RALPH LAUREN CORP

Previous wording

The global economy and retail industry are impacted by many uncontrollable factors, including, among others, diplomatic and trade relationships, including potential changes to international trade policies or agreements, such as the imposition of new tariffs; general domestic and international political conditions; consumer perceptions of current and future economic conditions, including any recessionary fears; inflation; interest rates; foreign currency exchange rates; the availability and price of commodities, including fuel and energy costs; employment levels and wage rates; stock market performance; the housing market; consumer debt levels; the availability of consumer credit; the health and stability of the banking sector; global food supplies; taxation; the threat, outbreak, or escalation of terrorism, military conflicts, or other hostilities; consumer perceptions of personal well-being and safety; man-made or natural disasters, including pandemic diseases; and weather conditions.

Current wording

The global economy and retail industry are affected by numerous factors beyond our control, including, among others, changes in diplomatic and trade relationships (including the imposition of new tariffs or other changes to international trade policies or agreements); domestic and international political conditions; consumer perceptions of current and future economic conditions (including an economic slowdown or potential downturn, inflation, interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates, commodity availability and price (including fuel and energy costs)); employment levels and wage rates; stock market performance; housing market conditions; consumer debt levels and access to consumer credit; the health and stability of the banking sector; global food supplies; taxation; the threat, outbreak, or escalation of terrorism, military conflicts, or other hostilities; consumer perceptions of personal well-being and safety; man-made or natural disasters (including pandemic diseases); and weather conditions.

Previous wording

Other recent economic conditions, including ongoing inflationary pressures, organized labor disputes, high interest rates, significant foreign currency volatility, and military conflicts (as discussed below), continue to impact consumer discretionary income levels, spending, and sentiment in the U.S. and beyond. In response to such pressures, as well as to reduce elevated inventory levels, many retailers (particularly in the U.S.) continue to resort to promotional activity in an attempt to offset traffic declines and increase conversion. Our gross margins could be adversely impacted if we were to apply a similar strategy over a prolonged period of time.

Current wording

Other recent economic conditions, including increases in oil and other energy prices, ongoing inflationary pressures, organized labor disputes, high interest rates, significant foreign currency volatility, and military conflicts (as discussed below), continue to impact consumer discretionary income levels, spending, and sentiment in the U.S. and beyond. In response to such pressures, as well as to reduce elevated inventory levels, many retailers (particularly in the U.S. and Europe) continue to resort to promotional activity in an attempt to offset traffic declines and increase conversion. Our gross margins could be adversely impacted if we were to apply a similar strategy over a prolonged period of time.

Previous wording

The global economy has also been negatively impacted by ongoing military conflicts, including the Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Hamas wars, militant attacks on cargo vessels in the Red Sea, and other hostilities in the Middle East. Although our voluntary decision to suspend operations in Russia has not resulted in a material impact to our consolidated financial statements and our ongoing operations in Israel are also not material, our business has been, and may continue to be, affected by the broader macroeconomic implications resulting from these and other military conflicts, including inflationary pressures, unfavorable foreign currency exchange rates, increases in energy prices, food shortages, and financial market volatility, among other factors, which have adversely impacted consumer sentiment and confidence. Although our business has not been significantly impacted by the Red Sea crisis, it could lead to shipping delays, inventory shortages, and/or higher freight costs in the near future and beyond. It is not clear at this time how long these conflicts will endure, or if they will escalate further with additional countries declaring war against each other, which could further amplify the impacts of the various macroeconomic factors described above and potentially result in a global recession.

Current wording

The global economy has also been negatively impacted by ongoing military conflicts, including the conflicts involving Iran and other hostilities in the Middle East. Although our ongoing operations in the Middle East are not material, our business has been, and may continue to be, affected by the broader macroeconomic implications resulting from these and other military conflicts, including inflationary pressures, unfavorable foreign currency exchange rates, increases in energy prices, food shortages, and financial market volatility, among other factors, which have adversely impacted consumer sentiment and confidence. It is not clear at this time how long these conflicts will endure, or if they will escalate further with additional countries taking part, which could further amplify the impacts of the various macroeconomic factors described above and potentially result in a global economic slowdown or recession.

Previous wording

Consumer purchases of discretionary items and luxury retail products, including our products, tend to decline during periods of recession, high inflation, or rising interest rates, and at other times when disposable income is lower. Unfavorable economic conditions and other factors, such as pandemic diseases and other health-related concerns, political unrest, military conflicts, and acts of terrorism, may also reduce consumers' willingness and ability to travel to major cities and vacation destinations in which our stores and shop-within-shops are located. Further, consumers may prefer to spend more of their discretionary income on "experiences," such as dining and entertainment, over consumer goods. Stay-at-home orders, social gathering restrictions, and work-from-home arrangements, such as those resulting from pandemic diseases, may also diminish consumers' demand for luxury apparel products. Accordingly, a downturn or an uncertain outlook in the economies in which we, or our wholesale customers and licensing partners, sell our products, or other changes in consumer preferences, may materially adversely affect our business.

Current wording

Consumer purchases of discretionary items and luxury retail products, including our products, tend to decline during periods of economic weakness, high inflation, or rising interest rates, and at other times when disposable income is lower. Unfavorable economic conditions and other factors, such as pandemic diseases and other health-related concerns, political unrest, military conflicts, and acts of terrorism, may also reduce consumers' willingness and ability to travel to major cities and vacation destinations in which our stores and shop-within-shops are located. Further, consumers may prefer to spend more of their discretionary income on "experiences," such as dining and entertainment, over consumer goods. Accordingly, a downturn or an uncertain outlook in the economies in which we, or our wholesale customers and licensing partners, sell our products, or other changes in consumer preferences, may materially adversely affect our business.

Previous wording

Although we believe that our existing cash and investments, cash provided by operations, and available borrowing capacity under our credit and overdraft facilities and commercial paper borrowing program will provide us with sufficient liquidity, the impact of adverse economic conditions (such as ongoing inflationary pressures and high interest rates) on our major customers, suppliers, vendors, and lenders and their ability to access global capital markets cannot be predicted. The inability of third parties to manufacture and/or ship our products due to insufficient liquidity or otherwise could impair our ability to meet the delivery date requirements of our customers. A disruption in the ability of our significant customers to access liquidity could cause serious disruptions or an overall deterioration of their businesses which could lead to a significant reduction in their future orders of our products and the inability or failure on their part to meet their payment obligations to us, any of which could have a material adverse effect on our business.

Current wording

Although we believe that our existing cash and investments, cash provided by operations, and available borrowing capacity under our credit facilities and commercial paper borrowing program will provide us with sufficient liquidity, the impact of adverse economic conditions (such as ongoing inflationary pressures and high interest rates) on our major customers, suppliers, vendors, and lenders and their ability to access global capital markets cannot be predicted. The inability of third parties to manufacture and/or ship our products due to insufficient liquidity or otherwise could impair our ability to meet the delivery date requirements of our customers. A disruption in the ability of our significant customers to access liquidity could cause serious disruptions or an overall deterioration of their businesses which could lead to a significant reduction in their future orders of our products and the inability or failure on their part to meet their payment obligations to us, any of which could have a material adverse effect on our business.

Previous wording

Any deterioration in global financial or capital markets could affect our ability to access sources of liquidity to provide for our future cash needs, increase the cost of any future financing, or cause our lenders to be unable to meet their funding commitments under our credit and overdraft facilities. We also regularly maintain domestic cash deposits in Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation ("FDIC") insured banks, which exceed the FDIC insurance limits. In addition, we maintain cash deposits in foreign banks where we operate, some of which are not insured or are only partially insured by the FDIC or other similar agencies. Bank failures, events involving limited liquidity, defaults, non-performance or other adverse developments that affect financial institutions, or concerns or rumors about such events, may lead to liquidity constraints. The failure of a bank, or other adverse conditions in the financial or credit markets impacting financial institutions at which we maintain balances, could adversely impact our liquidity and financial performance. There can be no assurance that our deposits in excess of the FDIC or other comparable insurance limits will be backstopped by the U.S. or applicable foreign government, or that any bank or financial institution with which we do business will be able to obtain needed liquidity from other banks, government institutions, or by acquisition in the event of a failure or liquidity crisis. Our major customers, suppliers, and vendors may also be subject to similar risks, which in turn could have a resulting material adverse impact on our business if they were to lose access to sufficient liquidity.

