American Eagle Outfitters - 10-Q quarterly report FY

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to the filing requirements for at least the past 90 days. YES þ NO o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). YES o NO þ

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date: 205,823,268 Common Shares were outstanding at May 30, 2008.

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

AMERICAN EAGLE OUTFITTERS, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements of American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. (the “Company”) at May 3, 2008 and May 5, 2007 and for the 13 week periods ended May 3, 2008 (the “current period”) and May 5, 2007 (the “prior period”) have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for complete financial statements. Certain notes and other information have been condensed or omitted from the interim Consolidated Financial Statements presented in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. Therefore, these Consolidated Financial Statements should be read in conjunction with the Company’s Fiscal 2007 Annual Report. In the opinion of our management, all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring adjustments) considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included.

As used in this report, all references to “we,” “our,” and the “Company” refer to American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. and its wholly-owned subsidiaries. “American Eagle Outfitters,” “American Eagle,” “AE,” and the “AE Brand” refer to our U.S. and Canadian American Eagle Outfitters stores. “AEO Direct” refers to our e-commerce operations, ae.com, aerie.com, martinandosa.com and 77kids.com.

The Company’s business is affected by the pattern of seasonality common to most retail apparel businesses. The results for the current and prior periods are not necessarily indicative of future financial results.

The Consolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiaries. All intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation. At May 3, 2008, the Company operated in one reportable segment.

The Company’s financial year is a 52/53 week year that ends on the Saturday nearest to January 31. As used herein, “Fiscal 2010,” “Fiscal 2009” and “Fiscal 2008” refer to the 52 week periods ending January 29, 2011, January 30, 2010, and January 31, 2009, respectively. “Fiscal 2007” refers to the 52 week period ended February 2, 2008 and “Fiscal 2006” refers to the 53 week period ended February 3, 2007. “Fiscal 2005” refers to the 52 week period ended January 28, 2006.

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of our contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. On an ongoing basis, our management reviews its estimates based on currently available information. Changes in facts and circumstances may result in revised estimates.

In September 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (“SFAS”) No. 157, Fair Value Measurements (“SFAS No. 157”). SFAS No. 157 addresses how companies should measure fair value when they are required to use fair value as a measure for recognition or disclosure purposes under generally accepted accounting principles. SFAS No. 157 is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007. In February 2008, the FASB issued Staff Position (“FSP”) No. FAS 157-2, Effective Date of FASB Statement No. 157 (“FSP No. FAS 157-2”), which delays the effective date of SFAS No. 157 for nonfinancial assets and nonfinancial liabilities, except for items that are recognized or disclosed at fair value on a recurring basis (at least annually). For items within its scope, FSP No. FAS 157-2 defers the effective date to fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2008. The Company has adopted SFAS No. 157 for its financial assets and financial liabilities during the first quarter of Fiscal 2008. Refer to Note 4 of the Consolidated Financial Statements regarding the Company’s adoption of SFAS No. 157.

The Canadian dollar is the functional currency for the Canadian business. In accordance with SFAS No. 52, Foreign Currency Translation (“SFAS No. 52”), assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies were translated into U.S. dollars (the reporting currency) at the exchange rate prevailing at the balance sheet date. Revenues and expenses denominated in foreign currencies were translated into U.S. dollars at the monthly average exchange rate for the period. Gains or losses resulting from foreign currency transactions are included in the results of operations, whereas, related translation adjustments are reported as an element of other comprehensive income in accordance with SFAS No. 130, Reporting Comprehensive Income (see Note 7 of the Consolidated Financial Statements).

Revenue is recorded for store sales upon the purchase of merchandise by customers. The Company’s e-commerce operation records revenue upon the estimated customer receipt date of the merchandise. Shipping and handling revenues are included in net sales. Sales tax collected from customers is excluded from revenue and is included as part of accrued income and other taxes on the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Revenue is recorded net of estimated and actual sales returns and deductions for coupon redemptions and other promotions. The Company records the impact of adjustments to its sales return reserve quarterly within net sales and cost of sales. The sales return reserve reflects an estimate of sales returns based on projected merchandise returns determined through the use of historical average return percentages.

Revenue is not recorded on the purchase of gift cards. A current liability is recorded upon purchase, and revenue is recognized when the gift card is redeemed for merchandise. Additionally, the Company recognizes revenue on unredeemed gift cards based on an estimate of the amounts that will not be redeemed (“gift card breakage”), determined through historical redemption trends. Gift card breakage revenue is recognized in proportion to actual gift card redemptions as a component of net sales. For further information on a change in the Company’s gift card program, see the Gift Cards caption below.

The Company sells off end-of-season, overstock, and irregular merchandise to a third-party. The proceeds from these sales are presented on a gross basis, with proceeds and cost of sell-offs recorded in net sales and cost of sales, respectively. For the 13 weeks ended May 3, 2008 and May 5, 2007, the Company recorded $21.7 million and $10.8 million of proceeds and $22.7 million and $11.9 million of cost of sell-offs in net sales and cost of sales, respectively.

