive position could suffer if the intellectual property rights relating to the Vince brand are not protected.

As a result of the Asset Sale, the intellectual property rights relating to the Vince brand will be protected and enforced by Authentic and we have no control over their actions to do so. If Authentic does not protect the intellectual property rights of the Vince brand, we may become unable to operate our business as intended, which could harm our business and cause our results of operations, liquidity, and financial condition to suffer.

We may be unable to successfully complete the wind down of the Rebecca Taylor business.

On September 12, 2022, the Company announced its decision to wind down the Rebecca Taylor business. On December 22, 2022, the Company's indirectly wholly owned subsidiary, Rebecca Taylor, Inc., completed the sale of its intellectual property and certain related ancillary assets to RT IPCO, LLC, an affiliate of Ramani Group. Substantially all Rebecca Taylor inventory was liquidated as of January 28, 2023. All Rebecca Taylor retail and outlet stores operated by the Company were closed as of January 28, 2023 and the e-commerce site operated by the Company ceased in December 2022. On July 7, 2023, Rebecca Taylor, Inc. and Rebecca Taylor Retail Stores, LLC, each as an assignor, made a General Assignment for the Benefit of the Creditors (the "Assignment") to a respective assignee, an unaffiliated California limited liability company, pursuant to California state law. The Assignment resulted in the residual rights and assets of each of Rebecca Taylor, Inc. and Rebecca Taylor Retail Stores, LLC being assigned and transferred to such assignees. As a result, Rebecca Taylor, Inc. and Rebecca Taylor Retail Stores, LLC no longer hold any assets. The execution of the wind down is subject to various remaining risks and uncertainties surrounding the actions of customers, vendors and other counterparties, including legal risks associated with the wind down. As a result, we may not be able to successfully complete the wind down of the Rebecca Taylor business or the overall cost of the wind down may exceed our expectations. Furthermore, if we are unable to successfully complete the wind down of the Rebecca Taylor business or the cost exceeds our expectations, the Vince business may be adversely impacted.

Risks Related to Our Information Technology and Security

System or data security issues, such as cyber or malware attacks, as well as other major system failures could disrupt our internal operations or information technology services, and any such disruption could negatively impact our net sales, increase our expenses and harm our reputation.

From time to time, we are subject to system or data security problems, including viruses and bugs as well as security issues created by third-party software and applications, employee errors and malfeasance and other various causes. None of these incidents has resulted in any data or information breaches or any other material impact to our financial results. There is no assurance, however, that we would not be subject to material security problems in the future, including cyber or malware attacks, including as an indirect result of the armed conflicts between Ukraine and Russia and in the Middle East, and we could incur significant expenses or disruptions of our operations in connection with resulting system failures or data and information breaches. The increased use of smartphones, tablets, and other wireless devices, as well as the hybrid and remote work environments may also heighten these and other operational risks. The costs to us to eliminate or alleviate security problems, viruses and bugs could be significant, and the efforts to address these problems could result in interruptions, delays or cessation of service that may impact our reputation and/or impede our sales, distribution or other critical functions. Furthermore, any security issues that involve the compromise of personal information of our customers or employees could subject us to litigation and/or penalties and harm our reputation, materially and adversely affecting our business and growth. We also do not control our third-party service providers and cannot guarantee that no electronic or physical computer break-ins and security breaches will occur in the future, nor can we guarantee that any loss we experience can be recovered from such third-party service providers. Lastly, in the case of a disaster affecting our information technology systems, we may experience delays in recovery of data, inability to perform vital corporate functions, tardiness in required reporting and compliance, failures to adequately support our operations and other breakdowns in normal communication and operating procedures that could materially and adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.

We are continuing to adopt, optimize and improve our information technology systems, processes, and functions. If these systems, processes, and functions do not operate successfully, our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows could be materially harmed.

We continue to optimize and improve our information technology environment. For example, in fiscal 2022, we completed the implementation of a customer data platform and the front-end re-platforming of our Vince e-commerce website and in fiscal 2021, we completed the roll-out of a new POS system for the Vince brand. We plan to progress these strategies, including investing in customer facing technologies to further expand our omni-channel capabilities and to further consolidate systems over time to create operational efficiencies and to achieve a common platform across the Company. If we fail in our efforts to continue adopting, optimizing and improving these systems, processes and functions as currently planned, we could incur further disruptions to our business and operations, including lost e-commerce sales, a negative mobile experience for our customers, deficiencies or weaknesses in our internal controls, as well as additional costs to replace those systems and functions.

Failure to comply with privacy‑related obligations, including privacy laws and regulations in the U.S. and internationally as well as other legal obligations, could materially adversely affect our business.

A variety of laws and regulations, in the U.S. and internationally, govern the collection, use, retention, sharing, transfer and security of personally identifiable information and data, including the European Union's General Data Protection Regulation ("GDPR"), which became effective during fiscal 2018, the California Consumer Privacy Act of 2018 ("CCPA"), which became effective on January 1, 2020 and the California Privacy Rights Act of 2020 ("CPRA"), which became effective January 1, 2023. Since the enactment of the CCPA and CPRA, data security laws have been proposed in more than half of the U.S. states and in the U.S. Congress, reflecting a trend toward more stringent privacy legislation in the U.S. Additionally, the Federal Trade Commission and many state attorneys general are interpreting federal and state consumer protection laws as imposing standards for the online collection, use, dissemination, and security of data. It is possible that these laws, rules and regulations, which evolve frequently and may be inconsistent from one jurisdiction to another, could be interpreted to conflict with our practices. In addition to the costs of compliance with and other burdens imposed by privacy and data security laws and regulations, any failure or perceived failure by us or any third parties with whom we do business to comply with these laws, rules and regulations, or with other obligations to which we may be or become subject, may result in actions against us by governmental entities, private claims and litigation, fines, penalties or other liabilities. Any such action would be expensive to defend, could damage our reputation and could adversely affect our business and operating results.

Risks Related to Our Supply Chain

Problems with our distribution process could materially harm our ability to meet customer expectations, manage inventory, complete sale transactions, and achieve targeted operating efficiencies.

In the U.S., we rely on a distribution facility operated by a third-party logistics provider in California. Our ability to meet the needs of our wholesale partners and our own direct-to-consumer business depends on the proper operation of this distribution facility. Because substantially all of our products are distributed from one state, our operations could be interrupted by labor difficulties, or by floods, fires, earthquakes or other natural disasters and health crises and pandemics, at or near such facility. For example, a majority of our ocean shipments go through the ports in California, which had previously been subject to significant processing delays due to COVID-19 as well as a prior blockage in the Suez Canal, resulting not only in shipment disruptions but also in significantly increased freight costs. We also have warehouses overseas, including in Hong Kong and Belgium, operated by third-party logistics providers, supporting our wholesale orders for customers located primarily in the nearby regions. Disruptions at any of these facilities located outside the U.S. (including disruptions related to the armed conflict between Ukraine and Russia and in the Middle East) could also materially and negatively impact our business.

We maintain business interruption insurance. These policies, however, may not adequately protect us from the adverse effects that could result from significant disruptions to our distribution system. If we encounter problems with any of our distribution processes, our ability to meet customer expectations, manage inventory, complete sales, and achieve targeted operating efficiencies could be harmed. Any of the foregoing factors could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and operating results.

Fluctuations in the price, availability and quality of raw materials could cause delays and increase costs and cause our operating results and financial condition to suffer.

Fluctuations in the price, availability and quality of the fabrics or other raw materials, particularly cotton, silk, leather and synthetics used in our manufactured apparel, could have a material adverse effect on cost of sales or our ability to meet customer demands. The prices of fabrics depend largely on the market prices of the raw materials used to produce them. The price and availability of the raw materials and, in turn, the fabrics used in our apparel may fluctuate significantly, depending on many factors, including crop yields, weather patterns, labor costs and changes in oil prices as well as other economic factors, such as those related to the armed conflict between Ukraine and Russia and in the Middle East. We may not be able to create suitable design solutions that utilize raw materials with attractive prices or, alternatively, to pass higher raw materials prices and related transportation costs on to our customers. We are not always successful in our efforts to protect our business from the volatility of the market price of raw materials, and our business can be materially affected by dramatic movements in prices of raw materials. The ultimate effect of this change on our earnings cannot be quantified, as the effect of movements in raw materials prices on industry selling prices are uncertain, but any significant increase in these prices could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and operating results.

The extent of our foreign sourcing may adversely affect our business.

