Savers Value Village Inc

Previous wording

•The sourcing and other logistics of processing of secondhand items, especially from local communities, can be subject to fluctuating costs and can have other risks that could negatively impact our business.

Current wording

•The sourcing and other logistics of processing secondhand items, especially from local communities, can be subject to fluctuating costs and can have other risks that could negatively impact our business.

Previous wording

•Highly disruptive events such as natural disasters, pandemics such as COVID-19, geo-political events or social unrest can negatively impact our logistics network and our sales.

Current wording

•Highly disruptive events such as natural disasters, global health crises and pandemics, geo-political events or workplace violence can negatively impact our logistics network and our sales.

Previous wording

•Our success and growth is affected by our operational efficiency, including how successfully we implement our CPC and ABP technologies, and our ability to manage acquisitions.

Current wording

•Our success and growth is affected by our operational efficiency, including how successfully we implement our offsite processing strategy, our use of technology, and our ability to manage acquisitions.

Previous wording

•We have material weaknesses and may be unable to establish or maintain an effective system of internal control over financial reporting or maintain effective disclosure controls and procedures.

Current wording

•We have a material weakness and may be unable to establish or maintain an effective system of internal control over financial reporting or maintain effective disclosure controls and procedures.

Previous wording

•We will incur increased expenses due to being a public company and may be exposed to a greater risk of litigation or claims, and we are obligated to indemnify our directors and officers for certain claims.

Current wording

•We may be exposed to a greater risk of litigation or claims as our business grows.

Previous wording

•Being a public company may strain our resources, and our management has limited experience managing a public company.

Current wording

•Being a public company may strain our resources.

Previous wording

Furthermore, the quality of items we receive (either directly from our NPPs or through OSDs) is critical to our sales yield and profitability, and to our customers’ experience. To the extent the items supplied to us are of low quality or poor condition, fewer of those items may be graded in our processing centers as salable at retail and a greater proportion of items may be sold at lower wholesale prices. Additionally, lower item quality may result in a lower unit retail price and may result in markdowns and other promotions. Additionally, because many of our customers desire a treasure hunt experience, a decline in the amount of desirable items displayed could have a negative effect on their shopping experience and result in a decline in store visits and purchase volumes, and could also negatively affect our ability to attract new customers.

Current wording

Furthermore, the quality of items we receive (either directly from our NPPs or through OSDs) is critical to our sales yield and profitability, and to our customers’ experience. To the extent the items supplied to us are of low quality or poor condition, fewer of those items may be graded in our processing centers as salable at retail and a greater proportion of items may be sold at lower wholesale prices. Additionally, lower item quality may result in a lower unit retail price and may result in markdowns and other promotions. Furthermore, because many of our customers desire a treasure hunt experience, a decline in the amount of desirable items displayed could have a negative effect on their shopping experience and result in a decline in store visits and purchase volumes, and could also negatively affect our ability to attract new customers.

Previous wording

The failure to pay attractive prices for such items could also negatively impact our sales yield, revenues and profitability and could have a material, adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. In addition, economic uncertainties, governmental orders, the recent COVID-19 pandemic and other similar events or other challenges could negatively impact the ability or desire of NPPs to continue supplying secondhand items on terms or in quantities desirable to us or their donors’ ability or willingness to make OSDs. If we are unable to obtain a sufficient volume of quality secondhand items, our sales revenue from secondhand items would be materially and adversely affected, which would have a material, adverse effect on our business, growth prospects, results of operations and financial condition.

Current wording

The failure to pay attractive prices for such items could also negatively impact our sales yield, revenues and profitability and could have a material, adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. In addition, economic uncertainties, governmental orders and other similar events or other challenges could negatively impact the ability or desire of NPPs to continue supplying secondhand items on terms or in quantities desirable to us or their donors’ ability or willingness to make OSDs. If we are unable to obtain a sufficient volume of quality secondhand items, our sales revenue from secondhand items would be materially and adversely affected, which would have a material, adverse effect on our business, growth prospects, results of operations and financial condition.

Previous wording

We may also receive damaged or dangerous secondhand items, and such items can be damaged during shipping or processing, during storage or otherwise while in our stores. If we are unable to detect, quarantine and properly deal with dangerous items or contaminants at the time items are initially received, our team members could be harmed or some or all of the other secondhand items in such facilities could be contaminated. For example, we may experience contamination such as mold, bacteria, insects or other pests, or damage due to water, spills or fire. These events may also cause us to incur additional expenses and our reputation could be harmed. We are also subject to shrinkage of inventory at our stores and facilities, and if we are unable to control such shrinkage, our sales yields will be negatively affected.

Current wording

We may also receive damaged or dangerous secondhand items, and such items can be damaged during shipping or processing, during storage or otherwise while in our stores. For example, we may experience contamination such as mold, bacteria, insects or other pests, or damage due to water, spills or fire (including arson) or we may receive dangerous secondhand items such as weapons. If we are unable to detect, quarantine and properly deal with dangerous items or contaminants at the time items are initially received or if we are unable to maintain the health and safety of our facilities, our team members could be harmed or some or all of the other secondhand items in such facilities could be contaminated. These events may also cause us to incur additional expenses and our reputation could be harmed. We are also subject to shrinkage of inventory at our stores and facilities, and if we are unable to control such shrinkage, our sales yields will be negatively affected.

Previous wording

Recently, we have incurred higher wage rates for our employees and we expect that our labor costs, including wages and employee benefits, will continue to increase. In recent years, inflation has risen worldwide and the United States and Canada have experienced historically high levels of inflation. While we have made certain price adjustments to, among other things, address labor costs, there can be no assurance that our revenues will increase at the same rate to maintain the same level of profitability.

Current wording

Over the past few years, we have incurred higher wage rates for our employees and we expect that our labor costs, including wages and employee benefits, will continue to increase. In recent years, inflation has risen worldwide and the U.S. and Canada have experienced historically high levels of inflation. While we have made certain price adjustments to, among other things, address labor costs, there can be no assurance that our revenues will increase at the same rate to maintain the same level of profitability.

