Rent the Runway Inc

Previous wording

We have grown rapidly in recent years and have limited experience at our current scale of operations and our historical growth rates are not necessarily indicative of our future performance. If we are unable to drive future growth or manage our growth effectively, our brand, Company culture, and financial performance may suffer.

Current wording

If we are unable to drive future growth or manage our growth effectively, our brand, Company culture, and financial performance may suffer.

Previous wording

We have grown rapidly in the last several years, due in large part to the growth in demand for our Subscription offerings; however, our historical growth rates and financial performance should not necessarily be considered indicative of our future performance. To effectively manage and capitalize on our growth, we must continue to enhance customer experience and attract and retain customers (particularly subscribers), iterate our subscription products, invest in digital consumer innovation, expand our brand awareness and marketing, and upgrade our management information and reverse logistics systems and other processes. Our growth and growth strategies have in the past strained, and could in the future strain, our existing resources, and we could experience ongoing operating difficulties in managing our business across numerous jurisdictions, including difficulties in hiring, training, and managing a diverse employee base. Failure to scale and preserve our Company culture as we grow could also harm our future success, including our ability to retain and recruit personnel and to effectively focus on and pursue our corporate objectives.

Current wording

We must continue to drive revenue growth to be successful. To effectively drive growth, we must continue to enhance customer experience and attract and retain customers (particularly subscribers), iterate our subscription products, invest in digital consumer innovation, expand our brand awareness and marketing, and upgrade our management information and reverse logistics systems and other processes. Our growth and growth strategies have in the past strained, and could in the future strain, our existing resources, and we could experience ongoing operating difficulties in managing our business across numerous jurisdictions, including difficulties in hiring, training, and managing a diverse employee base. Failure to scale and preserve our Company culture as we grow could also harm our future success, including our ability to retain and recruit personnel and to effectively focus on and pursue our corporate objectives.

Previous wording

Because we have a limited history operating our business at its current scale, it is difficult to evaluate our current business and future prospects, including our ability to plan for and model future growth. Our limited operating experience at this scale, combined with the rapidly evolving nature of the market in which we sell our offerings, substantial uncertainty concerning how these markets may develop, and other economic factors beyond our control, reduces our ability to accurately forecast quarterly or annual revenue. Failure to manage our future growth effectively could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Current wording

Because we have a limited history operating our business at its current scale, it is difficult to evaluate our current business and future prospects, including our ability to plan for and model future growth. Our limited operating experience at this scale, combined with the rapidly evolving nature of the market in which we sell our offerings, substantial uncertainty concerning how these markets may develop, and other economic factors beyond our control, reduces our ability to accurately forecast quarterly or annual revenue.

Previous wording

Our continued growth depends on our ability to attract new, and retain existing, customers, which may require significant investment in paid marketing channels. If we are unable to cost-effectively grow our customer base, our business, financial condition and results of operations would be harmed.

Current wording

Our continued growth depends on our ability to attract new, and retain existing, customers, which may fluctuate based on our level of investment and success in paid marketing initiatives. If we are unable to cost-effectively grow our customer base, our business, financial condition and results of operations would be harmed.

Previous wording

The growth of our business is dependent upon our ability to continue to grow by cost-effectively adding new customers and retaining existing customers. Historically, a substantial portion of new customer acquisition has originated from organic word-of-mouth and other non-paid referrals. Our current marketing initiatives are focused on re-engaging lapsed and paused customers, retaining existing customers and growing our base of new customers. In addition, in fiscal year 2024, we are focused on growing traffic and conversion rates and refreshing our lifecycle marketing engine. Although we expect to make significant investments in these areas going forward, these investments may not result in an increase in customer loyalty or higher customer engagement. As a result, our levels of paid and organic growth may continue to fluctuate and/or overall growth may decline.

Current wording

The growth of our business is dependent upon our ability to continue to grow by cost-effectively adding new customers and retaining existing customers. Historically, a substantial portion of new customer acquisition has originated from organic word-of-mouth and other non-paid referrals. Our marketing initiatives are generally focused on re-engaging lapsed and paused customers, retaining existing customers and growing our base of new customers. In addition, in fiscal year 2024, we have been focused on growing traffic and conversion rates and refreshing our lifecycle marketing engine. These efforts are nascent and, although we have seen some positive results, they are preliminary and may not result in a sustained increase in customer loyalty or higher customer engagement. As a result, our levels of paid and organic growth may continue to fluctuate and/or overall growth may decline.

Previous wording

Paid marketing is a key part of our growth strategy and we are currently focused on enhancing our current processes and approach, including by continuing to leverage technology to measure our effectiveness and efficiency. We also utilize promotional pricing to attract customers and subscribers who may have heightened price sensitivity and not be willing to pay full price for our offering when the promotion period expires. In recent quarters, we have reduced promotional pricing for Subscription, which we believe negatively impacted subscriber acquisition. However, we believe that being less promotional going forward will enhance retention and customer experience and is in the best interest of the long-term health of the business. This approach may not be successful or sustainable and is likely to result in lower subscriber acquisition in the short term. In addition, it is likely that we will conduct additional experiments and may make changes to our promotions strategy in the future, depending on market conditions and other factors. We may incur marketing expenses significantly in advance of the time we anticipate recognized revenue associated with such expenses. In addition, our paid marketing may be unsuccessful for various reasons, including not effectively reaching potential customers or being cost-effective (particularly as costs increase for performance marketing), changes in regulations (e.g., privacy) or third-party interference could limit the effectiveness of search engines, social media platforms, and other tools for marketing, potential customers may decide not to rent through our platform or the spend of new customers may not yield the intended return on investment, any of which could negatively affect our results of operations. In addition, the success of our marketing initiatives overall depends upon our marketing team and leadership, which has experienced recent transition as we focus on building creative and strategic talent on the team. If our team building efforts or marketing strategies are not successful or are not executed successfully, our growth may decline and we may not achieve our growth and/or profitability goals.