Current wording

Any deterioration in global financial or capital markets could affect our ability to access sources of liquidity to provide for our future cash needs, increase the cost of any future financing, or cause our lenders to be unable to meet their funding commitments under our credit facilities. We also regularly maintain domestic cash deposits in Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation ("FDIC") insured banks, which exceed the FDIC insurance limits. In addition, we maintain cash deposits in foreign banks where we operate, some of which are not insured or are only partially insured by the FDIC or other similar agencies. Bank failures, events involving limited liquidity, defaults, non-performance or other adverse developments that affect financial institutions, or concerns or rumors about such events, may lead to liquidity constraints. The failure of a bank, or other adverse conditions in the financial or credit markets impacting financial institutions at which we maintain balances, could adversely impact our liquidity and financial performance. There can be no assurance that our deposits in excess of the FDIC or other comparable insurance limits will be backstopped by the U.S. or applicable foreign government, or that any bank or financial institution with which we do business will be able to obtain needed liquidity from other banks, government institutions, or by acquisition in the event of a failure or liquidity crisis. Our major customers, suppliers, and vendors may also be subject to similar risks, which in turn could have a resulting material adverse impact on our business if they were to lose access to sufficient liquidity.

Previous wording

Our business is exposed to foreign currency exchange risk. Specifically, changes in exchange rates between the U.S. Dollar and other currencies impact our financial results from a transactional perspective, as our foreign operations generally purchase inventory in U.S. Dollars. Given that we source most of our products overseas, the cost of these products may be affected by changes in the value of the relevant currencies. Changes in currency exchange rates may also impact consumers' willingness or ability to travel abroad and/or purchase our products while traveling, as well as affect the U.S. Dollar value of the foreign currency denominated prices at which our international businesses sell products. Additionally, the operating results and financial position of our international subsidiaries are exposed to foreign exchange rate fluctuations as their financial results are translated from the respective local currency into U.S. Dollars during the financial statement consolidation process. The foreign currencies to which we are exposed to from a transactional and translational perspective primarily include the Euro, the Japanese Yen, the British Pound Sterling, the South Korean Won, the Chinese Renminbi, the Canadian Dollar, the Swiss Franc, and the Australian Dollar. The expansion of our international business increases our exposure to foreign currency exchange risk.

Current wording

Changes in exchange rates between the U.S. Dollar and other currencies impact our financial results from a transactional perspective, as our foreign operations generally purchase inventory in U.S. Dollars. Given that we source the vast majority of our products overseas, the cost of these products to our foreign operations may be affected by changes in the value of their respective local currencies. In addition, changes in exchange rates of non-U.S. Dollar currencies impact our financial results, as our operations incur certain other costs that are denominated in various other foreign currencies. Changes in currency exchange rates may also impact consumers' willingness or ability to travel abroad and/or purchase our products while traveling. Additionally, from a financial reporting perspective, the translation of our international subsidiaries' respective local currency operating results and financial position into U.S. Dollars is exposed to exchange rate fluctuations as part of the financial statement consolidation process. The foreign currencies to which we are exposed from transactional and translational perspectives primarily include the Euro, the Japanese Yen, the Chinese Renminbi, the South Korean Won, the Australian Dollar, the British Pound Sterling, the Swiss Franc, and the Canadian Dollar. The continued expansion of our international business naturally increases our exposure to such foreign currency exchange risks.

Previous wording

Although we hedge certain exposures to changes in foreign currency exchange rates arising in the ordinary course of business, we cannot fully anticipate all of our currency exposures and therefore foreign currency fluctuations may have a material adverse impact on our business. In addition, factors that could impact the effectiveness of our hedging activities include the volatility of currency markets, the accuracy of forecasted transactions, and the availability of hedging instruments. As such, our hedging activities may not completely mitigate the impact of foreign currency fluctuations on our results of operations.

Current wording

Although we hedge certain exposures to changes in foreign currency exchange rates arising in the ordinary course of business, we cannot fully anticipate all of our currency exposures and therefore foreign currency fluctuations may have a material adverse impact on our business. Factors that could impact the effectiveness of our hedging activities include the volatility of currency markets, the accuracy of forecasted transactions, and the availability of hedging instruments. As such, our hedging activities may not completely mitigate the impact of foreign currency fluctuations on our business.

Previous wording

Widespread public health emergencies or infectious disease outbreaks, such as the novel strain of coronavirus commonly referred to as COVID-19, have had, and could again in the future have, a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, and financial condition. Potential impacts to our business include, but are not limited to: (i) our ability to successfully execute our long-term growth strategy; (ii) supply chain disruptions resulting from closed factories, reduced workforces, scarcity of raw materials, shipping and loading capacity constraints, and scrutiny or embargoing of goods produced in infected areas, including any related cost increases; (iii) reduced retail traffic at our stores and those of our wholesale customers and licensing partners due to forced closures or other operational restrictions, such as reduced capacity limits and operating hours, declines in tourism, and/or potential changes in consumer behavior and shopping preferences, such as their willingness to congregate in shopping centers or other populated locations and the overall growing preference to shop online versus at traditional brick and mortar locations; (iv) potential declines in the level of consumer purchases of discretionary items and luxury retail products, including our products, caused by higher unemployment and lower disposable income levels, inflationary pressures, travel and social gathering restrictions, work-from-home arrangements, or other factors beyond our control; (v) the potential build-up of excess inventory as a result of store closures and/or lower consumer demand; (vi) temporary closures or other operational restrictions of our distribution centers and/or corporate facilities; (vii) our ability to attract, retain, and manage employees; (viii) additional costs to protect the health and safety of our employees, customers, and communities, such as more frequent and thorough cleanings of our facilities and supplying personal protection equipment; (ix) the potential loss of one or more of our significant wholesale customers or licensing partners, or the loss of a large number of smaller wholesale customers or licensing partners, if they are not able to withstand prolonged periods of adverse economic conditions, and our ability to collect outstanding receivables; (x) increased vulnerability to data security or privacy breaches as a result of remote working arrangements; (xi) our ability to successfully negotiate with landlords to obtain rent abatements, rent deferrals, and other relief; (xii) our ability to access capital markets and maintain compliance with covenants associated with our existing debt instruments, as well as the ability of our key customers, suppliers, and vendors to do the same with regard to their own obligations; (xiii) our ability to generate sufficient cash flows to support our operations, including repayment of our debt obligations as they become due, as well as to return value to our shareholders in the form of…

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Current wording

reduced retail traffic and the potential build-up of excess inventory as a result of store closures, other operational restrictions, and/or lower consumer demand; (iii) operational disruptions at our distribution centers and/or corporate facilities; (iv) potential declines in the level of consumer purchases of discretionary items; (v) our ability to attract, retain, and manage employees; (vi) the financial condition of our significant wholesale customers or licensing partners and their ability to meet obligations; (vii) our ability to successfully negotiate rent concessions and other relief with landlords; (viii) our ability to access capital markets and maintain compliance with debt covenants; and (ix) diversion of management attention and resources from ongoing business activities.

Previous wording

Achievement of our growth strategy may require investment in new capabilities, distribution channels, and technologies, such as those related to our Next Generation Transformation project. These investments may result in short-term costs without accompanying current revenues and, therefore, may be dilutive to our earnings in the short term. There can be no assurance regarding the timing of or extent to which we will realize the anticipated benefits of these investments and other costs, if at all.

