EDGAR 10-K Filing

Company CIK: 913241
Filing Year: 2025
Filename: 913241_10-K_2025_0001628280-25-009503.json

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ITEM 1. BUSINESS
ITEM 1. BUSINESS
Steven Madden, Ltd. and its subsidiaries designs, sources, and markets fashion-forward branded and private label footwear, accessories, and apparel. We distribute our products through the wholesale channel to department stores, mass merchants, off-price retailers, shoe chains, online retailers, national chains, specialty retailers, independent stores, and clubs throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Europe. Additionally, the Company operates in other international markets through its joint ventures in South Africa, the Middle East, Israel, various countries in Europe, Latin America, and certain countries in Asia, and through special distribution arrangements in various European countries, North Africa, South and Central America, and various countries within the Asia-Pacific region. We also distribute our products through our direct-to-consumer channel, which includes company-operated retail stores and e-commerce websites, in the United States, Canada, Mexico, South Africa, the Middle East, Israel, various countries in Europe, Latin America, and the Asia-Pacific region.
Our product offerings include a diverse range of contemporary styles, designed to establish or capitalize on market trends, complemented by core product offerings. We are recognized for our design creativity and ability to deliver trend-right products with high quality at accessible price points, efficiently and within short lead times.
The following is a description of our business as of December 31, 2024.
OUR SEGMENTS
Wholesale Footwear
Our Wholesale Footwear segment designs, sources, and markets our brands and sells our products to department stores, mass merchants, off-price retailers, shoe chains, online retailers, national chains, specialty retailers, independent stores, and clubs throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Europe. Additionally, the Company operates in other international markets through its joint ventures in South Africa, the Middle East, Israel, various countries in Europe, Latin America, and certain countries in Asia, and through special distribution arrangements in various European countries, North Africa, South and Central America, and various countries within the Asia-Pacific region. Our Wholesale Footwear products are designed and marketed for various lifestyles and include dress shoes, boots, booties, fashion sneakers, sandals, and casual shoes. The Wholesale Footwear segment consists of the following brands: Steve Madden, Dolce Vita®, Betsey Johnson®, Blondo®, and Anne Klein®. This segment also includes our private label footwear business. This segment represented 46.4% of total revenue during 2024.
Wholesale Accessories/Apparel
Our Wholesale Accessories/Apparel segment designs, sources, and markets our brands and sells our products, primarily consisting of handbags and apparel, to department stores, mass merchants, off-price retailers, online retailers, specialty retailers, independent stores, and clubs throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Europe. Additionally, the Company operates in other international markets through its joint ventures in South Africa, the Middle East, Israel, various countries in Europe, Latin America, and certain countries in Asia, and through special distribution arrangements in various European countries, North Africa, South and Central America, and various countries within the Asia-Pacific region. Our Wholesale Accessories/Apparel business consists of handbags, apparel, small leather goods, belts, soft accessories, fashion scarves, wraps, gifting, and other trend accessories. The Wholesale Accessories/Apparel segment consists of the following brands: Steve Madden, Dolce Vita®, Betsey Johnson®, Anne Klein®, and ATM® (which was acquired in November 2024). This segment also includes our private label handbag and accessories business. This segment represented 29.0% of total revenue during 2024.
Direct-to-Consumer
Our Direct-to-Consumer segment engages in the sale of footwear, handbags, apparel, and other accessories through Steve Madden and Dolce Vita full-price retail stores, Steve Madden outlet stores, directly-operated concessions in international markets, and directly-operated e-commerce websites. We operate retail locations in regional malls and shopping centers, as well as high streets in various cities across the United States, Canada, Mexico, South Africa, the Middle East, Israel, Europe, Latin America, and the Asia-Pacific region. Our stores play an important role in our test-and-react strategy, and also serve as fulfillment and return locations for our e-commerce business. Our stores also serve as a marketing tool that allows us to strengthen global brand recognition and to showcase selected items from our full line of branded and licensed products. In addition to these testing and marketing benefits, we have also been able to leverage sales information gathered at Steve Madden retail stores and our websites to assist our wholesale customers in their order placement and inventory management. We believe
that our retail stores and websites enhance overall sales and profitability and our ability to react quickly to changing consumer demands.
As of December 31, 2024, we operated 291 brick-and-mortar retail stores, including 218 Steve Madden full-price stores, 68 Steve Madden outlet stores, and five Dolce Vita full-price stores. In addition, we ended the year with 20 concessions in Taiwan, 20 concessions in South Africa, and two concessions in Canada, totaling 42 concessions in international markets.
In addition to our brick-and-mortar stores, our Direct-to-Consumer business offers products online through our e-commerce websites in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Europe, and through our joint ventures in international markets. We operate five branded e-commerce websites, which include: www.stevemadden.com, www.dolcevita.com, www.betseyjohnson.com, www.blondo.com and www.atmcollection.com. This segment represented 24.1% of total revenue during 2024.
Licensing
Our Licensing segment engages in the licensing of the Steve Madden® and Betsey Johnson® trademarks for use in the sale of select apparel, accessories, and home categories as well as various other non-core products. Most of our license agreements require the licensee to pay the Company a royalty based on actual revenue, a minimum royalty in the event predetermined revenue targets are not achieved and a percentage of sales for brand advertising. This segment represented 0.5% of total revenue during 2024.
Corporate
Corporate does not constitute a reportable segment and includes costs not directly attributable to the reportable operating segments. These expenses are primarily related to corporate executives, corporate finance, corporate social responsibility, legal, human resources, information technology, cybersecurity, and other shared services.
For additional information on our segments, refer to Note 19 - Operating Segment Information in the Notes to our consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report.
OUR BRANDS
Steve Madden. We design, source, and market fashion-forward footwear, accessories, and apparel under the Steve Madden brand. The Steve Madden brand is a leader in the fashion footwear industry with permission from the customer to sell products across most footwear categories including dress shoes, boots, booties, fashion sneakers, and casuals. While the brand appeals to a wide demographic, the core target consumer is 18 to 40 years old. The Steve Madden brand is sold globally, including in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Europe, Africa, the Asia-Pacific region, the Middle East, and South and Central America.
Dolce Vita. Dolce Vita® is a contemporary women's brand known for its effortless style for the modern individual. Dolce Vita® is more than just shoes and handbags, it’s about creating a community, supporting underrepresented voices, and responsibly building a brand that we can be proud of with every step. The Dolce Vita® brand is sold globally, including in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Europe, Israel, Australia, and Indonesia. We acquired the Dolce Vita® footwear trademark in August 2014 and in December 2021, we acquired the remaining intellectual property rights of Dolce Vita®, handbags and other accessories.
Betsey Johnson. The Betsey Johnson® brand is recognized for its unique and original designs - both pretty and punk, lots of color, and movement and modernity - that embrace girl power at any age. Betsey Johnson® footwear and accessories are designed for inclusive, punky, and fiercely independent women with a target age of 25 to 45 years old. The Betsey Johnson® brand is primarily sold in the United States, and in select international markets. We acquired the Betsey Johnson® trademark and substantially all other intellectual property of Betsey Johnson LLC in October 2010.
Blondo. The Blondo® brand is a 100+ year-old footwear brand recognized for its quality water-resistant leather boots, booties, casual shoes, and sneakers. The Blondo® brand is primarily sold in the United States and Canada. We acquired the intellectual property and related assets of Blondo® in January 2015.
ATM. In November 2024, we acquired the ATM® (Anthony Thomas Melillo) brand, an elevated basics apparel brand known for slub jersey cotton t-shirts made primarily in Peru. ATM was founded in 2012. ATM is included within our Wholesale Accessories/Apparel segment, and is primarily sold in the United States.
GREATS. In August 2019, we acquired GREATS®, a Brooklyn-based digitally native footwear brand specializing in premium quality, responsibly made sneakers for men and women, which was primarily sold via e-commerce. In August 2024, the Company divested of substantially all the assets and liabilities related to the GREATS business.
LICENSED BRAND
Anne Klein. In January 2018, we entered into a license agreement with WHP Global to use the Anne Klein®, AK Sport®, AK Anne Klein Sport®, and Lion Head Design® (collectively "Anne Klein®") trademarks in connection with the design, marketing, and sale of footwear and accessories products. The Anne Klein® brand has a rich heritage going back over 50 years and is recognized for its dedication to timeless American classics. Anne Klein® footwear and accessories are sold in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Israel.
PRODUCT DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT
We have established a reputation for our creative design, marketing, and trend-right products at affordable price points. Our future success will substantially depend on our ability to continue to anticipate and react quickly to changing consumer demands. To meet this objective, we have developed what we believe is an unparalleled design team and process. Our design team strives to create designs that are true to our DNA, reflect current or anticipated trends, and can be manufactured in a timely and cost-effective manner. Most new products are tested in select retail stores and on our e-commerce websites. Based on these tests, among other things, products are selected and then offered for wholesale and direct-to-consumer distribution worldwide. We believe that our design and testing processes combined with our flexible sourcing model provide our brands with a significant competitive advantage and allow us to reduce the risk of incurring significant exit costs associated with the production and distribution of less desirable designs.
MANUFACTURING AND SUPPLY CHAIN
We source each of our product lines separately based on the individual design, style, and quality specifications of our various brands and product categories. We do not own or operate any foreign manufacturing facilities; rather, we use agents and our own sourcing offices to source our products from independently owned manufacturers in China, Cambodia, Mexico, Vietnam, Brazil, India, Italy, and various other countries. We have established relationships with a number of manufacturers and agents in each of these countries. We have not entered into any long-term manufacturing or supply contracts. We believe that a sufficient number of alternative sources exist for the manufacture of our products.