Current wording

Paid marketing is a key part of our growth strategy and we anticipate that significant investment in marketing will be required in the future. However, we plan to reduce our marketing spend, particularly in paid marketing, in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2024, which may result in lower customer acquisitions and, therefore, future revenue. We also utilize promotional pricing to attract customers and subscribers who may have heightened price sensitivity and not be willing to pay full price for our offering when the promotion period expires. In recent quarters, we have reduced promotional pricing for Subscription, which we believe negatively impacted subscriber acquisition. However, we believe that being less promotional going forward will enhance retention and customer experience and is in the best interest of the long-term health of the business. This approach may not be successful or sustainable and is likely to result in lower subscriber acquisition in the short term. In addition, it is likely that we will conduct additional experiments and may make changes to our promotions strategy in the future, depending on market conditions and other factors. We may incur marketing expenses significantly in advance of the time we anticipate recognized revenue associated with such expenses. In addition, our paid marketing may be unsuccessful for various reasons, including not effectively reaching potential customers or being cost-effective (particularly as costs increase for performance marketing), changes in regulations (e.g., privacy) or third-party interference could limit the effectiveness of search engines, social media platforms, and other tools for marketing, potential customers may decide not to rent through our platform or the spend of new customers may not yield the intended return on investment, any of which could negatively affect our results of operations. In addition, the success of our marketing initiatives overall depends upon our marketing team and leadership, which has continued to experience transition as we focus on building creative and strategic talent on the team. If our team building efforts or marketing strategies are not successful or are not executed successfully, our growth may decline and we may not achieve our growth and/or profitability goals.

Previous wording

•changes in efficiency of our historic or current customer acquisition methods.

Current wording

•the level of our investment in marketing and the success of our marketing strategies and tactics, including changes in efficiency of our historic or current customer acquisition methods.

Previous wording

•the unpredictable nature of the continued impact of COVID-19 or a future outbreak of disease or similar public health concern;

Current wording

•the unpredictable nature of COVID-19 or a future outbreak of disease or similar public health concern; and

Previous wording

•the failure (or perceived failure) to meet customer expectations regarding our environmental, social and governance (“ESG”), initiatives; and

Current wording

•the failure (or perceived failure) to meet customer expectations regarding our environmental, social and governance (“ESG”), initiatives.

Previous wording

If existing customers no longer find our offerings and products appealing, appropriately priced or easy to use, or if we are unable to provide high-quality support to customers to help them resolve issues in a timely and acceptable manner, they may stop using our offerings, negative publicity may be generated and word-of-mouth and other referrals may be hampered. If our customers no longer perceive our subscription plans as appropriately priced and cancel or pause their subscriptions, our business and financial results could be harmed. We are focused on investing in our customer and delivering even more value to her, including by adding an extra item to each shipment since the first quarter of fiscal year 2023, increasing the depth of our rental product selection, and emphasizing the value proposition of our offering in our marketing materials, among other initiatives; however these or other initiatives to retain customers may not be successful at improving customer satisfaction, subscriber retention and/or revenues and may require additional costs or lead to unanticipated consequences. Even if our existing customers continue to find our offerings and products appealing and our customer service satisfactory, they may decide to downgrade to a less frequent, lower cost subscription and/or rent fewer items due to price sensitivity and/or changing demand or other reasons. If customers downgrade their subscriptions or make fewer or lower priced rentals, our financial results could be negatively affected.

Current wording

If existing customers no longer find our offerings and products appealing, appropriately priced or easy to use, or if we are unable to provide high-quality support to customers to help them resolve issues in a timely and acceptable manner, they may stop using our offerings, negative publicity may be generated and word-of-mouth and other referrals may be hampered. If our customers no longer perceive our subscription plans as appropriately priced and cancel or pause their subscriptions, our business and financial results could be harmed. We are focused on investing in our customer’s experience and delivering even more value to her, including by adding an extra item to each shipment since the first quarter of fiscal year 2023, increasing the depth of our rental product selection, and emphasizing the value proposition of our offering in our marketing materials, among other initiatives; however these or other initiatives to retain customers may not be successful at improving customer satisfaction, subscriber retention and/or revenues and may require additional costs or lead to unanticipated consequences. Even if our existing customers continue to find our offerings and products appealing and our customer service satisfactory, they may decide to downgrade to a less frequent, lower cost subscription and/or rent fewer items due to price sensitivity and/or changing demand or other reasons. If customers downgrade their subscriptions or make fewer or lower priced rentals, our financial results could be negatively affected.

Previous wording

We had a net loss of $(37.6) million and $(113.2) million for the six months ended July 31, 2024 and year ended January 31, 2024, respectively, and have in the past had net losses. As of July 31, 2024, we had an accumulated deficit of $(1,090.7) million. Because we have a short operating history at scale, it is difficult for us to predict our future operating results. We will need to generate and sustain increased revenue and manage our costs to achieve profitability. Even if we do, we may not be able to sustain or increase our profitability.