Current wording

Achievement of our growth strategy may require investment in new capabilities, distribution channels, and technologies, such as those related to our Next Generation Transformation project, as described in Item 1 — "Business — Recent Developments." These investments may result in short-term costs without accompanying current revenues and, therefore, may be dilutive to our earnings in the short term. There can be no assurance regarding the timing of or extent to which we will realize the anticipated benefits of these investments and other costs, if at all.

Previous wording

The success of our business also depends largely on our ability to continue to maintain, enhance, and expand our digital footprint and capabilities. Consumers continue to increasingly shop online using computers, smartphones, tablets, and other devices, and also use such devices to perform comparison shopping on a real-time basis. Certain adverse events, such as pandemic diseases and severe weather, tend to amplify this trend, as consumers may find it difficult to travel to our brick and mortar locations or otherwise prefer to avoid populated locations, such as indoor shopping centers. Any failure on our part, or on the part of our third-party digital partners, to provide attractive, reliable, secure, and user-friendly digital commerce platforms, including mobile apps, could negatively impact our customers' shopping experience resulting in reduced website traffic, diminished loyalty to our brands, and lost sales. In addition, as we continue to expand and increase the global presence of our digital commerce business, sales from our brick and mortar stores and wholesale channels of distribution in areas where digital commerce sites are introduced may decline due to changes in consumer shopping habits and cannibalization.

Current wording

The success of our business also depends largely on our ability to continue to maintain, enhance, and expand our digital footprint and capabilities. Consumers continue to increasingly shop online using computers, smartphones, tablets, and other devices, and also use such devices to perform comparison shopping on a real-time basis. In addition, customers are increasingly utilizing tools and devices powered by AI as part of their shopping experience. Certain adverse events, such as pandemic diseases and severe weather, tend to amplify this trend, as consumers may find it difficult to travel to our brick and mortar locations or otherwise prefer to avoid populated locations, such as indoor shopping centers. Any failure on our part, or on the part of our third-party digital partners, to provide attractive, reliable, secure, and user-friendly digital commerce platforms, including mobile apps, and to effectively leverage AI could negatively impact our customers' shopping experience resulting in reduced website traffic, diminished loyalty to our brands, and lost sales. In addition, as we continue to expand and increase the global presence of our digital commerce business, sales from our brick and mortar stores and wholesale channels of distribution in areas where digital commerce sites are introduced may decline due to changes in consumer shopping habits and cannibalization.

Previous wording

The success of our business also depends on our ability to continue to develop and maintain a reliable omni-channel experience for our customers, as well as our ability to introduce new Connected Retail capabilities, such as those described in Item 1 — "Business — Digital Ecosystem." Our business has evolved from an in-store experience to a shopping experience through multiple technologies, including computers, smartphones, tablets, and other devices, as our customers have become increasingly technologically savvy and expect a seamless omni-channel experience regardless of whether they are shopping in stores or online. We are increasingly using digital and social media platforms to interact with customers and enhance their shopping experience. If we are unable to develop and continuously improve our customer-facing technologies, the efforts of which typically require significant capital investments, we may not be able to provide a convenient and consistent experience to our customers regardless of the sales channel. This could negatively affect our ability to compete with other retailers and result in diminished loyalty to our brands, which could adversely impact our business.

Current wording

The success of our business also depends on our ability to continue to develop and maintain a reliable omni-channel experience for our customers, as well as our ability to maintain and/or introduce new Online to Offline experiences, such as those described in Item 1 — "Business — Digital Ecosystem." Our business has evolved from an in-store experience to a shopping experience through multiple technologies, including computers, smartphones, tablets, and other devices, as well as AI-enabled devices, as our customers have become increasingly technologically savvy and expect a seamless omni-channel experience regardless of whether they are shopping in stores or online. We are increasingly using digital and social media platforms to interact with customers and enhance their shopping experience. If we are unable to develop and continuously improve our customer-facing technologies and/or to effectively leverage AI, the efforts of which typically require significant capital investments, we may not be able to provide a convenient and consistent experience to our customers regardless of the sales channel. This could negatively affect our ability to compete with other retailers and result in diminished loyalty to our brands, which could adversely impact our business.

Previous wording

The nature of the apparel retail industry requires us to carry a significant amount of inventory, especially prior to the peak holiday selling season when we build up our inventory levels in order to meet anticipated consumer demand. Although we have shortened lead times for the design, sourcing, and production of certain of our product lines, we expect to continue to place orders with our vendors for the majority of products in advance of the related selling season. As a result, we are vulnerable to changes in consumer preferences and demand and pricing shifts. Our failure to continue to shorten lead times or to correctly anticipate consumer preferences and demand could result in the build-up of excess inventory. Other factors beyond our control could also result in the build-up of excess inventory, including unforeseen adverse economic conditions or business disruptions, such as those caused by pandemic diseases. Excess inventory levels could result in the utilization of less-preferred distribution channels, markdowns, promotional sales, donations, or destruction to dispose of such excess or slow-moving inventory, which may negatively impact our overall profitability and/or impair the image of our brands. Conversely, if we underestimate consumer demand for our products or if manufacturers fail to supply quality products in a timely manner, we may experience inventory shortages, which may negatively impact customer relationships, diminish brand loyalty, and result in lost sales. Any of these outcomes could have a material adverse effect on our business.

Current wording

The nature of the apparel retail industry requires us to carry a significant amount of inventory, especially prior to the peak holiday selling season when we build up our inventory levels in order to meet anticipated consumer demand. Although we have shortened lead times for the design, sourcing, and production of certain of our product lines and are implementing integrated business planning tools that improve demand forecasting to support inventory and purchasing decisions, we expect to continue to place orders with our vendors for the majority of products in advance of the related selling season. As a result, we are vulnerable to changes in consumer preferences and demand and pricing shifts. Our failure to continue to shorten lead times or to correctly anticipate consumer preferences and demand could result in the build-up of excess inventory. Other factors beyond our control could also result in the build-up of excess inventory, including unforeseen adverse economic conditions or business disruptions. Excess inventory levels could result in the utilization of less-preferred distribution channels, markdowns, promotional sales, donations, or recycling of such excess or slow-moving inventory, which may negatively impact our overall profitability and/or impair the image of our brands. Conversely, if we underestimate consumer demand for our products or if manufacturers fail to supply quality products in a timely manner, we may experience inventory shortages, which may negatively impact customer relationships, diminish brand loyalty, and result in lost sales. Any of these outcomes could have a material adverse effect on our business.

Previous wording

Additionally, our industry is subject to significant pricing pressure caused by many factors, including inflationary pressures, intense competition and a highly promotional retail environment, consolidation in the retail industry, pressure from retailers to reduce the costs of products, excess inventory levels in the marketplace, and changes in consumer spending patterns. Changes to existing trade policies and agreements, including higher tariffs on U.S. imports, could exacerbate such pricing pressures. Although we continue to limit our promotional activity in connection with our quality of sales initiatives, these factors may cause us to reduce our sales prices to retailers and consumers, which could cause our gross margin to decline. If our sales prices decline and we fail to sufficiently reduce our product costs or operating expenses, our profitability will decline. In addition, changes in our customer, channel, and geographic sales mix could have a negative impact on our profitability. Any of these outcomes could have a material adverse effect on our business.

Current wording

Additionally, our industry is subject to significant pricing pressure caused by many factors, including inflationary pressures, intense competition and a highly promotional retail environment, consolidation in the retail industry, pressure from retailers to reduce the costs of products, excess inventory levels in the marketplace, and changes in consumer spending patterns. Changes to existing trade policies and agreements, including new or higher tariffs on U.S. imports, could exacerbate such pricing pressures. Although we continue to limit our promotional activity in connection with our quality of sales initiatives, these factors may cause us to reduce our sales prices to retailers and consumers, which could cause our gross margin to decline. If our sales prices decline and we fail to sufficiently reduce our product costs or operating expenses, our profitability will decline. In addition, changes in our customer, channel, and geographic sales mix could have a negative impact on our profitability. Any of these outcomes could have a material adverse effect on our business.