Previous wording

Our business and results of operations are subject to global economic conditions, conditions in the markets in which we operate and their impact on consumer discretionary spending, particularly in the retail market. Some of the factors that may negatively influence consumer spending on retail items include high levels of unemployment, high consumer debt levels, a prolonged economic downturn or acute recession, fluctuating interest rates and credit availability, fluctuating fuel and other energy costs, fluctuating commodity prices, other inflationary pressures and general uncertainty regarding the overall future political and economic environment. For example, most Canadian mortgages require multiple term renewals until they are paid in full, and the recent inflationary pressure and interest rate increases means increased financial pressure on Canadian homeowners that may affect their spending. Additionally, economic conditions in particular regions may also be affected by natural disasters, such as earthquakes, hurricanes and wildfires; unforeseen public health crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic; political crises, such as terrorist attacks, war, such as the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict and the conflict in Israel, and other incidents of political or social instability or other catastrophic events in the United States, Canada or internationally. The presence or absence of government stimulus funding programs has had and may continue to have an impact on consumer discretionary spending and, consequently, purchases at our stores.

Current wording

Our business and results of operations are subject to global economic conditions, conditions in the markets in which we operate and their impact on consumer discretionary spending, particularly in the retail market. Some of the factors that may negatively influence consumer spending on retail items include high levels of unemployment, high consumer debt levels, a prolonged economic downturn or acute recession, fluctuating interest rates and credit availability, fluctuating fuel and other energy costs, fluctuating commodity prices, other inflationary pressures and general uncertainty regarding the overall future political and economic environment. For example, most Canadian mortgages require multiple term renewals until they are paid in full, and the recent inflationary pressure and elevated interest rates means increased financial pressure on Canadian homeowners that may affect their spending. Furthermore, the macroeconomic environment in Canada remains challenging, with elevated levels of unemployment and a high cost of living that is especially hard on low-income consumers, which may lead to reduced consumer spending and lower sales at our locations throughout Canada. Additionally, economic conditions in particular regions may also be affected by natural disasters, such as earthquakes, hurricanes and wildfires; unforeseen public health crises; political crises, such as terrorist attacks; war, such as the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict and conflicts in the Middle East; and other incidents of political or social instability or other catastrophic events in the U.S., Canada or internationally. The presence or absence of government stimulus funding programs has had and may continue to have an impact on consumer discretionary spending and, consequently, purchases at our stores.

Previous wording

If we fail to manage our rapid growth effectively and execute our business plan, our business, results of operations and financial condition could be harmed.

Current wording

If we fail to manage our growth effectively and execute our business plan, our business, results of operations and financial condition could be harmed.

Previous wording

We have experienced rapid growth in certain recent periods, and may continue to experience rapid growth in future periods, which has placed, and may continue to place, significant demands on our management and our operational and financial resources. We have also experienced significant growth in the number of customers using our stores in certain periods. Our organizational structure is becoming more complex as we scale our operational, financial and management controls as well as our reporting systems and procedures.

Current wording

Our growth has placed, and may continue to place, significant demands on our management and our operational and financial resources. Our organizational structure is complex, reflecting our multi-tiered operational, financial and management controls as well as our reporting systems and procedures.

Previous wording

To manage growth in our operations and the growth in our number of customers, we will need to continue to grow and improve our operational, financial and management controls and our reporting systems and procedures. Our expansion has placed, and our expected future growth will continue to place, a significant strain on our management, people services, marketing, operations, administrative, legal, financial, customer support, information technology, investor relations and other resources. If we fail to manage our anticipated growth in a manner that preserves key aspects of our corporate culture, our employee morale, productivity and retention rates could suffer, which could negatively affect our brands and reputation and harm our ability to grow our business.

Current wording

To manage our operations and the significant number of customers, we will need to continue to grow and improve our operational, financial and management controls and our reporting systems and procedures. Our expansion has placed, and our expected future growth will continue to place, a significant strain on our management, people services, marketing, operations, administrative, legal, financial, customer support, information technology, investor relations and other resources. If we fail to manage our anticipated growth in a manner that preserves key aspects of our corporate culture, our employee morale, productivity and retention rates could suffer, which could negatively affect our brands and reputation and harm our ability to grow our business.

Previous wording

In future periods, we may not be able to sustain or increase revenue growth rates consistent with recent history, or at all. We believe our success and revenue growth depends on a number of factors, including, but not limited to, many of the risks discussed in this section.

Current wording

In future periods, we may not be able to sustain or increase net sales growth rates consistent with recent history, or at all. We believe our success and revenue growth depends on a number of factors, including, but not limited to, many of the risks discussed in this section.

Previous wording

We lease all of our locations. Our business strategy requires us to find appropriate store sites in our targeted market areas, and we compete with other retailers and businesses for many of these locations. Furthermore, the growth of our business depends on our ability to secure additional locations for our CPCs to serve our stores. Most of our planned store locations will require processing facilities on-site, necessitating specific size, layout and other physical attributes that may not be available widely in the local area. We must also staff our CPCs with qualified workers because our CPC operations are complex and highly dependent on numerous employees and personnel working as a team. Spaces that meet our physical requirements in well-positioned geographic locations are becoming increasingly scarce, and lease terms offered by landlords are increasingly competitive, particularly in geographic locations with access to the large, qualified talent pools required for us to run our logistics infrastructure. Companies with more financial resources and negotiating leverage than us may be more attractive tenants and, as a result, we may be outbid for the facilities we seek.