Current wording

We had a net loss of $(56.5) million and $(113.2) million for the nine months ended October 31, 2024 and year ended January 31, 2024, respectively, and have in the past had net losses. As of October 31, 2024, we had an accumulated deficit of $(1,109.6) million. Because we have a short operating history at scale, it is difficult for us to predict our future operating results. We will need to generate and sustain increased revenue and manage our costs to achieve profitability. Even if we do, we may not be able to sustain or increase our profitability.

Previous wording

We have not always predicted our customers’ preferences and acceptance levels of our products with accuracy. We have observed that our customers live, work, socialize and travel differently than they did prior to the COVID-19 pandemic and that these behaviors continue to evolve, which influences what they wear and has made trend predictions challenging. We may misjudge demand and over or under purchase rental product. In addition, external events may disrupt or change customer preferences and behaviors in ways we are not able to anticipate. During the second quarter of 2023, lower rental product depth levels negatively impacted active subscribers, particularly new subscribers, and, since then we have focused our efforts on improving rental product depth levels. Any future decreases in our rental product depth levels, including in connection with other business objectives, may negatively impact active subscribers.

Current wording

We have not always predicted our customers’ preferences and acceptance levels of our products with accuracy. We have observed that our customers live, work, socialize and travel differently than they did prior to the COVID-19 pandemic and that these behaviors continue to evolve, which influences what they wear and has made trend predictions challenging. We may misjudge demand and over or under purchase rental product. In addition, external events may disrupt or change customer preferences and behaviors in ways we are not able to anticipate. During the second quarter of 2023, lower rental product depth levels negatively impacted active subscribers, particularly new subscribers, and, since then we have focused our efforts on improving rental product depth levels. Although our in-stock rates have improved on an annual basis year-over-year, we anticipate quarterly fluctuations to occur due to the timing of our purchases, seasonality and other factors within our outside of our control, which may negatively impact customer retention and, therefore, revenue. Any future decreases in our rental product depth levels, including in connection with other business objectives, may negatively impact active subscribers.

Previous wording

Our ability to receive inbound products efficiently and ship products to and from customers may be negatively affected by many events outside of our control, including inclement weather, public health crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic, governmental regulations, labor disputes and other factors. We are also subject to risks of damage or loss during delivery by our shipping vendors. If our customers do not receive their orders in good condition or on time, they could become dissatisfied and cease using our services, which would adversely affect our business and operating results. Our shipping vendors have faced and may continue to face increased volumes which, in turn, has caused and could in the future cause a decrease in their service levels, including shipping delays, or result in an increase in their prices. We have experienced increased shipping costs in recent years, and these costs may increase in the future. In addition, although we have achieved efficiencies in our supply chain operations in recent years, these efficiencies may not be sustainable or meet our broader business objectives. Increases in shipping costs, in particular for our primary shipping vendor, could result in increased costs to us and adversely impact our business. In addition, significant shipping difficulties or disruptions or any failure by our brand partners or third-party carriers to deliver high-quality products to us or to our customers, as applicable, in a timely manner or to otherwise adequately serve our customers could damage our reputation and brand and may substantially harm our business.

Current wording

Our ability to receive inbound products efficiently and ship products to and from customers may be negatively affected by many events outside of our control, including inclement weather, public health crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic, governmental regulations, labor disputes and other factors. We are also subject to risks of damage or loss during delivery by our shipping vendors. If our customers do not receive their orders in good condition or on time, or perceive our new 3-day shipping promise as too slow, they could become dissatisfied and cease using our services, which would adversely affect our business and operating results. Our shipping vendors have faced and may continue to face increased volumes which, in turn, has caused and could in the future cause a decrease in their service levels, including shipping delays, or result in an increase in their prices. We have experienced increased shipping costs in recent years, and these costs may increase in the future. In addition, although we have achieved efficiencies in our supply chain operations in recent years, these efficiencies may not be sustainable or meet our broader business objectives. Increases in shipping costs, in particular for our primary shipping vendor, could result in increased costs to us and adversely impact our business. In addition, significant shipping difficulties or disruptions or any failure by our brand partners or third-party carriers to deliver high-quality products to us or to our customers, as applicable, in a timely manner or to otherwise adequately serve our customers could damage our reputation and brand and may substantially harm our business.

Previous wording

In addition to offering the ability to return products by dropping off items with third-party shipping vendors, we offer at-home pickup for customers located in multiple markets. We believe at-home pickup is more convenient for many customers. Although we have had positive customer feedback and adoption to date, at-home pickup is a newer offering and may not be successful over the long-term. In the event that we do not successfully and cost-effectively manage at-home pickup logistics, it will make it more difficult for us to satisfy our customers and efficiently manage shipping costs, which will negatively affect our brand, financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

In addition to offering the ability to return products by dropping off items with our primary third-party shipping vendor, we offer at-home pickup for customers located in multiple markets. Although we have had positive customer feedback and adoption to date, at-home pickup is a newer offering and may not be successful over the long-term. In the event that we do not successfully and cost-effectively manage at-home pickup logistics, it may make it more difficult for us to satisfy our customers and efficiently manage shipping costs, which could negatively affect our brand, financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

