Floor Decor Holdings Inc

Previous wording

Consumer discretionary spending affects our sales and is impacted by factors outside of our control, including general economic and political conditions, interest rates, the residential housing market, unemployment rates and wage levels, inflation, disposable income levels, consumer confidence, recession fears, energy costs, consumer credit availability and terms, consumer debt levels, salaries and wage rates, geopolitical events and uncertainty. Declines in the level of consumer confidence and spending and rising interest rates have adversely affected, and could continue to adversely affect, consumer spending habits and consumer discretionary spending, which have resulted in, and may continue to result in, reduced demand for our products.

Current wording

Consumer discretionary spending affects our sales and is impacted by factors outside of our control, including general economic and political conditions, interest rates, the residential housing market, unemployment rates, inflation, disposable income levels, consumer confidence, recession fears, energy costs, consumer credit availability and terms, consumer debt levels, salaries and wage rates, and geopolitical events and uncertainty. Declines in the level of consumer confidence and spending and high interest rates have adversely affected, and could continue to adversely affect, consumer spending habits and consumer discretionary spending, which have resulted in, and may continue to result in, reduced demand for our products.

Previous wording

The hard surface flooring industry is highly dependent on existing home sales because homeowners often replace flooring before selling a home or shortly after purchasing a home and, to a lesser extent, new home construction. In response to increasing inflation, the U.S. Federal Reserve began to raise interest rates in March 2022 and continued to do so through July 2023, contributing to negative existing home sales for over two years. We believe such inflationary pressure has impacted consumer behavior during 2023, particularly in the U.S. housing market and as a result of elevated mortgage rates and higher home prices. Rising interest rates and any such shift in consumer behavior may adversely affect the demand for existing homes, remodeling, and new home construction. In addition, existing home sales, remodeling, and new home construction depend on a number of other factors that are beyond our control, including inflation, tax policy, trade policy, employment levels, consumer confidence, credit availability, real estate prices, home-price appreciation, existing home sales, demographic trends, weather conditions, natural disasters, geopolitical or public safety conditions and general economic conditions. In particular: interest rates and inflation could continue to rise or remain at high levels, undermining consumer confidence and eroding discretionary income; home-price appreciation could slow or turn negative; and regions where we have stores could be impacted by hurricane, fire, or other natural disasters (including those due to the effects of climate change such as increased storm severity, drought, wildfires, and potential flooding due to rising sea levels and storm surges).

Current wording

The hard surface flooring industry is highly dependent on existing home sales because homeowners often replace flooring before selling a home or shortly after purchasing a home and, to a lesser extent, on new home construction. The increase in interest rates in 2022 and 2023 and persistently higher interest rates in 2024 has contributed to several years of negative existing home sales, with such sales near record lows in 2024. We believe such inflationary pressure has resulted in elevated mortgage rates and adversely impacted consumer behavior. High interest rates, housing affordability, and any such shift in consumer behavior may adversely affect the demand for existing homes, remodeling, and new home construction. In addition, existing home sales, remodeling, and new home construction depend on a number of other factors that are beyond our control, including inflation, tax policy, trade policy, employment levels, consumer confidence, credit availability, real estate prices, home-price appreciation, demographic trends, weather conditions, natural disasters, geopolitical or public safety conditions, and general economic conditions. In particular, interest rates and inflation could remain at high levels, continue to rise, or decline at too slow a rate, undermining consumer confidence and eroding discretionary income; home-price appreciation could slow or turn negative; and regions where we have stores could be impacted by hurricane, fire, or other natural disasters.

Previous wording

We believe any one or a combination of these factors has resulted, and could continue to result in, decreased demand for our products, reduced spending on homebuilding or remodeling of existing homes or caused purchases of new and existing homes to decline. While the vast majority of our net sales are derived from home remodeling activity as opposed to new home construction, the decrease in these areas has adversely affected and could continue to adversely affect our business, financial condition, and operating results.

Current wording

We believe any one or a combination of these factors has resulted, and could continue to result in, decreased demand for our products, reduced spending on homebuilding or remodeling of existing homes, or a decline in purchases of new and existing homes, each of which has adversely affected and could continue to adversely affect our business, financial condition, and operating results.

Previous wording

We have 221 warehouse-format stores and five small-format standalone design studios located throughout the United States as of December 28, 2023. We plan to continue opening new stores for the next several years. This growth strategy and the investment associated with the development of each new store may cause our operating results to fluctuate and be unpredictable or decrease our profits. We cannot ensure that store locations will be available to us, or that they will be available on terms acceptable to us. If additional retail store locations are unavailable on acceptable terms, we may not be able to carry out a significant part of our growth strategy or our new stores’ profitability may be lower. Certain of our new store openings are expected to be smaller stores in smaller markets. We have limited experience executing this strategy, and we cannot guarantee that we will be successful in this strategy. Our future operating results and ability to grow will depend on various other factors, including our ability to: successfully select new markets and store locations; attract, train and retain highly qualified managers and staff; maintain our reputation of providing quality, safe and compliant products; and manage store opening costs, including rising construction costs and costs due to delays in obtaining necessary permits and completing construction.

Current wording

We have 251 warehouse-format stores and five small-format standalone design studios located throughout the United States as of December 26, 2024. We plan to continue opening new stores for the next several years. This growth strategy and the investment associated with the development of each new store may cause our operating results to fluctuate and be unpredictable or decrease our profits. We cannot ensure that new store locations will be available to us, or that they will be available on terms acceptable to us. If additional retail store locations are unavailable on acceptable terms, we may not be able to carry out a significant part of our growth strategy or our new stores’ profitability may be lower. Certain of our new store openings are expected to be smaller stores in smaller markets. We have limited experience executing this strategy, and we cannot guarantee that we will be successful in this strategy. Our future operating results and ability to grow will depend on various other factors, including our ability to successfully select new markets and store locations; drive brand awareness, particularly in new markets; attract, train and retain highly qualified managers and staff; manage store opening costs, including rising construction costs and costs due to delays in obtaining necessary permits and completing construction; manage the impact of cannibalization by new stores on nearby existing store sales; and manage and expand our infrastructure to accommodate growth.