Cost of sales consists of merchandise costs, including design, sourcing, importing and inbound freight costs, as well as markdowns, shrinkage and certain promotional costs. Buying, occupancy and warehousing costs consist of: compensation, employee benefit expenses and travel for our buyers and certain senior merchandising executives; rent and utilities related to our stores, corporate headquarters, distribution centers and other office space; freight from our distribution centers to the stores; compensation and supplies for our distribution centers, including purchasing, receiving and inspection costs; and shipping and handling costs related to our e-commerce operation.

Selling, general and administrative expenses consist of compensation and employee benefit expenses, including salaries, incentives and related benefits associated with our stores and corporate headquarters. Selling, general and administrative expenses also include advertising costs, supplies for our stores and home office, communication costs, travel and entertainment, leasing costs and services purchased. Selling, general and administrative expenses do not include compensation, employee benefit expenses and travel for our design, sourcing and importing teams, our buyers and our distribution centers as these amounts are recorded in cost of sales.

Other income, net consists primarily of interest income as well as interest expense and foreign currency transaction gain/loss. As of July 8, 2007, the Company discontinued assessing a service fee on inactive gift cards. Prior to July 8, 2007, the Company recorded gift card service fee income in other income, net. The Company recorded gift card service fee income of $0.6 million for the 13 weeks ended May 5, 2007.

Cash includes cash equivalents. The Company considers all highly liquid investments purchased with a maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents.

As of May 3, 2008, short-term investments generally included investments with remaining effective maturities of less than 12 months consisting primarily of auction-rate securities (“ARS”) classified as available-for-sale that have been called.

As of May 3, 2008, long-term investments included investments with remaining maturities of greater than 12 months and consisted primarily of auction-rate securities classified as available-for-sale that have experienced failed auctions.

As of February 2, 2008, the Company had a total of approximately $786 million in cash and cash equivalents, short-term and long-term investments, which included approximately $418 million of investments in ARS. For the three months ended May 3, 2008, the Company experienced failed auctions for 41 ARS issues representing principal and accrued interest in the total amount of $286 million. During this time, the Company has also sold 22 ARS issues, at par plus accrued interest, for a total of $57 million. The Company concluded that the fair value of its remaining ARS issues was approximately $368 million, including approximately $5 million of accrued interest, at May 3, 2008. This amount is net of approximately $5 million of unrealized losses that were recognized through other comprehensive income (“OCI”) during the current period. The Company considers the decline in the fair value of its investments temporary, resulting from the current lack of liquidity relating to these investments. The Company believes that the current lack of liquidity relating to ARS investments will have no impact on its ability to fund its ongoing operations and growth initiatives. Refer to Note 4 of the Consolidated Financial Statements for information regarding fair value measurements.

Prior to the current period, the Company classified its auction-rate securities as short-term investments or long-term investments in accordance with their respective interest rate reset intervals. During February 2008, the Company began to experience auction failures related to its investments. Accordingly, liquidity for holders is limited until there is a successful auction, the security is called, matures, or until such time as another market for ARS develops. As a result, during the 13 weeks ended May 3, 2008, the Company reclassified approximately $279 million, net of temporary impairment, of ARS from short-term to long-term investments as a result of failed auctions. Refer to Note 11 of the Consolidated Financial Statements for information regarding a subsequent event related to auction-rate securities.

The Company continues to monitor the market for auction-rate securities and consider the impact, if any, on the fair value of its investments. If current market conditions deteriorate further, we may be required to record additional unrealized losses in other comprehensive income. If the credit ratings of the security issuers deteriorate, or the anticipated recovery in market values does not occur, we may be required to adjust the carrying value of these investments through an other-than-temporary impairment charge recorded in the Consolidated Statement of Operations.

Unrealized gains and losses on the Company’s available-for-sale securities are excluded from earnings and are reported as a separate component of stockholders’ equity, within accumulated other comprehensive income, until realized. When available-for-sale securities are sold, the cost of the securities is specifically identified and is used to determine any realized gain or loss.

The Company evaluates its investments for impairment in accordance with FSP SFAS 115-1, The Meaning of Other-Than-Temporary Impairment and Its Application to Certain Investments (“FSP SFAS 115-1”). FSP SFAS 115-1 provides guidance for determining when an investment is considered impaired, whether impairment is other-than-temporary, and measurement of an impairment loss. An investment is considered impaired if the fair value of the investment is less than its cost. If, after consideration of all available evidence to evaluate the realizable value of its investment, impairment is determined to be other-than-temporary, then an impairment loss should be recognized equal to the difference between the investment’s cost and its fair value.

See Note 3 of the Consolidated Financial Statements for information regarding cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments and long-term investments.

Merchandise inventory is valued at the lower of average cost or market, utilizing the retail method. Average cost includes merchandise design and sourcing costs and related expenses. The Company records merchandise receipts at the time merchandise is delivered to the foreign shipping port by the manufacturer (FOB port). This is the point at which title and risk of loss transfer to the Company.

The Company reviews its inventory levels in order to identify slow-moving merchandise and generally uses markdowns to clear merchandise. Additionally, the Company estimates a markdown reserve for future planned markdowns related to current inventory. Markdowns may occur when inventory exceeds customer demand for reasons of style, seasonal adaptation, changes in customer preference, lack of consumer acceptance of fashion items, competition, or if it is determined that the inventory in stock will not sell at its currently ticketed price. Such markdowns may have a material adverse impact on

earnings, depending on the extent and amount of inventory affected. The Company also estimates a shrinkage reserve for the period between the last physical count and the balance sheet date. The estimate for the shrinkage reserve can be affected by changes in merchandise mix and changes in actual shrinkage trends.