Current wording

We lease all of our locations. Our business strategy requires us to find appropriate store sites in our targeted market areas, and we compete with other retailers and businesses for many of these locations. Furthermore, the growth of our business depends on our ability to secure additional locations for our CPCs and other offsite processing facilities to serve our stores. We estimate that approximately half of our planned store locations may require processing facilities on-site that necessitate specific size, layout and other physical attributes that may not be available widely in the local area. We must also continue to staff our CPCs with qualified workers because our CPC operations are complex and highly dependent on numerous employees and personnel working as a team. Spaces that meet our physical requirements in well-positioned geographic locations continue to be limited, and lease terms offered by landlords are competitive, particularly in geographic locations with access to the large, qualified talent pools required for us to run our logistics infrastructure. Companies with more financial resources and negotiating leverage than us may be more attractive tenants and, as a result, we may be outbid for the facilities we seek.

Previous wording

We are also subject to certain risks with respect to our leases. Our store leases are generally for extended terms with a typical initial term of 10 yearsand existing leases have an average remaining term of approximately 6.95 years as of December 30, 2023. The majority of our store leases contain provisions for base rent and a small number of our leases also contain provisions for percentage rent based on sales in excess of an agreed upon minimum annual sales level. In addition, certain of our leases may contain restrictions on our ability to terminate, assign or sublease our obligations or may contain obligations to continue operating for certain lengths of time, which could prevent us from closing or relocating certain underperforming locations. If we decide to close locations, we generally are required to continue paying rent and operating expenses for the balance of the lease term. Further, even if we are able to assign or sublease vacated locations, we may remain liable on the lease obligations for the rent differential or if the assignee or sub-lessee does not perform. Accordingly, we are subject to certain risks associated with leasing locations, which can have a material and adverse effect on us.

Current wording

We are also subject to certain risks with respect to our leases. Our store leases are generally for extended terms with a typical initial term of 10 yearsand existing leases have an average remaining term of approximately 7.67 years as of December 28, 2024. The majority of our store leases contain provisions for base rent and a small number of our leases also contain provisions for percentage rent based on sales in excess of an agreed upon minimum annual sales level. In addition, certain of our leases may contain restrictions on our ability to terminate, assign or sublease our obligations or may contain obligations to continue operating for certain lengths of time, which could prevent us from closing or relocating certain underperforming locations. If we decide to close locations, we generally are required to continue paying rent and operating expenses for the balance of the lease term. Further, even if we are able to assign or sublease vacated locations, we may remain liable on the lease obligations for the rent differential or if the assignee or sub-lessee does not perform. Accordingly, we are subject to certain risks associated with leasing locations, which can have a material and adverse effect on us.

Previous wording

If we are unable to secure suitable locations in the future, we may experience difficulty in opening new locations at reasonable cost. Due to the competitive nature of the real estate market, we may be unable to renew our existing on satisfactory terms or at all. If we are unable to renew, renegotiate or replace our leases or enter into leases for new locations on favorable terms, our growth and profitability could be harmed, which could have a material and adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

If we are unable to secure suitable locations in the future, we may experience difficulty in opening new locations at reasonable cost. Due to the competitive nature of the real estate market, we may be unable to renew our existing leases on satisfactory terms or at all. If we are unable to renew, renegotiate or replace our leases or enter into leases for new locations on favorable terms, our growth and profitability could be harmed, which could have a material and adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

However, our investments in marketing may not effectively reach potential and existing customers, which could negatively affect our results of operations. Moreover, consumer preferences may change, and customers may not purchase through our stores as frequently or spend as much with us as historically has been the case. In addition, our social media presence may expose us to reputational damage if others post negative information concerning our business, our customers, NPPs or their donors, regardless of whether such information is accurate. Any such harm may be immediate and we may not have any opportunities for redress or correction, which could have an adverse effect on our reputation, business, results of operations, financial condition and prospects. Consequently, failure to attract new customers and to retain existing customers could harm our business, results of operations and financial condition.

Current wording

Our investments in marketing may not effectively reach potential and existing customers, which could negatively affect our results of operations. Moreover, consumer preferences may change, and customers may not purchase through our stores as frequently or spend as much with us as historically has been the case. In addition, our social media presence may expose us to reputational damage if others post negative information concerning our business, our customers, NPPs or their donors, regardless of whether such information is accurate. Any such harm may be immediate and we may not have any opportunities for redress or correction, which could have an adverse effect on our reputation, business, results of operations, financial condition and prospects. Consequently, failure to attract new customers and to retain existing customers could harm our business, results of operations and financial condition.

Previous wording

As of December 30, 2023, we operated 159 stores in Canada and 12 stores in Australia. Our operations in these non-U.S. jurisdictions require us to understand the retail climate and trends, customs and cultures, seasonal differences, business practices and competitive conditions in those jurisdictions. We are also required to familiarize ourselves with the laws, rules, regulations and government of each of those jurisdictions. Operations in each jurisdiction also require us to develop the appropriate in-country infrastructure, identify suitable partners for local operations and successfully integrate operations in that jurisdiction with our overall operations while effectively communicating and implementing company policies and practices. There are also financial, regulatory and other risks associated with international operations, including currency exchange fluctuations, potentially adverse tax and transfer pricing considerations, limitations on the repatriation and investment of funds outside of the country where earned, trade regulations, the risk of sudden policy or regulatory changes, the risk of political, economic and civil instability and labor unrest and uncertainties regarding interpretation, application and enforceability of laws and agreements. Any of these risks could adversely impact our operations, profitability or liquidity.

Current wording

As of December 28, 2024, we operated 165 stores in Canada and 14 stores in Australia. Our operations in these non-U.S. jurisdictions require us to understand the retail climate and trends, customs and cultures, seasonal differences, business practices and competitive conditions in those jurisdictions. We are also required to familiarize ourselves with the laws, rules, regulations and government of each of those jurisdictions. Operations in each jurisdiction also require us to develop the appropriate in-country infrastructure, identify suitable partners for local operations and successfully integrate operations in that jurisdiction with our overall operations while effectively communicating and implementing company policies and practices. There are also financial, regulatory and other risks associated with international operations, including currency exchange fluctuations, potentially adverse tax and transfer pricing considerations, limitations on the repatriation and investment of funds outside of the country where earned, tariffs or trade regulations, the risk of sudden policy or regulatory changes, the risk of political, economic and civil instability and labor unrest and uncertainties regarding interpretation, application and enforceability of laws and agreements. Any of these risks could adversely impact our operations, profitability or liquidity.

