Citi Trends Sets Sights on Continued Growth as Q4 Performance Exceeds Expectations
New York, NY - Citi Trends, a leading specialty retailer, has made headlines with its impressive fourth-quarter results. According to the company's recent conference call transcript, the quarter saw an 8.9% comparable store sales growth, representing a 15.3% increase on a two-year basis and marking the sixth consecutive quarter of positive comparable sales.
The remarkable performance was driven by a broad-based growth across all store volume tiers, geographic regions, apparel, and non-apparel categories. Customer traffic played a significant role in driving growth, with transaction counts increasing mid- to upper-single digits during the quarter. Furthermore, Citi Trends witnessed continued improvement in its basket size, demonstrating that its merchandising strategy is resonating.
"We're proud of what we've accomplished in Q4," said Ken Seipel, Chief Executive Officer of Citi Trends. "Our team has worked incredibly hard this year to strengthen the foundation of this business. As a result, we're entering 2026 with growing momentum, a clear strategic direction, and increased confidence in our long-term growth trajectory."
The company's EBITDA for the quarter came in at $11.9 million, marking a 67% increase over Q4 of the prior year. This impressive figure underscores Citi Trends' ability to manage costs effectively while driving sales.
One of the standout categories was Children's, which posted high single-digit growth and continued its momentum for the year. The business has become a cornerstone of the company, delivering highly desired styles, consistent value, and improved in-stock positions.
Men's also delivered another solid quarter of growth, with Citi Trends' updated strategy balancing trend-forward product for younger customers while serving the style preferences of its core male customer. Women's footwear showed early signs of progress, with the off-price and extreme value strategy gaining traction and improved customer response.
The company's Family Basics and sleepwear category was one of its top growth areas in the quarter, highlighting the potential for continued growth in this area.
As Citi Trends looks to the future, it remains confident in its ability to drive long-term growth. The company is poised to capitalize on emerging trends and continue to deliver compelling product at great value to its customers.
The momentum has indeed carried over into fiscal 2026, with quarter-to-date Q1 comparable store sales trending in the high single digits, supported by increased traffic and basket size during this important tax refund season.