The Company calculates income taxes in accordance with SFAS No. 109, Accounting for Income Taxes. Effective February 4, 2007, the Company adopted FASB Interpretation No. 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes — An Interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109 (“FIN 48”). FIN 48 prescribes a comprehensive model for recognizing, measuring, presenting and disclosing in the financial statements tax positions taken or expected to be taken on a tax return, including a decision whether to file or not to file in a particular jurisdiction. Under FIN 48, a tax benefit from an uncertain position may be recognized only if it is “more likely than not” that the position is sustainable based on its technical merits. As a result of adopting FIN 48, the Company recorded a net liability of approximately $13.3 million for unrecognized tax benefits, which was accounted for as a reduction to the beginning balance of retained earnings as of February 4, 2007.

Property and equipment is recorded on the basis of cost with depreciation computed utilizing the straight-line method over the assets’ estimated useful lives. The useful lives of our major classes of assets are as follows:

In accordance with SFAS No. 144, Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long Lived Assets(“SFAS No. 144”), our management evaluates the ongoing value of leasehold improvements and store fixtures associated with retail stores, which have been open longer than one year. Impairment losses are recorded on long-lived assets used in operations when events and circumstances indicate that the assets might be impaired and the undiscounted cash flows estimated to be generated by those assets are less than the carrying amounts of the assets. When events such as these occur, the impaired assets are adjusted to their estimated fair value and an impairment loss is recorded in selling, general and administrative expenses.

As of May 3, 2008, the Company had approximately $11.4 million of goodwill, which is primarily related to the acquisition of our importing operations on January 31, 2000, as well as the acquisition of its Canadian business on November 29, 2000. In accordance with SFAS No. 142,Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, management evaluates goodwill for possible impairment on at least an annual basis.

The value of a gift card is recorded as a current liability upon purchase, and revenue is recognized when the gift card is redeemed for merchandise. Prior to July 8, 2007, if a gift card remained inactive for greater than 24 months, the Company assessed the recipient a one-dollar per month service fee, where allowed by law, which was automatically deducted from the remaining value of the card. For those jurisdictions where assessing a service fee was not allowable by law, the estimated breakage was recorded in a manner consistent with that described above, starting after 24 months of inactivity. Both gift card service fees and breakage estimates were recorded within other income, net.

On July 8, 2007, the Company discontinued assessing a service fee on inactive gift cards. As a result, the Company estimates gift card breakage and recognizes revenue in proportion to actual gift card redemptions as a component of net sales. The Company determines an estimated gift card breakage rate by continuously evaluating historical redemption data and the time when there is a remote likelihood that a gift card will be redeemed. The Company recorded $1.6 million of revenue related to gift card breakage during the current period.

Deferred lease credits represent the unamortized portion of construction allowances received from landlords related to the Company’s retail stores. Construction allowances are generally comprised of cash amounts received by the Company from its landlords as part of the negotiated lease terms. The Company records a receivable and a deferred lease credit liability at the lease commencement date (date of initial possession of the store). The deferred lease credit is amortized on a straight-line basis as a reduction of rent expense over the term of the original lease (including the pre-opening build-out period) and any subsequent renewal terms. The receivable is reduced as amounts are received from the landlord.

In April 2008, the Company introduced a new co-branded credit card (the “AE Visa Card”) and re-launched its private label credit card (the “AE Credit Card”). Both of these credit cards are issued by a third-party bank (the “Bank”), and the Company has no liability to the Bank for bad debt expense, provided that purchases are made in accordance with the Bank’s procedures. The Bank pays fees to the Company, which are recorded as revenue, based on the number of credit card accounts activated and on card usage volume. Once a customer is approved to receive the AE Visa Card and the card is activated, the customer is eligible to participate in the Company’s credit card rewards program. Under the rewards program, points are earned on purchases made with the AE Visa Card at AE and aerie, and at other retailers where the card is accepted. Points earned under the credit cards reward program result in the issuance of an AE gift card when a certain point threshold is reached. The AE Gift Card does not expire, however points earned that have not been used towards the issuance of an AE gift card expire after 36 months of no purchase activity.

The Company determined that points earned under the credit card rewards program on purchases at AE and aerie should be accounted for in accordance with Emerging Issues Task Force (“EITF”) Issue No. 00-22, Accounting for “Points” and Certain Other Time-Based or Volume-Based Sales Incentive Offers, and Offers for Free Products or Services to Be Delivered in the Future (“EITF 00-22”).Accordingly, the portion of the sales revenue attributed to the award points is deferred and recognized when the award gift card is redeemed or when the points expire. Additionally, credit card reward points earned on non-AE or aerie purchases are accounted for in accordance with EITF Issue No. 01-09, Accounting for Consideration Given by a Vendor to a Customer (Including a Reseller of the Vendor’s Products) (“EITF 01-09”). As the points are earned, a current liability is recorded for the estimated cost of the award gift card, and the impact of adjustments is recorded in cost of sales.