In fiscal 2023 we worked with more than 25 manufacturers across 10 countries, with 79% of our products produced in China throughout fiscal 2023. A manufacturing contractor's failure to ship products to us in a timely manner or to meet the required quality standards could cause us to miss the delivery date requirements of our customers for those items. The failure to make timely deliveries may cause customers to cancel orders, refuse to accept deliveries or demand reduced prices, any of which could have a material adverse effect on us. As a result of the magnitude of our foreign sourcing, our business is subject to the following risks:

• political and economic instability in countries or regions, especially Asia and in connection with armed conflict (such as conflicts between Ukraine and Russia and in the Middle East), including heightened terrorism, diplomatic and other security concerns, which could subject imported or exported goods to additional or more frequent inspections, leading to delays in deliveries or impoundment of goods;
• imposition of regulations, quotas and other trade restrictions relating to imports, including the additional tariffs and bans imposed on certain imports from China (such as those imposed by the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act), as well as other quotas imposed by bilateral textile agreements between the U.S. and foreign countries from time to time;
• currency exchange rates;
• imposition of increased duties, taxes, tariffs and other charges on imports;
• increases in the costs of fuel, travel and transportation, both related and unrelated to the armed conflict between Ukraine and Russia and in the Middle East, and demand for freight services at a time of reduced ocean freight capacity;
• disease epidemics and health-related concerns, which could result in travel restrictions, closed factories, reduced workforces and higher labor costs, scarcity of and increased prices for raw materials and scrutiny or embargoing of goods produced in infected areas;
• labor union strikes at ports through which our products enter the U.S.;
• labor shortages in countries where contractors and suppliers are located;
• restrictions on the transfer of funds to or from foreign countries;
• the migration and development of manufacturing contractors, which could affect where our products are or are planned to be produced;
• reduced manufacturing flexibility because of geographic distance between our foreign manufacturers and us, increasing the risk that we may have to mark down unsold inventory as a result of misjudging the market for a foreign-made product; and
• violations by foreign contractors of labor and wage standards and resulting adverse publicity.

If these risks limit or prevent us from manufacturing products in any significant international market, prevent us from acquiring products from foreign suppliers, or significantly increase the cost of our products, our operations could be seriously disrupted until alternative suppliers are found or alternative markets are developed, which could negatively and significantly impact our business. While we may be able to shift our sourcing options to avoid any negative macroenvironmental impact of a particular region such as China, executing such a shift would be time consuming and would be difficult or impracticable for many products and may result in an increase in our manufacturing costs and/or may negatively impact the quality of our products. Any increase in the prices of our products and/or decline in the quality of our products could in turn negatively impact the demand for our products.

Our reliance on independent manufacturers could cause delays or quality issues which could damage customer relationships.

We use independent manufacturers to assemble or produce all of our products, whether inside or outside the U.S. We are dependent on the ability of these independent manufacturers to adequately finance the production of goods ordered and maintain sufficient manufacturing capacity. Because we do not control these independent manufacturers, they may not continue to provide products that are consistent with our standards. We receive from time to time shipments of product that fail to conform to our quality control standards or products that are damaged during shipment as they were not properly packed. Failures such as these in our quality control program may result in diminished product quality, which in turn may result in increased order cancellations and returns, decreased consumer demand for our products, or product recalls, any of which may have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition. In addition, products that fail to meet our standards, or other unauthorized products, could end up in the marketplace without our knowledge. This could materially harm our brand and our reputation in the marketplace.

We generally do not have long-term written agreements with any independent manufacturers. As a result, any single manufacturing contractor could unilaterally terminate its relationship with us at any time or attempt to change historical terms of engagement, such as demanding accelerated payment terms, all and any of such actions by a manufacturing contractor could disrupt our supply chain strategies and our operations. Our top five manufacturers accounted for the production of approximately 54% of our finished products during fiscal 2023. Supply disruptions from these manufacturers (or any of our other manufacturers) could have a material adverse effect on our ability to meet customer demands if we are unable to source suitable replacement materials at acceptable prices or at all. Moreover, alternative manufacturers, if available, may not be able to provide us with products or services of a comparable quality, at an acceptable price or on a timely basis. We may also, from time to time, make a decision to enter into a relationship with a new manufacturer. Identifying a suitable supplier is an involved process that requires us to become satisfied with their quality control, responsiveness and service, financial stability and labor and other responsible and/or ethical business practices. There can be no assurance that there will not be a disruption in the supply of our products from independent manufacturers or that any new manufacturer will be successful in producing our products in a manner we expected.

If our independent manufacturers fail to use ethical business practices and comply with applicable laws and regulations, our business could be harmed due to negative publicity.

We have established operating guidelines which promote responsible and ethical business practices such as fair wage practices, compliance with child labor laws and other local laws. While we monitor compliance with those guidelines, we do not control our independent manufacturers or their business practices. Accordingly, we cannot guarantee their compliance with our guidelines. From time to time, our audit results have revealed a lack of compliance in certain respects, including with respect to local labor, safety, and environmental laws. Other fashion companies have faced criticism after highly publicized incidents or compliance issues have occurred or been exposed at factories producing their products. To the extent our manufacturers do not bring their operations into compliance with such laws or resolve material issues identified in any of our audit results, we may face similar criticism and negative publicity. In addition, other fashion companies have encountered organized boycotts of their products in such situations. If we, or other companies in our industry, encounter similar problems in the future, it could harm our business, stock price and results of operations. In addition, a lack of demonstrated compliance by our suppliers could lead us to seek alternative suppliers, which could increase our costs and result in delayed delivery of our products, product shortages or other disruptions of our operations. Furthermore, expectations of ethical business practices continually evolve, may be substantially more demanding than applicable legal requirements and are driven in part by legal developments and by diverse groups active in publicizing and organizing public responses to perceived ethical shortcomings. Accordingly, we cannot predict how expectations of ethical business practices might develop in the future and cannot be certain that our guidelines would satisfy all parties who are active in monitoring and publicizing perceived shortcomings in labor and other business practices worldwide.

Risks Related to Our Structure and Ownership

We are a "controlled company," controlled by investment funds advised by affiliates of Sun Capital, whose interests in our business may be different from yours.

Affiliates of Sun Capital owned approximately 68% of our outstanding common stock as of March 31, 2024. As such, affiliates of Sun Capital will, for the foreseeable future, have significant influence over our reporting and corporate management and affairs, and will be able to control virtually all matters requiring stockholder approval. For so long as affiliates of Sun Capital own 30% or more of our outstanding shares of common stock, Sun Cardinal, LLC, an affiliate of Sun Capital, will have the right to designate a majority of our board of directors.

Affiliates of Sun Capital control actions to be taken by us, our board of directors and our stockholders, including amendments to our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws and approval of significant corporate transactions, including mergers and sales of substantially all of our assets. The directors designated by affiliates of Sun Capital have the authority, subject to the terms of our indebtedness and the rules and regulations of the New York Stock Exchange (the "NYSE"), to issue additional stock, implement stock repurchase programs, declare dividends and make other decisions. Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation provides that the doctrine of "corporate opportunity" does not apply to Sun Capital or its affiliates, or any of our directors who are associates of, or affiliated with, Sun Capital, in a manner that would prohibit them from investing in competing businesses or doing business with our partners or customers. It is possible that the interests of Sun Capital and its affiliates may in some circumstances conflict with our interests and the interests of our other stockholders, including you. For example, Sun Capital may have different tax positions from other stockholders, which could influence their decisions regarding whether and when we should dispose of assets and whether and when we should incur new or refinance existing indebtedness.

We are a "smaller reporting company" and intend to avail ourselves of reduced disclosure requirements applicable to smaller reporting companies, which could make our common stock less attractive to investors.

We are a "smaller reporting company," as defined in the Exchange Act, and we intend to take advantage of certain exemptions from various reporting requirements that are applicable to other public companies that are not "smaller reporting companies," including reduced disclosure obligations regarding executive compensation in our periodic reports and proxy statements. We cannot predict if investors will find our common stock less attractive because we may rely on these exemptions. If some investors find our common stock less attractive as a result, there may be a less active trading market for our common stock and our stock price may be more volatile. We intend to take advantage of these reporting exemptions until we are no longer a "smaller reporting company." We will remain a "smaller reporting company" until the aggregate market value of our outstanding common stock held by non-affiliates as of the last business day of our most recently completed second fiscal quarter is $250,000 or more and annual revenue as of our most recently completed fiscal year is $100,000 or more, or the aggregate market value of our outstanding common stock held by non-affiliates as of the last business day of our most recently completed second fiscal quarter is $700,000 or more, regardless of annual revenue.

Cybersecurity Risk Management and Strategy

The Company is committed to, and recognizes the importance of, information security, cyber readiness, and data privacy protections to our business and reputation, which includes assessing, identifying, and managing material risks associated with cybersecurity threats. Our cybersecurity program uses processes, technologies, and controls to assist in our efforts to assess, identify, and manage material cybersecurity-related risks.

The Company employs a number of tools and services, such as network monitoring and vulnerability assessments to inform our risk identification and assessment processes. We also maintain an incident response plan that outlines processes designed to triage, assess the severity of, escalate, contain, investigate, and remediate cybersecurity incidents while also complying with relevant legal obligations. Our employees receive cybersecurity awareness and sensitive information protection training on a regular basis, which we also periodically test for effectiveness through simulations, which may include simulated phishing emails and tabletop exercises. Additionally, the Company regularly makes assessments related to the potential impact of a security incident at a third-party vendor, service provider or customer or otherwise implicating the third-party technology and systems the Company uses. We also maintain cybersecurity risk insurance.

Our information security team serves as a first line of defense, including managing cyber risk strategy execution and owning the day-to-day management of these risks. Our enterprise risk management function, which includes members of our executive leadership team, serves as a second line of defense, bringing holistic risk oversight while serving as a partner to the business to help strategically manage risk. In particular, cybersecurity risks are monitored by a team composed of members of our executive team, who in turn provides updates to the Audit Committee of our Board of Directors, who is responsible for assisting the Board of Directors with oversight over cybersecurity risks.

Through the processes described above, we did not identify risks from current or past cybersecurity incidents that have materially affected or are reasonably likely to materially affect our business strategy, results of operations, or financial condition. However, despite our efforts, we cannot eliminate all risks from cybersecurity threats, or provide assurances that we have not experienced undetected cybersecurity incidents. See Part I, Item IA. Risk Factors – “Risks Related to Our Information Technology and Security”.