We have been focused on expanding our relationships with brand partners and continuing to work to increase the proportion of our products procured under Exclusive Designs and Share by RTR arrangements, which are our more capital-efficient ways of acquiring rental product. For our Exclusive Designs, RTR generally sources the materials and relies upon third-party manufacturing partners to produce products. For Wholesale and Share by RTR items, entering into contracts in advance of a particular season requires brand partners to agree to incur costs related to sourcing and manufacturing products before we have paid for them, which requires the brand partners to continue to trust us. If we were viewed as less financially viable by our brand partners and/or their financing partners or factoring companies, including as a result of our Nasdaq listing compliance and status, we may receive less favorable terms and conditions from our brand partners, including requiring upfront payments or other demonstrations of credit. The cash flow benefits we currently experience from our brand partners’ willingness to revenue share could be adversely affected if revenue share terms change or if brand partners no longer wish to revenue share due to (1) lack of trust in us, (2) lack of revenue earned in comparison to the projections we provided, or (3) their inability to continue to spread their earnings out over the time period that the products are earning revenue on our website, among other reasons. For our Exclusive Design arrangements, we must continue to increase the number of brand partners with whom we work, design an assortment of styles that meet customer demand, maintain and enhance our third-party manufacturing capabilities and partner relationships and ensure the products manufactured meets brand partners’, customers’ and our quality standards. Our ability to obtain a sufficient selection or volume of products on a timely basis at competitive prices could suffer as a result of any deterioration or change in our partner relationships or events that adversely affect them and, in turn, could have a material adverse effect on our business.

Current wording

We have been focused on expanding our relationships with brand partners and continuing to work to increase the proportion of our products procured under Exclusive Designs and Share by RTR arrangements, which are our more capital-efficient ways of acquiring rental product. For our Exclusive Designs, RTR generally sources the materials and relies upon third-party manufacturing partners to produce products. For Wholesale and Share by RTR items, entering into contracts in advance of a particular season requires brand partners to agree to incur costs related to sourcing and manufacturing products before we have paid for them, which requires the brand partners to continue to trust us. If we were viewed as less financially viable by our brand partners and/or their financing partners or factoring companies, we may receive less favorable terms and conditions from our brand partners, including requiring upfront payments or other demonstrations of credit. The cash flow benefits we currently experience from our brand partners’ willingness to revenue share could be adversely affected if revenue share terms change or if brand partners no longer wish to revenue share due to lack of trust in us, lack of revenue earned in comparison to the projections we provided, or their inability to continue to spread their earnings out over the time period that the products are earning revenue on our website, among other reasons. For our Exclusive Design arrangements, we must continue to increase the number of brand partners with whom we work, design an assortment of styles that meet customer demand, maintain and enhance our third-party manufacturing capabilities and partner relationships and ensure the products manufactured meets brand partners’, customers’ and our quality standards. Our ability to obtain a sufficient selection or volume of products on a timely basis at competitive prices could suffer as a result of any deterioration or change in our partner relationships or events that adversely affect them and, in turn, could have a material adverse effect on our business.

Previous wording

We also procure and manufacture products outside of the United States. Global sourcing and foreign trade involve numerous factors and uncertainties beyond our control including increased shipping costs, limitations in factory capacity, the imposition of additional import or trade restrictions, including legal or economic restrictions on overseas brand partners’ or manufacturers’ ability to produce and deliver products, increased custom duties and tariffs, unforeseen delays in customs, more restrictive quotas, loss of a most favored nation trading status, currency exchange rates, transportation delays, foreign government regulations, political instability and conflict, such as the wars between Russia and Ukraine and Hamas and Israel, and economic uncertainties in the countries from which we or our brand partners source our products. Future extended disruptions in travel may limit our ability to source products in-person, which may lead to suboptimal products and harm our business. For the next several quarters, we anticipate facing, and having to address challenges relating to, economic uncertainty and trends that may also impact our business operations, including transportation efficiencies. Additionally, oil supply disruptions related to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine led and could continue to lead to increased fuel and shipping prices. Further, certain trade restrictions related to the Xinjiang region of China that impose a ban on virtually all imports from that region could affect the sourcing and availability of raw materials, such as cotton, used in the manufacturing of certain products and lead to our products and materials and those of our brand and/or manufacturing partners being held for inspection by the United States Customs & Border Patrol and delayed or rejected for entry, which could adversely impact the customer experience and our business. In addition, negative press or consumer sentiment about internationally sourced products may lead to reduced demand for our products. These and other issues affecting our international brand partners, manufacturers or internationally sourced products could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Current wording

We also procure and manufacture products outside of the United States. Global sourcing and foreign trade involve numerous factors and uncertainties beyond our control including increased shipping costs, limitations in factory capacity, the imposition of additional import or trade restrictions, including legal or economic restrictions on overseas brand partners’ or manufacturers’ ability to produce and deliver products, increased custom duties and tariffs, unforeseen delays in customs, more restrictive quotas, loss of a most favored nation trading status, currency exchange rates, transportation delays, foreign government regulations, political instability and conflict, such as the war between Russia and Ukraine and conflict in the Middle East, and economic uncertainties in the countries from which we or our brand partners source our products. Future extended disruptions in travel may limit our ability to source products in-person, which may lead to suboptimal products and harm our business. For the next several quarters, we anticipate facing, and having to address challenges relating to, economic uncertainty and trends that may also impact our business operations, including transportation efficiencies. Additionally, oil supply disruptions related to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine led and could continue to lead to increased fuel and shipping prices. Further, certain trade restrictions related to the Xinjiang region of China that impose a ban on virtually all imports from that region could affect the sourcing and availability of raw materials, such as cotton, used in the manufacturing of certain products and lead to our products and materials and those of our brand and/or manufacturing partners being held for inspection by the United States Customs & Border Patrol and delayed or rejected for entry, which could adversely impact the customer experience and our business. In addition, negative press or consumer sentiment about internationally sourced products may lead to reduced demand for our products. These and other issues affecting our international brand partners, manufacturers or internationally sourced products could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Previous wording