Previous wording

In addition, stores opened in new markets have had, and many continue to have, higher construction, occupancy and operating costs than stores opened in the past, and such stores may have lower profitability than stores opened in the past. In addition, laws or regulations in these new markets may make opening new stores more difficult or cause unexpected delays. For example, we have experienced unexpected delays in opening new stores due to delays in obtaining necessary construction and occupancy permits, which have resulted in higher costs than previously anticipated. As we continue to open new stores, the ultimate cost of future store openings could continue to rise significantly due to construction-related or other reasons, including construction and other delays and cost overruns, such as shortages of materials, shortages of skilled labor or work stoppages, unforeseen construction, scheduling, engineering, environmental or geological problems, governmental or permitting delays, weather interference, fires or other casualty losses and unanticipated cost increases. We cannot guarantee that any project will be completed on time, and delays in store openings have had, and may continue to have, a negative impact on our business and operating results. In addition, consumers in new markets may be less familiar with our brand, and we may need to increase brand awareness in such markets through additional investments in advertising or high cost locations with more prominent visibility.

Current wording

In addition, stores opened more recently have had, and many continue to have, higher construction, occupancy, and operating costs than stores opened in the past, and such stores may have lower profitability than stores opened in the past. Furthermore, laws or regulations may make opening new stores more difficult or cause unexpected delays. For example, we have experienced unexpected delays in opening new stores due to delays in obtaining necessary construction and occupancy permits, which have resulted in higher costs than previously anticipated. As we continue to open new stores, the ultimate cost of future store openings could continue to rise significantly due to construction-related or other reasons, including construction and other delays and cost overruns, such as shortages of materials; shortages of skilled labor or work stoppages; unforeseen construction, scheduling, engineering, environmental or geological problems; governmental or permitting delays; weather interference, fires or other casualty losses; and unanticipated cost increases. We cannot guarantee that any project will be completed on time, and delays in store openings have had, and may continue to have, a negative impact on our business and operating results. In addition, consumers in new markets may be less familiar with our brand, and we may need to increase brand awareness in such markets through additional investments in advertising or higher cost locations with more prominent visibility.

Previous wording

As a result of these factors and other factors that may be outside of our control, newly opened stores may not succeed or may reach profitability at all, or may be slower to reach profitability than we expect. Future markets and newly opened stores may not be successful and, even if they are successful, our comparable store sales may not increase at historical rates or may decrease. To the extent that we are not able to overcome these various challenges, our operating results and future growth opportunities could be adversely affected. Furthermore, we may incur costs associated with the closure of underperforming stores, and such store closures may adversely impact our revenues.

Current wording

As a result of these factors and other factors that may be outside of our control, newly opened stores may not succeed or may not reach profitability at all, or may be slower to reach profitability than we expect. Future markets and newly opened stores may not be successful and, even if they are successful, our comparable store sales may not increase at historical rates or may decrease. To the extent that we are not able to overcome these various challenges, our operating results and future growth opportunities could be adversely affected. Furthermore, we may incur costs associated with the closure of underperforming stores, and such store closures may adversely impact our revenues.

Previous wording

If we are unable to enter into leases for additional stores on acceptable terms or renew or replace our current store leases, or if one or more of our current leases is terminated prior to expiration of its stated term and we cannot find suitable alternate locations, our growth and profitability could be adversely affected.

Current wording

If we are unable to enter into leases or acquire properties for additional stores on acceptable terms or renew or replace our current store leases, or if one or more of our current leases is terminated prior to expiration of its stated term and we cannot find suitable alternate locations, our growth and profitability could be adversely affected.

Previous wording

We currently lease the majority of our store locations and our store support center. Our growth strategy largely depends on our ability to identify and open future store locations, which can be difficult because our warehouse-format stores in major metropolitan markets generally require at least 60,000 square feet of floor space. Our ability to negotiate acceptable lease terms for these store locations, to re-negotiate acceptable terms on expiring leases or to negotiate acceptable terms for suitable alternate locations depends on conditions in the real estate market, competition for desirable properties, our relationships with current and prospective landlords, and on other factors that are not within our control. We also intend to purchase the real property for a small number of new locations, and such strategy may not be successful. Any or all of these factors and conditions could adversely affect our growth and profitability.

Current wording

We currently lease the majority of our real estate, including most of our store locations and distribution centers and our store support center. Our growth strategy largely depends on our ability to identify and open future store locations, which can be difficult because our warehouse-format stores in major metropolitan markets generally require at least 60,000 square feet of floor space.

Previous wording

We are required to use a significant portion of cash generated by our operations to satisfy our fixed lease obligations, which could adversely affect our ability to obtain future financing to support our growth or other operational investments. We will require substantial cash flows from operations to make our payments under our operating leases, all of which provide for periodic increases in rent. If we are not able to make payments under our operating leases, this could trigger defaults under other leases or, in certain circumstances, under our Credit Facilities, which could cause the counterparties or lenders under those agreements to accelerate the obligations due thereunder.

Current wording

Our ability to negotiate acceptable lease terms for these store locations, to re-negotiate acceptable terms on expiring leases, or to negotiate acceptable terms for suitable alternate locations depends on conditions in the real estate market, competition for desirable properties, our relationships with current and prospective landlords, and other factors that are not within our control. We are required to use a significant portion of cash generated by our operations to satisfy our fixed lease obligations, which could adversely affect our ability to obtain future financing to support our growth or other operational investments. We will require substantial cash flows from operations to make our payments under our operating leases, all of which provide for periodic increases in rent. If we are not able to make payments under our operating leases, this could trigger defaults under other leases or, in certain circumstances, under our credit facilities, which could cause the counterparties or lenders under those agreements to accelerate the obligations due thereunder. We also intend to continue to purchase the real property for new locations, and such strategy may not be successful. Any or all of these factors and conditions could adversely affect our growth and profitability.

Previous wording

We operate in the hard surface flooring industry, which is highly fragmented and competitive. We face competition from large home improvement centers, national and regional specialty flooring chains, independent flooring retailers, and internet-based companies. Among other things, we compete on the basis of breadth of product assortment, low prices, in-store availability of job-lot quantities, as well as the quality of our products and customer service. As we expand into new and unfamiliar markets, we may experience different competitive conditions than in the past.

Current wording

We operate in the hard surface flooring industry, which is highly fragmented and competitive. We face significant competition from big-box home improvement centers, national and regional specialty flooring retailers, independent flooring retailers, and distributors. Among other things, we compete on the basis of breadth of product assortment, everyday low prices, locations of stores, in-store availability of job-lot quantities, the quality of our products, customer service and innovation. We face growing competition from omni-channel retailers who may have similar product offerings. In addition, while the hard surface flooring category has a relatively low threat of new internet-only entrants due to the nature of the product, the growth opportunities presented by e-commerce could outweigh these challenges and result in increased competition in this portion of our connected customer strategy. Customers are increasingly able to quickly comparison shop and determine real-time product availability and price using digital tools. We will be at a competitive disadvantage if, over time, our competitors are more effective than us in their utilization and integration of rapidly evolving technologies. Further, as we expand into new and unfamiliar markets, we may experience different competitive conditions than in the past.