Previous wording

If we are not successful in implementing and managing our restructuring plans, we may not be able to achieve targeted operating enhancements, sales growth, and/or cost reductions, which could adversely impact our business. Our failure to achieve targeted results for any reason, including business disruptions resulting from adverse economic conditions or catastrophic events such as pandemic diseases, could also lead to the implementation of additional restructuring-related activities, which may be dilutive to our earnings in the short term.

Current wording

If we are not successful in implementing and managing our restructuring plans, we may not be able to achieve targeted operating enhancements, sales growth, and/or cost reductions, which could adversely impact our business. Our failure to achieve targeted results for any reason, including business disruptions resulting from adverse economic conditions or catastrophic events, could also lead to the implementation of additional restructuring-related activities, which may be dilutive to our earnings in the short term.

Previous wording

Competition in our industry to attract and retain employees is intense and is influenced by our reputation, our ability to offer competitive compensation and benefits, and economic conditions, among other factors. Furthermore, the retail industry (among others) has experienced, and could again experience in the future, overall labor shortages resulting from a combination of pandemic diseases, labor disputes, strikes, and other factors. The introduction of new work arrangements and company-specific requirements regarding when and how often employees are required to work on-site versus remotely may also impact companies' ability to attract and retain employees. As companies increasingly allow employees to work remotely, traditional geographic competition for talent may change in ways that we cannot predict. The departure of key individuals or our failure to maintain sufficient employee staffing levels could have a material adverse impact on our business, as well as impede our ability to maintain an effective system of internal controls and compliance with the requirements under the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

Current wording

Competition in our industry to attract and retain employees is intense and is influenced by our reputation, our ability to offer competitive compensation and benefits, and economic conditions, among other factors. Furthermore, the retail industry (among others) has experienced, and could again experience in the future, overall labor shortages resulting from a combination of pandemic diseases, labor disputes, strikes, and other factors. The introduction of new work arrangements and company-specific requirements regarding when and how often employees are required to work on-site versus remotely may also impact companies' ability to attract and retain employees. The departure of key individuals or our failure to maintain sufficient employee staffing levels could have a material adverse impact on our business, as well as impede our ability to maintain an effective system of internal controls and compliance with the requirements under the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

Previous wording

We do not own or operate any manufacturing facilities and depend exclusively on independent third parties for the manufacture of our products. Our products are manufactured to our specifications through arrangements with approximately 300 foreign manufacturers in various countries. In Fiscal 2025, approximately 96% of our products (by dollar value) were produced outside of the U.S., primarily in Asia, Europe, and Latin America, with approximately 20% of our products sourced from Vietnam, 16% from Cambodia, and 12% from China. Risks inherent in importing our products include (i) the imposition of additional tariffs, duties, taxes, and other charges on imports or exports, such as those recently announced by the U.S. as discussed below; (ii) changes in diplomatic and trade relationships, including the imposition of any sanctions, restrictions, and other responses; (iii) the imposition of additional regulations, quotas, trade sanctions, or safeguards relating to imports or exports, and costs of complying with such regulations and other laws relating to the identification and reporting of the sources of raw materials used in our products, which could lead to the detention, exclusion, or seizure of goods and imposition of monetary penalties and fines; (iv) adverse changes in local economic conditions, such as prolonged periods of recession, high inflation and/or interest rates, or other factors described herein; (v) changes in social or political conditions, including those resulting from military conflicts, terrorist acts, or other hostilities, that could result in the disruption of trade from the countries in which our manufacturers or suppliers are located; (vi) pandemic diseases, which could result in closed factories, reduced workforces, scarcity of raw materials, port congestion, and scrutiny or embargoing of goods produced in infected areas; (vii) unfavorable changes in the availability, cost, or quality of raw materials and commodities; (viii) labor shortages within our supply chain resulting from labor disputes, strikes, or otherwise; (ix) increases in the cost of labor or transportation; (x) disruptions of shipping and international trade caused by natural and man-made disasters, severe weather, military conflicts, terrorist acts, or other hostilities (such as militant attacks on cargo vessels in the Red Sea), or other unforeseen events, including any resulting impact to shipping prices and shipping times; (xi) heightened terrorism-related cargo and supply chain security concerns, which could subject imported or exported goods to additional, more frequent, or more thorough inspections, leading to delays in the delivery of cargo; and (xii) decreased scrutiny by customs officials for counterfeit goods, leading to lost sales, increased costs for our anti-counterfeiting measures, and damage to the reputation of our brands.

Current wording

We do not own or operate any manufacturing facilities and depend exclusively on independent third parties for the manufacture of our products. Our products are manufactured to our specifications through arrangements with approximately 300 foreign manufacturers in various countries. In Fiscal 2026, the vast majority of our products (by dollar value) were produced outside of the U.S., primarily in Asia, Europe, and Latin America, with approximately 21% of our products sourced from Vietnam, 16% from Cambodia, and 11% from India. Risks inherent in importing our products include (i) the imposition of additional tariffs, duties, taxes, and other charges on imports or exports, such as those announced by the U.S. as discussed below; (ii) changes in diplomatic and trade relationships, including sanctions, trade restrictions, and other retaliatory measures; (iii) the imposition of additional regulations, quotas, trade sanctions, or safeguards or sourcing and reporting requirements that could increase compliance costs or lead to the detention, exclusion, or seizure of goods and imposition of monetary penalties and fines; (iv) adverse changes in local economic conditions, such as prolonged periods of economic weakness, high inflation and/or interest rates, or other factors described herein; (v) changes in social or political conditions, including those resulting from military conflicts, terrorist acts, or other hostilities, that could result in the disruption of trade from the countries in which our manufacturers or suppliers are located; (vi) unfavorable changes in the availability, cost, or quality of raw materials and commodities; (vii) labor shortages within our supply chain resulting from labor disputes, strikes, or otherwise; (viii) increases in the cost of labor or transportation; (ix) disruptions of shipping and international trade caused by natural and man-made disasters, severe weather, military conflicts, terrorist acts, or other hostilities, pandemic diseases, or other unforeseen events, including any resulting impact to shipping prices and shipping times; (x) heightened supply chain security concerns leading to increased inspections and delays in the delivery of cargo; and (xi) insufficient enforcement by customs officials against counterfeit goods, leading to lost sales, increased costs for our anti-counterfeiting measures, and damage to the reputation of our brands.

Previous wording

As previously discussed, in April 2025, the U.S. announced significant changes to its trade policies, including a universal baseline tariff of 10% on all U.S. imported goods, plus additional country-specific tariffs. In return, many countries have announced retaliatory tariffs on U.S. exports, resulting in uncertainty of the future relationship between the U.S. and other countries, as well as the potential of an ensuing global trade war and recession. While the U.S. implemented a 90-day pause on the majority of its proposed tariffs, we cannot predict at this time if and when any of the proposed tariffs will become effective. As approximately 96% of our products are currently produced outside of the U.S., any material change in tariffs or other trade restrictions could result in a significant increase to our product costs. There can be no assurance that we will be able to offset potential increased product costs through higher sales prices to our consumers, supply chain diversification, or other mitigating measures, which in turn could have a material adverse effect on our business due to lower profitability.

Current wording

As previously discussed, recent changes in U.S. trade policies, including tariff-related developments surrounding the IEEPA and other authorities, have increased uncertainty regarding the future relationship between the U.S. and other countries, as well as the potential for an ensuing global trade war and economic slowdown. The imposition of new tariffs could result in potential retaliatory tariffs from other countries and could continue to impact our supply chain costs. As approximately 96% of our products are currently produced outside of the U.S., any material change in tariffs or other trade restrictions could result in a significant increase to our product costs. There can be no assurance that we will be able to offset potential increased product costs through higher sales prices to our consumers, supply chain diversification, or other mitigating measures, which in turn could have a material adverse effect on our business due to lower profitability.