Cybersecurity Governance

Our Board of Directors and Audit Committee are actively engaged in the oversight of our information security program, including the Company’s technology and information security policies and practices, the internal controls relating to information security, and the steps taken by management to identify, monitor, and control any risk exposures. Our management has general responsibility for day-to-day implementation of our information technology, cybersecurity, and privacy strategies and policies, including deployment and use of security tools, applications, and employee training. Role or project specific employee training, as well as other training, may also occur, as needed. Our cybersecurity risk management and strategy processes, which are discussed in greater detail above, are led by our Chief Information Officer (“CIO”), who is assisted by other members of our senior management team. The team engaged in the cybersecurity risk management process, including the CIO, has risk management backgrounds, certifications, and/or cyber experience in prior professional roles and at the Company. The team also maintains expertise on cyber risk management through third party consultants, external training, and affiliations with relevant organizations.

Given the importance of information security to our customers, employees, suppliers and other partners, our Board and/or the Audit Committee receives reports as needed from our CIO on cybersecurity-related matters, including the status of projects to strengthen our security systems and to improve our cyber threat readiness, as well as on the existing and emerging cyber threat landscape and our program for managing these security risks.

The following table sets forth the location, use and size of our significant corporate facilities and showrooms as of February 3, 2024, all of which are leased under various agreements expiring at various times through fiscal 2034, subject to renewal options.

As of February 3, 2024, we leased 150,407 gross square feet related to our 63 company-operated Vince retail stores. Although our more recent leases are subject to shorter terms as a result of the implementation of our strategy to pursue shorter lease terms, some of our leases have initial terms of 10 years, and in some instances, can be extended for an additional term. Substantially all of our leases require a fixed annual rent, and most require the payment of additional rent if store sales exceed a negotiated amount. Most of our leases are "net" leases, which require us to pay all of the cost of insurance, taxes, maintenance, and utilities. Although we generally cannot cancel these leases at our option, certain of our leases allow us, and in some cases, the lessor, to terminate the lease if we do not achieve a specified gross sales threshold.

The following store list shows the location, opening date, type, and size of our company-operated retail locations as of February 3, 2024:

22

*As of February 3, 2024, this location is in the process of relocating to another store within the same Lifestyle Center.

We are a party to legal proceedings, compliance matters, environmental, as well as wage and hour and other labor claims that arise in the ordinary course of our business. Although the outcome of such items cannot be determined with certainty, we believe that the ultimate outcome of these items, individually and in the aggregate, will not have a material adverse impact on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Our fiscal year ends on the Saturday closest to January 31. Fiscal years 2023 and 2022 ended on February 3, 2024 ("fiscal 2023") and January 28, 2023 ("fiscal 2022"), respectively. Fiscal 2023 consisted of 53 weeks and fiscal 2022 consisted of 52 weeks. The following discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and related notes included elsewhere in this Annual Report. All amounts disclosed are in thousands except store counts, share and per share data and percentages.

This discussion contains forward-looking statements involving risks, uncertainties and assumptions that could cause our results to differ materially from expectations. For a discussion of the risks facing our business, see "Part I, Item 1A—Risk Factors" included in this Annual Report.

Executive Overview

We are a global retail company that operates the Vince brand women's and men's ready to wear business. We serve our customers through a variety of channels that reinforces the brand image. Previously, we also owned and operated the Rebecca Taylor and Parker brands until the sale of the respective intellectual property was completed, as discussed below.

Vince, established in 2002, is a leading global luxury apparel and accessories brand best known for creating elevated yet understated pieces for every day effortless style. As of February 3, 2024, we operate 48 full-price retail stores, 15 outlet stores, the e-commerce site, vince.com, and the subscription service Vince Unfold, vinceunfold.com. Vince is also available through premium wholesale channels globally.

On April 21, 2023 the Company entered into a strategic partnership ("Authentic Transaction") with Authentic Brands Group, LLC ("Authentic"), a global brand development, marketing and entertainment platform, whereby the Company will contribute its intellectual property to a newly formed Authentic subsidiary ("ABG Vince") for cash consideration and a membership interest in ABG Vince. The Company closed the Asset Sale on May 25, 2023. On May 25, 2023, in connection with the Authentic Transaction, Vince, LLC, entered into a License Agreement (the "License Agreement") with ABG Vince, which provides Vince, LLC with an exclusive, long-term license to use the Licensed Property in the Territory to the Approved Accounts (each as defined in the License Agreement). See Note 2 "Recent Transactions" to the Consolidated Financial Statements in this Annual Report for additional information.

Rebecca Taylor, founded in 1996 in New York City, was a contemporary womenswear line lauded for its signature prints, romantic detailing and vintage inspired aesthetic, reimagined for a modern era. On September 12, 2022, the Company announced its decision to wind down the Rebecca Taylor business. On December 22, 2022, the Company's indirectly wholly owned subsidiary, Rebecca Taylor, Inc., completed the sale of its intellectual property and certain related ancillary assets to RT IPCO, LLC, an affiliate of Ramani Group. See Note 2 "Recent Transactions" to the Consolidated Financial Statements in this Annual Report for additional information. The Rebecca Taylor collection was previously available through retail stores and outlet stores, through its branded e-commerce site and through its subscription service Rebecca Taylor RNTD, as well as through major department and specialty stores in the U.S. and in select international markets. All Rebecca Taylor retail and outlet stores operated by the Company were closed as of January 28, 2023 and the ecommerce site operated by the Company ceased in December 2022.

Parker, founded in 2008 in New York City, was a contemporary women's fashion brand that was trend focused. During the first half of fiscal 2020 the Company decided to pause the creation of new products to focus resources on the operations of the Vince and Rebecca Taylor brands. On February 17, 2023, the Company's indirectly wholly owned subsidiary, Parker Lifestyle, LLC, completed the sale of its intellectual property and certain related ancillary assets to Parker IP Co. LLC, an affiliate of BCI Brands. See Note 2 "Recent Transactions" to the Consolidated Financial Statements in this Annual Report for further information. The Parker collection was previously available through major department stores and specialty stores worldwide as well as through its e-commerce website.

The Company has identified three reportable segments: Vince Wholesale, Vince Direct-to-consumer and Rebecca Taylor and Parker.

Transformation Program

The Company is implementing a transformation program focused on driving enhanced profitability through an improved gross margin profile and optimized expense structure, beginning fiscal 2024. The transformation program is focused on improving the Company’s gross margin profile and driving cost efficiencies. The Company expects to achieve these goals primarily through streamlining manufacturing and production operations, reducing promotional activity and optimizing the breadth and depth of markdowns, and enhancing efficiencies within store operations, corporate overhead and third-party spend.

Results of Operations

Comparable Sales

Comparable sales include our e-commerce sales in order to align with how we manage our brick-and-mortar retail stores and e-commerce online stores as a combined single direct-to-consumer channel of distribution. As a result of our omni-channel sales and inventory strategy, as well as cross-channel customer shopping patterns, there is less distinction between our brick-and-mortar retail stores and our e-commerce online stores and we believe the inclusion of e-commerce sales in our comparable sales metric is a more meaningful representation of these results and provides a more comprehensive view of our year over year comparable sales metric.

A store is included in the comparable sales calculation after it has completed 13 full fiscal months of operations and includes stores, if any, that have been remodeled or relocated within the same geographic market the Company served prior to the relocation. Non-comparable sales include new stores which have not completed 13 full fiscal months of operations, sales from closed stores, and relocated stores serving a new geographic market. For 53-week fiscal years, we continue to adjust comparable sales to exclude the additional week. There may be variations in the way in which some of our competitors and other retailers calculate comparable sales.

Fiscal 2023 Compared to Fiscal 2022

The following table presents, for the periods indicated, our operating results as a percentage of net sales as well as earnings (loss) per share data:

(in thousands, except per share data and percentages)

(*) Not meaningful

Net sales for fiscal 2023 were $292,890, decreasing $64,552, or 18.1%, versus $357,442 for fiscal 2022. The reduction was primarily due to the wind down of Rebecca Taylor and higher off-price sales in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2022, partly offset by the effect of the 53rd week.

Gross profit decreased $4,678, or 3.4%, to $133,292 in fiscal 2023 from $137,970 in fiscal 2022. As a percentage of sales, gross margin was 45.5%, compared with 38.6% in the prior year. The total gross margin rate increase was primarily driven by the following factors:

• The favorable impact from the wind down of the Rebecca Taylor business, which historically operated at a lower overall gross margin, contributed positively by approximately 310 basis points;
• The favorable impact from lower product costing, freight costs, and higher pricing which contributed positively by approximately 250 basis points;
• The favorable impact of year-over-year adjustments to inventory reserves contributed positively by approximately 200 basis points; and
• The favorable impact from lower promotional activity in the Direct-to-consumer segment which contributed approximately 140 basis points; partly offset by
• The unfavorable impact from royalty expense associated with the License Agreement with ABG Vince contributed negatively by approximately 320 basis points.

Impairment of intangible assets for fiscal 2022 was $1,700 related to the impairment of the Rebecca Taylor tradename. See Note 3 "Goodwill and Intangible Assets" to the Consolidated Financial Statements in this Annual Report for further information.