Previous wording

In addition, our Canadian and Australian operations use a functional currency other than the U.S. dollar. For fiscal year 2023, 45.5% of our net sales were derived from markets outside the United States. We are exposed to currency translation risk because the results of our international businesses in some countries are generally reported in local currency, which we then translate to U.S. dollars we record for our foreign assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and could have a negative effect on our financial results.

Current wording

In addition, our Canadian and Australian operations use a functional currency other than the U.S. dollar. For fiscal year 2024, 43.3% of our net sales were denominated in a currency other than the U.S. dollar. We are exposed to currency translation risk because the results of our international businesses in some countries are generally reported in local currency, which we then translate to U.S. dollars we record for our foreign assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and could have a negative effect on our financial results.

Previous wording

Our stores and processing facilities are critical to our operations. Any disruptions to those facilities or our logistics network, headquarters or any properties used by NPPs in connection with the supply of secondhand items to us could disrupt our business and overall operations. Events such as natural disasters or severe or otherwise unusual weather events (including, but not limited to, fires, hurricanes, tornadoes, tsunamis, floods, earthquakes); disease outbreaks; nuclear accidents; acts of terrorism, cyberattacks, military activities, labor strikes, social unrest, protests, riots, looting, arson; and building or construction damage or defects could cause physical damage to or destruction of one or more of our properties and/or inventory, and could further severely disrupt our operations, supply chains or utilities or data and communications systems and cause harm to our team members.

Current wording

Our stores and processing facilities are critical to our operations. Any disruptions to those facilities or our logistics network, headquarters or any properties used by NPPs in connection with the supply of secondhand items to us could disrupt our business and overall operations. Events such as natural disasters or severe or otherwise unusual weather events (including, but not limited to, fires, hurricanes, tornadoes, tsunamis, floods, earthquakes); actual or threatened workplace violence which can include premeditated or spontaneous acts such as terrorism, bomb threats, robbery, assault, active shooters, interpersonal violence, arson and civil unrest that results in protests, rioting and/or looting; disease outbreaks; nuclear accidents; cyberattacks; military activities; labor strikes; and building or construction damage or defects could cause physical damage to or destruction of one or more of our properties and/or inventory, and could further severely disrupt our operations, supply chains or utilities or data and communications systems and cause harm to our team members and/or customers and expose us to litigation relating to personal injury or property damage. We cannot be certain that our insurance coverage will be adequate for liabilities actually incurred or that insurance will continue to be available to us on economically reasonable terms or at all.

Previous wording

In particular, events that could limit the ability or desirability for people to shop in person, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, would also heighten certain other risks disclosed in this Annual Report. These effects have in the past and could in the future negatively impact our operations and financial performance, including our revenues and sales yield, including through impacting the amount and quality of donations to our NPPs and our customers’ willingness to shop at our stores. For example, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, our retail stores were closed for a substantial portion of 2020, which resulted in lower retail sales volume and fewer donations made to our NPPs at our CDCs. When locations were reopened, we also experienced operational challenges from personnel absences, decreased foot traffic at our stores, a decrease or volatile patterns in spending on retail in general, and continued diversion of the attention of our management team.

Current wording

In addition, events that could limit the ability or desirability for people to shop in person would also heighten certain other risks disclosed in this Annual Report. These effects have in the past and could in the future negatively impact our operations and financial performance, including our revenues and sales yield, including through impacting the amount and quality of donations to our NPPs and our customers’ willingness to shop at our stores. For example, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, our retail stores were closed for a substantial portion of 2020, which resulted in lower retail sales volume and fewer donations made to our NPPs at our CDCs. When locations were reopened, we also experienced operational challenges from personnel absences, decreased foot traffic at our stores, a decrease or volatile patterns in spending on retail in general, and continued diversion of the attention of our management team.

Previous wording

Further, any other events that cause closures, reductions or delays in operations can slow or temporarily halt our operations and could cause us to incur significant costs to relocate or otherwise re-establish these functions, reduce customer sales or our ability to sell items, or increase our insurance costs. These events could also cause reputational harm, decreased consumer confidence and spending and/or increased volatility in the United States, Canada and global financial markets and economies. Any of these developments could have a material and adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

Further, any of the events described herein or other events that cause closures, reductions or delays in operations can slow or temporarily halt our operations and could cause us to incur significant costs to relocate or otherwise re-establish these functions, reduce customer sales or our ability to sell items, or increase our insurance costs. These events could also cause reputational harm, decreased consumer confidence and spending and/or increased volatility in the U.S., Canada and global financial markets and economies. Any of these developments could have a material and adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

We have contractual arrangements with Valvan Baling Systems NV (“Valvan”), the provider of CPC technology, and ABP technology that include exclusive rights to the use of the CPC technology and ABP technology for a period of time that may be extended as we purchase additional technology from the provider in connection with our build out of additional CPCs and ABP facilities. The CPC and ABP technologies widen our competitive and operational advantage, and we plan to aggressively expand both across many of the markets in which we operate in the next several years. Our ability to extend these exclusive rights with respect to the CPC and ABP technologies is dependent on us continuing to secure our relationship with the provider as we continue to expand our CPCs and ABP facilities. Our failure to complete planned purchases may lead to the termination of our exclusive rights with Valvan, which could result in operational delays and weaken our competitive position, harming our business, results of operations and financial condition.