As an e-commerce business, we encounter risks and difficulties frequently experienced by businesses with significant internet operations. The successful operation of our business as well as our ability to provide a positive customer experience that will generate Subscription, Reserve and Resale orders depend on efficient and uninterrupted e-commerce order-taking and fulfillment operations. If we are unable to allow real-time and accurate visibility to product availability when customers are ready to order, quickly and efficiently fulfill our customers’ orders using the fulfillment and payment methods they demand, provide a convenient and consistent experience for our customers regardless of the ultimate channel or effectively manage our online sales, our ability to compete and our results of operations could be adversely affected. We have two fulfillment centers in Arlington, Texas and Secaucus, New Jersey that we depend on for our fulfillment operations. We currently lease these facilities. Although we have recently renewed our lease in Secaucus, NJ, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to renew or negotiate new or renewed leases in the future at this location or in Texas on terms acceptable to us or at all. If we are unable to secure such leases, or if we can only secure such leases on economic terms that are less than optimal for us, it may materially adversely impact our results of operations.

Current wording

As an e-commerce business, we encounter risks and difficulties frequently experienced by businesses with significant internet operations. The successful operation of our business as well as our ability to provide a positive customer experience that will generate Subscription, Reserve and Resale orders depend on efficient and uninterrupted e-commerce order-taking and fulfillment operations. If we are unable to allow real-time and accurate visibility to product availability when customers are ready to order, quickly and efficiently fulfill our customers’ orders using the fulfillment and payment methods they demand, provide a convenient and consistent experience for our customers regardless of the ultimate channel or effectively manage our online sales, our ability to compete and our results of operations could be adversely affected. We have two fulfillment centers in Arlington, Texas and Secaucus, New Jersey that we depend on for our fulfillment operations. We currently lease these facilities. Although we renewed our lease in Secaucus, NJ, in 2023, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to renew or negotiate new or renewed leases in the future at this location or in Texas on terms acceptable to us or at all. If we are unable to secure such leases, or if we can only secure such leases on economic terms that are less than optimal for us, it may materially adversely impact our results of operations.

Previous wording

•our ability to recruit and retain employees including fulfillment center labor to process, itemize, list, pack and ship our products; and

Current wording

•our ability to recruit and retain employees including fulfillment center labor to process, itemize, list, pack and ship our products;

Previous wording

There has been increased focus, including by consumers, investors, employees and other stakeholders, as well as by governmental and non-governmental organizations, on ESG matters generally and with regard to the fashion industry specifically. We expect that this increased focus on ESG considerations will affect some aspects of our operations. For example, we expect to be subject to various disclosure requirements (such as information on greenhouse gas emissions, climate risks, use of offsets, and emissions reduction claims) from the SEC’s climate disclosure rule and the State of California, among other regulations or requirements. These requirements may not always be uniform across jurisdictions, which may result in increased complexity, and cost, for compliance. Separately, various regulators have adopted, or are considering adopting, regulations on environmental marketing claims, including but not limited to the use of “sustainable”, “eco-friendly”, “recyclable” or similar language in product marketing. Any of the foregoing may require us to make additional investments or incur additional costs for the collection of data and/or preparation of disclosures and associated internal controls, and in turn, may adversely impact our business, operating results and financial condition.

Current wording

There has been increased focus, including by consumers, investors, employees and other stakeholders, as well as by governmental and non-governmental organizations, on ESG matters generally and with regard to the fashion industry specifically. We expect that this increased focus on ESG considerations will affect some aspects of our operations. For example, we expect to be subject to various disclosure requirements (such as information on greenhouse gas emissions, climate risks, use of offsets, and emissions reduction claims) from the State of California, among other regulations or requirements. These requirements may not always be uniform across jurisdictions, which may result in increased complexity, and cost, for compliance. Separately, various regulators have adopted, or are considering adopting, regulations on environmental marketing claims, including but not limited to the use of “sustainable”, “eco-friendly”, “recyclable” or similar language in product marketing. Any of the foregoing may require us to make additional investments or incur additional costs for the collection of data and/or preparation of disclosures and associated internal controls, and in turn, may adversely impact our business, operating results and financial condition.

Previous wording

Further, any failure by us to meet our Impact Strategy goals for any reason, including due to the potential changes to the prioritization of these goals, or a loss of confidence on the part of customers, investors, employees, brand partners and other stakeholders as it relates to our ESG initiatives could negatively impact our brand or the demand for our offerings, or lead to enforcement actions or litigation, adversely affecting our financial condition, results of operations and prospects. These impacts could be difficult and costly to overcome, even if such concerns were based on inaccurate or misleading information. In addition, achieving our Impact Strategy goals or complying with ESG-related disclosure requirements may result in increased costs in our supply chain, fulfillment and/or corporate business operations, and could deviate from our initial estimates and have a material adverse effect on our business and financial condition. Furthermore, if our competitors’ corporate responsibility performance is perceived to be greater than ours, we may lose potential or current customers, we may be unable to recruit and retain employees effectively, and potential or current investors may elect to invest with our competitors instead.