We continually monitor the availability of the principal raw materials used in our footwear, accessories, and apparel which are currently available from a number of sources in various parts of the world. We track inventory flow on a regular basis, monitor sell-through data, and incorporate input on product demand from our customers.
The suppliers and manufacturers of our products are required to adopt our Supplier Code of Conduct 2.0, which specifies that they comply with all local laws and regulations governing human rights, working conditions, anti-corruption, restricted substances, and environmental compliance, including animal welfare and conflict minerals, before we conduct business with them. We are committed to working with manufacturers, suppliers, vendors, and agents that share our Company’s goal of maintaining socially responsible and sustainable business practices.
Our products are manufactured overseas and most of our products are shipped via ocean freight carriers to our third-party distribution facilities in California and to a lesser extent New Jersey, and via ground freight from Mexico to our third-party distribution facility in Texas. We rely to a lesser extent on air carriers for the shipping of products. Once our products arrive in the United States, we distribute them mainly from six third-party distribution centers, including four located in California, one located in Texas, and one located in New Jersey. Our products are also distributed through a Company-operated distribution center located in Canada and through our third-party distribution facilities in Mexico and Europe. By utilizing distribution facilities specializing in fulfillment for wholesale customers, retail stores and e-commerce businesses, we believe that our customers are served in a prompt and efficient manner. Suppliers of products for our businesses in Canada, Mexico, Europe, China and our joint ventures in South Africa, the Middle East, Israel, various countries in Europe, Latin America, and certain countries in Asia, ship directly to the respective countries. Products for our overseas distributors are shipped to freight forwarders primarily in China, Cambodia, and Mexico where the distributor arranges for subsequent shipment. See Item 1A. “Risk Factors” below for a discussion of the risks associated with supply chain disruptions and changes to international trade policies.
DISTRIBUTION
For the year ended December 31, 2024, our revenue was primarily generated through two distribution channels: Wholesale and Direct-to-Consumer. Wholesale accounted for approximately $1,722,113, or 75.4% of total revenue, while Direct-to-Consumer accounted for approximately $550,153, or 24.1% of total revenue. Each distribution channel is described below.
Wholesale. We distribute product within our Wholesale Footwear and Wholesale Accessories/Apparel segments through a broad network of over 2,000 retailers, including department stores, mass merchants, off-price retailers, shoe chains, online retailers, national chains, specialty retailers, independent stores, and club stores. Our wholesale distribution network spans across the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Europe, as well as various international markets through our joint ventures. We also distribute our product under various distribution agreements in certain international markets. Under the terms of our distribution agreements, the distributors purchase product from us and are generally required to open a minimum number of stores each year and maintain a certain minimum level of sales in the licensed territory. The distribution agreements currently in place expire on various dates and include renewal options provided certain conditions are met.
For the year ended December 31, 2024, our top ten wholesale channel customers, in no particular order, included: Nordstrom, Macy's, Dillard's, Designer Brands, The TJX Companies, Ross Stores, Burlington Stores, Amazon, Walmart, and Target. In 2024, the Company had one customer who accounted for more than 10% of total revenue. That customer accounted for 11.8% of total revenue.
As of December 31, 2024, there were three customers who each accounted for more than 10% of total accounts receivable. These three customers accounted for 22.3%, 16.3%, and 14.4%, respectively, of total accounts receivable.
Direct-to-Consumer. We distribute product within our Direct-to-Consumer segment through Steve Madden and Dolce Vita full-price retail stores, Steve Madden outlet stores, directly-operated concessions in international markets, and directly-operated e-commerce websites. We operate retail locations in regional malls, shopping centers, and high streets in various cities across the United States, Canada, Mexico, South Africa, the Middle East, Israel, Europe, Latin America, and the Asia-Pacific region. We also operate concessions in South Africa, Taiwan, and Canada.
As of December 31, 2024, we operated 291 brick-and-mortar retail stores, including five Dolce Vita full-price stores and 68 Steve Madden outlet stores, and five e-commerce websites. In addition, we operated 42 Steve Madden concessions in international markets. Out of the 291 total brick-and-mortar retail stores, 178 stores were located outside of the United States.
COMPETITION
The fashion industry is highly competitive, with numerous domestic and international companies operating in the footwear, apparel, and accessories markets. Our competitors may have greater financial, operational, and marketing resources, among other advantages, which may allow them to compete more effectively. We believe that brand strength, trend-driven styling, product quality, value proposition, speed-to-market, marketing and distribution, and customer relationships are the key factors driving success in our industry. We remain committed to leveraging these elements to maintain and grow our market position. However, there is no assurance that we will be able to compete successfully against both established and emerging competitors. Increased competition, shifting consumer preferences, and evolving market dynamics could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations. For further discussion of related risks, see Item 1A. “Risk Factors.”
MARKETING
We have focused on creating a full-funnel marketing strategy that covers all stages of the customer journey to establish our Company as a leading designer and marketer of fashion footwear, accessories, and apparel for a diverse set of style-conscious consumers. Principal marketing activities include brand and performance marketing, social media and influencer marketing, experiential events, in-store and online promotions, and public relations focusing on product and brand placements, celebrity seeding, as well as public and media appearances by our Founder and Creative and Design Chief, Steve Madden. We foster high value lifetime customer relationships with investments in marketing technology and talent, both in-house and via strategic partnerships with external agencies. We continue to promote our e-commerce websites where customers can purchase Steve Madden, Dolce Vita®, Betsey Johnson®, Blondo®, and ATM® products.
MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEM (MIS) OPERATIONS
Effective and sophisticated information systems are essential to maintaining our competitive position and supporting our growth strategy. Our technology infrastructure consists of several integrated systems, as described below, designed to manage key business functions across wholesale, retail, e-commerce, and logistics.
•Enterprise Resource Planning (“ERP”) System. Our ERP system is an integrated system that supports our wholesale operations in the areas of finance and accounting, sourcing, purchase order management, customer order management, and inventory control. All of our North American wholesale businesses (other than Canada and Almost Famous, which are each operating under separate ERP systems), our European business, as well as our Asia sourcing operations, are operated through this ERP system.
•Warehouse Management System ("WMS"). Our WMS is utilized by the majority of our third-party logistics providers and is fully integrated with our ERP system to streamline inventory distribution processes.
•Retail and Point-of-Sale ("POS") Systems. Our retail stores operate on various POS systems that are integrated with our retail inventory management and store replenishment system to optimize in-store operations.
•E-commerce Platform. We utilize a direct-to-consumer e-commerce platform that supports our online sales, enabling customers to purchase products through our branded websites. This platform integrates with our ERP system and WMS to manage inventory, process sales, and coordinate fulfillment. We utilize a reputable cloud-based solution to support our growing e-commerce business.
•Ancillary Systems and Third-Party Services. Supporting our core systems, we utilize various specialized tools for supply chain management, business intelligence, data warehousing, Electronic Data Interchange, credit card processing, human resources, and payroll.
We regularly update and enhance these systems to improve functionality, efficiency, and integration across our business.
INFORMATION SYSTEMS
The Company maintains its information technology and security policies, comprised of risk management policies and procedures surrounding the Company’s information systems, cybersecurity practices, and protection of confidential information. The Company’s Chief Information Security Officer has ultimate oversight of the Company’s cyber risk management policies and procedures, and chairs quarterly Information Security Steering Committee meetings, which provide cooperation, collaboration, and consensus driven information security guidance to both the Information Technology Department, and the Company as a whole. Our Chief Information Security Officer oversees our cybersecurity risk management and information security programs and provides quarterly status reports to the Information Security Steering Committee and the Audit Committee. As part of the Company's information security program, all global employees are required to complete annual training on information security awareness, including cybersecurity, global data privacy requirements, and information technology compliance measures. Certain roles require additional role-based, specialized cybersecurity training, such as tabletop exercises to ensure proactive preparation and effective coordination in the event of a security incident. The Company continuously performs penetration testing internally for all internal and public facing assets and annual network and application penetration tests are also conducted by a reputable external vendor. The outcomes and findings of the penetration testing are shared with the Information Security Steering Committee and the Audit Committee, as well as any steps the Company has taken to mitigate and remediate any identified risks. Additionally, we maintain network security and cyber liability insurance in order to provide a level of financial protection in the event of certain covered cyber losses and data breaches.
TRADEMARKS
Our strategy for the continued growth of our business includes expanding our presence beyond footwear, accessories, and apparel through the selective licensing of our brands. We consider our company-owned trademarks to be among our most valuable assets, and have registered many of our trademarks in the United States and 149 other countries and in numerous International Classes. From time to time, we adopt new trademarks and new logos and/or stylized versions of our trademarks in connection with the marketing of new product lines. We believe that these trademarks have significant value and are important for purposes of identifying our Company, the marketing of our products and the products of our licensees, and distinguishing them from the products of others.
Trademarks we believe to be most significant to our business include: Steve Madden®, Madden Girl®, Madden NYC®, Betsey Johnson®, Dolce Vita®, Blondo®, and ATM®. We license our Steve Madden® and the Betsey Johnson® trademark for use in connection with the manufacture, marketing, and sale of select apparel, accessories, and home categories as well as various other non-core products.
In addition to the licensing of our trademarks, we in-license the trademarks of third parties for use in connection with some of our product lines. Generally, these licensing arrangements require us to make royalty payments equal to a percentage of our revenue or a minimum royalty as well as maintain a certain level of marketing to support the licensed trademark.
For additional information on our licensing arrangements, refer to Note 2 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Note 15 - Commitments, Contingencies, and Other in the notes to our consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report.