Current wording

We have contractual arrangements with Valvan Baling Systems NV (“Valvan”), the provider of CPC technology, and ABP technology that include exclusive rights to the use of the CPC technology and ABP technology for a period of time that may be extended as we purchase additional technology from the provider in connection with our build out of additional CPCs and ABP facilities. The CPC and ABP technologies widen our competitive and operational advantage, and we plan to expand both across many of the markets in which we operate in the next several years. Our ability to extend these exclusive rights with respect to the CPC and ABP technologies is dependent on us continuing to secure our relationship with the provider as we continue to expand our CPCs and ABP facilities. Our failure to complete planned purchases may lead to the termination of our exclusive rights with Valvan, which could result in operational delays and weaken our competitive position, harming our business, results of operations and financial condition.

Previous wording

As we continue to enhance automation and add other capabilities, our operations may become increasingly complex. While we expect these technologies to improve productivity in many of our merchandising operations, any flaws, bugs or failures of such technologies could cause interruptions in and delays to our operations, which may harm our business. We are increasing our investment in technology, software and systems to support these efforts, but such investments may not increase productivity, maintain or improve the experience for customers or result in more efficient operations. While we have created our own proprietary technology to operate our business, we also rely on technology from third parties, particularly in our CPCs. If we are no longer able to rely on such third parties, we could be required to seek other third-party licenses; redesign aspects of our operations to function without such technologies or services; or develop such technologies ourselves, any of which would result in increased costs and could result in operational delays.

Current wording

As we continue to enhance automation and add other capabilities, our operations may become increasingly complex. We are increasing our investment in technology, software and systems to support these efforts, but such investments may not increase productivity, maintain or improve the experience for customers or result in more efficient operations. There are also inherent risks associated with the investment in and use of new technologies, such as artificial intelligence, and such operational and supporting technologies can be subject to failure, disruption, or unavailability and increased vulnerability to cyberattacks and other cyber incidents. While we have created our own proprietary technology to operate our business, we also rely on technology from third parties, particularly in our CPCs. If we are no longer able to rely on such third parties, we could be required to seek other third-party licenses; redesign aspects of our operations to function without such technologies or services; or develop such technologies ourselves, any of which would result in increased costs and could result in operational disruption.

Previous wording

To the extent a significant portion of our employee base would choose to unionize, or attempts to unionize, our labor and other related costs could increase. Our ability to pass along any increased labor or other related costs to our customers is constrained by our everyday low-price model, and we may not be able to adequately offset such increased costs elsewhere in our business. In September 2022, one retail store in Ontario, Canada voted to be represented by a union. We have been bargaining with the union on a proposed collective agreement since late 2022. We meet with the union periodically, and bargaining is ongoing. If our employees decide to form or affiliate with a union, we cannot predict the effects such future organizational activities will have on our business and operations. If we were to become subject to work stoppages, we could experience disruption in our operations, including increases in our labor costs, which could harm our business, results of operations and financial condition.

Current wording

To the extent a significant portion of our employee base would choose to unionize, or attempts to unionize, our labor and other related costs could increase. Our ability to pass along any increased labor or other related costs to our customers is constrained by our everyday low-price model, and we may not be able to adequately offset such increased costs elsewhere in our business. In September 2022, one retail store in Ontario, Canada voted to be represented by a union. In September 2024, the same retail store in Ontario, Canada voted to decertify, and the union’s bargaining rights were terminated. If our employees decide to form or affiliate with a union, we cannot predict the effects such future organizational activities will have on our business and operations. If we were to become subject to work stoppages, we could experience disruption in our operations, including increases in our labor costs, which could harm our business, results of operations and financial condition.

Previous wording

If we do complete acquisitions, we may not be able to successfully integrate the acquired operations, systems (including financial, inventory, customer and other systems), team members and facilities into our company, or the time and resources spent on such integration could be greater than expected. In addition, we also may not accurately forecast the financial impact of an acquisition transaction, including accounting charges. Financing such acquisitions may require significant cash, debt (which indebtedness may restrict our business or require the use of available cash to make interest and principal payment) or the issuance of equity or convertible debt securities (which may result in further dilution of our existing stockholders). For example, we spent significant time and resources and incurred a significant amount of debt to finance the 2nd Ave. Acquisition and integrate its operations into our business.

Current wording

If we do complete acquisitions, we may not be able to successfully integrate the acquired operations, systems (including financial, inventory, customer and other systems), team members and facilities into our company, or the time and resources spent on such integration could be greater than expected. In addition, we also may not accurately forecast the financial impact of an acquisition transaction, including accounting charges. Financing such acquisitions may require significant cash, debt (which indebtedness may restrict our business or require the use of available cash to make interest and principal payment) or the issuance of equity or convertible debt securities (which may result in further dilution of our existing stockholders). For example, we spent significant time and resources and incurred a significant amount of debt to finance the acquisition of 2nd Ave. and integrate its operations into our business.

Previous wording

The markets for resale and secondhand items are highly competitive. We compete with vendors of new and secondhand items, including branded goods stores, local, national and global department stores, consignment and thrift stores (including non-profit operators), specialty retailers, direct-to-consumer, retailers, discount chains, independent retail stores, resale players focused on niche or single categories, as well as internet-based secondhand retailers and other technology-enabled marketplaces. We believe the risks described in this Annual Report, many of which are beyond our control, directly affect our ability to compete. Further, our competitive position is affected by the price at which we offer secondhand items; the speed and cost at which we can process and make available secondhand items to our customers; and the selection of items that we provide in stores.

Current wording

The markets for resale and secondhand items are highly competitive. We compete with vendors of new and secondhand items, including branded goods stores, local, national and global department stores, consignment and thrift stores (including non-profit operators), specialty retailers, direct-to-consumer, retailers (including fast fashion, value fashion and off-price retailers), independent retail stores, resale players focused on niche or single categories, as well as internet-based secondhand retailers and other technology-enabled marketplaces. We believe the risks described in this Annual Report, many of which are beyond our control, directly affect our ability to compete. Further, our competitive position is affected by the price at which we offer secondhand items; the speed and cost at which we can process and make available secondhand items to our customers; and the selection of items that we provide in stores.