Current wording

Further, any failure or perceived failure to meet our Impact Strategy goals for any reason, including due to changes to the prioritization or scope of these goals, or a loss of confidence on the part of customers, investors, employees, brand partners and other stakeholders as it relates to our ESG initiatives could negatively impact our brand or the demand for our offerings, or lead to enforcement actions or litigation, adversely affecting our financial condition, results of operations and prospects. These impacts could be difficult and costly to overcome, even if such concerns were based on inaccurate or misleading information. In addition, achieving our Impact Strategy goals may result in increased costs in our supply chain, fulfillment and/or corporate business operations, and could deviate from our initial estimates and have a material adverse effect on our business and financial condition. Furthermore, if our competitors’ corporate responsibility performance is perceived to be greater than ours, we may lose potential or current customers, we may be unable to recruit and retain employees effectively, and potential or current investors may elect to invest with our competitors instead.

Previous wording

Voluntary or required standards and research regarding environmental, social and governance initiatives could change and become more onerous for both us and our third-party suppliers and vendors to meet successfully. Evolving data and research could undermine or refute our current claims and beliefs that we have made in reliance on current research, which could also result in costs, a decrease in revenue and negative market perception that could have a material adverse effect on our business and financial condition. Alternatively, if we are unable to satisfy such new criteria, investors may conclude that our policies or actions with respect to corporate responsibility are inadequate. We risk damage to our brand and reputation in the event that our corporate responsibility procedures or standards do not meet the standards set by various constituencies.

Current wording

Voluntary or required standards and research regarding ESG initiatives could change and become more onerous for both us and our third-party suppliers and vendors to meet successfully. Evolving data and research could undermine or refute our current claims and beliefs that we have made in reliance on current research, which could also result in costs, a decrease in revenue and negative market perception that could have a material adverse effect on our business and financial condition. Alternatively, if we are unable to satisfy such new criteria, investors may conclude that our policies or actions with respect to corporate responsibility are inadequate. We risk damage to our brand and reputation in the event that our corporate responsibility procedures or standards do not meet the ESG standards set by various constituencies.

Previous wording

Furthermore, our rapid growth in recent years may obscure the extent to which seasonality trends have affected our business and may continue to affect our business, and the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic may have altered our historical seasonality trends. Accordingly, yearly or quarterly comparisons of our operating results may not be useful and our results in any particular period will not necessarily be indicative of the results to be expected for any future period. Seasonality in our business can also be affected by introductions of new or enhanced products and offerings, including the costs associated with such introductions.

Current wording

Furthermore, our growth in recent years may obscure the extent to which seasonality trends have affected our business and may continue to affect our business, and the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic may have altered our historical seasonality trends. Accordingly, yearly or quarterly comparisons of our operating results may not be useful and our results in any particular period will not necessarily be indicative of the results to be expected for any future period. Seasonality in our business can also be affected by introductions of new or enhanced products and offerings, including the costs associated with such introductions.

Previous wording

As of July 31, 2024, we had $319.8 million aggregate principal amount of borrowings under a credit facility with Double Helix Pte Ltd. as administrative agent for Temasek Holdings (as subsequently amended, the “2023 Amended Temasek Facility”). The 2023 Amended Temasek Facility matures in October 2026. If our cash flows and capital resources are insufficient to fund our debt service obligations, we may be forced to reduce or delay investments and capital expenditures or to sell assets, seek additional capital or restructure or refinance our indebtedness. Our ability to restructure or refinance our current or future debt will depend on the condition of the capital markets and our financial condition at such time. Any refinancing of our debt could be at higher interest rates and may require us to comply with more onerous covenants, which could further restrict our business operations. The terms of existing or future debt instruments may restrict us from adopting some of these alternatives. We cannot provide assurance that our business will be able to generate sufficient levels of cash or that future borrowings or other financings will be available to us in an amount sufficient to enable us to service our indebtedness and fund our other liquidity needs. These financing risks, in addition to potential rising interest rates and changes in market conditions, if realized, could negatively impact our business, financial condition and results of operations. See “Note 7 —Long-Term Debt” in the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for more information on our indebtedness.

Current wording

As of October 31, 2024, we had $326.7 million aggregate principal amount of borrowings under a credit facility with Double Helix Pte Ltd. as administrative agent for Temasek Holdings (as subsequently amended, the “2023 Amended Temasek Facility”). The 2023 Amended Temasek Facility matures in October 2026. If our cash flows and capital resources are insufficient to fund our debt service obligations, we may be forced to reduce or delay investments and capital expenditures or to sell assets, seek additional capital or restructure or refinance our indebtedness. Our ability to restructure or refinance our current or future debt will depend on the condition of the capital markets and our financial condition at such time. Any refinancing of our debt could be at higher interest rates and may require us to comply with more onerous covenants, which could further restrict our business operations. The terms of existing or future debt instruments may restrict us from adopting some of these alternatives. We cannot provide assurance that our business will be able to generate sufficient levels of cash or that future borrowings or other financings will be available to us in an amount sufficient to enable us to service our indebtedness and fund our other liquidity needs. These financing risks, in addition to potential rising interest rates and changes in market conditions, if realized, could negatively impact our business, financial condition and results of operations. See “Note 7 —Long-Term Debt” in the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for more information on our indebtedness.

Previous wording

In connection with the preparation of our consolidated financial statements as of January 31, 2021, we identified material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting, as described below. As of July 31, 2024, these material weaknesses were still in the process of being remediated. 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 our annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis.

Current wording

We identified material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting, as described below. As of October 31, 2024, these material weaknesses remain unremediated. 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 our annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis.

