NIKE, Inc. reported financial results for its fiscal 2014 third quarter ended February 28, 2014. Despite the negative impact of changes in foreign exchange rates, earnings per share for the quarter were up 4 percent due to higher revenues driven by strong demand for NIKE, Inc. brands, gross margin expansion, a lower tax rate and slightly lower average share count, partially offset by the impact of higher SG&A investments in NIKE, Inc. brands and business capabilities. "Our strong Q3 results demonstrate our relentless focus on delivering innovations that resonate with consumers," said Mark Parker, President and CEO of NIKE, Inc. "Despite macroeconomic challenges, Nike delivers consistent results because we focus on the biggest opportunities for growth while we manage risk across our diverse global portfolio. This is how we continue to drive long-term value for our shareholders."
THIRD QUARTER CONTINUING OPERATIONS INCOME STATEMENT REVIEW -Revenues for NIKE, Inc. rose 13 percent to $7.0 billion, up 14 percent on a currency neutral basis. -Revenues for the NIKE Brand were $6.6 billion, up 14 percent on a currency neutral basis powered by growth in every geography and key category. -Revenues for Converse were $420 million, up 16 percent on a currency neutral basis, mainly driven by strong performance in our largest direct distribution markets: the United States, China and the United Kingdom. Gross margin expanded 30 basis points to 44.5 percent. Gross margin benefitted from higher average prices and continued growth in the higher margin Direct to Consumer business, partially offset by higher product input costs, unfavorable foreign exchange rates, and higher discounts, reflecting actions to clear excess inventory in select markets. Selling and administrative expense increased 16 percent to $2.2 billion.
Demand creation expense was $733 million, up 18 percent, driven by marketing support for key product launches, the upcoming World Cup and investments in retail product presentation for wholesale accounts. Operating overhead expense increased 15 percent to $1.4 billion due to investments in infrastructure, digital innovations and higher Direct to Consumer costs driven by comparable store sales growth and new store openings. Other expense, net was $45 million, comprised primarily of foreign exchange losses. For the quarter, the Company estimates the year-over-year change in foreign currency related gains and losses included in other expense (income), net, combined with the impact of changes in currency exchange rates on the translation of foreign currency-denominated profits, decreased pretax income by approximately $40 million.