The Company also offers its customers the AE All-Access Pass (the “Pass”), a customer loyalty program. Using the Pass, customers accumulate points based on purchase activity and earn rewards by reaching certain point thresholds during three-month earning periods. Rewards earned during these periods are valid through the stated expiration date, which is approximately one month from the mailing date. These rewards can be redeemed for a discount on a purchase of merchandise. Rewards not redeemed during the one-month redemption period are forfeited. The Company has historically accounted for the credits earned using the Pass in accordance with EITF 01-09. However, in connection with the launch of the credit card rewards program, the Company determined that these credits should be accounted for consistently in accordance with EITF 00-22. The effect of applying EITF 00-22 did not have a material impact on the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements. Accordingly, beginning in Fiscal 2008, the portion of the sales revenue attributed to the award credits is deferred and recognized when the award credits are redeemed or expire.

During Fiscal 2007, the Company’s Board authorized a total of 60.0 million shares of its common stock for repurchase under its share repurchase program with expiration dates extending into Fiscal 2010. During Fiscal 2007, the Company repurchased 18.7 million shares as part of its publicly announced repurchase programs for approximately $438.3 million, at a weighted average price of $23.38 per share. The Company did not repurchase any shares as part of its publicly announced repurchase programs during the 13 weeks ended May 3, 2008. As of May 3, 2008, the Company had 41.3 million shares remaining authorized for repurchase. These shares will be repurchased at the Company’s discretion. Of the 41.3 million shares that may yet be purchased under the program, the authorization relating to 11.3 million shares expires in Fiscal 2009 and the authorization relating to 30.0 million expires in Fiscal 2010.

During the 13 week periods ended May 3, 2008 and May 5, 2007, the Company repurchased approximately 0.2 and 0.4 million shares, respectively, from certain employees at market prices totaling approximately $3.4 million and $11.6 million, respectively. These shares were repurchased for the payment of taxes in connection with the vesting of share-based payments, as permitted under the 2005 Stock Award and Incentive Plan (the “2005 Plan”).

All of the aforementioned share repurchases have been recorded as treasury stock.

The following table shows the amounts used in computing earnings per share.

Equity awards to purchase approximately 5.8 million and 2.8 million shares of common stock during the 13 weeks ended May 3, 2008 and May 5, 2007, respectively, were outstanding, but were not included in the computation of weighted average diluted common share amounts as the effect of doing so would have been anti-dilutive. Additionally, for both the 13 weeks ended May 3, 2008 and May 5, 2007, approximately 0.6 million shares, of performance-based restricted stock were not included in the computation of weighted average diluted common share amounts because the number of shares ultimately issued is contingent on the Company’s performance compared to pre-established annual performance goals.

In accordance with SFAS No. 131, Disclosures about Segments of an Enterprise and Related Information (“SFAS No. 131”), the Company has identified five operating segments (American Eagle U.S. retail stores, American Eagle Canadian retail stores, aerie by American Eagle retail stores, MARTIN + OSA retail stores and AEO Direct) that reflect the basis used internally to review performance and allocate resources. All of the operating segments have been aggregated and are presented as one reportable segment, as permitted by SFAS No. 131, based on their similar economic characteristics, products, production processes, target customers and distribution methods.

Certain reclassifications have been made to the Consolidated Financial Statements for prior periods in order to conform to the current period presentation.

The following table summarizes the fair market value of our cash and marketable securities, which are recorded as cash and cash equivalents on the Consolidated Balance Sheets, our short-term investments and our long-term investments:

Proceeds from the sale of available-for-sale securities were $347.1 million and $558.7 million for the 13 weeks ended May 3, 2008 and May 5, 2007, respectively. These proceeds are offset against purchases of $49.9 million and $301.4 million for the 13 weeks ended May 3, 2008 and May 5, 2007, respectively. Net realized gains (losses) related to available-for-sale securities were $0.1 million and $(0.2) million for the 13 weeks ended May 3, 2008 and May 5, 2007, respectively.

In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 157. SFAS No. 157 defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. Fair value is defined under SFAS No. 157 as the exit price associated with the sale of an asset or transfer of a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The Company has adopted the provisions of SFAS No. 157 as of February 3, 2008, for its financial instruments, including its auction-rate securities.

Valuation techniques used to measure fair value under SFAS No. 157 must maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs. In addition, SFAS No. 157 establishes a three-tier fair value hierarchy, which prioritizes the inputs used in measuring fair value. These tiers include:

As of May 3, 2008, the Company held certain assets that are required to be measured at fair value on a recurring basis. These include cash equivalents and short and long-term investments, including auction-rate securities.

In accordance with SFAS No. 157, the following table represents the Company’s fair value hierarchy for its financial assets (cash equivalents and investments) measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of May 3, 2008:

Due to the Company experiencing failed ARS during the quarter, the Company evaluated its ARS portfolio and determined that the majority of its portfolio should be valued using discounted cash flow analysis. The assumptions used in preparing the discounted cash flow model include estimates for interest rates, timing and amount of cash flows and expected holding periods of the ARS. The Company concluded that these ARS securities represent a Level 3 valuation within the SFAS No. 157 hierarchy. Accordingly, for the period ending May 3, 2008, the Company recorded a temporary impairment of $5.1 million in relation to its ARS. The reconciliation of our assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using unobservable inputs (Level 3) is as follows:

Property and equipment consists of the following:

During the current period, the Company entered into an agreement with three separate financial institutions to provide demand credit facilities totaling $175.0 million. During the current period, the Company borrowed a total of $75.0 million from one financial institution at a rate of prime minus a negotiated margin to increase the Company’s cash position to add financial flexibility. Additionally, during the current period, the Company repaid $37.5 million of this borrowing and drew a corresponding amount from a separate financial institution at an equivalent rate. The Company has incorporated the proceeds with its working capital. At May 3, 2008, $75.0 million was outstanding on these facilities, leaving a remaining available balance of $100.0 million. As of May 3, 2008, the average borrowing rate on these demand lines is 3.25%.