Previous wording

In addition, the entire apparel industry, including our Company, has faced, and could continue to face, supply chain challenges as a result of inflationary pressures, political instability, severe weather, military conflicts and other hostilities, pandemic diseases, and other factors, including reduced freight availability, port congestion, labor shortages, and rising wages and energy costs, among other factors. The inability of a manufacturer to ship orders of our products in a timely manner or to meet our strict quality standards could cause us to miss the delivery date requirements of our customers for those items, which could result in cancellation of orders, refusal to accept deliveries, or a substantial reduction in purchase prices. We have also incurred, and may continue to incur, higher freight and other logistic costs as a result of certain of the beforementioned factors. In addition, the cost and availability of raw materials used to manufacture our products are subject to significant fluctuation as a result of certain of the beforementioned factors (including inflationary pressures), as well as crop yields which could be negatively impacted by severe weather conditions. We may not be able to implement price increases that fully offset increases in raw materials, freight, or other sourcing costs and/or any such price increases could have an adverse impact on consumer demand for our products. Any one of these factors could have a material adverse effect on our business.

Current wording

In addition, the entire apparel industry, including our Company, has faced, and could continue to face, supply chain challenges, including reduced freight availability, port congestion, labor shortages, and rising wages, oil prices and other energy costs, among others, as a result of unfavorable macroeconomic conditions and other factors. The inability of a manufacturer to ship orders of our products in a timely manner or to meet our strict quality standards could cause us to miss the delivery date requirements of our customers for those items, which could result in cancellation of orders, refusal to accept deliveries, or a substantial reduction in purchase prices. We have also incurred, and may continue to incur, higher freight and other logistic costs as a result of certain of the beforementioned factors. In addition, the cost and availability of raw materials used to manufacture our products are subject to significant fluctuation as a result of certain of the beforementioned factors (including inflationary pressures), as well as crop yields which could be negatively impacted by severe weather conditions. We may not be able to implement price increases that fully offset increases in raw materials, freight, or other sourcing costs and/or any such price increases could have an adverse impact on consumer demand for our products. Any one of these factors could have a material adverse effect on our business.

Previous wording

We also rely upon third-party transportation providers for substantially all of our product shipments, including shipments to and from our distribution centers, to our stores and shop-within-shops, and to our digital commerce and wholesale customers. Our utilization of these shipping services is subject to various risks, including, but not limited to, potential labor shortages (stemming from labor disputes, strikes, or otherwise), severe weather, and pandemic diseases, which could delay the timing of shipments, and increases in wages and fuel prices, which could result in higher transportation costs. The rapid increase of online shopping driven by changes in consumer shopping preferences has amplified certain of these risks resulting in capacity constraints. We have incurred, and may continue to incur, higher freight and other logistic costs as a result of certain of the beforementioned factors. Any delays in the timing of our product shipments or increases in transportation costs could have a material adverse effect on our business.

Current wording

We also rely upon third-party transportation providers for substantially all of our product shipments, including shipments to and from our distribution centers, to our stores and shop-within-shops, and to our digital commerce and wholesale customers. Our utilization of these shipping services is subject to various risks, including, but not limited to, potential labor shortages (stemming from labor disputes, strikes, or otherwise), severe weather, and pandemic diseases, which could delay the timing of shipments, and increases in wages and fuel prices, which could result in higher transportation costs. The rapid increase of online shopping driven by changes in consumer shopping preferences has amplified certain of these risks resulting in capacity constraints. Any delays in the timing of our product shipments or increases in transportation costs could have a material adverse effect on our business.

Previous wording

We face increasing competition from companies selling apparel, footwear, accessories, home, and other of our product categories, including through the Internet. Although we sell our products through the Internet, increased competition and promotional activity in the worldwide apparel, footwear, accessory, and home product industries from Internet-based competitors could reduce our sales, prices, and margins. We also face intense competition from other domestic and foreign apparel, footwear, and accessory companies that sell products through brick and mortar stores and wholesale and licensing channels. We compete with these companies primarily on the basis of: (i) anticipating and responding in a timely manner to changing consumer demands and shopping preferences, including the ever-increasing shift to digital brand engagement, social media communications, and online and cross-channel shopping; (ii) creating and maintaining favorable brand recognition, loyalty, and a reputation for quality, including through digital brand engagement and online and social media presence; (iii) developing and producing innovative, high-quality products in sizes, colors, and styles that appeal to consumers of varying demographics; (iv) competitively pricing our products and creating a compelling value proposition for consumers; (v) providing strong and effective marketing support in several diverse demographic markets, including through digital and social media platforms in order to stay better connected to consumers; (vi) establishing relationships with athletes, musicians, influencers, and other celebrities to promote our brands and products; (vii) providing attractive, reliable, secure, and user-friendly digital commerce sites; (viii) adapting to changes in technology, including the successful utilization of data analytics, artificial intelligence, and machine learning; (ix) obtaining sufficient and desirable retail floor space and effective presentation of our products at stores and shop-within-shops; (x) attracting consumer traffic to stores, shop-within-shops, and digital commerce sites; (xi) sourcing sustainable and traceable raw materials at cost-effective prices; (xii) anticipating and maintaining proper inventory levels; (xiii) ensuring product availability and optimizing supply chain and distribution efficiencies with third-party manufacturers and retailers; (xiv) maintaining and growing market share; (xv) recruiting and retaining talent to operate our retail stores, distribution centers, and various corporate functions; (xvi) protecting our intellectual property; and (xvii) ability to withstand prolonged periods of adverse economic conditions or business disruptions.

Current wording

We face increasing competition from companies selling apparel, handbags, footwear, accessories, home, and other of our product categories, including through the Internet. Although we sell our products through the Internet, increased competition and promotional activity in the worldwide apparel, handbags, footwear, accessory, and home product industries from Internet-based competitors could reduce our sales, prices, and margins. We also face intense competition from other domestic and foreign apparel, footwear, and accessory companies that sell products through brick and mortar stores and wholesale and licensing channels. We compete with these companies primarily on the basis of brand strength, timeless style, quality, value, and service as further described in Item 1 — "Business — Competition."

Previous wording

Our success depends on the value and reputation of our brands and our ability to consistently anticipate, identify, and respond to customers' demands, preferences, and fashion trends in the design, pricing, and production of our products, including the preference for certain products to be manufactured in the U.S., and deliver high-quality and sustainable products supported by engaging marketing campaigns. Any negative publicity regarding Mr. R. Lauren, or other members of our management team, or our Company as a whole, especially through social media which accelerates and increases the potential scope of negative publicity, could adversely impact the image of our brands with our customers and result in diminished loyalty to our brands and potentially lead to adverse consumer actions, including boycotts, even if the subject of such publicity is unverified or inaccurate and we seek to correct it. Consumer sentiment can also be influenced by our partnership with athletes and other public figures, our relationships with wholesale customers, licensees, and suppliers, our views on political and social issues, or our long-term initiatives and goals regarding our impact on the environment and society as a whole, among other factors. Even if we react appropriately to negative publicity, our customers' perception of our brand image and our reputation could be negatively impacted. Any failure on our part to retain the value and reputation of brands could adversely impact our business.

Current wording

Our success depends on the value and reputation of our brands and our ability to consistently anticipate, identify, and respond to customers' demands, preferences, and fashion trends in the design, pricing, and production of our products, including preferences for certain products to be manufactured in the U.S., and to deliver high-quality and sustainable products supported by engaging marketing campaigns. Any negative publicity regarding Mr. R. Lauren, other members of our management team, or our Company as a whole, especially through social media which can accelerate and increase the reach of such negative publicity, which could adversely impact the image of our brands with our customers and result in diminished loyalty to our brands and potentially lead to adverse consumer actions, including boycotts, even if the subject of such publicity is unverified or inaccurate and we seek to correct it. Consumer perception may also be influenced by geopolitical developments, including periods of heightened anti-American sentiment in certain international markets, as well as our partnership with athletes and other public figures, our relationships with wholesale customers, licensees, and suppliers, our views on political and social issues, or our long-term environmental and social initiatives as a whole, among other factors. Even if we respond appropriately to negative publicity or other external influences, our customers' perception of our brand image and our reputation could be negatively impacted. Any failure on our part to retain the value and reputation of brands could adversely impact our business.