Previous wording

As our market continues to evolve and we expect new market entrants and for competition to intensify. Established companies may not only develop online platforms or competing lines of business, but also acquire or establish relationships with competitors or our NPPs or their donors or provide meaningful incentives to favor their offerings over our stores. The performance of our competitors as well as changes in their pricing and promotional policies, marketing activities, new location openings, merchandising and operational strategies could negatively impact our ability to compete and to grow our revenue, and our sales and profitability may suffer.

Current wording

As our market continues to evolve, we expect new market entrants and for competition to intensify. Established companies may not only develop online platforms or competing lines of business, but also acquire or establish relationships with competitors or our NPPs or their donors or provide meaningful incentives to favor their offerings over our stores. The performance of our competitors as well as changes in their pricing and promotional policies, marketing activities, new location openings, merchandising and operational strategies could negatively impact our ability to compete and to grow our revenue, and our sales and profitability may suffer.

Previous wording

Many of our existing competitors have, and some of our potential competitors could have, substantial competitive advantages such as greater brand name recognition and longer operating histories; larger fulfillment infrastructures; greater technical capabilities; internet-based marketplaces; broader supply; established relationships with a larger existing customer and/or NPP and donor base; better access to merchandise; superior or more desirable secondhand items for sale or resale; greater customer service resources; greater financial, marketing, institutional and other resources; greater resources to make acquisitions; lower labor and development costs; larger and more mature intellectual property portfolios; and better access to capital markets than we do. Such competitors with greater financial and operating resources may be able to respond more quickly and effectively than we can to new or changing opportunities, technologies, standards or customer requirements and derive greater revenue and profits from their existing customer bases, adopt more aggressive pricing policies to build larger customer or NPP bases or respond more quickly than we can to new or emerging technologies and changes in consumer shopping behavior.

Current wording

Many of our existing competitors have, and some of our potential competitors could have, substantial competitive advantages such as greater brand name recognition and longer operating histories; larger fulfillment infrastructures; greater technical capabilities; internet-based marketplaces; broader supply; established relationships with a larger existing customer and/or NPP and donor base; better access to merchandise; superior or more desirable secondhand items for sale or resale; perceived pricing advantages due to the disparate application of sales tax to different entities; greater customer service resources; greater financial, marketing, institutional and other resources; greater resources to make acquisitions; lower labor and development costs; larger and more mature intellectual property portfolios; and better access to capital markets than we do. Such competitors with greater financial and operating resources may be able to respond more quickly and effectively than we can to new or changing opportunities, technologies, standards or customer requirements and derive greater revenue and profits from their existing customer bases; adopt more aggressive pricing policies to build larger customer or NPP bases; or respond more quickly than we can to new or emerging technologies and changes in consumer shopping behavior. In addition, promotional pricing or other pricing strategies utilized by national retailers and brands that set their own retail prices, as well as the offerings by fast fashion, value fashion and off-price retailers, may adversely affect the relative value of our offerings of secondhand items and we may need to lower our prices in order to compete. This could, as a result, adversely affect our business, revenue, growth, results of operations and financial condition.

Previous wording

Conditions in our market could also change rapidly and significantly as a result of technological advancements, partnering by our competitors or continuing market consolidation or strategic changes we or our competitors make in response to macro-economic or other events, and it is uncertain how our market will evolve. These competitive pressures in our market or our failure to compete effectively may result in price reductions, fewer customers and NPPs, reduced revenue, reduced profitability and loss of market share. Any failure to meet and address these factors could harm our business, results of operations and financial condition.

Current wording

Conditions in our market could also change rapidly and significantly as a result of technological advancements (including artificial intelligence and machine learning), partnering by our competitors or continuing market consolidation or strategic changes we or our competitors make in response to macro-economic or other events, and it is uncertain how our market will evolve. These competitive pressures in our market or our failure to compete effectively may result in price reductions, fewer customers and NPPs, reduced revenue, reduced profitability and loss of market share. Any failure to meet and address these factors could harm our business, results of operations and financial condition.

Previous wording

Despite security measures we have in place, and our efforts to prevent, monitor, and mitigate attacks and errors, our facilities, systems and confidential information may be vulnerable to attacks. The techniques used by cybercriminals change frequently, cybercriminals are increasingly sophisticated, and we continue to see advances in computer capabilities and remote access by employees. We expect to incur ongoing costs associated with the detection and prevention of security incidents and may incur additional costs in the event of a breach. Any actual or perceived compromise of our systems or data security measures or those of third parties with whom we do business, or any failure to prevent or mitigate the loss of confidential information and delays in detecting or providing notice of any such loss could disrupt our operations, damage our reputation, impact our sales and subject us to litigation, government action, increased transaction fees, regulatory fines or penalties or other additional costs and liabilities that could adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.

Current wording

Any actual or perceived compromise of our systems or data security measures or those of third parties with whom we do business, or any failure to prevent or mitigate the loss of confidential information and delays in detecting or providing notice of any such loss could disrupt our operations, damage our reputation, impact our sales and subject us to litigation, government action, increased transaction fees, regulatory fines or penalties or other additional costs and liabilities that could adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition, as well as the trading price of our stock.

Previous wording

We collect, maintain and otherwise process significant amounts of personal information and other data relating to our customers, employees and other individuals. We are subject to the terms of our privacy policies and notices and may be bound by contractual requirements applicable to our collection, use, processing, security and disclosure of personal information, and may be bound by or alleged to be subject to, or voluntarily comply with, self-regulatory or other industry standards relating to these matters. Additionally, numerous state, federal and international laws and rules and regulations govern the collection, use and protection of this information. Such requirements are constantly evolving, and we expect that there will continue to be new proposed requirements relating to privacy, data protection and information security in the United States, Canada and other jurisdictions, or changes in the interpretation of existing privacy requirements. For example, the California Consumer Privacy Act (“CCPA”, effective January 1, 2020) broadly defines personal information, imposes stringent consumer data protection requirements, gives California residents expanded privacy rights, provides for civil penalties for violations and introduces a private right of action for data breaches, and the California Privacy Rights Act (“CPRA”, effective January 1, 2023) creates additional obligations relating to personal information. Other states have also proposed or enacted similar laws and regulations relating to privacy. For example, the Virginia Consumer Data Protection Act (“VCDPA”, effective on January 1, 2023); the Connecticut Data Privacy Act (“CDPA”, effective July 1, 2023), and the Utah Consumer Privacy Act (“UCPA”, effective December 31, 2023) share similarities with the CCPA, the CPRA, and legislation proposed in other states.