Previous wording

Some of our competitors are organizations that are larger, better capitalized, have existed longer, have product offerings that extend beyond hard surface flooring and related accessories and have a more established market presence with substantially greater financial, marketing, delivery, customer loyalty, personnel and other resources than we have. Competitors may forecast market developments more accurately than we do, offer similar products at a lower cost, have better delivery offerings, or adapt more quickly to new trends and technologies or evolving customer requirements than we do. Further, because the barriers to entry into the hard surface flooring industry are relatively low, manufacturers and suppliers of flooring and related products, including those whose products we currently sell, could enter the market and start directly competing with us. Intense competitive pressures from any of our present or future competitors could cause price declines, decrease demand for our products and decrease our market share. Also, if we continue to grow and become more well-known, other companies may change their strategies to present new competitive challenges.

Current wording

Some of our competitors are organizations that are larger, better capitalized, have existed longer, have product offerings that extend beyond hard surface flooring and related accessories, and have a more established market presence with substantially greater financial, marketing, delivery, customer loyalty, personnel and other resources than we have. Competitors may forecast market developments more accurately than we do, offer similar products at a lower cost, have better delivery offerings, or adapt more quickly to new trends and technologies or evolving customer requirements than we do. Further, because the barriers to entry into the hard surface flooring industry are relatively low, manufacturers and suppliers of flooring and related products, including those whose products we currently sell, could enter the market and start directly competing with us. Intense competitive pressures from any of our present or future competitors could cause price declines, decrease demand for our products, and decrease our market share. Also, as we continue to grow and become more well-known, other companies may change their strategies to present new competitive challenges.

Previous wording

The current domestic and international political environment, including existing and potential changes to U.S. policies related to global trade and tariffs, have resulted in uncertainty surrounding the future state of the global economy. In particular, the ongoing trade dispute between the U.S. and China has resulted in the U.S. imposing tariffs of 25% on the vast majority of the products we import from China. Approximately 25% of the products we sold in fiscal 2023 were produced in China. Any further expansion in the types or levels of tariffs implemented on China or other countries has the potential to negatively impact our business, financial condition and results of operations. Additionally, there is a risk that the U.S. tariffs on imports are met with tariffs on U.S. produced exports and that a further trade conflict could ensue, which has the potential to significantly impact global trade and economic conditions, including the imposition of new measures with little notice. Potential costs and any attendant impact on pricing arising from these tariffs and any further expansion in the types or levels of tariffs implemented could require us to modify our current business practices and could adversely affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Current wording

The current domestic and international political environment, including existing and potential changes to U.S. policies related to global trade and tariffs, have resulted in uncertainty surrounding the future state of the global economy. In particular, the ongoing trade dispute between the U.S. and China has resulted in the U.S. announcing on February 1, 2025, an additional 10% tariff for all products from China, beyond the previous 25% tariff already imposed on the vast majority of the products we import from China. Approximately 18% of the products we sold in fiscal 2024 were produced in China. The current U.S. presidential administration has also indicated the possibility of imposing significantly increased tariffs on imports into the U.S., not only from China but also from other countries. Any further expansion in the types or levels of tariffs implemented on China or other countries has the potential to negatively impact our business, financial condition, and results of operations. Additionally, there is a risk that the U.S. tariffs on imports are met with tariffs on U.S. produced exports and that a further trade conflict could ensue, which has the potential to significantly impact global trade and economic conditions, including the imposition of new measures with little notice. Potential costs and any attendant impact on pricing arising from these tariffs and any further expansion in the types or levels of tariffs implemented could require us to modify our current business practices and could adversely affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Previous wording

In addition, the U.S. government has imposed import restrictions under the withhold release orders for goods from the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region and under the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act, which effectively prohibits imports of any goods made either wholly or in part in Xinjiang, which may induce greater supply chain compliance costs and delays to us and to our suppliers. The law prohibits “the importation of goods made with forced labor” unless U.S. Customs and Border Protection determines, based on “clear and convincing evidence” that the goods in question were not produced “wholly or in part by forced labor” and submits a report to the U.S. Congress setting out its findings. While we do not believe that our suppliers source materials from Xinjiang for the products they sell to us, certain of our products, including luxury vinyl plank, have been subject to detentions and inquires. While such detentions and inquiries have not had a material impact on our business as of December 28, 2023, continued detentions, withhold release orders, inquiries, or other policy developments could result in shortages, delays, and/or price increases that could disrupt our own supply chain or cause our suppliers to renegotiate existing arrangements with us or fail to perform on such obligations. While we have developed multiple supply sources in a variety of countries and believe our vendor compliance program reflects our commitment to a supply chain free of forced labor, we could still be adversely affected by increases in our costs, negative publicity related to the industry, or other adverse consequences to our business.

Current wording

In addition, the U.S. government has imposed import restrictions under withhold release orders for goods from the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region and under the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act. These restrictions effectively prohibit imports of any goods made either wholly or in part in Xinjiang, which may induce greater supply chain compliance costs and delays to us and to our suppliers. While we do not believe that our suppliers source materials from Xinjiang for the products they sell to us, certain of our products, including luxury vinyl plank, have been subject to detentions and inquiries. While such detentions and inquiries have not had a material impact on our business as of December 26, 2024, any detentions, withhold release orders, inquiries, or other policy developments could result in shortages, delays, and/or price increases that could disrupt our own supply chain, adversely affect our relationships with our suppliers, or cause our suppliers to fail to perform their obligations. While we have developed multiple supply sources in a variety of countries and believe our vendor compliance program reflects our commitment to a supply chain free of forced labor, we could still be adversely affected by increases in our costs, negative publicity related to the industry, or other adverse consequences to our business.

Previous wording

Rising geopolitical tensions also could adversely affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations. In particular, in recent years, tensions between mainland China and Taiwan have further escalated, with China accelerating the development of military capabilities in order to “reunite Taiwan by force.” In case of a military conflict between China and Taiwan, our ability to import products from China could be limited. Similarly, the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine could escalate and impact our ability to import products from Europe, including due to further increases in energy costs, and attacks on shipping in the Red Sea could increase our supply chain costs.