HUMAN CAPITAL MANAGEMENT
As of February 1, 2025, we employed approximately 4,800 employees globally, with approximately 2,200 of these employees located in the United States and 2,600 located internationally. Of these employees, approximately 3,500 work full-time and approximately 1,300 work part-time. Most of our part-time employees work in the Direct-to-Consumer segment. None of our employees are represented by a union, and we consider our relations with our employees to be good. We have never experienced a material interruption of our operations due to a labor dispute.
Culture
Steve Madden is for the bold, expressive, and ambitious. Our guiding principles are key to our competitive edge and are embedded throughout all levels of our Company. They motivate our growth, inspire our innovation, define our culture, and set the standard for all of our actions.
•First things first. Take care of the fundamentals before anything else.
•It starts with trust. Great teams are built upon trust. We build trust through honesty, care for the greater good, and follow-through.
•Don’t coast. Celebrate success, but don’t rest on your laurels. Hustle and grind are what set us apart.
•Think big and small. Have your eyes on the big picture while obsessing over the details.
•The customer is our muse. Study our customers, connect with them directly, and always be open to inspiration.
•Place team ownership over personal ego. The company wins when the team has ownership. Don’t let your ego control you.
•Everyone can be creative. Creativity is about more than making art. It’s about seeing around corners, working within limitations, and being original.
•Progress, not perfection. Act upon good ideas quickly and always be ready to iterate.
Career Development
In the dynamic world of fashion, it is vital that we support the continuous learning and personal growth of our employees. Our talent development initiatives focus on enhancing internal programs and processes that empower our employees to excel and feel a strong sense of belonging and fulfillment in their roles. Key initiatives include our long-standing professional development relationship with the University of Arizona Global Campus, a comprehensive tuition reimbursement program, leadership and management training, and access to external conferences and workshops that focus on specific industry knowledge. Further, we offer SM Learning Sessions, a company-wide initiative that brings together internal and external experts to share knowledge on diverse topics. This program not only enhances skillsets, but also fosters a collaborative and inclusive environment, encouraging cross-departmental interaction and networking. Furthermore, performance evaluations and constructive feedback mechanisms are integral to our strategy. By investing in employee development, we aim to create a workplace where employees are not only equipped to meet the challenges of the ever-evolving fashion industry but are also deeply engaged and committed to our long-term success.
Employee Wellness
At Steve Madden, we prioritize the well-being of our employees, which is why we’ve established Wellness Wednesdays as a monthly opportunity for our team to invest in themselves. During these sessions, employees can take a break from their work routines to indulge in rejuvenating activities like meditation sessions, soothing back massages, and nutritious snacks. Additionally, we offer financial wellness seminars, health fairs, discounted gym memberships, and on-site discounted food. We also offer an employee assistance program with a range of programs, resources, and tools that can help with various wellness issues. We collaborate with featured vendors to enhance the experience and provide even more ways for our employees to prioritize their wellness.
Charitable Giving
The Company regularly makes charitable donations, primarily through The Steve Madden Corporate Foundation (the “Foundation”), a donor-advised fund established under Fidelity Charitable and managed by Rockefeller Capital Management. The Foundation's charitable giving priorities include:
•Industry Innovation: We support equity, sustainability, and accessibility in the fashion industry. Our goal is to empower industry leaders and emerging talents to create a more equitable and sustainable future through strategic projects and collaborations that align with our commitment to progressive change.
•Community Impact: We uplift the communities surrounding our offices, stores, and supply chain. Through local partnerships and targeted donations, we address the specific needs of the areas where we operate, fostering stronger, more resilient communities.
We contributed $1.3 million and $1.0 million to the Foundation during 2024 and 2023, respectively, and have since launched multiple shop-to-give campaigns across our various company-operated e-commerce websites. Further information on our charitable initiatives can be found on the "Sustainability" section of our website, https://www.stevemadden.com/.
GOVERNMENT REGULATIONS
Our business is subject to various United States federal, state, local, and foreign laws and regulations, including those related to environmental protection, health, and safety. We may also incur liability under environmental laws and regulations for contamination at sites we currently or previously owned or operated, including contamination caused by prior owners, operators, neighboring properties, or other third parties. Additionally, we may be responsible for the off-site disposal of hazardous materials. We believe we are in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. To date, compliance requirements have not had, and are not expected to have, a material effect on our capital expenditures, cash flows, earnings, or competitive position. For further discussion of related risks, see Item 1A. “Risk Factors.”
SEASONALITY AND OTHER FACTORS
Our operating results are influenced by seasonality and other factors that create variability from quarter to quarter. For example, boot sales typically peak in the fall and winter months (third and fourth fiscal quarters), while sandal sales are strongest in the spring and summer months (first and second fiscal quarters). Additionally, our Direct-to-Consumer segment experiences heightened demand during the holiday retail season. Our diverse product portfolio, however, helps to mitigate the impact of seasonal fluctuations in any single product category.
Beyond seasonality, several other factors contribute to quarterly fluctuations in our operating results, including weather conditions, timing of holidays and bulk footwear shipments, market acceptance of our products, pricing, product presentation and promotional strategies, our ability to deliver on-trend styles at the right time, fluctuations in personnel needs and operational costs, inventory management, including potential write-downs for obsolescence, fluctuations in material costs and product mix across our wholesale, direct-to-consumer and licensing businesses, and external conditions, such as general macroeconomic trends, consumer confidence and competitor actions.
Additionally, the amount of revenue recognized in any period may be impacted by shifts in consumer demand or purchasing behavior. Customers may also cancel orders, modify delivery schedules, or alter product mixes with minimal notice, adding further unpredictability to our financial results.
While we actively manage these variables, there is no assurance that we will not be materially impacted by seasonal trends or other external factors. For further discussion of related risks, see Item 1A. “Risk Factors.”
BACKLOG
We had unfilled wholesale customer orders of approximately $609,453 and $533,609, as of February 3, 2025 and February 3, 2024, respectively. Our backlog at any given time is influenced by factors, including seasonality, supply chain lead times, timing of market weeks, and wholesale customer purchases of core products through our open stock program. Due to these variables, period-to-period comparisons of backlog may not be indicative of future revenue or shipment trends.

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ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
You should carefully consider the risks and uncertainties we describe below as well as all other information contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K before making any investment decisions. The risks and uncertainties included here are not exhaustive. Other sections within this report discuss additional factors that could adversely affect our business. Our industry is highly competitive and constantly evolving, and we may face additional risks that are presently unknown, deemed immaterial, or unforeseen. If any of these risks and uncertainties were to materialize, our business, financial condition, results of operations, and liquidity could be materially and adversely affected.
INDUSTRY RISKS
The fashion footwear, accessories, and apparel industry is subject to rapid changes in consumer preferences. If we do not accurately anticipate fashion trends and promptly respond to consumer demand, we could lose sales, our relationships with customers could be harmed, and our brand loyalty could be diminished.
The strength of our brands and our success depends in large part, upon our ability to anticipate and promptly respond to product and fashion trends, as well as to anticipate, gauge, and react to changing consumer demands in a timely manner. There can be no assurance that our products will correspond to the changes in taste and demand or that we will be able to successfully advertise and market products that respond to trends and customer preferences. If we misjudge the market for our products, we may be faced with significant excess inventories for some products and missed opportunities as to others. In addition, misjudgments in merchandise selection could adversely affect our brand image with our customers, resulting in lower sales and increased markdown allowances for customers, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, and liquidity.
We face intense competition from both established companies and newer entrants into the market. Our failure to compete effectively could cause our market share to decline, which could harm our reputation and have a material adverse impact on our financial condition, results of operations, and liquidity.
The fashion footwear, accessories, and apparel industry is highly competitive and barriers to entry are low. Our competitors include specialty companies as well as companies with diversified product lines. Market growth in the sales of fashion footwear, accessories, and apparel has encouraged the entry of many new competitors and increased competition from established companies. Many of these competitors, including Aldo, Sam Edelman, and Vince Camuto, may have significantly greater financial and other resources than we do, and there can be no assurance that we will be able to compete successfully with these and other fashion footwear, accessories, and apparel companies. Increased competition could result in pricing pressures, increased marketing expenditures, and loss of market share and could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, and liquidity.
If we and the retailers that are our customers are unable to adapt to recent and anticipated changes in the retail industry, the sales of our products may decline, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations, and liquidity.
In recent years, the retail industry has experienced consolidation and other ownership changes. In the future, retailers in the United States and in foreign markets may further consolidate, undergo restructurings or reorganizations, or realign their affiliations, any of which could decrease the number of stores that carry our licensees’ products, or increase the ownership concentration within the retail industry. Changing shopping patterns, including the rapid expansion of online retail shopping, have adversely affected customer traffic in mall and outlet centers, particularly in North America. We expect competition in the e-commerce market will intensify. As a greater portion of consumer expenditures with retailers occurs online and through mobile commerce applications, our brick-and-mortar retail customers who fail to successfully integrate their physical retail stores, and digital retail may experience financial difficulties, including store closures, bankruptcies, or liquidations. A continuation or worsening of these trends could cause financial difficulties for one or more of our major customers, which, in turn, could substantially increase our credit risk and have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial condition, and cash flows. We have little or no control over how our customers will respond to the challenges posed by these changes in the retail industry. Our success will be determined, in part, on our and our customers’ ability to manage the impact of the rapidly changing retail environment and identify and capitalize on retail trends, including technology, e-commerce, artificial intelligence, and other process efficiencies, or advanced technologies that will better service our customers. If we and our customers fail to compete successfully, our businesses, market share, results of operations, and financial condition could be materially and adversely affected.
RISKS RELATING TO OUR COMPANY
The loss of Steve Madden, our Founder and Creative and Design Chief, or members of our executive management team could have a material adverse effect on our business.
