Dollar General (NYSE:DG) shares fell more than 7% on Thursday after the company reported its Q3 results, with EPS of $2.33 coming in worse than the Street estimate of $2.54. Revenue was $9.5 billion, compared to the Street estimate of $9.42 billion.
Analysts at Deutsche Bank provided their views on the results, raising their price target to $293 from $276. While being disappointed with Q3 performance, the analysts mentioned that the results overall supported the narrative that dollar stores remain well positioned in the current environment. The issues weighing on gross margin seem transitory in nature related to delays in getting distribution facilities, additional storage, and increased shrink. While the analysts noted that elevated shrink could remain a headwind for longer, they believe most of these pressures should ease into 2023.
For Q4, the company expects same-store sales growth in the range of 6% – 7% and diluted EPS in the range of $3.15 – $3.30.