The Company has uncommitted letter of credit facilities for $125.0 million with two separate financial institutions. At May 3, 2008, letters of credit for $64.1 million were outstanding on these facilities, leaving a remaining available balance of $60.9 million.

Comprehensive income is comprised of the following:

The Company accounts for share-based compensation under the provisions of SFAS No. 123 (revised 2004), Share-Based Payment (“SFAS No. 123(R)”), which requires companies to measure and recognize compensation expense for all share-based payments at fair value. In accordance with the provisions of SFAS No. 123(R), the Company recognizes compensation expense for stock option awards and time-based restricted stock awards on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period of the award (or to an employee’s eligible retirement date, if earlier). Performance-based restricted stock awards are recognized as compensation expense based on the fair value of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant, the number of shares ultimately expected to vest and the vesting period.

Total share-based compensation expense included in the Consolidated Statements of Operations for the 13 weeks ended May 3, 2008 and May 5, 2007 was $8.9 million ($5.5 million, net of tax) and $12.5 million ($7.7 million, net of tax), respectively.

A summary of the Company’s stock option activity for the 13 weeks ended May 3, 2008 follows:

The weighted-average grant date fair value of stock options granted during the 13 weeks ended May 3, 2008 and May 5, 2007 was $7.20 and $10.71, respectively. The aggregate intrinsic value of options exercised during the 13 weeks ended May 3, 2008 and May 5, 2007 was $0.7 million and $10.1 million, respectively.

Cash received from the exercise of stock options was $1.0 million for the 13 weeks ended May 3, 2008 and $7.0 million for the 13 weeks ended May 5, 2007. The actual tax benefit realized from stock option exercises totaled $0.2 million for the 13 weeks ended May 3, 2008 and $2.9 million for the 13 weeks ended May 5, 2007.

The fair value of stock options was estimated at the date of grant using a Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following weighted-average assumptions:

As of May 3, 2008, there was $35.7 million of unrecognized compensation expense related to nonvested stock option awards that is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 2.3 years.

The Company grants both time-based and performance-based restricted stock awards under its 2005 Plan. The time-based restricted stock awards vest over three years, and performance-based restricted stock awards are earned if certain pre-established goals are met. The grant date fair value of the restricted stock awards is based on the closing market price of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant. A summary of the Company’s restricted stock activity is presented in the following tables.

As of May 3, 2008, there was $0.7 million of unrecognized compensation expense related to nonvested restricted stock awards that is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of one year.

The effective income tax rate based on actual operating results for the 13 weeks ended May 3, 2008 and May 5, 2007 were consistent at approximately 38%.

The Company records accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense.

The Company is subject to certain legal proceedings and claims arising out of the conduct of its business. In accordance with SFAS No. 5, Accounting for Contingencies, management records a reserve for estimated losses when the loss is probable and the amount can be reasonably estimated. If a range of possible loss exists and no anticipated loss within the range is more likely than any other anticipated loss, the Company records the accrual at the low end of the range, in accordance with FASB Interpretation No. 14, Reasonable Estimation of the Amount of a Loss — an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 5. As the Company believes that it has provided adequate reserves, it anticipates that the ultimate outcome of any matter currently pending against the Company will not materially affect the financial position or results of operations of the Company.

Subsequent to May 3, 2008, the Company had $18.8 million of auction-rate securities called at par value plus accrued interest through May 30, 2008. These securities included $10.0 million of dividend received deduction investments and $8.8 million in municipal bonds. As a result of the subsequent calls, these securities have been reclassified as short term investments in the Consolidated Balance Sheet as of May 3, 2008.

Ernst & Young LLP, our independent registered public accounting firm, has performed a limited review of the unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements for the 13 week periods ended May 3, 2008 and May 5, 2007, as indicated in their report on the limited review included below. Since they did not perform an audit, they express no opinion on the Consolidated Financial Statements referred to above. Our management has given effect to any significant adjustments and disclosures proposed in the course of the limited review.

The Board of Directors and Stockholders
American Eagle Outfitters, Inc.

We have reviewed the consolidated balance sheets of American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. (the Company) as of May 3, 2008 and May 5, 2007, and the related consolidated statements of operations and retained earnings and the consolidated statements of cash flows for the three month periods ended May 3, 2008 and May 5, 2007. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management.

We conducted our review in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). A review of interim financial information consists principally of applying analytical procedures and making inquiries of persons responsible for financial and accounting matters. It is substantially less in scope than an audit conducted in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board, the objective of which is the expression of an opinion regarding the financial statements taken as a whole. Accordingly, we do not express such an opinion.