The growth and success of our Company since its inception more than a quarter century ago is attributable, to a significant degree, to the talents, skills, and efforts of our Founder and Creative and Design Chief, Steven Madden. An extended or permanent loss of the services of Mr. Madden could severely disrupt our business and have a material adverse effect on our Company. We also depend on the contributions of the members of our senior management team. Our senior executives have substantial experience and expertise in our business and industry and have made significant contributions to our growth and success. Competition for executive talent in the fashion footwear, accessories, and apparel industries is intense. While our employment agreements with Mr. Madden and most of our senior executives include a non-compete provision in the event of the termination of employment, the non-compete periods are of limited duration and scope and the enforceability of such non-compete provisions are subject to existing and future laws. Although we believe we have depth within our senior management team, if we were to lose the services of Mr. Madden or any of our senior executives, and especially if any of these individuals were to join a competitor or form a competing company, our business and financial performance could be seriously harmed. A loss of the skills, industry knowledge, contacts, and expertise of Mr. Madden or any of our senior executives could cause a setback to our operating plan and strategy.
If we are not successful in implementing our growth strategy or integrating acquired businesses, we may not be able to take advantage of certain market opportunities and may become less competitive.
Our business has grown organically and as a result of business acquisitions. In order to gain from our acquisitions, we must be effective in integrating the businesses acquired into our overall operations. Further, the expansion of our operations has increased and will continue to increase the demand on our managerial, operational, and administrative resources. In recent years, we have invested significant resources in, among other things, our management information systems and hiring and training of new personnel. However, in order to manage currently anticipated levels of future demand, we may be required to, among other things, expand our distribution facilities, establish relationships with new manufacturers to produce our products and continue to expand and improve our financial, management, and operating systems. We may experience difficulty integrating acquired businesses into our operations and may not achieve anticipated synergies from such integration. There can be no assurance that we will be able to manage future growth effectively and a failure to do so could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, and liquidity.
If one or more of our significant customers were to reduce or stop purchases of our products, our sales and profits could decline.
The retailers that are our customers consist principally of department stores, mass merchants, off-price retailers, shoe chains, online retailers, national chains, specialty retailers, independent stores, and clubs. Certain of our department store customers, including some under common ownership, account for significant portions of our wholesale business. We generally enter into a number of purchase order commitments with our customers for each of our lines every season and do not enter into long-term agreements with any of our customers. Therefore, a decision by a significant customer, whether motivated by competitive conditions, financial difficulties, or otherwise, to decrease the amount of merchandise purchased from us or to change its manner of doing business could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, and liquidity.
Our financial results are subject to quarterly fluctuations.
Our results of operations may fluctuate from quarter to quarter and are affected by a variety of factors, including:
•weather conditions;
•the timing of holidays;
•the timing of larger shipments of products;
•market acceptance of our products;
•pricing, presentation and promotional strategies of the products offered and sold;
•fluctuations in personnel needs and operating costs;
•inventory management, including potential write-downs for obsolescence;
•the cost of materials;
•the product mix between wholesale, retail, and licensing businesses; and
•external conditions, such as health pandemics, general macroeconomic trends, consumer confidence, and competitor actions.
In addition, we expect that our sales and operating results may be significantly impacted by the opening of new retail stores, and the introduction of new products. Accordingly, the results of operations in any quarter will not necessarily be indicative of the results that may be achieved for a full fiscal year or any future quarter.
Extreme or unseasonable weather conditions in locations where we or our customers and suppliers are located could adversely affect our business.
Our corporate headquarters and principal operational locations, including retail, distribution, and warehousing facilities, may be subject to natural disasters and other severe weather, geological events, and climate-change related risks (including resource scarcity, rationing or unexpected costs from increases in fuel or raw material prices that may be caused by severe weather conditions) that could disrupt our operations. The occurrence of such natural events may result in sudden disruptions in business conditions of the local economies affected, as well as of the regional and global economies. Such disruptions may result in decreased demand for our products and disruptions in our management functions, sales channels and manufacturing and distribution networks, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations. Extreme weather events and changes in weather patterns can also influence customer trends and shopping habits. Extended periods of unseasonably warm temperatures during the winter season or cool weather during the summer season may diminish demand for our seasonal merchandise. Heavy snowfall, hurricanes, or other severe weather events where our retail stores and the retail stores of our wholesale customers are located may decrease customer traffic in those stores and reduce our sales and profitability. There is growing concern that climate change may increase both the frequency and severity of extreme weather conditions and natural disasters. Any of these events could result in decreased demand for our products and disruptions in our sales channels and manufacturing and distribution networks, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations.
We extend credit to most of our wholesale customers, and their failure to pay for products shipped to them could adversely affect our financial results.
We extend credit to our wholesale customers based on an evaluation of each customer's financial condition, usually without collateral. Various retailers, including some of our customers, have experienced financial difficulties, which has increased the risk of extending credit to such retailers. Even though we seek to mitigate the risks of extending credit by factoring most of our accounts receivable and obtaining letters of credit, or credit insurance for others, if any of our customers were to experience a shortage of liquidity, the risk that the customer's outstanding payables to us not being paid could cause us to curtail business with the customer, or require us to assume more credit risk relating to the customer's accounts payable.
Our stock price may fluctuate substantially if our operating results are inconsistent with our forecasts or those of analysts who follow us.
One of our primary business objectives is to maximize the long-term strength, growth, and profitability of our Company, rather than to achieve an earnings target in any particular fiscal quarter. We believe that this longer-term goal is in our best interests and those of our stockholders. The trading price of our common stock periodically may rise or fall based on the accuracy of forecasts of our future performance. Our actual results may differ from our forecasts as the guidance is based on assumptions and expectations that may or may not come to pass. As such, we assume no responsibility to update any of our forward-looking statements at such times or otherwise. If and when we announce actual results that differ from our forecast and guidance, the market price of our common stock could be adversely affected. Investors who rely on these forecasts in making investment decisions with respect to our common stock do so at their own risk. We take no responsibility for any losses suffered as a result of changes in the price of our common stock.
In addition, outside securities analysts may follow our financial results and issue reports that discuss our historical financial results and their predictions of our future performance. These analysts' predictions are based upon their own opinions and could be different from our own forecasts. Our stock price could decline if our results are below the estimates or expectations of these outside analysts.
FOREIGN SOURCING RISKS
Disruptions to our product delivery systems and failure to effectively manage inventory based on business trends across various distribution channels could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, and liquidity.
Our products are manufactured overseas and most of our products are shipped via ocean freight carriers. The trend-focused nature of the fashion industry and the rapid changes in customer preferences leave us vulnerable to the risk of inventory obsolescence. Our reliance upon ocean freight transportation for the delivery of our inventory exposes us to various inherent risks, including those stemming from port congestion, port worker strikes, severe weather conditions, natural disasters, and terrorism, any of which could result in delivery delays and inefficiencies, increase our costs, and disrupt our business.
Any severe and prolonged disruption to ocean freight transportation could force us to rely on alternate and more expensive transportation methods. Efficient and timely inventory deliveries and proper inventory management are important factors in our operations. Inventory shortages can adversely affect the timing of shipments to customers and diminish sales and brand loyalty. Conversely, excess inventories can result in lower gross profit due to the increased discounts and markdowns that may be necessary to reduce high inventory levels. Severe and extended delays in the delivery of our inventory or our inability to effectively manage our inventory could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, and liquidity.
Global inflation has also contributed to higher freight costs, which negatively affected our gross margin and profitability for the year ended December 31, 2024 and may continue to have a negative effect on our future operating results and profitability.
Our reliance on foreign manufacturers to provide materials, or produce our goods in a timely manner, or to meet our quality standards could cause problems if we experience a supply chain disruption and we are unable to secure an alternative source of raw materials or end products.
We do not own or operate any foreign manufacturing facilities and are therefore dependent upon third parties to manufacture all of our products. In 2024, 76.6% of our total purchases were manufactured in China. We also do not have long-term manufacturing or supply contracts with any of our suppliers or manufacturers for the production and supply of our raw materials and products, and we compete with other companies for raw materials and production capacity. The risks inherent in relying on foreign manufacturing include work stoppages, transportation delays, public health emergencies, social unrest, changes in local economic and political conditions, and broader geopolitical instability.
We have experienced, and may in the future experience, significant disruptions in the supply of raw materials and products and may be unable to secure alternative suppliers of comparable quality at an acceptable price, or at all. In addition, if we experience a sudden increase in demand, or need to replace an existing supplier or manufacturer, we may be unable to locate additional supplies of raw materials or additional manufacturing capacity on terms that are acceptable to us, or at all, or we may be unable to locate any supplier or manufacturer with sufficient capacity to meet our requirements or fill our orders in a timely manner. Selecting and transitioning to a new supplier is a complex process that requires evaluations of quality control, responsiveness, and service, financial stability, and ethical labor practices. Even if we successfully transition to a new supplier, we may still encounter production delays and increased costs as a result of the training and onboarding process.
Our supply of raw materials or finished products could be disrupted or delayed by health pandemics and government-imposed restrictions, such as border closures, shipment restrictions, and travel bans. Further delays could also arise if new suppliers are located farther from our core markets or other key participants in our supply chain. Our supply chain may also be affected by trade policy changes and tariffs imposed by the U.S. or other federal governments, which is described further below. Any delays, interruption, or increased costs in the supply of raw materials or production of our products could adversely affect our ability to meet customer demand and have a material negative effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, and liquidity.
Changes in trade policies and tariffs imposed by the United States government and the governments of other nations could have a material adverse effect on our business and results of operations.
