PriceSmart, Inc. reported fiscal second‑quarter 2026 results that surpassed analyst expectations, with net merchandise sales reaching $1.47 billion, a 9.9% year‑over‑year increase, and earnings per diluted share of $1.62, up 12.2% from $1.45 a year earlier. The company’s operating income rose to $75.4 million from $65.3 million, while adjusted EBITDA climbed to $99.7 million, a 9.8% gain over the prior year’s $87.0 million. These figures beat consensus estimates of $1.51 per share and $1.475 billion in revenue, with the EPS beat of $0.11 (7.3%) and the revenue beat of $0.025 billion (1.7%).
The revenue growth was driven by robust demand across PriceSmart’s core operating segments. Net merchandise sales increased 9.9% year‑over‑year, supported by a 7.6% rise in same‑store sales and a 12% increase in membership income. The company’s 56 clubs continued to expand, and the mix shift toward higher‑margin categories helped offset the 4.4% rise in other expense, net, largely attributable to currency‑related items. The operating income increase reflects both higher sales and disciplined cost management, as the company maintained a stable cost‑to‑sales ratio despite inflationary pressures in some regions.
Operating income and adjusted EBITDA growth illustrate margin expansion. Operating income grew 15.4% year‑over‑year, while adjusted EBITDA increased 14.6%, indicating that the company successfully leveraged its membership model and scale to absorb cost pressures. The improvement in operating margin, from 10.2% to 9.9% of revenue, was driven by higher sales volume and a favorable mix of high‑margin merchandise, while the modest compression in other expense, net, was largely due to currency fluctuations that increased the cost of goods sold in certain markets.
CEO Sherry Bahrambeygui said the company was pleased with its Q2 performance, noting that the results demonstrate the strength and resilience of its business model across diverse Latin American and Caribbean markets. She highlighted the company’s ability to sustain growth while managing costs, and emphasized continued investment in club expansion and membership services to drive future revenue.
Management will provide forward guidance on April 15 2026. While specific guidance figures are not yet disclosed, the company’s strong earnings beat and margin improvement suggest confidence in maintaining growth momentum and executing its expansion strategy.
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