Based on our reviews, we are not aware of any material modifications that should be made to the consolidated financial statements referred to above for them to be in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

We have previously audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheet of American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. as of February 2, 2008, and the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income, stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for the year then ended not presented herein, and in our report dated March 26, 2008, we expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements and included an explanatory paragraph regarding the Company’s adoption of FASB Interpretation No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes, an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109,” effective February 4, 2007. In our opinion, the information set forth in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet as of February 2, 2008, is fairly stated, in all material respects, in relation to the consolidated balance sheet from which it has been derived.

/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
May 30, 2008

We caution that these forward-looking statements, and those described elsewhere in this report, involve material risks and uncertainties and are subject to change based on factors beyond our control as discussed within Item 1A of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and Item 1A of our Fiscal 2007 Annual Report on Form 10-K. Accordingly, our future performance and financial results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in any such forward-looking statements.

Our management evaluates the following items, which are considered key performance indicators, in assessing our performance:

Comparable store sales — Comparable store sales provide a measure of sales growth for stores open at least one year over the comparable prior year period. In fiscal years following those with 53 weeks, including Fiscal 2007, the prior year period is shifted by one week to compare similar calendar weeks. A store is included in comparable store sales in the thirteenth month of operation. However, stores that have a gross square footage increase of 25% or greater due to a remodel are removed from the comparable store sales base, but are included in total sales. These stores are returned to the comparable store sales base in the thirteenth month following the remodel.

Our management considers comparable store sales to be an important indicator of our current performance. Comparable store sales results are important to achieve leveraging of our costs, including store payroll, store supplies, rent, etc. Comparable store sales also have a direct impact on our total net sales, cash and working capital.

Gross profit — Gross profit measures whether we are optimizing the price and inventory levels of our merchandise. Gross profit is the difference between net sales and cost of sales. Cost of sales consists of: merchandise costs, including design, sourcing, importing and inbound freight costs, as well as markdowns, shrinkage, certain promotional costs and buying, occupancy and warehousing costs. Buying, occupancy and warehousing costs consist of: compensation, employee benefit expenses and travel for our buyers; rent and utilities related to our stores, corporate headquarters, distribution centers and other office space; freight from our distribution centers to the stores; compensation and supplies for our distribution centers, including purchasing, receiving and inspection costs; and shipping and handling costs related to our e-commerce operation. Any inability to obtain acceptable levels of initial markups or any significant increase in our use of markdowns could have an adverse effect on our gross profit and results of operations.

Operating income — Our management views operating income as a key indicator of our success. The key drivers of operating income are comparable store sales, gross profit and our ability to control selling, general and administrative expenses.

Store productivity — Store productivity, including net sales per average square foot, sales per productive hour, average unit retail price, conversion rate, the number of transactions per store, the number of units sold per store and the number of units per transaction, is evaluated by our management in assessing our operational performance.

Inventory turnover — Our management evaluates inventory turnover as a measure of how productively inventory is bought and sold. Inventory turnover is important as it can signal slow moving inventory. This can be critical in determining the need to take markdowns on merchandise.

Cash flow and liquidity — Our management evaluates cash flow from operations, investing and financing in determining the sufficiency of our cash position. Cash flow from operations has historically been sufficient to cover our uses of cash. Our management believes that cash flow from operations will be sufficient to fund anticipated capital expenditures and working capital requirements.

Net sales increased for the 17^th consecutive quarter during the 13 weeks ended May 3, 2008 (the “first quarter”). Although net sales were below our original plan, they increased 5% over the prior year to $640.3 million.

Our operating margin of 10.1% in the first quarter, compared to 18.9% for the 13 weeks ended May 5, 2007. The decrease was largely due to a combination of the 6% decline in comparable store sales and increased markdowns.

Net income for the first quarter decreased 44% to $43.9 million, or 6.9% as a rate to net sales. Net income per diluted common share also decreased 40% to $0.21 versus $0.35 last year.

We ended the first quarter with $704.8 million in cash, short-term and long-term investments. During the period, we continued to make significant investments in our business, including $73.6 million in capital expenditures. These expenditures related primarily to new and remodeled stores in the U.S. and Canada, expansion of our distribution centers, and the roll-out of our new point-of-sale system.

Our business is affected by the pattern of seasonality common to most retail apparel businesses. The results for the current and prior periods are not necessarily indicative of future financial results.

The following table shows the percentage relationship to net sales of the listed line items included in our Consolidated Statements of Operations.

The following table shows our consolidated store data for the 13 weeks ended May 3, 2008 and May 5, 2007.

Our operations are conducted in one reportable segment which includes 942 U.S. and Canadian AE retail stores, 55 aerie stand-alone retail stores, AEO Direct and 21 MARTIN + OSA retail stores.

Comparison of the 13 weeks ended May 3, 2008 to the 13 weeks ended May 5, 2007

Net sales for the 13 weeks ended May 3, 2008 increased 5% to $640.3 million compared to $612.4 million for the 13 weeks ended May 5, 2007. Increased net sales were a result of a 12% increase in square footage as well as AEO Direct sales increasing approximately 29% versus last year. We experienced a decline in traffic and lower transactions per store, which led to first quarter comparable store sales decreasing 6%, compared to a 6% increase last year. Men’s comparable stores sales increased 3% to last year while women’s decreased 11% to last year.