Our operations rely on the global sourcing, manufacturing, and sale of products, and our supply chain is subject to the risks inherent in international trade, including potential changes in trade policies, increases in import duties, anti-dumping measures, quotas, safeguard measures, trade restrictions, restrictions on fund transfers, and currency fluctuations. Additionally, certain geopolitical factors, such as political instability and terrorism, may further impact our ability to source products efficiently.
Changes in laws or policies governing the terms of trade, and in particular increased trade restrictions, tariffs, or taxes on imports from countries where we manufacture products, such as China and Mexico, could have a material adverse effect on our business and financial results. For example, in recent years, both the United States and China have imposed new tariffs on each other related to the importation of certain product categories, including imports of select footwear, accessories, and apparel into the United States from China. In February 2025, the U.S. administration announced a 10% tariff on imports from China, where a significant portion of our products is sourced, with an effective date of February 4th, 2025, and further announced that an additional 10% tariff on imports from China and a potential 25% tariff on imports from Mexico and Canada are scheduled to take effect on March 4th, 2025. We are closely monitoring this evolving situation and evaluating our responses, which may include shifts in sourcing strategies, price adjustments, or other cost-mitigation measures. However, there can be no assurance that we will be able to fully mitigate the impact of such tariffs or trade restrictions. At this time, the overall impact on our business related to these tariffs remains uncertain and depends on multiple factors, including the duration and potential expansion of current tariffs, future changes to tariff rates, scope, or enforcement, retaliatory measures by impacted trade partners, inflationary effects and broader macroeconomic responses, changes to consumer purchasing behavior, and the effectiveness of our responses in managing these challenges.
If the United States decides to impose additional tariffs on a broader range of imports, including, but not limited to, footwear, accessories, apparel, or any other goods imported from China, or other countries or if further retaliatory trade measures are taken by China or other countries in response to additional tariffs, there can be no assurance that we will be able to offset all related increased costs. This potential increase in costs could be material to our business operations, especially given approximately 76.6% of our products was sourced from China in 2024. We cannot predict if, and to what extent, there will be changes to international trade agreements or the resulting impact of any such changes on our business operations.
If our manufacturers, the manufacturers used by our licensees, or our licensees themselves fail to use acceptable labor practices or to otherwise comply with local laws and other standards, our business reputation could suffer.
Our products are manufactured by numerous independent manufacturers outside of the United States. We also have license agreements that permit our licensees to manufacture or contract to manufacture products using our trademarks. We impose, and require our licensees to impose, on these manufacturers environmental, health and safety standards for the benefit of their labor force. In addition, we require these manufacturers to comply with applicable standards for product safety. However, we do not control our independent manufacturers, or licensing partners, or their labor, product safety, and other business practices. From time to time, our independent manufacturers may not comply with such standards or applicable local law or our licensees may not require their manufacturers to comply with such standards or applicable local law. The violation of such standards and laws by one of our independent manufacturers or by one of our licensing partners, or the divergence of a manufacturer's or a licensing partner's labor practices from those generally accepted as ethical in the United States, could harm our reputation, result in a product recall or require us to curtail our relationship with and locate a replacement for such manufacturer or licensee. We could also be the focus of adverse publicity and our reputation could be damaged. Any of these events could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, and liquidity.
GLOBAL BUSINESS RISKS
Geopolitical tensions in the regions in which we operate and any related challenging macroeconomic conditions globally may materially and adversely affect our customers, vendors, and partners, and the duration and extent to which these factors may impact our future business and operations, results of operations, and financial condition remains uncertain.
The Hamas-Israel and Russia-Ukraine conflicts, or other areas of geopolitical tension around the world, or any worsening or spread of those conflicts or geopolitical tensions, and any related challenging macroeconomic conditions globally, could decrease the spending of our existing and potential new customers, adversely affect demand for our products, cause one or more of our customers, vendors, or partners to file for bankruptcy protection or go out of business, disrupt supply chains on which we rely, impact expected spending and pricing levels from existing and potential new customers, and negatively impact collections of accounts receivable, all of which could adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.
Any of the negative impacts of the Hamas-Israel and Russia-Ukraine conflicts, other areas of geopolitical tension around the world, or any worsening of those conflicts or geopolitical tensions, and any related challenging macroeconomic conditions, may have a material adverse effect on our business and operations, results of operations, financial condition and cash flows. Any of these negative impacts, alone or in combination with others, also could exacerbate many of the other risk factors discussed in this report. The full extent to which these factors will negatively affect our business and operations, results of operations, financial condition and cash flows will depend on future developments that are highly uncertain and cannot be predicted, including the scope, severity and duration of the Hamas-Israel and Russia-Ukraine conflicts, other areas of
geopolitical tension around the world and any economic downturns and the actions taken by governmental authorities and other third parties in response.
Our global operations expose us to a variety of legal, regulatory, political, and economic risks that may adversely impact our results of operations in certain regions.
As a result of our international operations, we are subject to risks associated with our operations in international markets as a result of a number of factors, many of which are beyond our control. These risks include, among other things:
•the challenge of managing broadly dispersed foreign operations;
•inflationary pressures and economic changes or volatility in foreign economies;
•the burdens of complying with the laws and regulations of both United States and foreign jurisdictions;
•additional or increased customs duties, tariffs, taxes, and other charges on imports or exports;
•political corruption or instability;
•geopolitical regional conflicts, terrorist activity, political unrest, civil strife, and acts of war;
•local business practices that do not conform to United States legal or ethical guidelines;
•anti-American sentiment in foreign countries in which we operate;
•delays in receipts of our products at our distribution centers due to labor unrest, increasing security requirements, or other factors at United States or foreign ports;
•significant fluctuations in the value of the dollar against foreign currencies;
•increased difficulty in protecting our intellectual property in foreign jurisdictions;
•restrictions on the transfer of funds between the United States and foreign nations; and
•natural disasters or health epidemics in areas in which our businesses, customers, suppliers, and licensees are located.
All of these factors could disrupt our operations or limit the countries in which we sell or source our products, significantly increase the cost of operating in or obtaining materials originating from certain countries, result in decreased revenues, and materially and adversely affect our product sales, financial condition, and results of operations.
We are subject to the United States Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, which prohibits the payment of bribes to foreign officials to assist in obtaining or retaining business. We are also subject to anti-corruption laws of the foreign countries in which we operate. Although we have implemented policies and procedures that are designed to promote compliance with such laws, our employees, contractors, and agents may take actions that violate our policies and procedures. Any such violation could result in sanctions or other penalties against us and have an adverse effect on our business, reputation, and operating results.
Our business is exposed to foreign exchange rate fluctuations.
We make most of our purchases in U.S. dollars. However, we source substantially all of our products overseas, and as such, the cost of these products may be affected by changes in the value of the relevant currencies against the U.S. dollar. Changes in currency exchange rates may also affect the relative prices at which we and our foreign competitors sell products in the same market. We use forward foreign exchange contracts to hedge material exposures to adverse changes in foreign exchange rates. However, no hedging strategy can completely insulate us from foreign exchange risk. We are also exposed to gains and losses resulting from the effect that fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates have on the reported results in our financial statements due to the translation of the operating results and financial position of our foreign subsidiaries. There can be no assurance that foreign currency fluctuations will not have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, and liquidity. See Item 7A. “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk” for additional information regarding our foreign exchange risk.
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY RISKS
Disruption of our information technology systems and websites could adversely affect our financial results and our business reputation.
We are heavily dependent upon our information technology systems to record and process transactions and manage and operate all aspects of our business. We also have e-commerce websites for direct retail sales.
Given the nature of our business and the significant number of transactions in which we engage annually, it is essential that we maintain constant operation of our information technology systems and websites and that they operate effectively. We
depend on our in-house information technology, employees and third parties, including “cloud” service providers, to maintain and periodically update and upgrade our systems and websites to support the growth of our business. We also maintain off-site server data facilities that record and process information regarding our vendors and customers and their transactions with us. Our information technology systems and websites may, from time to time, be vulnerable to damage or interruption from events such as computer viruses, security breaches, power outages, and difficulties in replacing or integrating the systems of acquired businesses. Any such problems or interruptions could result in loss of valuable business data, our customers' or employees' personal information, disruption of our operations, and other adverse impacts to our business and require significant expenditures by us to remediate any such failure, problem, or breach. In addition, we must comply with increasingly complex regulatory standards enacted to protect business and personal data and an inability to maintain compliance with these regulatory standards could subject us to legal risks and penalties. Although we maintain disaster recovery centers and insurance coverage aimed at addressing certain of these risks, there can be no assurance that insurance coverage will be available, or that the amounts of coverage will be adequate to cover a specific loss.
Our business and reputation could be adversely affected if our computer systems, or the systems of our business partners, or service providers, become subject to a data security, or privacy breach, or other disruption from a third party.
In addition to our own confidential and proprietary business information, a routine part of our business includes the gathering, processing, and retention of sensitive and confidential information pertaining to our customers, employees, and others. We, our business partners, or our service providers may not have the resources or technical sophistication to anticipate or prevent the rapidly evolving and complex cyber-attacks being unleashed by increasingly sophisticated hackers and data thieves. As a result, our facilities and information technology systems, as well as those of our business partners and third-party service providers, may be vulnerable to cyber-attacks and breaches, acts of vandalism, ransomware, software viruses and other similar types of malicious activities. Any actual or threatened cyber-attack may cause us to incur unanticipated costs, including costs related to the hiring of additional computer experts, business interruption, engaging third-party cybersecurity consultants, and upgrading our information security technologies. As a result of recent security breaches at a number of prominent companies, the media and public scrutiny of information security and privacy has become more intense and the regulatory environment has become more uncertain. Any compromise or breach of our information technology systems or those of our business partners or service providers that results in the misappropriation, loss, or other unauthorized disclosure of a customer’s or other person’s private, confidential, or proprietary information could result in:
•a loss of confidence in us by our customers and business partners;
•a violation applicable privacy and other laws;
•an exposure to litigation and significant potential liability; or
•a requirement to expend significant resources to remedy any such breach and redress any damages cause by such a breach.