Previous wording

Our trademarks, intellectual property, and other proprietary rights are extremely important to our success and our competitive position. We devote substantial resources to the establishment and protection of our trademarks and anti-counterfeiting activities worldwide. However, significant counterfeiting and imitation of our products continue to exist. In addition, the laws of certain foreign countries may not protect trademarks or other proprietary rights to the same extent as do the laws of the U.S. and, as a result, our intellectual property may be more vulnerable and difficult to protect in such countries. Over the course of our international expansion, we have experienced conflicts with various third parties that have acquired or claimed ownership rights to some of our key trademarks that include Polo and/or a representation of a polo player astride a horse, or otherwise have contested our rights to our trademarks. We have resolved certain of these conflicts through both legal action and negotiated settlements. We cannot guarantee that the actions we have taken to establish and protect our trademarks and other proprietary rights will be adequate to prevent counterfeiting, lost business, or brand dilution, any of which may have a material adverse effect on our business. We expect to continue to devote substantial resources to challenge brands imitating our products. Also, there can be no assurance that others will not assert rights in, or ownership of, trademarks and other proprietary rights of ours or that we will be able to successfully resolve these types of conflicts to our satisfaction or at all.

Current wording

Our trademarks, intellectual property, and other proprietary rights are extremely important to our success and our competitive position. We devote substantial resources to the establishment and protection of our trademarks and anti-counterfeiting activities worldwide. However, significant counterfeiting and imitation of our products continue to exist, and emerging AI technologies may further facilitate the unauthorized replication, imitation, and distribution of products, branding, logos, marketing materials, and digital content that closely resemble our own. In addition, the laws of certain foreign countries may not protect trademarks or other proprietary rights to the same extent as do the laws of the U.S. and, as a result, our intellectual property may be more vulnerable and difficult to protect in such countries. Over the course of our international expansion, we have experienced conflicts with various third parties that have acquired or claimed ownership rights to some of our key trademarks that include Polo and/or a representation of a polo player astride a horse, or otherwise have contested our rights to our trademarks. We have resolved certain of these conflicts through both legal action and negotiated settlements. We cannot guarantee that the actions we have taken to establish and protect our trademarks and other proprietary rights will be adequate to prevent counterfeiting, lost business, or brand dilution, any of which may have a material adverse effect on our business. We expect to continue to devote substantial resources to challenge brands imitating our products, including in response to evolving AI-driven threats. Also, there can be no assurance that others will not assert rights in, or ownership of, trademarks and other proprietary rights of ours or that we will be able to successfully resolve these types of conflicts to our satisfaction or at all.

Previous wording

Several of our department store customers, including some under common ownership, account for a significant portion of our wholesale net sales. A substantial portion of sales of our licensed products by our domestic licensing partners are also made to our largest department store customers. Sales to our three largest wholesale customers accounted for approximately 12% of total net revenues for Fiscal 2025, and these customers accounted for approximately 25% of our total gross trade accounts receivable outstanding as of March 29, 2025. Approximately 70% of sales to our three largest wholesale customers related to our North America segment and approximately 30% related to our Europe segment.

Current wording

Several of our department store customers, including some under common ownership, account for a significant portion of our wholesale net sales. A substantial portion of sales of our licensed products by our domestic licensing partners are also made to our largest department store customers. Sales to our three largest wholesale customers accounted for approximately 11% of total net revenues for Fiscal 2026, and these customers accounted for approximately 29% of our total gross trade accounts receivable outstanding as of March 28, 2026. Approximately 70% of sales to our three largest wholesale customers related to our North America segment and approximately 30% related to our Europe segment.

Previous wording

The department store sector has experienced numerous consolidations, restructurings, bankruptcies, and other ownership changes in recent times, which could potentially increase in frequency as a result of current adverse economic conditions, including changes to existing trade policies and agreements (including higher tariffs on U.S. imports), ongoing inflationary pressures and high interest rates, and/or changes in consumer shopping preferences, such as the continued shift away from traditional brick and mortar wholesale retailers to larger online retailers. Such disruptions have typically resulted in actual or anticipated bankruptcies (such as Hudson Bay Company's recent bankruptcy filing), store closures (such as Macy's previously announced plan to close 150 stores over a 3-year period through calendar 2026), centralized purchasing decisions, and increased emphasis on inventory management and productivity, which could result in fewer stores carrying our products or reduced demand of our products by our wholesale customers. There can be no assurance that our wholesale customers have adequate financial resources and/or access to additional capital to withstand prolonged periods of adverse economic conditions. The loss of one or more significant wholesale customers, or the loss of a large number of smaller wholesale customers, could have a material adverse effect on our business. Furthermore, the consolidation or other changes with respect to our wholesale customers could decrease our opportunities in the market, increase our reliance on a smaller number of large wholesale customers, and/or decrease our negotiating strength with our wholesale customers.

Current wording

The department store sector has experienced numerous consolidations, restructurings, bankruptcies, and other ownership changes in recent times, which could potentially increase in frequency as a result of current adverse economic conditions, including changes to existing trade policies and agreements (including higher tariffs on U.S. imports), ongoing inflationary pressures and high interest rates, and/or changes in consumer shopping preferences, such as the continued shift away from traditional brick and mortar wholesale retailers to larger online retailers. Such disruptions have typically resulted in actual or anticipated bankruptcies (such as Saks Global's recent bankruptcy filing), store closures (such as Macy's previously announced plan to close 150 stores through calendar 2028), centralized purchasing decisions, and increased emphasis on inventory management and productivity, which could result in fewer stores carrying our products or reduced demand of our products by our wholesale customers. There can be no assurance that our wholesale customers have adequate financial resources and/or access to additional capital to withstand prolonged periods of adverse economic conditions. The loss of one or more significant wholesale customers, or the loss of a large number of smaller wholesale customers, could have a material adverse effect on our business. Furthermore, the consolidation or other changes with respect to our wholesale customers could decrease our opportunities in the market, increase our reliance on a smaller number of large wholesale customers, and/or decrease our negotiating strength with our wholesale customers.

Previous wording

As of March 29, 2025, our consolidated indebtedness was approximately $1.1 billion, comprised of our outstanding unsecured senior notes. We also maintain several credit and overdraft facilities, including our Global Credit Facility, which collectively had a remaining availability of approximately $805 million as of March 29, 2025. Accordingly, the amount of our indebtedness could further increase materially if we decide to draw upon our credit or overdraft facilities. This substantial level of indebtedness could have adverse consequences to our business, including (i) making it more difficult to satisfy our debt obligations as they become due; (ii) impairing our ability to obtain additional financing in the future; (iii) requiring a substantial portion of our cash flows from operations to be used for the payment of principal and interest on our indebtedness, thereby reducing the amount of cash available to fund working capital needs, capital expenditures, and other general corporate purposes; (iv) limiting our flexibility to plan for, or react to, changes in our business; and (v) increasing our vulnerability to adverse economic and industry conditions.

Current wording

As of March 28, 2026, our consolidated indebtedness was approximately $1.2 billion, comprised of our outstanding unsecured senior notes. We also maintain several credit facilities, including our Global Credit Facility, which collectively had a remaining availability of approximately $805 million as of March 28, 2026. Accordingly, the amount of our indebtedness could further increase materially if we decide to draw upon our credit facilities. This substantial level of indebtedness could have adverse consequences to our business, including (i) making it more difficult to satisfy our debt obligations as they become due; (ii) impairing our ability to obtain additional financing in the future; (iii) requiring a substantial portion of our cash flows from operations to be used for the payment of principal and interest on our indebtedness, thereby reducing the amount of cash available to fund working capital needs, capital expenditures, and other general corporate purposes; (iv) limiting our flexibility to plan for, or react to, changes in our business; and (v) increasing our vulnerability to adverse economic and industry conditions.

