Ulta Beauty Reports Strong Q4, Plans 80 New Stores in 2019
Ulta Beauty has reported a strong quarter, with operating income up 10.5% to $281.2 million and net income increasing 3.1% to $214.7 million. The retailer also saw full-year net sales rise 14.1% to $6.7 billion, driven by a 8.1% increase in comparable sales.
Ulta Beauty's fourth quarter net sales rose 9.7% to $2.12 billion. Excluding an extra week last year, sales increased by 16.2%. The retailer plans to open around 80 new stores in 2019, contributing to its growth. Full-year net income rose 18.6% to $658.6 million.
Comparable sales at Ulta Beauty increased 9.4%, with transaction growth of 7.1% and a 2.3% rise in average ticket size. Gross profit as a percentage of net sales increased 90 basis points to 34.9%.
Ulta Beauty has expanded its brand offerings through strategic partnerships. It has collaborated digitally with Beyoncé's haircare brand Cécred, which launched a new protective collection exclusively in Ulta Beauty stores in September 2025. Additionally, Ulta Beauty acquired the British luxury beauty retailer Space NK, expanding its curated luxury brand offerings. These brands have chosen Ulta Beauty as their sole physical retail locations in the U.S.
Ulta Beauty's strong financial performance and strategic brand partnerships have positioned the retailer for continued growth in the coming year. With plans to open new stores and expand its brand offerings, Ulta Beauty is well-placed to maintain its momentum.