Gross profit for the first quarter was $263.7 million, or 41.2% as a percent to net sales, compared to $298.5 million, or 48.7% as a percent to net sales last year. The primary cause of the reduced margin was increased markdowns as a result of lower than expected sales. Rent increased as a rate to sales due to new store openings and the first quarter comparable store sales decline. Additionally, we experienced higher delivery costs related to fuel surcharges. There was $1.5 million share-based payment expensed included in gross profit for the period compared to $1.9 million last year.

Our gross profit may not be comparable to that of other retailers, as some retailers include all costs related to their distribution network as well as design costs in cost of sales and others may exclude a portion of these costs from cost of sales, including them in a line item such as selling, general and administrative expenses. See Note 2 of the Consolidated Financial

Statements for a description of our accounting policy regarding cost of sales, including certain buying, occupancy and warehousing expenses.

Selling, general and administrative expenses increased approximately 8% to $169.6 million from $157.0 million, and deleveraged by 90 basis points, as a percent to net sales, to 26.5% from 25.6% last year. The higher rate this quarter is primarily due to the comparable store sales decline. Increases in direct compensation and benefits, services purchased, travel and communications were partially offset by reductions in incentive compensation, advertising and supplies as a percent to net sales. There was $7.4 million share-based payment expense included in selling, general and administrative expenses compared to $10.6 million last year.

Depreciation and amortization expense as a percent to net sales increased to 4.6% for the first quarter compared to 4.2% for the corresponding period last year. Depreciation and amortization expense increased to $29.6 million compared to $25.5 million last year. The increase in expense is primarily due to an increase in net capital expenditures.

Other income, net decreased to $6.5 million from $11.3 million primarily due to lower interest income as a result of lower investment balances coupled with lower interest rates compared to last year.

The effective tax rate remained unchanged at approximately 38% this year compared to last year.

Net income decreased approximately 44% to $43.9 million, or 6.9% as a percent to net sales, from $78.8 million, or 12.9% as a percent to net sales last year. Net income per diluted common share decreased to $0.21 from $0.35 in the prior year. The decrease in net income was attributable to the factors noted above.

Effective February 4, 2007, we adopted FIN 48. As a result of adopting FIN 48, we recorded a net liability of approximately $13.3 million for unrecognized tax benefits, which was accounted for as a reduction to the beginning balance of retained earnings as of February 4, 2007.

Due to the completion of the second phase of our Ottawa, Kansas distribution center in 2007, we are eligible for approximately $4.0 million of nonrefundable incentive tax credits in Kansas. These credits can be utilized to offset future Kansas income taxes and will expire in 10 years. These available credits are not currently utilizable due to existing credit carryovers and the level of income taxes paid to Kansas. Additionally, use of these credits is dependent upon our meeting certain requirements in future periods. Due to the contingencies related to the future use of the credits, we believe that it is more likely than not that the benefit of this asset will not be realized within the carryforward period. Thus, a full valuation allowance of $4.0 million has been recorded as of May 3, 2008.

Our uses of cash are generally for working capital, the construction of new stores and remodeling of existing stores, information technology upgrades, distribution center improvements and expansion, the repurchase of common stock and the payment of dividends. Historically, these uses of cash have been funded with cash flow from operations. Additionally, our uses of cash include the construction of our new corporate headquarters, expansion of MARTIN + OSA and aerie by American Eagle. In the future, we expect that our uses of cash will also include new brand concept, including development of 77kids by american eagle. Our growth strategy includes internally developing new brands and the possibility of acquisitions. We periodically consider and evaluate these options to support future growth. In the event that we do pursue such options, we could require additional equity or debt financing. There can be no assurance that we would be successful in closing any potential transaction, or that any endeavor we undertake would increase our profitability.

The following sets forth certain measures of our liquidity:

The decrease in working capital as of May 3, 2008 compared to February 2, 2008 and May 5, 2007 is primarily related to the reduction in cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments.

Net cash used for operating activities totaled $51.1 million for the 13 weeks ended May 3, 2008. Our major source of cash from operations was merchandise sales. Our primary outflows of cash for operations were for the payment of operational costs and the purchase of inventory.

Investing activities for the 13 weeks ended May 3, 2008 included $297.2 million from the net sale of investments classified as available-for-sale, partially offset by $73.6 million for capital expenditures.

Cash provided by financing activities primarily included proceeds from a $75.0 million borrowing against our demand facilities, partially offset by $20.4 million used for the payment of dividends.

As discussed in Note 2 to the Consolidated Financial Statements, we adopted the provisions of SFAS No. 157 effective February 3, 2008. We have determined that we utilize observable inputs (Level 2) and unobservable (Level 3) inputs in determining the fair value of our ARS portfolio.

As of February 2, 2008, we had a total of approximately $786 million in cash and cash equivalents, short-term and long-term investments, which included approximately $418 million of investments in ARS. For the three months ending May 3, 2008, we experienced failed auctions for 41 ARS issues representing principal and accrued interest in the total amount of $286 million. During this time, we have also sold 22 ARS issues, at par plus accrued interest, for a total of $57 million. We concluded that the fair value of our remaining ARS issues was approximately $368 million, including approximately $5 million of accrued interest, at May 3, 2008. This amount is net of approximately $5 million of unrealized losses that were recognized through other comprehensive income (“OCI”) during the current period. We consider the decline in the fair value of our investments temporary, resulting from the current lack of liquidity relating to these investments. We believe that the current lack of liquidity relating to ARS investments will have no impact on our ability to fund our ongoing operations and growth initiatives.