We must also comply with increasingly rigorous regulatory standards for the protection of business and personal data enacted in the United States, Europe, and elsewhere. Some examples include the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (the “GDPR”), the California Consumer Privacy Act ("CCPA"), and the California Privacy Rights Act ("CPRA"). These regulations impose additional obligations on companies concerning the handling of personal data and provides certain individual privacy rights to persons whose data is stored. Our compliance with existing, proposed, and recently enacted laws (including implementation of the privacy and process enhancements required by these regulations) and regulations can be costly. Any failure by us to comply with these regulatory standards could subject us to significant legal, financial, and reputational harm. We did not have any material cases of information security breaches in the last three years, and we have not incurred any material expenses from security breaches, penalties, or settlements during this period.
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RISKS
Failure to adequately protect our trademarks and intellectual property rights, to prevent counterfeiting of our products, or to defend claims against us related to our trademarks and intellectual property rights could reduce sales and adversely affect the value of our brands.
We believe that our trademarks and other proprietary rights are of major significance to our success and our competitive position, and we consider some of our trademarks, such as Steve Madden, to be integral to our business and among our most valuable assets. Accordingly, we devote substantial resources to the establishment and protection of our trademarks on a worldwide basis. Nevertheless, policing unauthorized use of our intellectual property is difficult, expensive, and time consuming. There can be no assurance that the actions we take to establish and protect our trademarks and other proprietary rights will be adequate to prevent imitation of our products by others and to prevent others from seeking to block sales of our products on the basis that our products violate the trademarks or other proprietary rights of others. Moreover, no assurance can
be given that others will not assert rights in, or ownership of, trademarks and other proprietary rights of ours or that we will be able to successfully resolve such conflicts. We could incur substantial costs in legal actions relating to our use of intellectual property or the use of our intellectual property by others. In addition, the laws of certain foreign countries may not protect proprietary rights to the same extent as do the laws of the United States. Our failure to establish and protect such proprietary rights from unlawful and improper use could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, and liquidity.
A portion of our revenue is dependent on licensing our trademarks. The actions of our licensees or the loss of a significant licensee could diminish our brand integrity and adversely affect our revenue and results of operations.
We license to others the rights to produce and market certain products that are sold under our trademarks. Although we retain significant control over our licensees’ products and advertising, our licensees have operational and financial control over their businesses. If the quality, image, or distribution of our licensed products diminish, customer acceptance of and demand for our brands and products could decline. This could materially and adversely affect our business and results of operations. A decrease in customer demand for any of these product lines could have an adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition. Furthermore, if we are unable to engage an adequate replacement for a terminated licensee or to engage such a replacement for an extended period, our revenues and results of operations could be adversely affected.
GENERAL RISK FACTORS
The failure to complete our acquisition of Kurt Geiger in a timely fashion, or at all, may adversely affect our business and our stock price.
Consummation of our planned acquisition of Mercury Acquisitions Topco Limited, which is the holding company for the Kurt Geiger business (the “KG Transaction”) is subject to certain closing conditions, including (i) the expiration or termination of all waiting periods applicable to the KG Transaction under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, as amended; (ii) no law, order, decree or judgment is in effect that restrains, enjoins, prohibits or makes illegal the consummation of the KG Transaction; and (iii) no litigation, action or proceeding shall be pending by or before any governmental entity of competent jurisdiction that seeks to restrain, enjoin, prohibit or make illegal the consummation of the KG Transaction, no investigation by a relevant U.S. antitrust agency relating to the KG Transaction shall be open, pending or ongoing, and no litigation, action or proceeding shall be threatened by a relevant U.S. antitrust agency or officials, staff, commissioners or other representatives thereof that would reasonably be expected to seek to restrain, enjoin, prohibit or make illegal the consummation of the KG Transaction. There can be no assurance that these or other closing conditions will be satisfied in a timely manner or at all. Any delay in completing the acquisition could cause us not to realize some or all the anticipated benefits when expected, if at all. If the KG Transaction is not completed, we may suffer consequences that could adversely affect our business, results of operations and stock price, including incurring significant acquisition costs and other fees.
Changes in economic conditions may adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations, and liquidity.
Our opportunities for long-term growth and profitability are accompanied by significant challenges and risks, particularly in the near term. Specifically, our business is dependent on consumer demand for our products and the purchase of our products by consumers is largely discretionary. Consumer confidence and discretionary spending could be adversely affected in response to financial market volatility, negative financial news, inflationary pressures, changes in interest rates, changing conditions within the real estate and mortgage markets, declines in income or asset values, and other economic factors. A downturn in macroeconomic conditions leading to a reduction in consumer confidence and discretionary spending could have an adverse impact on our financial condition, results of operations, and liquidity.
Litigation or other legal proceedings could divert management resources and result in costs that adversely affect our operating results from quarter to quarter.
From time to time, we are involved in various claims, lawsuits, regulatory proceedings, and governmental investigations that arise in the ordinary course of business. Due to the inherent uncertainty of legal proceedings, we cannot predict the ultimate outcome of any such matters with accuracy. An unfavorable outcome in one or more of these proceedings could have an adverse impact on our business, financial condition, and results of operations, and the insurance coverage we maintain may be insufficient to fully cover any resulting losses or liabilities. In addition, any significant litigation, investigations, or regulatory proceedings - even without merit - could divert management attention and financial resources away from core business operations, potentially affecting our ability to execute strategic initiatives. These matters could also result in reputational harm, regulatory penalties, or compliance costs, further impacting our financial performance. For additional information regarding legal proceedings in which we are involved, see Item 3. “Legal Proceedings.”
We may be subject to additional tax liabilities as a result of audits by various taxing authorities.
We are subject to complex and evolving tax laws and regulations across multiple jurisdictions as a result of our global presence and international operations. Significant judgment and specialized expertise are required to evaluate and estimate our worldwide provision for income taxes. We are regularly subject to tax audits and examinations by authorities in the jurisdictions where we operate, and any of these jurisdictions could assess additional taxes, penalties, or interest as a result of an audit. The final determination of any audit, or related litigation, may differ from our estimates, historical tax provisions, or accruals. The outcome of any audit or related litigation could have a material adverse effect on our operating results or cash flows in the affected periods and may require us to restate prior financial reports. In addition, future earnings may be adversely impacted by litigation costs, settlement payments, or penalties and interest resulting from adverse tax assessments.
Changes in tax laws could have an adverse effect upon our financial results.
We are subject to income taxation in multiple jurisdictions within the United States and abroad, where tax laws and regulations are complex, frequently evolving, and subject to varying interpretations. Changes in legislation, tax rates, enforcement practices, or judicial rulings in these jurisdictions could increase our tax liabilities and adversely affect our after-tax profitability. Adjustments to the incremental provisional tax expense may be required in future periods due to various factors, such as changes in the interpretation of the United States tax code or related tax accounting guidance, revisions to assumptions used in tax estimates, new regulatory guidance issued regarding U.S. tax law revisions, and state and local tax implications that differ from initial expectations.
Additionally, foreign tax authorities may introduce new tax laws, adjust existing regulations, or adopt unpredictable enforcement measures, which could further impact our tax liabilities. Increases in applicable tax rates, the implementation of new taxes, and changes in applicable tax laws or their interpretation in jurisdictions where we operate could reduce our after-tax income and have an adverse effect on our results of operations.
Any failure to maintain effective internal control over our financial reporting could materially adversely affect us.
Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 requires us to include in our Annual Report on Form 10-K an assessment by management of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting. Compliance with Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 requires ongoing evaluation and testing of our financial systems and processes to allow both management and our independent registered public accounting firm to report on the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting. Maintaining compliance may require substantial costs and significant management effort. If we fail to maintain effective internal controls, our auditors may determine that a material weakness or significant deficiency exists in our internal controls over financial reporting. Such a determination could undermine investor confidence in the reliability of our financial statements, require us to restate our quarterly or annual financial statements, or negatively impact the market price of our common stock.

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ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
None.

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ITEM 2. PROPERTIES
ITEM 2. PROPERTIES
We lease space for our headquarters, retail stores, showrooms, warehouses, storage, and office facilities in various locations in the United States, as well as overseas. All of our locations are leased, with the exception of one improved real property parcel in Long Island City, New York, which we own. We believe that our existing facilities are in good operating condition and are adequate for our present level of operations. The following table sets forth the location, use, segment, and size of the Company's principal properties as of December 31, 2024.
Location Use Segment Approximate Square Feet
Bloomington, CA Warehouse Wholesale Footwear and Wholesale Accessories/Apparel
Direct-to-Consumer 525,100
Montreal, Canada Offices, warehouse Wholesale Footwear and Wholesale Accessories/Apparel
Direct-to-Consumer 173,300
Dongguan, China Offices and sample production Wholesale Footwear and Wholesale Accessories/Apparel 154,900
Long Island City, NY Executive offices and sample factory Corporate(1)
111,000
Cape Town, South Africa Warehouse Wholesale Footwear and Wholesale Accessories/Apparel
Direct-to-Consumer 36,000
New York, NY Offices and showroom Wholesale Accessories/Apparel 30,200
New York, NY Offices and showroom Wholesale Footwear 29,800
Nieuwkuijk, Netherlands Offices and showroom Wholesale Footwear and Wholesale Accessories/Apparel
Direct-to-Consumer 23,800
New York, NY Offices and showroom Wholesale Accessories/Apparel 17,600
Bellevue, WA Topline office Wholesale Footwear 14,200
New York, NY Offices and showroom Wholesale Footwear
Direct-to-Consumer 10,000
Putian City, China Offices Wholesale Footwear 8,700
Mexico City, Mexico Offices Wholesale Footwear and Wholesale Accessories/Apparel
Direct-to-Consumer 8,400
Long Island City, NY Storage Corporate(1)
7,200
(1) Corporate does not constitute a reportable segment.
