Dive Brief:
As it lapped last year's pandemic closures, J. Jill's first-quarter sales grew about 42% year over year to $129.1 million.
The apparel seller also posted a positive operating profit of $8.7 million, compared to an operating loss of nearly $90 million in 2020.
In a press release, CEO Claire Spofford called out a strong Mother's Day weekend and said that increased full-price sales, strong customer conversion and improved inventory management helped drive an increase in margins, which were up to 68% in Q1 from 55.1% a year ago.
Dive Insight:
The pandemic hit right at the heart of J. Jill's business as consumers, wary of socializing, paused on stocking up their wardrobes. Vaccines, stimulus and a need to refresh those wardrobes after a year of sweatpants for many has improved the lot of apparel sellers generally and J. Jill individually.