Previous wording

In addition to the material weaknesses in internal control over financial reporting identified in connection with the audit of our financial statements as of and for the fiscal year 2020, subsequent testing by us or our independent registered public accounting firm may reveal additional deficiencies in our internal control over financial reporting that are deemed to be material weaknesses. During the evaluation and testing process of our internal controls, if we identify additional material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting, we will be unable to certify that our internal control over financial reporting is effective. We cannot provide assurance that there will not be additional material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting in the future. Any failure to maintain internal control over financial reporting could severely inhibit our ability to accurately report our financial condition or results of operations. If we are unable to conclude that our internal control over financial reporting is effective, or if we or our independent registered public accounting firm determines we have additional material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting, we could lose investor confidence in the accuracy and completeness of our financial reports, the market price of our Class A common stock could decline, and we could be subject to sanctions or investigations by the SEC or other regulatory authorities. Failure to remedy any material weakness in our internal control over financial reporting, or to implement or maintain other effective control systems required of public companies, could also restrict our future access to the capital markets.

Current wording

In addition to the material weaknesses in internal control over financial reporting identified in connection with the audit of our financial statements, subsequent testing by us or our independent registered public accounting firm may reveal additional deficiencies in our internal control over financial reporting that are deemed to be material weaknesses. During the evaluation and testing process of our internal controls, if we identify additional material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting, we will be unable to certify that our internal control over financial reporting is effective. We cannot provide assurance that there will not be additional material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting in the future. Any failure to maintain internal control over financial reporting could severely inhibit our ability to accurately report our financial condition or results of operations. If we are unable to conclude that our internal control over financial reporting is effective, or if we or our independent registered public accounting firm determines we have additional material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting, we could lose investor confidence in the accuracy and completeness of our financial reports, the market price of our Class A common stock could decline, and we could be subject to sanctions or investigations by the SEC or other regulatory authorities. Failure to remedy any material weakness in our internal control over financial reporting, or to implement or maintain other effective control systems required of public companies, could also restrict our future access to the capital markets.

Previous wording

From time to time, we may be subject to claims, lawsuits, government investigations, and other proceedings involving products liability, competition and antitrust, intellectual property, privacy, consumer protection, securities, tax, labor and employment, commercial disputes, environmental regulations, and other matters that could adversely affect our business operations and financial condition. For example, on November 14, 2022, a purported stockholder of the Company filed a putative class action lawsuit in the Eastern District of New York against the Company, certain of its officers and directors, and the underwriters of its IPO, entitled Rajat Sharma v. Rent the Runway, Inc., et al. The complaint, which has since been amended, alleges that we violated Sections 11, 12(a)(2) and 15 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, by making allegedly materially misleading statements, and by omitting material facts necessary to make the statements made therein not misleading. The lawsuit seeks, among other things, compensatory damages, attorneys’ fees and costs and such other relief as deemed just and proper by the court. See Note 14, “Commitments and Contingencies”in the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statementsfor more details.

Current wording

From time to time, we may be subject to claims, lawsuits, government investigations, and other proceedings involving products liability, competition and antitrust, intellectual property, privacy, consumer protection, securities, tax, labor and employment, commercial disputes, environmental regulations, and other matters that could adversely affect our business operations and financial condition. For example, on November 14, 2022, a purported stockholder of the Company filed a putative class action lawsuit in the Eastern District of New York against the Company, certain of its officers and directors, and the underwriters of its IPO, entitled Rajat Sharma v. Rent the Runway, Inc., et al. The complaint, which has since been amended, alleges that we violated Sections 11, 12(a)(2) and 15 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, by making allegedly materially misleading statements, and by omitting material facts necessary to make the statements made therein not misleading. The lawsuit seeks, among other things, compensatory damages, attorneys’ fees and costs and such other relief as deemed just and proper by the court. See Note 14, “Commitments and Contingencies”in the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statementsfor more details about the class action and other matters.

Previous wording

We manage our waste materials as non-hazardous waste, but we cannot guarantee that our supply chain or the products we use will not contain hazardous materials or result in the generation of hazardous waste. Further, liability for the improper release or disposal of waste, even if non-hazardous, can be joint and several and significant and there can be no assurance that we will not have to expend material amounts to remediate the consequences of the generation or disposal of waste in the future, particularly with respect to our dry cleaning operations. Further, we may be responsible as a lessee operator for the costs of investigation, removal or remediation of hazardous or non-hazardous substances or waste located on or in or emanating from our leased properties, as well as any property damage. There can be no assurance that our future operations, properties, uses or conditions will not result in the imposition of liability upon us under environmental laws or other regulations, or expose us to third-party actions such as tort suits.

Current wording

These laws and regulations are complex and evolving. Despite our efforts, we may be subject to claims that we have violated such laws and regulations based on past, present, and future practices, which could have an adverse impact on our business and reputation, and be costly for us to defend. For example, from time to time, we have reviewed and resolved immaterial permitting issues and compliance notices related to our warehouse operations; however, we cannot guarantee that future matters will continue to be immaterial. Failure to comply with such laws and regulations, which tend to become more stringent over time or failure to obtain or maintain permits necessary for our warehouse operations could, can result in significant fines, penalties, costs, liabilities or restrictions on operations, injunctive relief, civil or criminal sanctions, and could expose us to costs of investigation or remediation, as well as tort claims for property damage or personal injury, and could negatively affect our business, financial condition or results of operations. Liability for the improper release or disposal of waste can be joint and several and significant and there can be no assurance that we will not have to expend material amounts to remediate the consequences of the generation or disposal of waste in the future, particularly with respect to our dry cleaning operations. Further, we may be responsible as a lessee operator for the costs of investigation, removal or remediation of hazardous or non-hazardous substances or waste located on or in or emanating from our leased properties, as well as any property damage. There can be no assurance that our future operations, properties, uses or conditions will not result in the imposition of liability upon us under environmental laws or other regulations, or expose us to third-party actions such as tort suits.