In addition to the above properties, the Company occupies 291 leased full price and outlet brick-and-mortar locations. These leases expire at various times through fiscal year 2035. Substantially all of our retail stores are leased pursuant to leases that, under their original terms, extend for an average of five years. Many of the leases contain rent escalation clauses to compensate for increases in operating costs and real estate taxes over the base year.

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ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
In the ordinary course of business, we are involved in various legal proceedings related to contractual disputes, employment matters, distribution issues, product liability claims, intellectual property infringement, and other business-related matters. After reviewing these matters with legal counsel, management believes that any potential liabilities arising from these legal proceedings are not expected to have a material impact on our financial condition, results of operations, or liquidity.

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ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURE
ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES
Not applicable.
PART II

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ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES
($ in thousands, except for holders of record, beneficial owners, and per share data)
Market Information. Since August 1, 2007, our common stock has been listed on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the trading symbol, “SHOO”. Prior to then, it was listed on the NASDAQ National Market.
Holders. As of February 21, 2025, there were 169 holders of record and 41,589 beneficial owners of our common stock.
Dividends. Beginning in the first quarter of 2018, we began paying a quarterly cash dividend on our outstanding shares of common stock. At the end of March 2020, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, and as a precautionary measure, our Board of Directors temporarily suspended the payment of dividends. In February 2021, our Board of Directors approved the reinstatement of a quarterly cash dividend of $0.15, and in February 2022, increased the quarterly cash dividend to $0.21 per share on our outstanding shares of common stock, which was approved and paid with respect to each subsequent quarter. During fiscal 2024, a quarterly cash dividend of $0.21 per share on our outstanding shares of common stock was paid on each of March 22, 2024, June 21, 2024, September 23, 2024, and December 27, 2024. The aggregate cash dividend paid for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024 was $61,039.
In February 2025, our Board of Directors approved the quarterly dividend of $0.21 per share payable on March 21, 2025 to stockholders of record as of the close of business on March 10, 2025. The payment of future dividends will be subject to the discretion of our Board of Directors and will be contingent upon future earnings, our financial condition, capital requirements, general business conditions, and other factors. Therefore, we can give no assurance that dividends of any kind will be paid to holders of our common stock in the future.
Issuer Repurchases of Equity Securities. Our Board of Directors authorized a share repurchase program (the “Share Repurchase Program”), effective as of January 1, 2004. The Share Repurchase Program does not have a fixed expiration or termination date and may be modified or terminated by the Board of Directors at any time. On several occasions the Board of Directors has increased the amount authorized for repurchase of our common stock. On November 2, 2021, the Board of Directors approved an increase in the Company's share repurchase authorization of approximately $200,000, bringing the total authorization to $250,000, which included the amount remaining under the prior authorization. The Share Repurchase Program permits us to effect repurchases from time to time through a combination of open market repurchases or in privately negotiated transactions at such prices and times as are determined to be in our best interest. In the middle of March 2020, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, as a precautionary measure the Board of Directors temporarily suspended the repurchase of our common stock, which the Board of Directors reinstated on February 24, 2021. On May 8, 2023, the Board of Directors approved an increase in the Company's share repurchase authorization of approximately $189,900, bringing the total authorization to $250,000. During the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, we repurchased an aggregate of 2,090 shares of our common stock under the Share Repurchase Program, at a weighted average price per share of $43.15, for an aggregate purchase price of approximately $90,153, which includes the amount remaining under the prior authorization. As of December 31, 2024, approximately $85,310 remained available for future repurchases under the Share Repurchase Program. The following table presents the total number of shares of our common stock, $0.0001 par value, purchased by us during the three months ended December 31, 2024, the average price paid per share, the amount of shares purchased pursuant to our Share Repurchase Program and the approximate dollar value of the shares that still could have been purchased at the end of the fiscal period pursuant to our Share Repurchase Program. See Note 10 - Share Repurchase Program to the consolidated financial statements for further details on our share repurchase program. During the three months ended December 31, 2024, there were no sales by us of unregistered shares of common stock.
(in thousands except per share data) Total Number of Shares Purchased(1)
Average Price Paid per Share(1)
Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs Approximate Dollar Value of Shares that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs
10/1/2024 - 10/31/2024 5,601 $ 48.71 $ - $ 85,310
11/1/2024 - 11/30/2024 945 $ 44.17 $ - $ 85,310
12/1/2024 - 12/31/2024 55,615 $ 42.61 $ - $ 85,310
Total 62,161 $ 43.19 $ -
(1) The Steven Madden, Ltd. 2019 Incentive Compensation Plan and its predecessor plan, the Steven Madden, Ltd. Amended and Restated 2006 Stock Incentive Plan, each provide us with the right to deduct, or withhold, or require employees to remit to us, an amount sufficient to satisfy all or part of the tax withholding obligations applicable to stock-based compensation awards. To the extent permitted, participants may elect to satisfy all or part of such withholding obligations by tendering to us previously owned shares or by having us withhold shares having a fair market value equal to the minimum statutory tax-withholding rate that could be imposed on the transaction. Included in this table are shares withheld during the fourth quarter of 2024 in connection with the settlement of vested restricted stock to satisfy tax-withholding requirements with an aggregate purchase price of approximately $2,685.
Performance Graph
The following graph compares the yearly percentage change in the cumulative total stockholder return on our common stock during the period beginning on December 31, 2019, and ending on December 31, 2024, with the cumulative total return on the Russell 2000 Index and a peer group index. As of December 31, 2024, our peer group index consisted of seven companies: Caleres, Inc., Crocs, Inc., Deckers Outdoor Corporation, Genesco Inc., Skechers U.S.A., Inc., Designer Brands Inc., and Wolverine World Wide, Inc.
The comparison assumes that $100 was invested on December 31, 2019 in our common stock and in the foregoing indices and assumes the reinvestment of dividends.
12/31/2019 12/31/2020 12/31/2021 12/31/2022 12/31/2023 12/31/2024
Steven Madden, Ltd. $ 100.00 $ 82.67 $ 110.34 $ 77.77 $ 104.65 $ 107.97
Russell 2000 Index $ 100.00 $ 119.96 $ 137.74 $ 109.59 $ 128.14 $ 142.93
Peer Group $ 100.00 $ 111.70 $ 156.54 $ 143.15 $ 193.38 $ 284.77

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ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
ITEM 6. [RESERVED]

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ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The following discussion of our financial condition and results of operations should be read in conjunction with our audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto appearing elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Business Overview
($ in thousands, except for store count and per share data)
Steven Madden, Ltd. and its subsidiaries designs, sources, and markets fashion-forward branded and private label footwear, accessories, and apparel. We distribute our products through the wholesale channel to department stores, mass merchants, off-price retailers, shoe chains, online retailers, national chains, specialty retailers, independent stores, and clubs throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Europe. Additionally, the Company operates in other international markets through its joint ventures in South Africa, the Middle East, Israel, various countries in Europe, Latin America, and certain countries in Asia, and through special distribution arrangements in various European countries, North Africa, South and Central America, and various countries within the Asia-Pacific region. We also distribute our products through our direct-to-consumer channel, which includes company-operated retail stores and e-commerce websites, in the United States, Canada, Mexico, South Africa, the Middle East, Israel, various countries in Europe, Latin America, and the Asia-Pacific region.
Our product offerings include a diverse range of contemporary styles, designed to establish or capitalize on market trends, complemented by core product offerings. We are recognized for our design creativity and ability to deliver trend-right products with high quality at accessible price points, efficiently and within short lead times.
The Company’s reportable operating segments consist of the following:
•Wholesale Footwear. This segment designs, sources, and markets our brands and sells our products to department stores, mass merchants, off-price retailers, shoe chains, online retailers, national chains, specialty retailers, independent stores, and clubs throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Europe, and through our joint ventures and international distributor network.
•Wholesale Accessories/Apparel. This segment designs, sources, and markets our brands and sells our products, primarily consisting of handbags and apparel, to department stores, mass merchants, off-price retailers, online retailers, specialty retailers, independent stores, and clubs throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Europe, and through our joint ventures and international distributor network.
•Direct-to-Consumer. This segment engages in the sale of footwear, handbags, apparel, and other accessories through Steve Madden and Dolce Vita full-price retail stores, Steve Madden outlet stores, directly-operated concessions in international markets, and directly-operated e-commerce websites. We operate retail locations in regional malls and shopping centers, as well as high streets in various cities across the United States, Canada, Mexico, and through our joint ventures in international markets.
•Licensing. This segment engages in the licensing of the Steve Madden® and Betsey Johnson® trademarks for use in the sale of select apparel, accessories, and home categories as well as various other non-core products.
As of January 2023, the Company no longer serves as a buying agent for any of its customers, and as a result, no longer reports under the First Cost segment. This change is not considered to have a material or meaningful impact on the Company's operations.
Corporate does not constitute a reportable segment and includes costs not directly attributable to the reportable operating segments. These expenses are primarily related to corporate executives, corporate finance, corporate social responsibility, legal, human resources, information technology, cybersecurity, and other shared services.