Current wording

Rising geopolitical tensions could adversely affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations. In particular, in recent years, tensions between mainland China and Taiwan have further escalated, with China accelerating the development of military capabilities in order to “reunite Taiwan by force.” In case of a military conflict between China and Taiwan, our ability to import products from China could be limited. Similarly, the ongoing wars between Russia and Ukraine and in the Middle East could impact our ability to import products and result in further increases in energy costs, and attacks on shipping in the Red Sea have impacted and may continue to increase our supply chain costs. The uncertain nature, magnitude, and duration of hostilities stemming from such conflicts, including the potential effects of sanctions and countersanctions, and retaliatory cyberattacks on the world economy and markets, have contributed to increased market volatility and uncertainty, which could have an adverse impact on macroeconomic factors that affect our business and operations.

Previous wording

We currently maintain a high level of inventory in order to have a broad assortment of products across a wide variety of hard surface flooring categories in job-lot quantities, with inventory per warehouse-format store consisting of on average approximately 4,500 SKUs and approximately $3.0 million of inventory at cost as of December 28, 2023. We also carry an additional $507.8 million of inventory outside our stores, primarily at our distribution centers, as of the end of fiscal 2023. The investment associated with this high level of inventory is substantial, and as we continue to broaden our supplier base we increase the number of SKUs and investments associated with inventory. If we fail to adequately project the amount or mix of our inventory, we may miss sales opportunities or have to take unanticipated markdowns or hold additional clearance events to dispose of excess inventory, which will adversely affect our operating results.

Current wording

We currently maintain a high level of inventory in order to have a broad assortment of products across a wide variety of hard surface flooring categories in job-lot quantities, with inventory per warehouse-format store consisting of on average approximately 4,400 SKUs and approximately $2.7 million of inventory at cost as of December 26, 2024. We also carried an additional $507.9 million of inventory outside our stores, primarily at our distribution centers and in-transit to our distribution centers, as of December 26, 2024. The investment associated with this high level of inventory is substantial, and as we continue to broaden our supplier base, we may increase the number of SKUs and investments associated with inventory. The success of our business depends in part on our ability to identify shifts in consumer preferences, expectations and needs, as well as broader changes in the macroeconomic environment, and correspondingly forecast necessary inventory levels. If we fail to adequately project the amount or mix of our inventory, we may miss sales opportunities or have to take unanticipated markdowns or hold additional clearance events to sell through excess inventory, which will adversely affect our operating results.

Previous wording

In the past, we have incurred costs associated with inventory markdowns and obsolescence. Due to the likelihood that we will continue to incur such costs in the future, we generally include an allowance for such costs in our projections. However, the costs that we actually incur may be substantially higher than our estimate and adversely affect our operating results.

Current wording

In the past, we have incurred costs associated with inventory markdowns and obsolescence. Due to the likelihood that we will continue to incur such costs in the future, we generally include an allowance for such costs in our projections. However, the costs that we actually incur may be substantially higher than our estimates and may adversely affect our operating results.

Previous wording

Any disruption in our distribution capabilities, supply chain or our related planning and control processes may adversely affect our business, financial condition, and operating results.

Current wording

Any disruption in our distribution capabilities, our supply chain, or our related planning and control processes may adversely affect our business, financial condition, and operating results.

Previous wording

Our success is highly dependent on our planning and distribution infrastructure, which includes the ordering, transportation, and distribution of products to our stores and the ability of suppliers to meet distribution requirements. We need to continue to identify and improve our processes and supply chain and that our distribution infrastructure and supply chain keep pace with our anticipated growth and increased number of stores. The cost of these enhanced processes could be significant and any failure to maintain, grow, or improve them could adversely affect our business, financial condition, and operating results. Due to our rapid expansion, we continue to add distribution centers as needed to support our operations. Increasing the size of our distribution centers and adding additional distribution centers may decrease the efficiency of our distribution costs.

Current wording

Our success is highly dependent on our planning and distribution infrastructure, which includes the ordering, transportation, and distribution of products to our stores and the ability of suppliers to meet distribution requirements. We need to continue to identify and improve our processes and supply chain and maintain and build a distribution infrastructure and supply chain that can keep pace with our anticipated growth and increased number of stores. The cost of these enhanced processes could be significant and any failure to maintain, grow, or improve them could adversely affect our business, financial condition, and operating results. We will continue to add distribution centers as needed to support our operations and growth. Increasing the size of our distribution centers and adding additional distribution centers may decrease the efficiency of our distribution costs. As we continue to add distribution centers, we may incur unexpected costs, and our ability to distribute our products may be adversely affected. Due to the long lead time it takes to open a new distribution center, we also risk over-investing in distribution capabilities ahead of sufficient consumer demand, which could cause us to incur higher costs and adversely affect our operating results.

Previous wording

A disruption within our logistics or supply chain network could adversely affect our ability to deliver inventory in a timely manner, which could impair our ability to meet customer demand for products and result in lost sales, increased supply chain costs, or damage to our reputation. In recent years, global ports, trade lanes, and U.S. ports have been impacted by capacity constraints, port congestion and delays, periodic labor disputes, security issues, weather-related events, and natural disasters. Disruptions to our supply chain due to any of the factors listed above could negatively impact our financial performance or financial condition.

Current wording

A disruption within our logistics or supply chain network could adversely affect our ability to deliver inventory in a timely manner, which could impair our ability to meet customer demand for products and result in lost sales, increased supply chain costs, or damage to our reputation. In recent years, global ports, trade lanes, and U.S. ports have been impacted by capacity constraints, port congestion and delays, periodic labor disputes, security issues, geopolitical or military conflicts, weather- and climate-related events, and natural disasters. Disruptions to our supply chain due to any of the factors listed above could negatively impact our financial performance or financial condition.

Previous wording

In addition, our success is also dependent on our ability to provide timely delivery to our customers. Our business could also be adversely affected if fuel prices increase or there are delays in product shipments due to freight difficulties, inclement weather, strikes by our associates or associates of third parties involved in our supply chain, or other difficulties. If we are unable to deliver products to our customers on a timely basis, they may decide to purchase products from our competitors instead of from us, which would adversely affect our business, financial condition, and operating results.

Current wording

In addition, our success is also dependent on our ability to provide timely delivery to our customers. Our business could also be adversely affected if fuel prices increase or there are delays in product shipments due to freight difficulties, inclement weather, labor disputes, or other difficulties. If we are unable to deliver products to our customers on a timely basis, they may decide to purchase products from our competitors instead of from us, which would adversely affect our business, financial condition, and operating results.