Impairment of long-lived assets for fiscal 2022 was $1,880 related to the impairment of property and equipment for certain Vince and Rebecca Taylor retail locations. See Note 1 "Description of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies".

Gain on sale of intangible assets for fiscal 2023 was $32,808, of which $32,043 is related to the sale of the Vince intellectual property and certain related ancillary assets and $765 is related to the sale of the Parker intellectual property and certain ancillary assets. For fiscal 2022, there was a gain on sale of intangible assets of $1,620 related to the sale of the Rebecca Taylor intellectual property and certain related ancillary assets. See Note 2 "Recent Transactions" to the Consolidated Financial Statements in this Annual Report for additional information.

Selling, general and administrative ("SG&A") expenses for fiscal 2023 were $134,476, decreasing $26,956, or 16.7%, versus $161,432 for fiscal 2022. SG&A expenses as a percentage of sales were 45.9% and 45.2% for fiscal 2023 and fiscal 2022, respectively. The change in SG&A expenses compared to the prior year period was primarily due to:

• $26,822 net decrease in total SG&A expenses resulting from the wind down of the Rebecca Taylor brand;
• $2,218 of decreased compensation and benefits, primarily due to lower incentive-based compensation, partly offset by $946 attributable to the 53rd week;
• $1,729 of decreased samples expense resulting from improved production efficiencies; and
• $1,099 of decreased marketing and advertising costs; partly offset by
• $5,030 of transaction related expenses associated with the Asset Sale; and
• $1,205 of increased rent expense primarily due to lease modifications effective in late fiscal 2022.

Interest expense, net increased $1,231, or 12.5%, to $11,118 in fiscal 2023 from $9,887 in fiscal 2022 primarily due to $1,755 write-off of deferred financing costs and a $553 prepayment penalty both associated with the termination of the Term Loan Credit Facility (as defined below), as well as an $828 write-off of deferred financing costs associated with the termination of the 2018 Revolving Credit Facility (as defined below). This increase in interest expense was partly offset by an overall reduction of debt primarily through the termination of the term loan credit facility in the second quarter of fiscal 2023.

Provision for income taxes for fiscal 2023 was a benefit of $3,478 as compared to an expense of $3,037 for fiscal 2022. Our effective tax rate for fiscal 2023 and fiscal 2022 was (17.0)% and (8.6)%, respectively. The effective tax rate for fiscal 2023 differed from the U.S. statutory rate of 21% primarily due to the tax impacts associated with the Authentic Transaction, offset by state and foreign taxes and tax expense related to a portion of the non-cash deferred tax liability related to the Company’s equity method investment, which cannot be used as a source of income to support the realization of certain deferred tax assets related to the Company’s net operating losses.

The effective tax rate for fiscal 2022 differed from the U.S. statutory rate of 21% primarily due to the increase in deferred tax liabilities attributable to indefinite-lived goodwill and intangible assets, as well as state and foreign taxes partially offset by the impact of valuation allowance established against additional deferred tax assets. See Note 11 "Income Taxes" to the Consolidated Financial Statements in this Annual Report for further information.

Equity in net income of equity method investment of $1,462 consists of the Company's proportionate share of ABG Vince's net income for fiscal 2023. See Note 2 "Recent Transactions" for further information.

Performance by Segment

The Company has identified three reportable segments as further described below:

• Vince Wholesale segment—consists of the Company's operations to distribute Vince brand products to major department stores and specialty stores in the United States and select international markets;
• Vince Direct-to-consumer segment—consists of the Company's operations to distribute Vince brand products directly to the consumer through its Vince branded full-price specialty retail stores, outlet stores, and e-commerce platform, and its subscription service Vince Unfold; and
• Rebecca Taylor and Parker segment—consisted of the Company's operations to distribute Rebecca Taylor and Parker brand products to major department stores and specialty stores in the U.S. and select international markets, directly to the consumer through their own branded e-commerce platforms and Rebecca Taylor retail and outlet stores, and through its subscription service Rebecca Taylor RNTD.

On September 12, 2022, the Company announced its decision to wind down the Rebecca Taylor business. On December 22, 2022, the Company's indirectly wholly owned subsidiary, Rebecca Taylor, Inc., completed the sale of its intellectual property and certain related ancillary assets to RT IPCO, LLC, an affiliate of Ramani Group. See Note 2 "Recent Transactions" to the Consolidated Financial Statements in this Annual Report for further information. Substantially all Rebecca Taylor inventory was liquidated as of January 28, 2023. Additionally, all Rebecca Taylor retail and outlet stores operated by the Company were closed as of January 28, 2023 and the e-commerce site operated by the Company ceased in December 2022.

On February 17, 2023, the Company's indirectly wholly owned subsidiary, Parker Lifestyle, LLC, completed the sale of its intellectual property and certain related ancillary assets to Parker IP Co. LLC, an affiliate of BCI Brands. See Note 2 "Recent Transactions" to the Consolidated Financial Statements in this Annual Report for additional information.

Unallocated corporate expenses are related to the Vince brand and are comprised of SG&A expenses attributable to corporate and administrative activities (such as marketing, design, finance, information technology, legal and human resource departments), and other charges that are not directly attributable to the Company's Vince Wholesale and Vince Direct-to-consumer reportable segments.

(in thousands)

(1) Unallocated corporate for fiscal 2023 includes the $32,043 gain related to the sale of the Vince intellectual property and certain related ancillary assets.

Vince Wholesale

(in thousands)

Net sales from our Vince Wholesale segment decreased $19,772, or 11.7%, to $149,603 in fiscal 2023 from $169,375 in fiscal 2022, due primarily to lower off-price and international shipments, in addition to the reduction of licensing revenue due to the sale and transfer of our intellectual property assets under the Asset Sale.

Income from operations from our Vince Wholesale segment decreased $176, or 0.4%, to $43,416 in fiscal 2023 from $43,592 in fiscal 2022 primarily due to lower net sales that were partially offset by an improved gross margin, which was unfavorably impacted by royalty expenses associated with the License Agreement with ABG Vince.

Vince Direct-to-consumer

(in thousands)

Net sales from our Vince Direct-to-consumer segment decreased $6,674, or 4.5%, to $143,096 in fiscal 2023 from $149,770 in fiscal 2022. Comparable sales decreased $5,444, or 3.8%, including e-commerce, primarily due to a decrease in e-commerce traffic. Non-comparable sales, which includes new stores that have not completed 13 full fiscal months of operations and Vince Unfold, declined by $2,296, offset by $1,066 of sales attributable to the 53rd week. Since the end of fiscal 2022, four net stores have closed, bringing our total retail store count to 63 (consisting of 48 full price stores and 15 outlet stores) as of February 3, 2024, compared to 67 (consisting of 50 full price stores and 17 outlet stores) as of January 28, 2023.

Our Vince Direct-to-consumer segment had income from operations of $5,774 in fiscal 2023 compared to income from operations of $2,397 in fiscal 2022. The change was primarily driven by an improved gross margin, which was unfavorably impacted by royalty expenses associated with the License Agreement with ABG Vince. Additionally, fiscal 2022 included $1,014 of impairment charges related to the impairment of property and equipment associated with certain Vince retail locations.

Rebecca Taylor and Parker

(in thousands)

Net sales from our Rebecca Taylor and Parker segment decreased $38,106, or 99.5%, to $191 in fiscal 2023 from $38,297 in fiscal 2022 primarily due to the wind down of the Rebecca Taylor and Parker businesses.

Income (loss) from operations from our Rebecca Taylor and Parker segment increased $23,698, or 111.5%, to income of $2,443 in fiscal 2023 from a loss of $21,255, in fiscal 2022. The change was primarily driven by the wind down of the Rebecca Taylor business. In addition, income from operations for fiscal 2023 includes a net benefit of $1,750 from the wind down of the Rebecca Taylor business, primarily related to the release of operating lease liabilities as a result of lease terminations and a $765 gain associated with the sale of the Parker tradename, offset by$150 of transaction related expenses associated with the sale of the Parker tradename. Loss from operations for fiscal 2022 included $2,566 of impairment charges related to the impairment of the Rebecca Taylor tradename and property and equipment.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Our sources of liquidity are cash and cash equivalents, cash flows from operations, if any, borrowings available under the 2023 Revolving Credit Facility and our ability to access the capital markets, including our Sales Agreement entered into with Virtu Americas LLC in June 2023 (see Note 9 "Stockholders' Equity" to the Consolidated Financial Statements in this Annual Report for further information). Our primary cash needs are funding working capital requirements, including royalty payments under the License Agreement, meeting our debt service requirements, and capital expenditures for new stores and related leasehold improvements. The most significant components of our working capital are cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, inventories, accounts payable and other current liabilities. Based on our current expectations, we believe that our sources of liquidity will generate sufficient cash flows to meet our obligations during the next twelve months from the date these financial statements are issued.

Operating Activities

(in thousands)

Net cash provided by operating activities during fiscal 2023 was $1,640, which consisted of net income of $25,446, impacted by non-cash items of ($22,186) and cash used by working capital of $1,620. Net cash used by working capital resulted from cash outflows in accounts payable and accrued expenses of $23,994, primarily due to the timing of payments to vendors, cash outflows in other assets and liabilities of $8,165 primarily related to lease activity, offset by reductions in inventory of $31,236 primarily resulting from more efficient inventory management.