Current wording

We collect, maintain and otherwise process significant amounts of personal information and other data relating to our customers, employees and other individuals. We are subject to the terms of our privacy policies and notices and may be bound by contractual requirements applicable to our collection, use, processing, security and disclosure of personal information, and may be bound by or alleged to be subject to, or voluntarily comply with, self-regulatory or other industry standards relating to these matters. Additionally, numerous state, provincial, and federal laws, rules and regulations of the countries where we operate govern the collection, use and protection of this information. Such requirements are constantly evolving, and we expect that there will continue to be new proposed requirements relating to privacy, data protection and information security in the U.S., Canada and Australia, or changes in the interpretation of existing privacy requirements. For example, the California Consumer Privacy Act (“CCPA”, effective January 1, 2020) broadly defines personal information, imposes stringent consumer data protection requirements, gives California residents expanded privacy rights, provides for civil penalties for violations and introduces a private right of action for data breaches, and the California Privacy Rights Act (“CPRA”, effective January 1, 2023) creates additional obligations relating to personal information. Approximately seventeen U.S. states have enacted laws and regulations relating to privacy similar to California’s, seven of which went into effect between 2023-2024. An additional five states have privacy laws that went into effect in January 2025 and an additional five states have privacy laws going into effect the following year.

Previous wording

We have significant operations in Canada and Australia, and must also comply with data privacy laws in those jurisdictions. In Canada, our collection, use, disclosure and management of personal information must comply with both federal and provincial privacy laws. The Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (“PIPEDA”) applies in all Canadian provinces except, in certain contexts, Alberta, British Columbia and Québec, as well as to the transfer of personal information across provincial or international borders. PIPEDA imposes stringent personal information protection obligations, requires privacy breach reporting, and limits the purposes for which organizations may collect, use and disclose personal information, which includes consumer data. A bill for a replacement to PIPEDA has been tabled and is currently working its way through the Canadian federal legislative process. The provinces of Alberta, British Columbia, and Québec have enacted separate data privacy laws that are substantially similar to PIPEDA, but, among other differences, all three additionally apply to our handling of our own employees’ personal data within their respective provinces. As of September 22, 2023, Québec’s privacy act took effect, which includes transparency and data impact assessments requirements and also imposes severe financial penalties for certain offenses like unlawful use of personal information and failure to report confidentiality incidents. We may incur additional costs and expenses related to compliance with these laws. We are also subject to Canada’s anti-spam legislation (“CASL”) when sending commercial electronic messages and can be held liable for violations. In Australia, the Privacy Act 1988 and the Australian Privacy Principles (“APPs”) regulate the handling of personal information, gives the Australian Information Commissioner the power to conduct investigations, and contains civil penalties for breach. Updates to the Privacy Act in 2023 increased the civil penalties available for serious and repeated breach events. Additional changes are expected in the next year. To the extent our operations further expand internationally, we may become subject to additional laws and regulations relating to privacy and data protection.

Current wording

We have significant operations in Canada and Australia, and must also comply with data privacy laws in those jurisdictions. In Canada, our collection, use, disclosure and management of personal information must comply with both federal and provincial privacy laws. The Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (“PIPEDA”) applies in all Canadian provinces except, in certain contexts, Alberta, British Columbia and Québec, as well as to the transfer of personal information across provincial or international borders. PIPEDA imposes stringent personal information protection obligations, requires privacy breach reporting, and limits the purposes for which organizations may collect, use and disclose personal information, which includes consumer data. The Consumer Privacy Protection Act is intended to replace PIPEDA and is expected to become federal law in Canada in 2025. The provinces of Alberta, British Columbia, and Québec have enacted separate data privacy laws that are substantially similar to PIPEDA, but, among other differences, all three additionally apply to our handling of our own employees’ personal data within their respective provinces. Québec’s privacy act includes transparency and privacy impact assessment requirements and also imposes financial penalties for certain offenses like unlawful use of personal information and failure to report data breach incidents. We may incur additional costs and expenses related to compliance with these laws. We are also subject to Canada’s anti-spam legislation (“CASL”) when sending commercial electronic messages and can be held liable for violations. In Australia, the Privacy Act 1988 and the Australian Privacy Principles (“APPs”) regulate the handling of personal information, giving the Australian Information Commissioner the power to conduct investigations, and imposing civil penalties for breach. Updates to the Privacy Act in 2023 increased the civil penalties available for serious and repeated breach events. Australia’s Privacy and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2024, referred to as the ‘first tranche’ of privacy law updates, was recently passed by both houses of Parliament and received Royal Assent on December 10, 2024. While the bill primarily focuses on development of a children’s online safety code and uplifts to cybersecurity requirements, additional ‘tranches’ increasing consumer privacy rights are under consideration. To the extent our operations further expand internationally, we may become subject to additional laws and regulations relating to privacy and data protection.

Previous wording

We rely on software, technologies and services sourced or licensed from third parties to operate critical functions of our business, including payment processing services, certain aspects of CPC automation and customer relationship and management services, We also use services such as Microsoft for our business emails, file storage on internal communications. If any of the third-party software or services we utilize, or the functional equivalents thereof, were unavailable for extended periods due to outages or interruptions or because they are no longer available on commercially reasonable terms, our business would experience significant operational disruptions. In each case, we would be required to develop such software ourselves or seek similar software licenses or services from other parties and reshape our business and operations to function with such new software or services. These alternatives could require a significant capital investment, take an extended period of time to implement, and divert management’s attention from our other business concerns, which could adversely affect our business and results of operations.