Previous wording

Our operating results may be affected by the wholesale prices of hard surface flooring products, setting and installation materials, and the related accessories that we sell. These prices may increase based on a number of factors beyond our control, including the price of raw materials used in the manufacture of hard surface flooring, transportation costs, energy costs, changes in supply and demand, concerns about inflation, general economic conditions, labor costs, competition, import duties, tariffs, currency exchange rates, government regulation, the impact of natural disasters (including those due to the effects of climate change), duty and other import costs. A material component of the cost of our product includes transportation costs to move the product from the manufacturer to our stores, and there have been recent capacity constraints. These costs could increase and have a material impact on inventory and cost of sales. We may not be able to adjust the prices of our products, especially in the short-term, to recover these cost increases, and a continual rise in such costs could adversely affect consumer spending and demand for our products, which could adversely affect our business, financial condition, and operating results.

Current wording

Our operating results may be affected by the wholesale prices of hard surface flooring products, setting and installation materials, and the related accessories that we sell. These prices may increase based on a number of factors beyond our control, including the price of raw materials used in the manufacture of our products, transportation costs, energy costs, changes in supply and demand, concerns about inflation, general economic conditions, labor costs, competition, import duties, tariffs, currency exchange rates, government regulation, geopolitical or military conflicts, the impact of natural disasters, including those due to the effects of climate change, and other import costs. A material component of the cost of our products includes transportation costs to move the products from the manufacturer to our stores, and, as we have experienced, these costs could increase due to the factors listed above and in the other risk factors, which can have a material impact on inventory and cost of sales. We may not be able to adjust the prices of our products, especially in the short-term, to recover these cost increases, and a continual rise in such costs could adversely affect consumer spending and demand for our products, which could adversely affect our business, financial condition, and operating results.

Previous wording

We believe that our success has depended and continues to depend to a significant extent on the efforts and abilities of our key personnel, including our executive officers, and the loss of the services of one or more of our executive officers could have a material adverse effect on us and would be potentially disruptive to our business until such time as a suitable replacement is hired. For example, in August 2023, Brian Robbins, who initially joined the Company in 2013 and served as our Executive Vice President, Business Development Strategy since 2018, indicated his intent to leave the company effective March 1, 2024. In addition, effective as of November 2022, we promoted Trevor Lang, previously our Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, as our new President, and Bryan Langley, previously our Senior Vice President, Finance, as our new Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. Although these transitions have been smooth, any future changes to our key personnel, including our executive officers, or our failure to engage in effective succession planning may be disruptive to our business, including by distracting management from our core business and effective employee productivity. Further, we may have difficulty identifying, attracting and integrating new executives to replace any losses of our existing executive officers, all of which could adversely affect our business, financial condition, and operating results.

Current wording

We believe that our success has depended and continues to depend to a significant extent on the efforts and abilities of our key personnel, including our executive officers, and the loss of the services of one or more of our executive officers could have a material adverse effect on us and would be potentially disruptive to our business until such time as a suitable replacement is hired. For example, Trevor Lang, who initially joined the Company in 2011 and served as our President since 2022, has announced his retirement effective March 1, 2025. As we announced in January 2025, we have appointed a new President, Bradley Paulsen, who will join the Company in March 2025. Although our previous executive transitions have been smooth, any future changes to our key personnel, including our executive officers, or our failure to successfully manage the transition or engage in effective succession planning, may be disruptive to our business, including by distracting management from our core business and impacting employee productivity. Further, we may have difficulty identifying, attracting and integrating new executives to replace any losses of our other existing or future executive officers, all of which could adversely affect our business, financial condition, and operating results.

Previous wording

Our success depends in part on our ability to attract, hire, train and retain qualified managers and staff. Purchasing hard surface flooring is an infrequent event for consumers, and the typical consumer in these groups has limited knowledge of the range, characteristics and suitability of the products available before starting the purchasing process. Therefore, consumers in the hard surface flooring market expect to have sales associates serving them who are knowledgeable about the entire assortment of products offered by the retailer and the process of choosing and installing hard surface flooring.

Current wording

Our success depends in part on our ability to attract, hire, train, and retain qualified managers and staff. Purchasing hard surface flooring is an infrequent event for consumers, and the typical consumer has limited knowledge of the range, characteristics and suitability of the products available before starting the purchasing process. Therefore, consumers in the hard surface flooring market expect to have sales associates serving them who are knowledgeable about the entire assortment of products offered by the retailer and the process of choosing and installing hard surface flooring.

Previous wording

Each of our stores is managed by a store manager who has the flexibility (with the support of regional managers) to use his or her knowledge of local market dynamics to customize each store in a way that is most likely to increase net sales and profitability. Our store managers are also expected to anticipate, gauge and quickly respond to changing consumer demands in these markets. Further, it generally takes a substantial amount of time for our store managers to develop the entrepreneurial skills that we expect them to have in order to make our stores successful.

Current wording

Each of our stores is managed by a store manager who has the flexibility, with the support of regional managers, to use knowledge of local market dynamics to customize each store in a way that is most likely to increase net sales and profitability. Our store managers are also expected to anticipate, gauge and quickly respond to changing consumer demands in these markets. Further, it generally takes a substantial amount of time for our store managers to develop the entrepreneurial skills we expect to make our stores successful.

Previous wording

Any failure by us to attract, hire, train, and retain highly qualified managers and staff could adversely affect our operating results and future growth opportunities, and any increased labor costs due to competition, increased minimum wage (including various federal, state, and local actions to increase minimum wages), associate benefit costs, unionization activity, or other factors would adversely impact our operating expenses.

Current wording

Any failure by us to attract, hire, train, and retain highly qualified managers and staff could adversely affect our operating results and future growth opportunities, and any increased labor costs due to competition, increased wage costs (including various federal, state, and local actions to increase minimum wages), associate benefit costs, unionization activity, or other factors would adversely impact our operating expenses.

Previous wording

Currently none of our associates are represented by a union; however, our associates have the right at any time to form or affiliate with a union, and in 2023, certain of our subsidiary’s associates attempted to form a union in a small location operated by that subsidiary. Although such unionization attempt was unsuccessful, as we continue to grow, enter different regions and operate distribution centers, unions may continue to attempt to organize all or part of our associate base at certain stores or distribution centers within certain regions. We cannot predict the adverse effects that any future organizational activities will have on us. If we were to become subject to work stoppages, we could experience disruption in our operations and increases in our labor costs, either of which could adversely affect our business, financial condition, and operating results.