Net cash used in operating activities during fiscal 2022 was $19,261 which consisted of a net loss of $38,346, impacted by non-cash items of $19,936 and cash used by working capital of $851. Net cash used by working capital resulted from a cash outflow in inventory of $11,462 primarily due to the increase of carry-over pre-fall and fall assortments as well as a higher investment in replenishment products, and higher product costs, partly offset by a cash inflow in receivables, net of $8,787 primarily due to the timing of collections.

Investing Activities

(in thousands)

Net cash provided by investing activities of $75,540 during fiscal 2023 primarily represents $76,500 of proceeds received from the sale of the Vince intangible assets and $1,025 of proceeds received from the sale of the Parker intangible assets (see Note 2 "Recent Transactions" to the Consolidated Financial Statements in this Annual Report for additional information).

Net cash provided by investing activities of $1,468 during fiscal 2022 represents the proceeds received from the sale of intangible assets (see Note 2 "Recent Transactions" to the Consolidated Financial Statements in this Annual Report for further information), partly offset by capital expenditures primarily related to the investment in our e-commerce platforms, as well as retail store buildouts, including leasehold improvements and store fixtures.

Financing Activities

(in thousands)

Net cash used in financing activities was $77,079 during fiscal 2023, primarily consisting of $44,271 of net repayments of borrowings under the Company's revolving credit facilities, the repayment of $29,378 of borrowings under the Term Loan Credit Facility, and financing fees of $3,336 (which includes a $553 prepayment penalty associated with the termination of the Term Loan Credit Facility during fiscal 2023).

Net cash provided by financing activities was $17,811 during fiscal 2022, primarily consisting of $23,874 of net proceeds from borrowings under the 2018 Revolving Credit Facility, partly offset by the repayment of $5,622 of borrowings under the Term Loan Facility.

Term Loan Credit Facility

On September 7, 2021, Vince, LLC entered into a $35,000 senior secured term loan credit facility (the "Term Loan Credit Facility") pursuant to a Credit Agreement (the "Term Loan Credit Agreement"), as amended from time to time, by and among Vince, LLC, as the borrower, the guarantors named therein, PLC Agent, LLC, as administrative agent and collateral agent, and the other lenders from time to time party thereto. Vince Holding Corp. and Vince Intermediate Holding, LLC ("Vince Intermediate") were guarantors under the Term Loan Credit Facility. The Term Loan Credit Facility would have matured on the earlier of September 7, 2026, and 91 days after the maturity date of the 2018 Revolving Credit Facility.

On May 25, 2023, utilizing proceeds from the Asset Sale, the Company repaid all outstanding amounts of $28,724, which included accrued interest and a prepayment penalty of $553 (which is included within financing fees on the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows), under the Term Loan Credit Facility. The Term Loan Credit Facility was terminated. The Company also repaid $850 of fees due in accordance with an amendment entered into on September 30, 2022. Additionally, the Company recorded expense of $1,755 during fiscal 2023, related to the write-off of the remaining deferred financing costs. Prior to May 25, 2023, on an inception to date basis, the Company had made repayments of $7,335 on the Term Loan Credit Facility.

2023 Revolving Credit Facility

On June 23, 2023, Vince, LLC, entered into a new $85,000 senior secured revolving credit facility (the "2023 Revolving Credit Facility") pursuant to a Credit Agreement (the "2023 Revolving Credit Agreement") by and among Vince, LLC, the guarantors named therein, Bank of America, N.A. ("BofA"), as Agent, the other lenders from time to time party thereto, and BofA Securities, Inc., as sole lead arranger and sole bookrunner.

All outstanding amounts under the 2018 Revolving Credit Facility (as defined below) were repaid in full and such facility was terminated pursuant to the terms thereof as a result of all parties completing their obligations under such facility.

The 2023 Revolving Credit Facility provides for a revolving line of credit of up to the lesser of (i) the Borrowing Base (as defined in the 2023 Revolving Credit Agreement) and (ii) $85,000, as well as a letter of credit sublimit of $10,000. The 2023 Revolving Credit Agreement also permits Vince, LLC to request an increase in aggregate commitments under the 2023 Revolving Credit Facility of up to $15,000, subject to customary terms and conditions. The 2023 Revolving Credit Facility matures on the earlier of June 23, 2028, and 91 days prior to the earliest maturity date of any Material Indebtedness (as defined in the 2023 Revolving Credit Agreement), including the subordinated indebtedness pursuant to the Third Lien Credit Agreement.

Interest is payable on the loans under the 2023 Revolving Credit Facility, at Vince LLC's request, either at Term SOFR, the Base Rate, or SOFR Daily Floating Rate, in each case, with applicable margins subject to a pricing grid based on an average daily excess availability calculation. The "Base Rate" means, for any day, a fluctuating rate per annum equal to the highest of (i) the Federal Funds Rate for such day, plus 0.5%; (ii) the rate of interest in effect for such day as publicly announced from time to time by BofA as its prime rate; (iii) the SOFR Daily Floating Rate on such day, plus 1.0%; and (iv) 1.0%. During the continuance of certain specified events of default, at the election of BofA in its capacity as Agent, interest will accrue at a rate of 2.0% in excess of the applicable non-default rate.

The applicable margins for SOFR Term and SOFR Daily Floating Rate Loans are: (i) 2.0% when the average daily Excess Availability (as defined in the 2023 Revolving Credit Agreement) is greater than 66.7% of the Loan Cap (as defined in the 2023 Revolving Credit Agreement); (ii) 2.25% when the average daily Excess Availability is greater than or equal to 33.3% but less than or equal to 66.7% of the Loan Cap; and (iii) 2.5% when the average daily Excess Availability is less than 33.3% of the Loan Cap. The applicable margins for Base Rate Loans are: (a) 1.0% when the average daily Excess Availability is greater than 66.7% of the Loan Cap; (b) 1.25% when the average daily Excess Availability is greater than or equal to 33.3% but less than or equal to 66.7% of the Loan Cap; and (c) 1.5% when the average daily Excess Availability is less than 33.3% of the Loan Cap.

The 2023 Revolving Credit Facility contains a financial covenant requiring Excess Availability at all times to be no less than the greater of (i) 10.0% of the Loan Cap in effect at such time and (ii) $7,500.

The 2023 Revolving Credit Facility contains representations and warranties, covenants and events of default that are customary for this type of financing, including limitations on the incurrence of additional indebtedness, liens, burdensome agreements, investments, loans, asset sales, mergers, acquisitions, prepayment of certain other debt, the repurchase of capital stock, transactions with affiliates, and the ability to change the nature of its business or its fiscal year. The 2023 Revolving Credit Facility generally permits dividends in the absence of any default or event of default (including any event of default arising from a contemplated dividend), so long as (i) after giving pro forma effect to the contemplated dividend and on a pro forma basis for the 30-day period immediately preceding such dividend, Excess Availability will be at least the greater of 20.0% of the Loan Cap and $15,000 and (ii) after giving pro forma effect to the contemplated dividend, the Consolidated Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio (as defined in the 2023 Revolving Credit Agreement) for the 12 months preceding such dividend will be greater than or equal to 1.0 to 1.0.

All obligations under the 2023 Revolving Credit Facility are guaranteed by the Company and Vince Intermediate and any future subsidiaries of the Company (other than Excluded Subsidiaries as defined in the 2023 Revolving Credit Agreement) and secured by a lien on substantially all of the assets of the Company, Vince, LLC and Vince Intermediate and any future subsidiary guarantors, other than among others, equity interests in ABG Vince, as well as the rights of Vince, LLC under the License Agreement.

The Company incurred a total of $1,150 of financing costs. In accordance with ASC Topic 470, "Debt", these financing costs were recorded as deferred debt issuance costs (which is presented within Other assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets) and are amortized over the term of the 2023 Revolving Credit Facility.

As of February 3, 2024, the Company was in compliance with applicable covenants. As of February 3, 2024, $35,473 was available under the 2023 Revolving Credit Facility, net of the Loan Cap, and there were $14,227 of borrowings outstanding and $5,053 of letters of credit outstanding under the 2023 Revolving Credit Facility. The weighted average interest rate for borrowings outstanding under the 2023 Revolving Credit Facility as of February 3, 2024 was 8.2%.

2018 Revolving Credit Facility

On August 21, 2018, Vince, LLC entered into an $80,000 senior secured revolving credit facility (the "2018 Revolving Credit Facility") pursuant to a credit agreement, as amended and restated from time to time, by and among Vince, LLC, as the borrower, VHC and Vince Intermediate, as guarantors, Citizens Bank, N.A. ("Citizens"), as administrative agent and collateral agent, and the other lenders from time to time party thereto. On January 31, 2023, the Company repaid $125 of fees due in accordance with an amendment entered into on September 30, 2022. Upon the contemporaneous consummation of the Asset Sale, the lenders' commitments to extend credit was reduced to $70,000. The 2018 Revolving Credit Facility would have matured on June 30, 2024.

On June 23, 2023, all outstanding amounts under the 2018 Revolving Credit Facility were repaid in full and the 2018 Revolving Credit Facility was terminated pursuant to the terms thereof as a result of all parties completing their obligations under the 2018 Revolving Credit Facility. The Company recorded expense of $828 during fiscal 2023, related to the write-off of the remaining deferred financing costs. Certain letters of credit remain in place with Citizens which were secured with restricted cash, totaling $769 as of February 3, 2024. Restricted cash is included in Prepaid Expenses and other current assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Third Lien Credit Facility

On December 11, 2020, Vince, LLC entered into a $20,000 subordinated term loan credit facility (the "Third Lien Credit Facility") pursuant to a credit agreement (the "Third Lien Credit Agreement"), as amended from time to time, dated December 11, 2020, by and among Vince, LLC, as the borrower, VHC and Vince Intermediate, as guarantors, and SK Financial Services, LLC ("SK Financial"), as administrative agent and collateral agent, and other lenders from time to time party thereto. The proceeds were received on December 11, 2020 and were used to repay a portion of the borrowings outstanding under the 2018 Revolving Credit Facility.