Previous wording

Additionally, interest rates have been at elevated levels in recent years and it is uncertain if and when such rates may decline. Higher interest rates may increase the cost of any borrowings under our various credit and overdraft facilities, as well as negatively impact consumer sentiment and the global economy as a whole, which could result in a material adverse effect on our business.

Current wording

Additionally, interest rates have been at elevated levels in recent years and it is uncertain if and when such rates may decline. Higher interest rates may increase the cost of any borrowings under our various credit facilities, as well as negatively impact consumer sentiment and the global economy as a whole, which could result in a material adverse effect on our business.

Previous wording

Although a number of our license agreements prohibit our licensing partners from entering into licensing arrangements with our competitors, our licensing partners generally are not precluded from offering, under other non-competitor brands, the types of products covered by their license agreements with us. A substantial portion of sales of our products by our domestic licensing partners are also made to our largest customers. While we have significant control over our licensing partners' products and advertising, we rely on our licensing partners for, among other things, operational and financial control over their businesses. Changes in management, reduced sales of licensed products, poor execution, or financial difficulties with respect to any of our licensing partners could adversely affect our revenues, both directly from reduced licensing revenue received and indirectly from reduced sales of our other products. Although we believe that we could replace our existing licensing partners in most circumstances, if necessary, our inability to do so for any period of time could have a material adverse effect on our business.

Current wording

Although a number of our license agreements restrict our licensing partners from entering into licensing arrangements with our competitors, our licensing partners generally are not precluded from offering, under other non-competitor brands, the types of products covered by their license agreements with us. A substantial portion of sales of our products by our domestic licensing partners are also made to our largest customers. While we have significant control over our licensing partners' products and advertising, we rely on our licensing partners for, among other things, operational and financial control over their businesses. Changes in management, reduced sales of licensed products, poor execution, or financial difficulties with respect to any of our licensing partners could adversely affect our revenues, both directly from reduced licensing revenue received and indirectly from reduced sales of our other products. Although we believe that we could replace our existing licensing partners in most circumstances, if necessary, our inability to do so for any period of time could have a material adverse effect on our business.

Previous wording

We are dependent on information technology systems and networks, including the Internet, for a significant portion of our direct-to-consumer sales, including our digital commerce operations and retail business credit card transaction authorization and processing (among other electronic payment methods that we accept). We are also responsible for storing data relating to our customers and employees and rely on third parties for the operation of our digital commerce sites and for the various social media tools and websites we use as part of our marketing strategy. In our normal course of business, we often collect, transmit, and/or retain certain sensitive and confidential customer information, including credit card information. There is significant concern by consumers, employees, and lawmakers alike over the security of personal information transmitted over the Internet, consumer identity theft, and user privacy.

Current wording

We are dependent on information technology systems and networks, including the Internet, for a significant portion of our direct-to-consumer sales, including our digital commerce operations and retail business credit card transaction authorization and processing (among other electronic payment methods that we accept). We are also responsible for storing data relating to our customers and employees and rely on third parties for the operation of our digital commerce sites and for the various social media tools and websites we use as part of our marketing strategy. In our normal course of business, we often collect, transmit, and/or retain certain sensitive and confidential customer information, including credit card information. There is significant concern by consumers, employees, and lawmakers alike over the security of personal information transmitted over the Internet, consumer identity theft, and user privacy, further heightened by advancements in AI.

Previous wording

Cyber-criminals are constantly devising new, sophisticated schemes to gain unauthorized access to computer systems and confidential or sensitive data, including through the use of artificial intelligence. Despite the security measures we currently have in place (including those described in Item 1C — "Cybersecurity"), our facilities and systems and those of our third-party service providers may be vulnerable to targeted or random attacks that could lead to security breaches, acts of vandalism, phishing attacks, denial-of-service attacks, computer viruses, malware, ransomware, misplaced or lost data, programming and/or human errors, or other Internet or email events. Further, our employees may intentionally or inadvertently cause data security breaches that result in the unauthorized access or release of our private and sensitive information, the risk of which may be compounded as the use of artificial intelligence becomes more prevalent. The extensive use of smartphones, tablets, and other wireless devices, as well as our hybrid work policy, under which a substantial portion of our corporate employees work remotely for part of the work week, heighten these and other operational risks. Given the sensitive nature of information collected and processed, the retail industry in particular continues to be the target of many cyber-attacks, which are becoming increasingly more frequent and difficult to anticipate, prevent, and timely detect due to their rapidly evolving nature. Furthermore, economic sanctions issued by one country against another or trade disputes could increase the risk of retaliatory state-sponsored cyber-attacks. Given the rapidly evolving nature, sophistication, and complexity of cyber-attacks, despite our reasonable efforts to mitigate and prevent such attacks, it is possible that we may not be able to anticipate, prevent, timely detect, or implement effective preventive measures to protect against all cyber-attack incidents.

Current wording

Cyber-criminals are constantly devising new, sophisticated schemes to gain unauthorized access to computer systems and confidential or sensitive data, including through the increasing use of AI. Despite the security measures we currently have in place (including those described in Item 1C — "Cybersecurity"), our facilities and systems and those of our third-party service providers may be vulnerable to targeted or random attacks that could lead to security breaches, acts of vandalism, phishing attacks, denial-of-service attacks, computer viruses, malware, ransomware, misplaced or lost data, programming and/or human errors, or other Internet or email events. Further, our employees may intentionally or inadvertently cause data security breaches that result in the unauthorized access or release of our private and sensitive information, the risk of which may be compounded as the use of AI becomes more prevalent. The extensive use of AI-enabled smartphones, tablets, and other wireless devices, as well as our hybrid work policy, under which a substantial portion of our corporate employees work remotely for part of the work week, heighten these and other operational risks. Given the sensitive nature of information collected and processed, the retail industry in particular continues to be the target of many cyber-attacks, which are becoming increasingly more frequent and difficult to anticipate, prevent, and timely detect due to their rapidly evolving nature. Furthermore, economic sanctions issued by one country against another or trade disputes could increase the risk of retaliatory state-sponsored cyber-attacks. Given the rapidly evolving nature, sophistication, and complexity of cyber-attacks, despite our reasonable efforts to mitigate and prevent such attacks, it is possible that we may not be able to anticipate, prevent, timely detect, or implement effective preventive measures to protect against all cyber-attack incidents.

Previous wording

Despite our preventative efforts, our systems are vulnerable to damage or interruption from, among other things, security breaches, computer viruses, technical malfunctions, inadequate system capacity, power outages, natural disasters, and usage errors by our employees or third-party consultants. If our information technology systems become damaged or otherwise cease to function properly, we may have to make significant investments to repair or replace them. Additionally, confidential or sensitive data related to our customers, employees, or vendors could be lost or compromised.

Current wording

Despite our preventative efforts, our systems are vulnerable to damage or interruption from, among other things, security breaches, computer viruses, technical malfunctions, inadequate system capacity, power outages, natural disasters, and usage errors by our employees or third-party consultants. If our information technology systems become damaged or otherwise cease to function properly, we may have to make significant investments to repair or replace them. Additionally, confidential or sensitive data related to our customers, employees, or vendors could be lost or compromised, which could expose us to litigation risk.

Previous wording

We are continually improving and upgrading our computer systems, software, and related processes. As described in Item 1 — "Business — Recent Developments," we are in the early stages of executing a large-scale multi-year transformational project, which entails upgrading and enhancing our technology infrastructure to better enable us to implement process changes to improve productivity and operational efficiencies on a global scale (the "Next Generation Transformation project" or "NGT project"). A system project of this scope requires a significant investment in human and financial resources and involves many risks and uncertainties, including failure to operate as designed, failure to properly integrate with other systems, potential loss of data or information, cost overruns, and implementation delays. Any disruptions, delays, or deficiencies in the design, implementation, or transition of such systems could also result in disruptions to our business operations, including the sourcing, sale, and shipment of our product, delays in the collection of cash from our customers, diversion of management attention, and/or adversely affect our ability to accurately report our financial results in a timely manner or otherwise maintain compliance with internal controls. There is also no guarantee that we will realize the anticipated global synergies and benefits related to this project. Any material disruptions in our information technology systems could have a material adverse effect on our business.