Current wording

Currently none of our associates are represented by a union; however, our associates have the right at any time to form or affiliate with a union. As we continue to grow, enter different regions, and operate distribution centers, unions may attempt to organize all or part of our associate base at certain stores or distribution centers within certain regions. Future organizational activities could result in distractions to our management and workforce, increased labor costs, work stoppages or strikes, disruption of our operations, limitations on our operational flexibility and efficiency, and other adverse effects that we cannot currently predict, all of which could adversely affect our business, financial condition, and operating results.

Previous wording

We procure the majority of our products from suppliers located outside of the United States. As a result, we are subject to risks associated with obtaining products from abroad, including the imposition of new or different duties (including antidumping and countervailing duties), tariffs, taxes and/or other charges on exports or imports, including as a result of errors in the classification of products upon entry or changes in the interpretation or application of rates or regulations relating to the import or export of our products; political unrest, acts of war, terrorism and economic instability resulting in the disruption of trade from foreign countries where our products originate; disruption due to the public health crises; currency exchange fluctuations; the imposition of new or more stringent laws and regulations, including those relating to environmental, health and safety matters and climate change issues, labor conditions, quality and safety standards, trade restrictions, and restrictions on funds transfers; the risk that one or more of our suppliers will not adhere to applicable legal requirements, including fair labor standards, the prohibition on child labor, environmental, product safety or manufacturing safety standards, anti-bribery and anti-kickback laws such as the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (the “FCPA”) and sourcing laws such as the Lacey Act; disruptions or delays in production, shipments, delivery or processing through ports of entry (including those resulting from strikes, lockouts, work-stoppages or slowdowns, or other forms of labor unrest).

Current wording

We procure the majority of our products from suppliers located outside of the United States. As a result, we are subject to a number of risks associated with obtaining products from abroad. These risks include the imposition of new or different duties (including antidumping and countervailing duties), tariffs, taxes and/or other charges on exports or imports, including as a result of errors in the classification of products upon entry or changes in the interpretation or application of rates or regulations relating to the import or export of our products; political unrest, acts of war, terrorism and economic instability resulting in the disruption of trade from foreign countries where our products originate; disruption due to public health crises; currency exchange fluctuations; the imposition of new or more stringent laws and regulations, including those relating to environmental, health and safety matters and climate change issues, labor conditions, quality and safety standards, trade restrictions, and restrictions on funds transfers; the risk that one or more of our suppliers will not adhere to applicable legal requirements, including fair labor standards, the prohibition on child labor, environmental, product safety or manufacturing safety standards, anti-bribery and anti-kickback laws such as the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (the “FCPA”), and sourcing laws such as the Lacey Act; or disruptions or delays in production, shipments, delivery or processing through ports of entry, including those resulting from strikes, lockouts, work-stoppages or slowdowns, or other forms of labor unrest.

Previous wording

Additionally, approximately 25% of the products we sold in fiscal 2023 were produced in China. The Chinese government has in the past imposed restrictions on manufacturing facilities, including a shut-down of transportation of materials and power plants to reduce air pollution. If, in the future, restrictions are imposed that include our operations, our suppliers’ ability to supply current or new orders would be significantly impacted. These and other factors beyond our control could disrupt the ability of our suppliers to ship certain products to us cost-effectively or at all, expose us to significant operational and legal risk and negatively affect our reputation, any of which could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

Additionally, approximately 18% of the products we sold in fiscal 2024 were produced in China. The Chinese government has in the past imposed restrictions on manufacturing facilities, including a shut-down of transportation of materials and power plants to reduce air pollution. If, in the future, restrictions are imposed that include our operations, our suppliers’ ability to supply current or new orders would be significantly impacted. These and other factors beyond our control could disrupt the ability of our suppliers to ship certain products to us cost-effectively or at all, expose us to significant operational and legal risk, and negatively affect our reputation, any of which could adversely affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Previous wording

We depend on our suppliers to deliver quality products to us on a timely basis at attractive prices. Additionally, we source the products that we sell from over 240 domestic and international suppliers. Although we purchase from a diverse supplier base, purchases from our largest supplier, which has substantial operations in China, accounted for approximately 13% of our net sales in fiscal 2023. No other singular vendor supplied products representing more than 10% of net sales in fiscal 2023. If we are unable to acquire desired merchandise in sufficient quantities on terms acceptable to us, or if we experience a change in business relationship with any of our major suppliers, it could impair our relationship with our customers, impair our ability to attract new customers, reduce our competitiveness, and adversely affect our business, financial condition, and operating results.

Current wording

We depend on our suppliers to deliver quality products to us on a timely basis at attractive prices. We source our products from over 240 domestic and international suppliers. Although we purchase from a diverse supplier base, purchases from our largest supplier, which has operations in China, accounted for approximately 11% of our net sales in fiscal 2024. No other singular vendor supplied products representing 10% or more of net sales in fiscal 2024. Our ability to receive adequate quantities of our products from suppliers depends on our ability to identify and develop relationships with qualified suppliers who can satisfy our responsible product sourcing criteria, and can be impacted by economic or political instability, sanctions, tariffs or other trade-related actions, the financial instability of suppliers, supplier noncompliance with applicable law, contract disputes, disruptions in our suppliers’ logistics or supply chain networks or information technology systems, raw material or other shortages, and other factors beyond our control. If we are unable to acquire desired merchandise in sufficient quantities on terms acceptable to us, or if we experience a change in business relationship with any of our major suppliers, it could impair our relationship with our customers, impair our ability to attract new customers, reduce our competitiveness, and adversely affect our business, financial condition, and operating results.

Previous wording

We do not control the operations of our suppliers. Although we conduct initial due diligence prior to engaging our suppliers and require our suppliers to certify compliance with applicable laws and regulations, we cannot guarantee that our suppliers will comply with applicable laws and regulations or operate in a legal, ethical and responsible manner. Violation of applicable laws and regulations by our suppliers or their failure to operate in a legal, ethical or responsible manner, could expose us to legal risks, cause us to violate laws and regulations and reduce demand for our products if, as a result of such violation or failure, we attract negative publicity. In addition, the failure of our suppliers to adhere to the quality standards that we set for our products could lead to government investigations, litigation, write-offs and recalls, which could damage our reputation and our brand, increase our costs, and otherwise adversely affect our business.