SK Financial is an affiliate of Sun Capital Partners, Inc. ("Sun Capital"), whose affiliates own, as of February 3, 2024, approximately 68% of the Company's common stock. The Third Lien Credit Facility was reviewed and approved by the Special Committee of the Company's Board of Directors, consisting solely of directors not affiliated with Sun Capital, which committee was represented by independent legal advisors.

Interest on loans under the Third Lien Credit Facility is payable in kind at a rate revised in connection with the Third Lien Third Amendment (as defined and discussed below) to be equal to the Daily Simple SOFR, subject to a credit spread adjustment of 0.10% per annum, plus 9.0%. During the continuance of certain specified events of default, interest may accrue on the loans under the Third Lien Credit Facility at a rate of 2.0% in excess of the rate otherwise applicable to such amount.

The Company incurred $485 in deferred financing costs associated with the Third Lien Credit Facility of which a $400 closing fee is payable in kind and was added to the principal balance. These deferred financing costs are recorded as deferred debt issuance costs which will be amortized over the remaining term of the Third Lien Credit Facility.

All obligations under the Third Lien Credit Facility are guaranteed by the Company, Vince Intermediate and the Company's existing material domestic restricted subsidiaries as well as any future material domestic restricted subsidiaries and are secured on a junior basis relative to the 2023 Revolving Credit Facility by a lien on substantially all of the assets of the Company, Vince Intermediate, Vince, LLC and the Company's existing material domestic restricted subsidiaries as well as any future material domestic restricted subsidiaries.

On April 21, 2023, Vince, LLC entered into that certain Consent and Third Amendment to Credit Agreement (the "Third Lien Third Amendment"), which, among other things, (a) permitted the sale of the intellectual property of the Vince Business contemplated in the Asset Sale, (b) replaced LIBOR as an interest rate benchmark in favor of Daily Simple SOFR, subject to a credit spread adjustment of 0.10% per annum, plus 9.0% (c) amended the Third Lien Credit Agreement's maturity date to the earlier of (i) March 30, 2025 and (ii) 180 days after the maturity date under the 2018 Revolving Credit Facility, (d) reduced the capacity to incur indebtedness and liens, make investments, restricted payments and dispositions and repay certain indebtedness and (e) modified certain representations and warranties, covenants and events of default in respect of documentation related to the Asset Sale. The Third Lien Third Amendment became effective upon the consummation of the Asset Sale, the prepayment of the Term Loan Credit Facility in full and other transactions contemplated by the Asset Purchase Agreement.

On June 23, 2023, Vince, LLC entered into the Fourth Amendment (the "Third Lien Fourth Amendment") to the Third Lien Credit Agreement which, among other things, (a) extended the Third Lien Credit Agreement's maturity date to the earlier of (i) September 30, 2028 and (ii) 91 days prior to the earliest maturity date of any Material Indebtedness (as defined therein) other than the 2023 Revolving Credit Facility and (b) modified certain representations and warranties, covenants and events of default in respect of documentation conforming to the terms of the 2023 Revolving Credit Facility.

Contractual Obligations

The following table summarizes our contractual obligations as of February 3, 2024:

(in thousands)

(1) Consists primarily of inventory purchase obligations and service contracts.

The summary above does not include the following items:

• As of February 3, 2024, we have recorded $556 of unrecognized tax benefits, excluding interest and penalties. We are unable to make reliable estimates of cash flows by period due to the inherent uncertainty surrounding the effective settlement of these positions.
• The Company has available the 2023 Revolving Credit Facility, which provides for a revolving line of credit of up to the lesser of (i) the Borrowing Base (as defined in the 2023 Revolving Credit Agreement) and (ii) $85,000, as well as a letter of credit sublimit of $10,000. The 2023 Revolving Credit Agreement also permits Vince, LLC to request an increase in aggregate commitments under the 2023 Revolving Credit Facility of up to $15,000, subject to customary terms and conditions. The 2023 Revolving Credit Facility matures on the earlier of June 23, 2028, and 91 days prior to the earliest maturity date of any Material Indebtedness (as defined in the 2023 Revolving Credit Agreement), including the subordinated indebtedness pursuant to the Third Lien Credit Agreement.
• Interest is payable under the 2023 Revolving Credit Facility, which is calculated either at Term SOFR, the Base Rate, or SOFR Daily Floating Rate, in each case, with applicable margins subject to a pricing grid based on an average daily excess availability calculation. The "Base Rate" means, for any day, a fluctuating rate per annum equal to the highest of (i) the Federal Funds Rate for such day, plus 0.5%; (ii) the rate of interest in effect for such day as publicly announced from time to time by BofA as its prime rate; (iii) the SOFR Daily Floating Rate on such day, plus 1.0%; and (iv) 1.0%. During the continuance of certain specified events of default, at the election of BofA in its capacity as Agent, interest will accrue at a rate of 2.0% in excess of the applicable non-default rate. See Note 5 "Long-Term Debt and Financing Arrangements" to the Consolidated Financial Statements in this Annual Report for additional information.
• Interest on loans under the Third Lien Credit Facility is payable in kind at a rate revised in connection with the Third Lien Third Amendment to be equal to the Daily Simple SOFR, subject to a credit spread adjustment of 0.10% per annum, plus 9.0%. During the continuance of certain specified events of default, interest may accrue on the loans under the Third Lien Credit Facility at a rate of 2.0% in excess of the rate otherwise applicable to such amount. See Note 5 "Long-Term Debt and Financing Arrangements" to the Consolidated Financial Statements in this Annual Report for additional information.

Seasonality

The apparel and fashion industry in which we operate is cyclical and, consequently, our revenues are affected by general economic conditions and the seasonal trends characteristic to the apparel and fashion industry. Purchases of apparel are sensitive to a number of factors that influence the level of consumer spending, including economic conditions and the level of disposable consumer income, consumer debt, interest rates and consumer confidence as well as the impact of adverse weather conditions. In addition, fluctuations in the amount of sales in any fiscal quarter are affected by the timing of seasonal wholesale shipments and other events affecting direct-to-consumer sales; as such, the financial results for any particular quarter may not be indicative of results for the fiscal year. We expect such seasonality to continue.

Critical Accounting Estimates

Management's discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations is based upon our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("GAAP"). The preparation of these financial statements requires estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of our assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses. Management bases estimates on historical experience and other assumptions it believes to be reasonable under the circumstances and evaluates these estimates on an on-going basis. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions.

While our significant accounting policies are more fully described in Note 1 "Description of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” to the Consolidated Financial Statements in this Annual Report, we believe the following discussion addresses our most critical accounting estimates, which involve significant subjectivity and judgment, and changes to such estimates or assumptions could have a material impact on our financial condition or operating results. Therefore, we consider an understanding of the variability and judgment required in making these estimates and assumptions to be critical in fully understanding and evaluating our reported financial results. With respect to critical accounting estimates, even a relatively minor variance between actual and expected experience can potentially have a materially favorable or unfavorable impact on subsequent consolidated results of operations. For more information on our accounting estimates and policies, please refer to the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in this Annual Report.

Revenue Recognition and Reserves for Allowances

The Company recognizes revenue when performance obligations identified under the terms of contracts with its customers are satisfied, which generally occurs upon the transfer of control in accordance with the contractual terms and conditions of the sale. Sales are recognized when the control of the goods are transferred to the customer for the Company's wholesale businesses, upon receipt by the customer for the Company's e-commerce businesses, and at the time of sale to the consumer for the Company's retail businesses. Sales are measured as the amount of consideration the Company expects to receive in exchange for transferring goods, which includes estimates for variable consideration. Variable consideration mainly includes discounts, chargebacks, markdown allowances, cooperative advertising programs, and sales returns. Estimated amounts of discounts, chargebacks, markdown allowances, cooperative advertising programs, and sales returns are accounted for as reductions of sales when the associated sale occurs. These estimated amounts are adjusted periodically based on changes in facts and circumstances when the changes become known. On the Company's consolidated balance sheet, reserves for sales returns are included within other accrued liabilities, and the value of inventory associated with reserves for sales returns are included in prepaid expenses and other current assets. The Company continues to estimate the amount of sales returns based on known trends and historical return rates.

Accounts receivable are recorded net of allowances for expected future chargebacks and estimated margin support from wholesale partners. It is the nature of the apparel and fashion industry that suppliers like us face significant pressure from wholesale partners in the retail industry to provide allowances to compensate for their margin shortfalls. This pressure often takes the form of customers requiring us to provide price concessions on prior shipments as a prerequisite for obtaining future orders. Pressure for these concessions is largely determined by overall retail sales performance and, more specifically, the performance of our products at retail. To the extent our wholesale partners have more of our goods on hand at the end of the season, there will be greater pressure for us to grant markdown concessions on prior shipments. Our accounts receivable balances are reported net of expected allowances for these matters based on the historical level of concessions required and our estimates of the level of markdowns and allowances that will be required in the coming season. We evaluate the allowance balances on a continual basis and adjust them as necessary to reflect changes in anticipated allowance activity.