Previous wording

In addition, under Sections 382 and 383 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and corresponding provisions of state law, if a corporation undergoes an “ownership change,” (very generally defined as a greater than 50% change, by value, in the corporation’s equity ownership by certain shareholders or groups of shareholders over a rolling three-year period), the corporation’s ability to use its pre-change net operating loss carryforwards and other pre-change tax attributes to offset its post-change income or taxes may be limited. In 2021, we completed a Section 382 analysis covering the period beginning in March 2009 and ending in March 2021. From the study, we concluded we experienced an ownership change in 2010 (but not since then) and $1.3 million of net operating losses (“NOLs”) were subject to the limitation. However, all of those NOLs were available by the year ended January 31, 2017. We may have experienced since March 2021 and may experience in the future additional ownership changes as a result of shifts in our stock ownership, some of which may be outside of our control. Any ownership change may result in the imposition of additional limitations on our ability to utilize our NOLs existing at the time of the ownership change. Future regulatory changes could also limit our ability to utilize our NOLs. To the extent we are not able to offset future taxable income with our NOLs, our cash flows may be adversely affected. We have recorded a full valuation allowance against our U.S. deferred tax assets, which includes net operating loss carryforwards.

Current wording

In addition, under Sections 382 and 383 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and corresponding provisions of state law, if a corporation undergoes an “ownership change,” (very generally defined as a greater than 50% change, by value, in the corporation’s equity ownership by certain shareholders or groups of shareholders over a rolling three-year period), the corporation’s ability to use its pre-change net operating loss carryforwards and other pre-change tax attributes to offset its post-change income or taxes may be limited. In 2021, we completed a Section 382 analysis covering the period beginning in March 2009 and ending in March 2021. From the study, we concluded we experienced an ownership change in 2010 (but not since then) and $1.3 million of net operating losses (“NOLs”) were subject to the limitation. However, all of those NOLs were available by the year ended January 31, 2017. In 2024, we completed an update to the prior Section 382 analysis covering the period beginning April 2021 through August 2024. From the study, we concluded we did not experience an ownership change during the analysis period. Although we believe the Section 382 analyses are accurate, any errors in the analyses could impact our conclusions and ability to utilize our NOLs effectively. We may have experienced since August 2024 and may experience in the future additional ownership changes as a result of shifts in our stock ownership, some of which may be outside of our control. Any ownership change may result in the imposition of additional limitations on our ability to utilize our NOLs existing at the time of the ownership change. Future regulatory changes could also limit our ability to utilize our NOLs. To the extent we are not able to offset future taxable income with our NOLs, our cash flows may be adversely affected. We have recorded a full valuation allowance against our U.S. deferred tax assets, which includes net operating loss carryforwards.

Previous wording

Our ability to maintain and increase the number of consumers directed to our products from digital platforms is not entirely within our control. Search engines, social media platforms and other online sources often revise their algorithms products, and APIs, and introduce new advertising products. If one or more of the search engines or other online sources on which we rely for traffic to our website and our mobile application were to modify its general methodology for how it displays our advertisements or keyword search results or change their APIs without sufficient notice, as they have in the past and may again in the future, fewer consumers may click through to our website and our mobile application or have difficulty accessing our sites, and our business and operating results are likely to suffer. Our efforts to attract consumers and convert them into customers also rely heavily on the use of cookies and similar tracking technologies, and our ability to use and benefit from such technologies may be restricted or prohibited by changes in the law, market practice, or technology, or third parties who are not under our control. For example, Apple utilizes “opt-in” privacy models for mobile applications using its operating system such as ours, requiring such applications to give consumers the choice to allow or deny the use of tracking technologies to engage in targeted advertising and similar activities, which may reduce the efficacy of our marketing tracking. In addition, if our online display advertisements are no longer effective or are not able to reach certain customers due to their use of ad-blocking software, our business and operating results could suffer. Furthermore, changes in customer acceptance or usage of our online sources for traffic could adversely impact the effectiveness of our advertising.

Current wording

Our ability to maintain and increase the number of consumers directed to our products from digital platforms is not entirely within our control. Search engines, social media platforms and other online sources often revise their algorithms products, and APIs, and introduce new advertising products. If one or more of the search engines or other online sources on which we rely for traffic to our website and our mobile application were to modify its general methodology for how it displays our advertisements or keyword search results or change their APIs without sufficient notice, as they have in the past and may again in the future, fewer consumers may click through to our website and our mobile application or have difficulty accessing our sites, and our business and operating results are likely to suffer. Our efforts to attract consumers and convert them into customers also rely on the use of cookies and similar tracking technologies, and our ability to use and benefit from such technologies may be restricted or prohibited by changes in the law, market practice, or technology, or third parties who are not under our control. For example, Apple utilizes “opt-in” privacy models for mobile applications using its operating system such as ours, requiring such applications to give consumers the choice to allow or deny the use of tracking technologies to engage in targeted advertising and similar activities, which may reduce the efficacy of our marketing tracking. In addition, if our online display advertisements are no longer effective or are not able to reach certain customers due to their use of ad-blocking software, our business and operating results could suffer. Furthermore, changes in customer acceptance or usage of our online sources for traffic could adversely impact the effectiveness of our advertising.