Current wording

We do not control the operations of our suppliers. Although we conduct due diligence prior to engaging our suppliers, require our suppliers to certify compliance with applicable laws and regulations, and have in place ongoing quality assurance and compliance programs, we cannot guarantee that our suppliers will comply with applicable laws and regulations or operate in a legal, ethical and responsible manner. Violation of applicable laws and regulations by our suppliers, or their failure to operate in a legal, ethical or responsible manner, could expose us to legal risks, cause us to violate laws and regulations and reduce demand for our products if, as a result of such violation or failure, we attract negative publicity. In addition, the failure of our suppliers to adhere to the quality standards that we set for our products could lead to government investigations, litigation, write-offs and recalls, which could damage our reputation and our brand, increase our costs, and otherwise adversely affect our business.

Previous wording

Our ability to offer compelling products, particularly products made of more exotic species or unique stone, depends on the continued availability of sufficient suitable natural products.

Current wording

Our ability to offer compelling products to our customers depends on the continued availability of sufficient suitable natural products.

Previous wording

The effects of global climate change, such as extreme weather conditions and natural disasters occurring more frequently or with more intense effects, or the occurrence of unexpected events including wildfires, tornadoes, hurricanes, earthquakes, floods, tsunamis and other severe hazards could adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. Extreme weather, natural disasters, power outages or other unexpected events could disrupt our operations by impacting the availability and cost of materials needed for manufacturing, causing physical damage and partial or complete closure of our manufacturing sites, retail stores, store support center or distribution centers, loss of human capital, temporary or long-term disruption in the manufacturing and supply of products and services and disruption in our ability to deliver products and services to customers. These events and disruptions could also adversely affect our customers’ and suppliers’ financial condition or ability to operate, resulting in reduced customer demand, delays in payments received or supply chain disruptions, including adverse effects on our ability to stock our stores and deliver products to our customers. Further, these events and disruptions could increase insurance and other operating costs, including impacting our decisions regarding construction of new facilities to select areas less prone to climate change risks and natural disasters, which could result in indirect financial risks passed through the supply chain or other price modifications to our products and services.

Current wording

The effects of extreme weather conditions and natural disasters occurring more frequently or with more intense effects, or the occurrence of unexpected events including wildfires, tornadoes, hurricanes, earthquakes, floods, tsunamis, and other severe hazards, could adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows. Extreme weather, natural disasters, power outages or other unexpected events have in the past disrupted and could in the future disrupt our operations by, among other things, impacting the availability and cost of materials needed for manufacturing and causing physical damage and partial or complete closure of supplier manufacturing sites, our retail stores, our store support center or our distribution centers; causing loss of human capital; causing temporary or long-term disruption in the manufacturing and supply of products and services; and causing disruption in our ability to deliver products and services to customers. These events and disruptions could also adversely affect our customers’ and suppliers’ financial condition or ability to operate, resulting in reduced customer demand, delays in payments, or supply chain disruptions, including adverse effects on our ability to stock our stores and deliver products to our customers. Further, these events and disruptions could increase insurance and other operating costs, including impacting our decisions regarding construction of new stores and distribution centers to select areas less prone to climate change risks and natural disasters, which could result in indirect financial risks passed through the supply chain or other price modifications to our products and services.

Previous wording

Public health crises in the U.S. or countries where we source or sell products could adversely affect our operations and financial performance. Further, any national, state or local government mandates or other orders taken to minimize the spread of a public health crisis could restrict our ability to conduct business as usual, as well as the business activities of our key customers and suppliers, including the potential for labor shortages. In particular, the ultimate extent of the impact of any epidemic, pandemic or other public health crisis on our business, financial condition and results of operations will depend on future developments which are highly uncertain and cannot be predicted, including new information that may emerge concerning the duration and severity of such public health crisis, actions taken to contain or prevent their further spread and the pace of global economic recovery following containment of the spread.

Current wording

Public health crises in the U.S. or countries where we source or sell products could adversely affect our operations and financial performance. Further, any national, state or local government mandates or other orders taken to minimize the spread of a public health crisis could restrict our ability to conduct business as usual, as well as the business activities of our key customers and suppliers, including the potential for labor shortages. In particular, the ultimate extent of the impact of any epidemic, pandemic or other public health crisis on our business, financial condition, and results of operations will depend on future developments that are highly uncertain and cannot be predicted, including new information that may emerge concerning the duration and severity of such public health crisis, actions taken to contain or prevent its further spread, and the pace of global economic recovery following containment of the spread.

Previous wording

In connection with the installation or delivery of our products, customers may engage third parties associated with us to enter their homes. In addition, we are piloting in-home design services. While we believe we have appropriate indemnification and risk management practices in place, such activities involve liability and reputational risk, which could adversely affect us.

Current wording

In connection with the installation or delivery of our products, customers may engage third parties associated with us to enter their homes. In addition, we are providing in-home design services. While we believe we have appropriate indemnification and risk management practices in place, such activities involve liability and reputational risk, which could adversely affect us.

Previous wording

We are subject to a wide range of general and industry-specific laws and regulations imposed by federal, state and local authorities in the countries in which we operate including those related to customs, foreign operations (such as the FCPA), truth-in-advertising, consumer protection (such as the California Consumer Privacy Act and Telephone Consumer Protection Act), privacy, product safety (such as the Formaldehyde Standards in Composite Wood Products Act), the environment (such as the Lacey Act), import and export controls (such as the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act), intellectual property infringement, zoning and occupancy matters as well as the operation of retail stores and distribution facilities. In addition, various federal and state laws govern our relationship with, and other matters pertaining to, our associates, including wage and hour laws, laws governing independent contractor classifications, requirements to provide meal and rest periods or other benefits, family leave mandates, requirements regarding working conditions and accommodations to certain associates, citizenship or work authorization and related requirements, insurance and workers’ compensation rules and anti-discrimination laws. In recent years, we and other parties in the flooring industry have been or currently are parties to litigation involving claims that allege violations of these laws, including claims related to product safety and patent claims. In addition, there has been an increase in the number of wage and hour class action claims that allege misclassification of overtime eligible workers and/or failure to pay overtime-eligible workers for all hours worked, particularly in the retail industry, and we are currently defending one such claim. Although we believe that we have complied with these laws and regulations, there is nevertheless a risk that we will become subject to additional claims that allege we have failed to do so. Any claim that alleges a failure by us to comply with any of these laws and regulations may subject us to fines, penalties, injunctions, litigation and/or potential criminal violations, which could adversely affect our reputation, business, financial condition, and operating results.