At February 3, 2024, a hypothetical 1% change in the reserves for allowances would have resulted in a change of $52 in accounts receivable and net sales.

Inventory Valuation

Inventory values are reduced to net realizable value when there are factors indicating that certain inventories will not be sold on terms sufficient to recover their cost. Out-of-season inventories may be sold to off-price retailers and other customers who serve a customer base that will purchase prior year fashions and may be liquidated through our outlets and our e-commerce websites. The amount, if any, that these customers will pay for prior year fashions is determined by the desirability of the inventory itself as well as the general level of prior year goods available to these customers. The assessment of inventory value, as a result, is highly subjective and requires an assessment of the seasonality of the inventory, its future desirability, and future price levels in the off-price sector.

In our wholesale businesses, some of our products are purchased for and sold to specific customers' orders. For the remainder of our business, products are purchased in anticipation of selling them to a specific customer based on historical trends. The loss of a major customer, whether due to the customer's financial difficulty or other reasons, could have a significant negative impact on the value of the inventory expected to be sold to that customer. This negative impact can also extend to inventory in-transit for which ownership has transferred to the Company. These obligations involve product to be received into inventory over the next one to six months.

At February 3, 2024, a hypothetical 1% change in the inventory obsolescence reserve would have resulted in a change of $47 in inventory, net of cost of products sold.

Fair Value Assessments of Goodwill and Other Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets

Goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets are tested for impairment at least annually and in an interim period if a triggering event occurs. As discussed in further detail below, we determined that a triggering event occurred in the Rebecca Taylor and Parker segment during the second quarter of fiscal 2022.

An entity may elect to perform a qualitative impairment assessment for goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets. If adverse qualitative trends are identified during the qualitative assessment that indicate that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit or indefinite-lived intangible asset is less than its carrying amount, a quantitative impairment test is required. "Step one" of the quantitative impairment test for goodwill requires an entity to determine the fair value of each reporting unit and compare such fair value to the respective carrying amount. If the estimated fair value of the reporting unit exceeds the carrying value of the net assets assigned to that reporting unit, goodwill is not impaired, and we are not required to perform further testing. If the carrying amount of the reporting unit exceeds its estimated fair value, an impairment loss is recorded for the amount by which a reporting unit's carrying value exceeds its fair value, not to exceed the carrying amount of goodwill. The goodwill impairment test is dependent on a number of factors, including estimates of projected revenues, EBITDA margins, long-term growth rates, working capital and discount rates. We base our estimates on assumptions we believe to be reasonable, but which are unpredictable and inherently uncertain. Actual future results may differ from those estimates.

Prior to the closing of the Asset Sale, we estimated the fair value of our tradename intangible assets using a discounted cash flow valuation analysis, which is based on the "relief from royalty" methodology. This methodology assumes that in lieu of ownership, a third party would be willing to pay a royalty in order to exploit the related benefits of these types of assets. The relief from royalty approach is dependent on a number of factors, including estimates of projected revenues, royalty rates in the category of intellectual property and discount rates. We based our fair value estimates on assumptions we believed to be reasonable, but which are unpredictable and inherently uncertain. Actual future results may differ from those estimates. An impairment loss would have been recognized when the estimated fair value of the tradename intangible asset is less than the carrying value. As of January 28, 2023, the indefinite-lived intangible asset was the Vince tradename. On April 21, 2023, the Company entered into the Authentic Transaction with Authentic and as a result, the Vince tradename and Vince customer relationships were classified as held for sale and amortization of the Vince customer relationships ceased. The Company closed the Asset Sale on May 25, 2023, and therefore no longer carries tradename intangible assets as of February 3, 2024. See Note 2 "Recent Transactions" for further information.

An entity may pass on performing the qualitative assessment for a reporting unit or indefinite-lived intangible asset and directly perform the quantitative assessment. This determination can be made on an asset by asset basis, and an entity may resume performing a qualitative assessment in subsequent periods.

During the second quarter of fiscal 2022, the Company determined that a triggering event had occurred in the Rebecca Taylor and Parker segment as a result of changes to the Company's long-term projections. The Company performed an interim quantitative impairment assessment of the Rebecca Taylor tradename utilizing the relief from royalty valuation approach. The relief from royalty valuation approach is dependent on a number of factors, including estimates of projected revenues, royalty rates in the category of intellectual property, discount rates and other variables. The Company estimated the fair value of the Rebecca Taylor tradename intangible asset and determined that the fair value of the Rebecca Taylor tradename was below its carrying amount. Accordingly, the Company recorded an impairment charge for the Rebecca Taylor tradename intangible asset of $1,700, which was recorded within Impairment of intangible assets on the Consolidated Statement of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) in fiscal 2022.

In both fiscal 2023 and fiscal 2022, the Company performed its annual impairment test during the fourth quarter.

In fiscal 2023, the Company elected to perform a quantitative impairment test on goodwill allocated to the Company’s Vince Wholesale reporting unit. The results of the quantitative test did not result in any impairment because the fair value of the Company’s Vince Wholesale reporting unit exceeded its carrying value by 7.9%. The fair value of the Company's Vince Wholesale reporting unit was estimated using a combination of the income approach (the discounted cash flows method) and the market approach (guideline public company method). The guideline public company method applies a representative market multiple derived from revenue and EBITDA for a group of comparable public companies to the Company's financial forecasts. The more significant assumptions used in projecting the discounted cash flows included: a discount rate of 35%, which was determined from relevant market comparisons and adjusted for company specific risks, projected EBITDA margins of low double-digits based upon our current and past performance as well as industry data, and projected net sales for the discrete projection period ranging from low single-digits to high single-digits. Changes in these assumptions could have a significant impact on the valuation model. As an example, the impact of a hypothetical change in each of the significant assumptions is described below. In quantifying the impact, we changed only the specific assumption and held all other assumptions constant. A hypothetical 1% increase in the discount rate would decrease the fair value by approximately 3%. A hypothetical 1% decrease in net sales for each year included in the discrete projection period would decrease the fair value by approximately 1%. Finally, a hypothetical 1% decrease in the EBITDA margin rate for each year included in the discounted cash flow analysis would decrease the fair value by approximately 6%. Any changes in fair value resulting from changes in the assumptions discussed above could potentially result in the carrying amount of the Company’s Vince Wholesale reporting unit exceeding its estimated fair value, and therefore could require an impairment loss.

In fiscal 2022, the Company elected to perform a quantitative impairment test on goodwill allocated to the Company's Vince Wholesale reporting unit. The results of the quantitative test did not result in any impairment because the fair value of the Company's Vince Wholesale reporting unit exceeded its carrying value. The fair value of the Company's Vince Wholesale reporting unit was estimated using a combination of the income approach (the discounted cash flows method) and the market approach (guideline public company method). The more significant assumptions used in projecting the discounted cash flows included: a discount rate of 20.0%, which was determined from relevant market comparisons and adjusted for company specific risks and projected EBITDA margins of low double-digits based upon our current and past performance as well as industry data. The guideline public company method applies a representative market multiple derived from revenue and EBITDA for a group of comparable public companies to the Company's financial forecasts. Changes in these assumptions could have a significant impact on the valuation model.

Goodwill was $31,973 as of February 3, 2024 and January 28, 2023.

In the fourth quarter of fiscal 2022, the Company elected to perform a quantitative impairment test on its Vince tradename indefinite-lived intangible asset. The results of the quantitative test did not result in any impairment because the fair value of the Company's Vince tradename intangible asset exceeded its carrying value. The more significant assumptions used in projecting the discounted cash flows included: a discount rate of 20.0% for the Vince tradename, which was determined from relevant market comparisons and adjusted for company specific risks; low single-digit royalty rates and projected revenues based upon our current and past performance as well as industry data. Changes in these assumptions could have a significant impact on the valuation model.

On September 12, 2022, the Company announced its decision to wind down the Rebecca Taylor business. Therefore, the Company determined that the indefinite life classification was no longer appropriate for the Rebecca Taylor tradename and began amortizing the Rebecca Taylor tradename in the third quarter of fiscal 2022. See Note 2 "Recent Transactions" to the Consolidated Financial Statements in this Annual Report for additional information.

Indefinite-lived tradename intangible assets were $0 as of February 3, 2024 and $67,100 as of January 28, 2023, which is included within Intangible assets, net in our Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Property and Equipment, Operating Lease Assets and Other Finite-Lived Intangible Assets

The Company reviews its property and equipment, operating lease assets and finite-lived intangible assets for impairment when the existence of facts and circumstances indicate that the useful life is shorter than previously estimated or that the carrying amount of the asset groups to which these assets relate may not be recoverable. The asset group is defined as the lowest level for which identifiable cash flows are available and largely independent of the cash flows of other groups of assets, which for our retail stores is at the store level. Recoverability of these assets is evaluated by comparing the carrying value of the asset group with its estimated future undiscounted cash flows. If the comparisons indicate that the value of the asset is not recoverable, an impairment loss is calculated as the difference between the carrying value and the fair value of the assets within the asset group and the loss is recognized during that period. The estimates regarding recoverability and fair value can be affected by factors such as future store results, real estate demand, store closure plans, and economic conditions that can be difficult to predict.