Current wording

We are continually improving and upgrading our computer systems, software, and related processes. As described in Item 1 — "Business — Recent Developments," our Next Generation Transformation project, which began during Fiscal 2024, entails upgrading and enhancing our technology infrastructure, including AI and machine learning capabilities, to better enable us to implement process changes to improve productivity and operational efficiencies on a global scale. A system project of this scope requires a significant investment in human and financial resources and involves many risks and uncertainties, including failure to operate as designed, failure to properly integrate with other systems, potential loss of data or information, cost overruns, and implementation delays. Any disruptions, delays, or deficiencies in the design, implementation, or transition of such systems could also result in disruptions to our business operations, including the sourcing, sale, and shipment of our product, delays in the collection of cash from our customers, diversion of management attention, and/or adversely affect our ability to accurately report our financial results in a timely manner or otherwise maintain compliance with internal controls. There is also no guarantee that we will realize the anticipated global synergies and benefits related to this project. Any material disruptions in our information technology systems could have a material adverse effect on our business.

Previous wording

In addition, the tax laws and regulations in the countries where we operate may change, or there may be changes in interpretation and enforcement of existing tax laws, which could materially affect our income tax expense in our consolidated financial statements. For example, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (the "OECD"), which represents a coalition of member countries, has proposed changes to numerous long-standing tax principles through its Base Erosion and Profit Shifting project, which is focused on a number of issues, including the creation of a global minimum tax rate of 15% commonly referred to as "Pillar Two." Although the U.S. effectively withdrew from the OECD global tax agreement in January 2025, other countries where we conduct business, including Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and Germany, have enacted similar legislation implementing Pillar Two rules (in whole or in part), and additional countries could implement related legislation in the future. We cannot be certain if or when other countries will enact new legislation or how closely any such new legislation will align with the OECD's Pillar Two framework. While we continue to evaluate the impact of these legislative changes as new guidance becomes available, uncertainty remains regarding the timing and interpretation by tax authorities in affected jurisdictions. Accordingly, although our business has not currently been materially impacted by those countries that have enacted Pillar Two rules to date, we cannot guarantee that such impacts will remain immaterial to our business in the future. Furthermore, other taxing authorities of certain state, local, and other foreign jurisdictions may also decide to modify existing tax laws. We cannot predict which, if any, of these items or others will be enacted into law or the resulting impact any such enactment will have on our business operations, which could be material.

Current wording

In addition, the tax laws and regulations in the countries where we operate may change, or there may be changes in interpretation and enforcement of existing tax laws, which could materially affect our income tax expense in our consolidated financial statements. For example, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (the "OECD"), which represents a coalition of member countries, has proposed changes to numerous long-standing tax principles through its Base Erosion and Profit Shifting project, which is focused on a number of issues, including the creation of a global minimum tax rate of 15% commonly referred to as "Pillar Two." Although the U.S. effectively withdrew from the OECD global tax agreement in January 2025, other countries where we conduct business have enacted similar legislation implementing Pillar Two rules (in whole or in part), and additional countries could implement related legislation in the future. In January 2026, the OECD released administrative guidance containing a Side-by-Side ("SbS") system which modifies the operation of the OECD's Pillar Two Global Anti-Base Erosion ("GloBE") Model Rules. The SbS system provides a safe harbor for multinational enterprise ("MNE") groups with an ultimate parent entity in the U.S., which will exempt a U.S. headquartered MNE group from the application of two of the three Pillar Two top-up taxes. We cannot be certain if or when other countries will enact new legislation or how closely any such new legislation will align with the OECD's Pillar Two framework. In addition, in July 2025, the U.S. signed into law tax legislation commonly referred to as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act ("OBBBA"), which extended many of the provisions of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 and introduced additional tax provisions. While we continue to evaluate the impact of these legislative changes as new guidance becomes available, uncertainty remains regarding the timing and interpretation by tax authorities in affected jurisdictions. Accordingly, although our business has not currently been materially impacted by those countries that have enacted Pillar Two rules to date or the U.S. OBBBA, we cannot guarantee that such impacts will remain immaterial to our business in the future. Furthermore, other taxing authorities of certain state, local, and other foreign jurisdictions may also decide to modify existing tax laws. We cannot predict which, if any, of these items or others will be enacted into law or the resulting impact any such enactment will have on our business operations, which could be material.

Previous wording

We are involved in certain legal proceedings and regulatory matters and are subject from time to time to various claims involving alleged breach of contract claims, intellectual property and other related claims, escheatment and unclaimed property, credit card fraud, security breaches in certain of our retail store information systems, employment issues, consumer matters, lease disputes, and other litigation. Certain of these lawsuits and claims, if decided adversely to us or settled by us, could result in material liability to our Company or have a negative impact on our reputation or relations with our employees, customers, licensing partners, or other third parties. Other potential claimants may also be encouraged to bring suits against us based on a settlement from us or adverse court decision against us for similar claims or allegations as their own. In addition, regardless of the outcome of any litigation or regulatory proceedings, such proceedings could result in substantial costs and may require our

Current wording

We are involved in certain legal proceedings and regulatory matters and are subject from time to time to various claims involving alleged breach of contract claims, intellectual property and other related claims, escheatment and unclaimed property, credit card fraud, security breaches in certain of our retail store information systems, employment issues, consumer matters, lease disputes, and other litigation. Certain of these lawsuits and claims, if decided adversely to us or settled by us, could result in material liability to our Company or have a negative impact on our reputation or relations with our employees, customers, licensing partners, or other third parties. Other potential claimants may also be encouraged to bring suits against us based on a settlement from us or adverse court decision against us for similar claims or allegations as their own. In addition, regardless of the outcome of any litigation or regulatory proceedings, such proceedings could result in substantial costs and may require our Company to devote substantial time and resources to defend itself. Further, changes in governmental regulations both in the U.S. and in other countries where we conduct business operations could have an adverse impact on our business. See Item 3 — "Legal Proceedings" for further discussion of our Company's legal matters.

Previous wording

As of March 29, 2025, Mr. Ralph Lauren, or entities controlled by the Lauren family, held approximately 85% of the voting power of the outstanding common stock of our Company. In addition, Mr. R. Lauren serves as our Executive Chairman and Chief Creative Officer, Mr. R. Lauren's son, Mr. David Lauren, serves as our Chief Branding and Innovation Officer, Strategic Advisor to the CEO, and Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors, and we employ other members of the Lauren family. From time to time, we may have other business dealings with Mr. R. Lauren, members of the Lauren family, or entities affiliated with Mr. R. Lauren or the Lauren family. As a result of his stock ownership and position in our Company, Mr. R. Lauren has the ability to exercise significant control over our business, including, without limitation, (i) the election of our Class B common stock directors, voting separately as a class and (ii) any action requiring the approval of our stockholders, including the adoption of amendments to our certificate of incorporation and the approval of mergers or sales of all or substantially all of our assets.

Current wording

As of March 28, 2026, Mr. Ralph Lauren, or entities controlled by the Lauren family, held approximately 85% of the voting power of the outstanding common stock of our Company. In addition, Mr. R. Lauren serves as our Executive Chairman and Chief Creative Officer, Mr. R. Lauren's son, Mr. David Lauren, serves as our Chief Branding and Innovation Officer, Strategic Advisor to the CEO, and Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors, and we employ other members of the Lauren family. From time to time, we may have other business dealings with Mr. R. Lauren, members of the Lauren family, or entities affiliated with Mr. R. Lauren or the Lauren family. As a result of his stock ownership and position in our Company, Mr. R.