a.k.a. Brands (AKA) UBS Global Consumer and Retail Conference summary

Business model and brand portfolio

• Operates a portfolio of four next-generation fashion brands targeting Gen Z and Millennials, with a focus on direct-to-consumer, wholesale, and retail channels.

• Princess Polly and Petal & Pup are key women's brands, with Princess Polly leading U.S. growth and Petal & Pup expanding through Nordstrom and other wholesale partners.

• Culture Kings and mnml are the newest men's brands, with Culture Kings blending music, sports, and fashion, and both brands scaling from Australia to the U.S.

• Brands leverage a test-and-repeat merchandising model, introducing new styles weekly and using influencer marketing focused on authenticity.

• Expansion into physical retail and wholesale is bringing in new customers and enhancing brand presence.

Financial outlook and growth strategy

• 2026 revenue guidance is $625–$635 million, with EBITDA expected at $27–$29 million.

• Princess Polly is expanding its U.S. retail footprint, with 14 stores open and eight more leases signed; four to five new stores expected to open this year.

• Petal & Pup is growing through Nordstrom, Von Maur, and Dillard’s, while Culture Kings is focusing on scaling its first-party brands.

• U.S. business has grown 25% on a two-year stack, driven by execution across channels and exclusive product offerings.

• International expansion includes launching a U.K. distribution center to enable next-day delivery and reduce barriers for U.K. customers.

Consumer trends and channel performance

• Gen Z and Millennial consumers are resilient, with strong engagement across geographies and channels.

• No significant impact observed from recent economic headlines, gas prices, or tax refund timing; focus remains on product quality and customer experience.

• Brick-and-mortar retail is seen as essential for young consumers seeking social and tactile experiences, with stores driving new customer acquisition and online halo effects.

• Store productivity is strong, with a two-year payback model and about 30% of store customers new to the brand.

• Store formats and assortments are tailored regionally, with ongoing learnings and improvements as the fleet grows.