During the second quarter of fiscal 2022, the Company determined the need to assess recoverability for certain Rebecca Taylor retail locations. For the Rebecca Taylor retail store asset groups that did not pass the recoverability assessment, the Company recorded non-cash asset impairment charges of $866 related to property and equipment. The fair value of the property and equipment was based on its estimated liquidation value.

During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2022, the Company determined the need to assess recoverability for certain Vince retail locations. For the Vince retail store asset groups that did not pass the recoverability assessment, the Company recorded non-cash asset impairment charges of $1,014 related to property and equipment. The fair value of the property and equipment was based on its estimated liquidation value.

On April 21, 2023, the Company entered into the Authentic Transaction with Authentic and as a result, the Vince tradename and Vince customer relationships were classified as held for sale and amortization of the Vince customer relationships ceased. The Company closed the Asset Sale on May 25, 2023, and therefore no longer carries finite-lived intangible assets as of February 3, 2024. See Note 2 "Recent Transactions" for further information. The finite-lived intangible assets as of January 28, 2023 were comprised of the Vince customer relationships which were being amortized on a straight-line basis over their useful lives of 20 years.

On September 12, 2022, the Company announced its decision to wind down the Rebecca Taylor business. Therefore, the Company determined that the indefinite life classification was no longer appropriate for the Rebecca Taylor tradename and began amortizing the Rebecca Taylor tradename in the third quarter of fiscal 2022. Amortization of the Rebecca Taylor tradename ceased upon classification as held for sale in the third quarter of fiscal 2022. On December 22, 2022, the Company completed the sale of the Rebecca Taylor tradename and certain related ancillary assets to RT IPCO, LLC, an affiliate of Ramani Group. See Note 2 "Recent Transactions" in this Annual Report for further information. Additionally, during the third quarter of fiscal 2022, the Parker tradename was classified as held for sale and amortization ceased. Prior to its classification as held for sale, the Parker tradename intangible asset was being amortized on a straight-line basis over 10 years. On February 17, 2023, the Company completed the sale of the Parker tradename and certain related ancillary assets to Parker IP Co. LLC, an affiliate of BCI Brands. See Note 2 "Recent Transactions" to the Consolidated Financial Statements in this Annual Report for further information.

Tax Receivable Agreement

In connection with the consummation of the IPO, we entered into a Tax Receivable Agreement with the Pre-IPO Stockholders. The Tax Receivable Agreement provides for payments to the Pre-IPO Stockholders in an amount equal to 85% of the aggregate reduction in taxes payable realized by the Company and its subsidiaries from the utilization of the Pre-IPO Tax Benefits (as defined therein). Amounts payable under the Tax Receivable Agreement are contingent upon, among other things, (i) generation of future taxable income over the term of the Tax Receivable Agreement and (ii) changes in tax laws. If we do not generate sufficient taxable income in the aggregate over the term of the Tax Receivable Agreement to utilize the tax benefits, then we would not be required to make the related payment obligations under the Tax Receivable Agreement. Therefore, we would only recognize a liability for the Tax Receivable Agreement obligation if we determine if it is probable that we will generate sufficient future taxable income over the term of the Tax Receivable Agreement to utilize the related tax benefits. Estimating future taxable income is inherently uncertain and requires judgment. In projecting future taxable income, we consider our historical results and incorporate certain assumptions, including revenue growth, operating margins, and projected retail location openings, among others. If we determine in the future that we will not be able to fully utilize all or part of the related tax benefits, we would derecognize the portion of the liability related to benefits not expected to be utilized. Alternatively, if we generate additional future taxable income beyond our current estimate, we would recognize additional liability related to benefits expected to be utilized.

The Tax Receivable Agreement terminated per its terms on February 3, 2024. As of February 3, 2024, the Company's total obligation under the Tax Receivable Agreement was $0. See Note 14 "Related Party Transactions" to the Consolidated Financial Statements in this Annual Report for additional information.

Income taxes and Valuation Allowances

We account for income taxes using the asset and liability method. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences of temporary differences between the carrying amounts and tax bases of assets and liabilities at enacted rates. We assess the likelihood of the realization of deferred tax assets and adjust the carrying amount of these deferred tax assets by a valuation allowance to the extent we believe it more likely than not that all or a portion of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. We consider many factors when assessing the likelihood of future realization of deferred tax assets, including recent earnings results within taxing jurisdictions, expectations of future taxable income, the carryforward periods available and other relevant factors. Changes in the required valuation allowance are recorded in income in the period such determination is made. Significant judgment is required in determining the provision for income taxes. Changes in estimates may create volatility in our effective tax rate in future periods for various reasons, including changes in tax laws or rates, changes in forecasted amounts of pretax income (loss), settlements with various tax authorities, either favorable or unfavorable, the expiration of the statute of limitations on some tax positions and obtaining new information about particular tax positions that may cause management to change its estimates. The ultimate tax outcome is uncertain for certain transactions. We recognize tax positions in our Consolidated Balance Sheets as the largest amount of tax benefit that is greater than 50% likely of being realized upon ultimate settlement with tax authorities assuming full knowledge of the position and all relevant facts.

Due to the uncertain nature of the realization of our deferred income tax assets, during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2016, we recorded valuation allowances within Provision for income taxes on the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss). During fiscal 2023, the Company maintained a full valuation allowance on all deferred tax assets that have a definite life as we do not believe it is more likely than not that such deferred tax assets will be recognized. Indefinite-lived net operating losses have been recognized to the extent we believe they can be utilized against indefinite-lived deferred tax liabilities. This valuation allowance is subject to periodic review, and if the allowance is reduced, the tax benefit will be recorded in the future operations as a reduction of our income tax expense.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

For information on certain recently issued or proposed accounting standards which may impact the Company, please refer to the notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in this Annual Report.

As a "smaller reporting company" as defined by Rule 12b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"), we are not required to provide the information in this Item.

Attached as exhibits to this Annual Report are certifications of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer. Rule 13a-14 of the Exchange Act requires that we include these certifications with this report. This Controls and Procedures section includes information concerning the disclosure controls and procedures referred to in the certifications. You should read this section in conjunction with the certifications.

Disclosure Controls and Procedures

Under the supervision and with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, management has evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) of the Exchange Act) as of February 3, 2024.

Based upon that evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were not effective due to the material weakness in our internal control over financial reporting as described below.

As a result of the material weakness identified, we performed additional analysis, substantive testing and other post-closing procedures intended to ensure that our consolidated financial statements were prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Accordingly, management believes that the consolidated financial statements and related notes thereto included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K fairly present, in all material respects, the Company's financial condition, results of operations and cash flows for the periods presented.

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act), that occurred during the fiscal quarter ended February 3, 2024 that have materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

Management's Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act). Our internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. Our internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of our assets; (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that our receipts and expenditures are being made only in accordance with authorizations of our management and directors; and (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of our assets that could have a material effect on our financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

Management assessed the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of February 3, 2024. In making this assessment, management used the criteria established by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission ("COSO") in Internal Control-Integrated Framework (2013). Based on this assessment, management has concluded that, as of February 3, 2024, our internal control over financial reporting was not effective, as management identified a deficiency in internal control over financial reporting that was determined to rise to the level of a material weakness. A material weakness is a deficiency, or combination of deficiencies, in internal control over financial reporting, such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of the Company's annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis.

We previously disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the period ended January 28, 2023, as well as in our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for each interim period in fiscal 2023, a material weakness in our internal control over financial reporting relating to the following:

IT general controls

We did not maintain adequate user access controls to ensure appropriate segregation of duties and to adequately restrict access to financial applications and data.

This material weakness did not result in a material misstatement to the annual or interim consolidated financial statements. However, this material weakness could impact the effectiveness of IT-dependent controls (such as automated controls that address the risk of material misstatement to one or more assertions, along with the IT controls and underlying data that support the effectiveness of system-generated data and reports) that could result in a misstatement impacting account balances or disclosures that would result in a material misstatement to the annual or interim consolidated financial statements that would not be prevented or detected.

This annual report does not include an attestation report of the Company's registered public accounting firm regarding internal control over financial reporting. Management's report was not subject to attestation by the company's registered public accounting firm pursuant to rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission that permit the company to provide only management's report in this Annual Report.

Remediation Efforts to Address the Material Weakness

To date, we made continued progress on our comprehensive remediation plan related to this material weakness by implementing the following controls and procedures:

• The Company modified its system access rights to limit the use of generic ID's, particularly in instances where those ID's possessed privileged access rights; and
• The Company effectively designed and implemented a full recertification of AX user access rights.

To fully address the remediation of deficiencies related to segregation of duties, we will need to fully remediate the deficiencies regarding systems access.

Management continues to follow a comprehensive remediation plan to fully address this material weakness. The remediation plan includes implementing and effectively operating controls related to the routine reviews of user system access and user re-certifications, inclusive of those related to users with privileged access, as well as, to ensure user's access rights to systems are removed timely upon termination.

While we have reported a material weakness that is not yet remediated, we believe we have made continued progress in addressing financial, compliance, and operational risks and improving controls across the Company. Until the material weakness is remediated, we will continue to perform additional analysis, substantive testing, and other post-closing procedures to ensure that our consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP.

Limitations on the Effectiveness of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

A control system, no matter how well conceived and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives of the control system are met. Because of inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Accordingly, our disclosure controls and procedures are designed to provide reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives of our disclosure system are met. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.