During the current period, we entered into an agreement with three separate financial institutions to provide demand credit facilities totaling $175.0 million. During the current period, we borrowed a total of $75.0 million from one financial institution at a rate of prime minus a negotiated margin rate to increase our cash position to add financial flexibility. Additionally, during the current period, we repaid $37.5 million of this borrowing and drew a corresponding amount from a separate financial institution at an equivalent rate. We have incorporated the proceeds with our working capital. At May 3, 2008, $75.0 million was outstanding on these facilities, leaving a remaining available balance of $100.0 million. As of May 3, 2008, the average borrowing rate on these demand lines is 3.25%.

Additionally, we have uncommitted letter of credit facilities for $125.0 million with two separate financial institutions. At May 5, 2008, letters of credit for $64.1 million were outstanding on these facilities, leaving a remaining available balance of $60.9 million.

Capital expenditures for the 13 weeks ended May 3, 2008 included $39.5 million related to investments in our AE stores, including 34 new AE, aerie, and M+O stores in the United States and Canada, five remodeled stores in the United States and fixtures and visual investments. The remaining capital expenditures were primarily related to the expanding our distribution

center, construction of our home office, and our information technology infrastructure including the roll-out of our new point-of-sale system.

We expect capital expenditures for Fiscal 2008 to be approximately $250 million to $275 million. These expenditures will relate primarily to approximately 80 new aerie stand-alone stores, 40 new and 40 to 50 remodeled American Eagle stores in the United States and Canada, approximately 11 new MARTIN + OSA stores, information technology upgrades, the construction of the second phase of our new corporate headquarters and distribution center expansion/improvement, including the completion of the second phase of our Ottawa, Kansas distribution center expansion. We plan to fund these capital expenditures through existing cash and cash generated from operations.

During Fiscal 2007, our Board authorized a total of 60.0 million shares of its common stock for repurchase under its share repurchase program with expiration dates extending into Fiscal 2010. During Fiscal 2007, we repurchased 18.7 million shares as part of our publicly announced repurchase programs for approximately $438.3 million, at a weighted average price of $23.38 per share. We did not repurchase any shares as part of our publicly announced repurchase programs during the 13 weeks ended May 3, 2008. As of May 3, 2008, we had 41.3 million shares remaining authorized for repurchase. These shares will be repurchased at our discretion. Of the 41.3 million shares that may yet be purchased under the program, the authorization relating to 11.3 million shares expires in Fiscal 2009 and the authorization relating to 30.0 million expires in Fiscal 2010.

During the 13 week periods ended May 3, 2008 and May 5, 2007, we repurchased approximately 0.2 and 0.4 million shares, respectively, from certain employees at market prices totaling approximately $3.4 million and $11.6 million, respectively. These shares were repurchased for the payment of taxes in connection with the vesting of share-based payments, as permitted under the 2005 Stock Award and Incentive Plan (the “2005 Plan”).

All of the aforementioned share repurchases have been recorded as treasury stock.

During the first quarter of Fiscal 2008, our Board declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.10 per share, which was paid on April 11, 2008. The payment of future dividends is at the discretion of our Board and is based on earnings, cash flow, financial condition, capital requirements, changes in U.S. taxation and other relevant factors. It is anticipated that any future dividends paid will be declared on a quarterly basis.

Our critical accounting policies are described in Item 7, Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, and in the notes to our Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended February 2, 2008 contained in our Fiscal 2007 Annual Report on Form 10-K. Any new accounting policies or updates to existing accounting policies as a result of new accounting pronouncements have been discussed in the notes to our Consolidated Financial Statements in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. The application of our critical accounting policies may require management to make judgments and estimates about the amounts reflected in the Consolidated Financial Statements. Management uses historical experience and all available information to make these estimates and judgments, and different amounts could be reported using different assumptions and estimates.

We do not believe that inflation has had a significant effect on our net sales or our profitability. Substantial increases in cost, however, could have a significant impact on our business and the industry in the future. Additionally, while deflation could positively impact our merchandise costs, it could have an adverse effect on our average unit retail price, resulting in lower sales and profitability.

There were no material changes in our exposure to market risk from February 2, 2008. Our market risk profile as of February 2, 2008 is disclosed in Item 7A, Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk, of our Fiscal 2007 Annual Report on Form 10-K.

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures that are designed to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed in our reports under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to our management including our Principal Executive Officer and our Principal Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. In designing and evaluating the disclosure controls and procedures, management recognized that any controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable assurance of achieving the desired control objectives.

In connection with the preparation of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, as of May 3, 2008, an evaluation was performed under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including the Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Exchange Act). Based upon that evaluation, our Principal Executive Officer and our Principal Financial Officer have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective at the reasonable assurance level as of the end of the period covered by this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the 13 weeks ended May 3, 2008 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

Risk factors that affect our business and financial results are discussed within Item 1A of our Fiscal 2007 Annual Report on Form 10-K.

The following table provides information regarding our repurchases of our common stock during the 13 weeks ended May 3, 2008.

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

Dated: June 5, 2008