Current wording

We are subject to a wide range of general and industry-specific laws and regulations imposed by federal, state and local authorities in the countries in which we operate, including those related to customs, foreign operations (such as the FCPA), truth-in-advertising, consumer protection (such as the California Consumer Privacy Act and Telephone Consumer Protection Act), privacy, product safety (such as the Formaldehyde Standards in Composite Wood Products Act), the environment (such as the Lacey Act), import and export controls (such as the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act), intellectual property infringement, immigration, the use, storage, generation, transportation, treatment, emission, release and disposal of certain hazardous materials and wastes, zoning and occupancy matters, and the operation of retail stores and distribution facilities. In addition, various federal and state laws govern our relationship with, and other matters pertaining to, our associates, including wage and hour laws, laws governing independent contractor classifications, requirements to provide meal and rest periods or other benefits, paid and unpaid leave mandates, requirements regarding working conditions and accommodations to certain associates, citizenship or work authorization and related requirements, insurance and workers’ compensation rules and anti-discrimination laws.

Previous wording

We operate our business in accordance with standards and procedures designed to comply with the applicable laws and regulations in these areas and work closely with our suppliers in order to comply with such laws and regulations. If we violate or are alleged to have violated these laws, we could incur significant costs, be liable for damages, experience delays in shipments of our products, be subject to fines, penalties, criminal charges or other legal risks, or suffer reputational harm, any of which could reduce demand for our products and adversely affect our business, financial condition, and operating results.

Current wording

We operate our business in accordance with standards and procedures designed to comply with the applicable laws and regulations in these areas and work closely with our suppliers in order to comply with such laws and regulations. Although we believe that we have complied with these laws and regulations, there is nevertheless a risk that we will become subject to additional claims that allege we or our suppliers have failed to do so. If we or our suppliers violate or are alleged to have violated these laws and regulations, or if we become subject to unfavorable allegations, government investigations or legal actions involving our products or us, we could incur significant costs, be liable for damages, experience delays in shipments of our products, be subject to fines, penalties, injunctions, litigation, potential criminal charges or other legal risks, or suffer reputational harm, any of which could reduce demand for our products and adversely affect our business, financial condition, and operating results.

Previous wording

Certain of our products may require us to spend significant time and resources in order to comply with applicable advertising, labeling, importation, exportation, environmental, health and safety laws and regulations because if we violate these laws or regulations, we could experience delays in shipments of our goods, be subject to fines or penalties, be liable for costs and damages or suffer reputational harm, any of which could reduce demand for our merchandise and adversely affect our business, financial condition, and operating results. Any changes to these laws or regulations or any new laws or regulations that are passed or go into effect may make it more difficult for us to operate our business and in turn adversely affect our operating results.

Current wording

Certain of our products may require us to spend significant time and resources in order to comply with applicable advertising, labeling, importation, exportation, environmental, health and safety laws and regulations, because if we violate these laws or regulations, we could experience delays in shipments of our goods, be subject to fines or penalties, be liable for costs and damages or suffer reputational harm, any of which could reduce demand for our merchandise and adversely affect our business, financial condition, and operating results.

Previous wording

Our business, like that of most retailers, involves the receipt, storage and transmission of customers’ personal information, consumer preferences and payment card data, as well as other confidential information related to us, our associates, our suppliers and other third parties, some of which is entrusted to third-party service providers and vendors that provide us with technology, systems and services that we use in connection with the receipt, storage and transmission of such information. Techniques used for cyber-attacks designed to gain unauthorized access to these types of sensitive information by breaching or sabotaging critical systems of organizations, including those that use artificial intelligence, are constantly evolving and generally are difficult to recognize and react to effectively. We may be unable to anticipate these techniques or to implement adequate preventive or reactive security measures. High profile electronic security breaches leading to unauthorized release of sensitive information have occurred in recent years with increasing frequency at a number of major U.S. companies, including several large retailers, notwithstanding widespread recognition of the cyber-attack threat and improved data protection methods.

Current wording

Our business, like that of most retailers, involves the receipt, use, storage and transmission of customers’ personal information, consumer preferences and payment card data, as well as other confidential information related to us, our associates, job applicants, our suppliers and other third parties, some of which is entrusted to third-party service providers and vendors that provide us with technology, systems and services that we use in connection with the receipt, use, storage and transmission of such information. Techniques used for cyberattacks designed to gain unauthorized access to these types of sensitive information by breaching or sabotaging critical systems of organizations, including those that use artificial intelligence, are constantly evolving and generally are difficult to recognize and react to effectively. We or our third-party service providers may be unable to anticipate these techniques or to implement adequate preventive or reactive security measures. High profile electronic security breaches leading to unauthorized release of sensitive information have occurred in recent years with increasing frequency at a number of major U.S. companies, including several large retailers, notwithstanding widespread recognition of the cyberattack threat and improved data protection methods.

Previous wording

Despite our security measures and those of third parties with whom we do business, our respective systems and facilities may be vulnerable to criminal cyber-attacks or security incidents due to malfeasance, intentional or inadvertent security breaches by associates, or other vulnerabilities such as defects in design or manufacture. Unauthorized parties may also attempt to gain access to our systems or facilities through fraud, trickery or other forms of deception targeted at our customers, associates, suppliers and service providers. Any such, incidents could compromise our networks and the information stored there could be accessed, misused, publicly disclosed, lost or stolen.

Current wording

Despite our security measures and those of third parties with whom we do business, our respective systems and facilities may be vulnerable to criminal cyberattacks or security incidents due to malfeasance, intentional or inadvertent security breaches by associates, or other vulnerabilities such as defects in design or manufacture. Unauthorized parties may also attempt to gain access to our systems or facilities through fraud, trickery or other forms of deception or coercion targeted at our customers, associates, suppliers and service providers. Any such, incidents could compromise our networks, and the information stored there could be accessed, misused, publicly disclosed, lost or stolen.

Previous wording

An actual or anticipated attack or security incident may cause us to incur additional costs, including costs related to diverting or deploying personnel, implementing preventative measures, training associates and engaging third-party experts and consultants. Further, any security breach incident could expose us to risks of data loss, regulatory and law enforcement investigations, litigation and liability and could seriously disrupt our operations and any resulting negative publicity could significantly harm our reputation and relationships with our customers and adversely affect our business, financial condition, and operating results.

Current wording

An actual or anticipated attack or security incident may cause us to incur additional costs, including costs related to diverting or deploying personnel, implementing preventative measures, training associates and engaging third-party experts and consultants. Further, any security breach incident could expose us to risks of data loss, regulatory and law enforcement investigations, litigation and liability and could seriously disrupt our operations, and any resulting negative publicity could significantly harm our reputation and relationships with our customers, associates, or suppliers, all of which could adversely affect our business, financial condition, and operating results.