Ralph Lauren raises outlook as brand elevation drives double-digit growth

Ralph Lauren has today revealed it surpassed expectations for the first quarter of fiscal 2026, with strong growth across all geographies and channels. This was fuelled by a continued push to elevate the brand, recruit younger consumers and category expansion.

Revenue rose by 14% to $1.7 billion (£1.27 billion) on a reported basis, with double-digit increases in Asia (up by 21%), Europe (up by 16%) and North America (up by 8%). Meanwhile, comparable store sales jumped 13% globally.

Adjusted earnings per share climbed by 40% to $3.77 (£2.81), with adjusted operating margin expanding 270 basis points to 17% - both surpassing company guidance.

Patrice Louvet, President and CEO, said: "We delivered strong first quarter results across geographies, channels and consumer segments.

"While we continue to approach the current global operating environment with prudence, we are encouraged by the broad-based strength in our brand and our businesses as we execute on our long-term strategic priorities — including recruiting new and younger consumers, strengthening our core and high-potential categories, and developing our key city ecosystems in each region."

The quarter saw Ralph Lauren add 1.4 million new direct-to-consumer customers and grow social media followers by nearly 66 million.

Core business sales rose by the mid-teens, while womenswear, outerwear and handbags - its identified growth categories - increased more than 20%. Highlights included the Polo Play handbag collection, Wimbledon capsule and a new Canyon Road home range inspired by the American West.

Store expansion continued with 24 openings, including Vancouver’s Alberni Street store, a "Candy Store" concept in Marbella.

Given its strong performance, Ralph Lauren has raised its full-year revenue and operating margin outlook in constant currency, though it remains cautious on the macroeconomic backdrop in the second half. It now expects low- to mid-single-digit revenue growth for fiscal 2026.

Ralph Lauren, Executive Chairman and Chief Creative Officer, added: "What we stand for - aspiration, optimism, individuality and authenticity - inspires people in every corner of the world.

"And we are bringing these values to life and inviting people to step into their dreams in new and powerful ways - from our first-ever fashion presentation in Shanghai this April to our MLB World TourTM Tokyo Series activations and our Women's Polo presentation in Paris."