Current wording

We rely on software, technologies and services sourced or licensed from third parties to operate critical functions of our business, including payment processing services, certain aspects of CPC automation and customer relationship and management services, We also use services such as Microsoft for our business emails, file storage and internal communications. If any of the third-party software or services we utilize, or the functional equivalents thereof, were unavailable due to outages or interruptions or because they are no longer available on commercially reasonable terms, our business could experience significant operational disruptions. In each case, we may be required to expend significant resources to remediate such outages; develop such software ourselves; or seek similar software licenses or services from other parties and reshape our business and operations to function with such new software or services. These alternatives could require a significant capital investment, take an extended period of time to implement, and divert management’s attention from our other business concerns, which could adversely affect our business and results of operations.

Previous wording

Risks arising from the material weaknesses we have identified in our internal control over financial reporting and any failure to remediate these material weaknesses.

Current wording

Risks arising from the material weakness we have identified in our internal control over financial reporting and any failure to remediate the material weakness.

Previous wording

We are required to maintain internal control over financial reporting in accordance with applicable rules and guidance and to report any material weaknesses in such internal control over financial reporting. A material weakness is a deficiency, or a combination of deficiencies, in internal control over financial reporting such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of our financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis. In preparation for our IPO, we identified deficiencies in our internal control over financial reporting, which in the aggregate, constitute material weaknesses related to (i) the sufficiency of technical accounting and SEC reporting expertise within our accounting and financial reporting function, (ii) the establishment and documentation of clearly defined roles within our finance and accounting functions and (iii) our ability to evidence the design and implementation of effective information technology general controls (“ITGCs”) for information systems and applications that are relevant to the preparation of our financial statements.

Current wording

We are required to maintain internal control over financial reporting in accordance with applicable rules and guidance and to report any material weaknesses in such internal control over financial reporting. A material weakness is a deficiency, or a combination of deficiencies, in internal control over financial reporting such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of our financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis. We identified deficiencies in our internal control over financial reporting, which in the aggregate, constitute a material weakness related to our ability to evidence the design and implementation of effective information technology general controls (“ITGCs”) for information systems and applications that are relevant to the preparation of our financial statements.

Previous wording

If our steps are insufficient to successfully remediate the material weaknesses and otherwise establish and maintain an effective system of internal control over financial reporting, the reliability of our financial reporting, investor confidence in us and the value of our common stock could be materially and adversely affected. We may not be able to remediate the identified material weaknesses, and additional material weaknesses or significant deficiencies in our internal control over financial reporting may be identified in the future. Effective internal control over financial reporting is necessary for us to provide reliable and timely financial reports and, together with adequate disclosure controls and procedures, are designed to reasonably detect and prevent fraud. Our failure to implement and maintain effective internal control over financial reporting, to remedy identified material weaknesses or significant deficiencies or to implement required new or improved controls could result in errors in our financial statements that could result in a restatement of our financial statements or cause us to fail to timely meet our financial and other reporting obligations.

Current wording

If our steps are insufficient to successfully remediate the material weakness and otherwise establish and maintain an effective system of internal control over financial reporting, the reliability of our financial reporting, investor confidence in us and the value of our common stock could be materially and adversely affected. We may not be able to remediate the identified material weakness, and additional material weaknesses or significant deficiencies in our internal control over financial reporting may be identified in the future. Effective internal control over financial reporting is necessary for us to provide reliable and timely financial reports and, together with adequate disclosure controls and procedures, are designed to reasonably detect and prevent fraud. Our failure to implement and maintain effective internal control over financial reporting, to remedy any identified material weaknesses or significant deficiencies or to implement required new or improved controls could result in errors in our financial statements that could result in a restatement of our financial statements or cause us to fail to timely meet our financial and other reporting obligations.

Previous wording

In addition to the material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting that we have identified, we may discover weaknesses in our disclosure controls and procedures and internal control over financial reporting in the future. Any failure to develop or maintain effective controls or any difficulties encountered in their implementation or improvement could harm our operating results or cause us to fail to meet our reporting obligations and may result in a restatement of our financial statements for prior periods. Any failure to implement and maintain effective internal control over financial reporting also could adversely affect the results of periodic management evaluations and annual independent registered public accounting firm attestation reports regarding the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting that we will eventually be required to include in our Form 10-K that will be filed with the SEC. Ineffective disclosure controls and procedures and internal control over financial reporting could cause delays in our ability to comply with public company reporting requirements (including under the Exchange Act or stock exchange rules) and could also cause investors to lose confidence in our reported financial and other information, which could have a negative effect on the trading price of our common stock. In addition, if we are unable to continue to meet these requirements, we may not be able to remain listed on the NYSE. We are not currently required to comply with the SEC rules that implement Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act and are therefore not required to make a formal assessment of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting for that purpose. As a public company, we are required to provide an annual management report on the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting commencing with our second annual report on Form 10-K.

Current wording

In addition to the material weakness in our internal control over financial reporting that we have identified, we may discover weaknesses in our disclosure controls and procedures and internal control over financial reporting in the future. Any failure to develop or maintain effective controls or any difficulties encountered in their implementation or improvement could harm our operating results or cause us to fail to meet our reporting obligations and may result in a restatement of our financial statements for prior periods. Any failure to implement and maintain effective internal control over financial reporting also could adversely affect the results of periodic management evaluations and annual independent registered public accounting firm attestation reports regarding the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting that are included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Ineffective disclosure controls and procedures and internal control over financial reporting could cause delays in our ability to comply with public company reporting requirements (including under the Exchange Act or stock exchange rules) and could also cause investors to lose confidence in our reported financial and other information, which could have a negative effect on the trading price of our common stock. In addition, if we are unable to continue to meet these requirements, we may not be able to remain listed on the NYSE.