Recent Developments
Acquisition of the ATM Collection. In November 2024, we expanded our brand portfolio and business operations by acquiring the ATM Collection ("ATM") for approximately $9,783. ATM is a lifestyle brand specializing in elevated basics for men and women. This acquisition strengthens our presence in the high-end fashion market and aligns with our strategic growth initiatives. ATM is based in the United States and is included within our Wholesale Accessories/Apparel and Direct-to-Consumer segments.
Joint Venture. In October 2024, we formed a joint venture with Luxury Ventures Pte. Ltd, a well-known distributor of luxury and retail goods throughout Southeast Asia, acquiring a 51.0% controlling financial interest in SM Distribution Singapore Pte. Ltd. with a contribution of $1,020. This joint venture was formed with the intention to distribute Steve Madden’s products primarily through retail and e-commerce channels throughout Singapore. This joint venture is included within our Direct-to-Consumer segment.
Joint Venture. In August 2024, we completed the acquisition of the remaining 49.0% non-controlling interest in our China joint venture in the amount of $1,500. The China joint venture was formed in 2019 and is the exclusive distributor of our products in China.
Acquisition of Kurt Geiger. On February 12, 2025, the Company entered into a sale and purchase deed (the “Purchase Agreement”), by and among SML UK Holding Ltd., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Steve Madden and various entities comprising the Fifth Cinven Fund, Bain & Company, Inc., Squam Lake Investors X LP, and certain individuals, pursuant to which the Purchaser has agreed to acquire the entire issued share capital of Mercury Acquisitions Topco Limited, a private limited company incorporated under the laws of Jersey and the holding company for the Kurt Geiger business.
The Company intends to fund the acquisition through a combination of debt financing and Steve Madden cash. In connection with and concurrently with the entry into the Purchase Agreement, Steve Madden entered into a commitment letter (the "Commitment Letter"), dated February 12, 2025, with Citizens Bank, JPMorgan Chase Bank, and Citibank (the "Commitment Parties"), pursuant to which, among other things, the Commitment Parties have committed to provide debt financing for the Transaction, consisting of senior secured credit facilities of up to an aggregate total of $550,000, which includes a $300,000 term loan and a $250,000 revolving credit facility, on the terms and conditions set forth in the Commitment Letter. The obligations of the Commitment Parties to provide debt financing under the Commitment Letter are subject to a number of customary conditions including, without limitation, execution and delivery of definitive documentation consistent with the Commitment Letter. Refer to Note 21 - Subsequent Events for further details.
Macroeconomic Conditions and Industry Trends
The global economy and retail sector are influenced by a range of factors that impact consumer behavior and business operations. Persistent inflation, high interest rates, foreign currency fluctuations, bank failures, and recession concerns continue to affect consumer discretionary income, spending habits, and overall sentiment in the United States and key international markets. In response to these pressures, many retailers, particularly in the United States, have adopted more aggressive promotional strategies to offset declines in foot traffic, improve conversion rates, and manage elevated inventory levels.
The department store sector has undergone significant structural changes, including consolidations, restructurings, bankruptcies, and an increase in store closures. At the same time, the geopolitical landscape remains uncertain, with recent political transitions potentially affecting international trade relations, tax and import regulations, and broader economic stability. These factors could create headwinds for our global business performance.
Additionally, ongoing military conflicts have contributed to inflationary pressures, unfavorable foreign currency exchange rates, rising energy costs, food shortages, and financial market volatility, all of which influence consumer confidence. While these conflicts led to our voluntary suspension of operations in Russia and a limited presence in Israel, they have not had a material impact on our financial statements. However, the broader economic ramifications of these conflicts remain a factor in shaping the retail environment in which we operate.
In response to these ongoing challenges, we are executing the following key strategic initiatives, which are aimed at driving growth and improving operational efficiency:
•Winning with product. Utilizing our proven model - which combines talented design teams, a test-and react strategy, and industry-leading speed-to-market capability - to create trend-right product assortments across footwear, accessories and apparel categories that resonate with the consumer.
•Investing in marketing. Continue investing in full-funnel marketing to deepen our connection with consumers.
•Expanding in international markets. Expanding our international businesses in the Americas (ex. U.S.), EMEA and APAC regions.
•Growing non-footwear categories. Expanding our product offerings across various categories outside of footwear, including handbags, accessories, and apparel.
•Expanding Direct-to-Consumer led by digital. Expanding our direct-to-consumer business with a focus on growing our digital business, including by optimizing our site functionality, personalization, and digital marketing, to enhance the consumers overall shopping experience.
•Operational Efficiency. Streamlining operations, tightly managing costs, and maintaining a disciplined inventory management approach are ongoing and aimed at enhancing overall profitability.
•Sustainability Focus. Committing to our corporate social responsibility initiatives, as we work to minimize the negative impacts we have on the environment and maximize the positive impacts we have on our people and our communities.
Inflation
Our actual results could be materially and adversely impacted by ongoing inflationary pressures, as well as broader macroeconomic and geopolitical uncertainties, including the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East. Inflation has contributed to higher costs for raw materials, labor, and logistics, which in turn have impacted consumer spending patterns and overall demand for our product. These pressures have negatively impacted both our wholesale and direct-to-consumer businesses, and may continue to do so despite efforts by central banks around the world, including in the United States, to combat inflation. Historically, we have mitigated the impact of rising costs through price adjustments, supplier negotiations, cost optimization initiatives, and operational efficiencies. However, there is no assurance that we will be able to fully offset future inflationary pressures, which could impact our profitability, margins, and overall financial performance.
Tariffs
In February 2025, the U.S. administration announced a 10% tariff on imports from China, where a significant portion of our products is sourced, with an effective date of February 4th, 2025, and further announced that an additional 10% tariff on imports from China and a potential 25% tariff on imports from Mexico and Canada are scheduled to take effect on March 4th, 2025. We are closely monitoring this evolving situation and evaluating our response, which may include shifts in sourcing strategies, price adjustments, or other cost-mitigation measures. However, there can be no assurance that we will be able to fully mitigate the impact of such tariffs or trade restrictions. Future impacts are unknown at this time and could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations. For further discussion of related risks, see Item 1A. “Risk Factors.”
Dividends
Our Board of Directors approved a quarterly cash dividend of $0.21 per share on our outstanding shares of common stock which was paid on March 22, 2024, June 21, 2024, September 23, 2024, and December 27, 2024. The aggregate cash dividends paid for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024 was $61,039.
On February 25, 2025, our Board of Directors approved a quarterly dividend of $0.21 per share payable on March 21, 2025 to stockholders of record as of the close of business on March 10, 2025.
2024 Highlights
Total revenue for 2024 was $2,282,927, an increase of 15.2% as compared to 2023. Net income attributable to Steven Madden, Ltd. was $169,390 in 2024 compared to $171,554 in 2023. Our effective tax rate for 2024 was 23.7% compared to 21.1% in 2023. Diluted earnings per share in 2024 was $2.35 per share on 71,963 diluted weighted average shares outstanding compared to diluted income of $2.30 per share on 74,565 diluted weighted average shares outstanding in 2023.
As of December 31, 2024, we had 291 brick-and-mortar retail stores and five e-commerce websites in operation, compared to 255 brick-and-mortar retail stores and five e-commerce websites as of December 31, 2023. This increase resulted from the opening of 54 brick-and-mortar stores, mostly in international markets, and one e-commerce website, offset by the closure of 18 brick-and-mortar stores and one e-commerce website. The Company also operated 42 concessions in international markets as of December 31, 2024, up from 25 concessions at the end of 2023.
Our inventory turnover (calculated on a trailing four quarter average) was 5.6 times for both the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023. Our total Company accounts receivable average collection days were 72 days in 2024 compared to 71 days in 2023. As of December 31, 2024, we had $203,408 in cash, cash equivalents, and short-term investments, no debt, and total stockholders’ equity of $875,997. Working capital was $480,974 as of December 31, 2024, compared to $477,208 as of December 31, 2023.
As we look ahead, we remain focused on delivering trend-right product, deepening connections with our consumers, growing our international business, expanding our non-footwear categories, enhancing our digital commerce business, strengthening our core U.S. wholesale business, and efficiently managing our inventory and expenses, while continuing to make meaningful progress on our corporate social responsibility initiatives.
Results of Operations
The following tables set forth information on operations for the periods indicated:
Years Ended December 31,
(in thousands, except for number of stores) 2024 2023 2022
CONSOLIDATED:
Net sales $ 2,272,266 99.5 % $ 1,971,474 99.5 % $ 2,111,296 99.5 %
Commission and licensing fee income 10,661 0.5 % 10,108 0.5 % 10,713 0.5 %
Total revenue 2,282,927 100.0 % 1,981,582 100.0 % 2,122,009 100.0 %
Cost of sales (exclusive of depreciation and amortization) 1,345,995 59.0 % 1,149,168 58.0 % 1,248,173 58.8 %
Gross profit 936,932 41.0 % 832,414 42.0 % 873,836 41.2 %
Operating expenses 698,936 30.6 % 612,672 30.9 % 586,385 27.6 %
Change in valuation of contingent consideration liability 2,722 0.1 % - - % 5,807 0.3 %
Impairment of intangibles 10,335 0.5 % 6,520 0.3 % - - %
Income from operations 224,939 9.9 % 213,222 10.8 % 281,644 13.3 %
Interest and other income - net 5,538 0.2 % 7,392 0.4 % 676 - %
Income before provision for income taxes 230,477 10.1 % 220,614 11.1 % 282,320 13.3 %
Net income attributable to Steven Madden, Ltd. $ 169,390 7.4 % $ 171,554 8.7 % $ 216,061 10.2 %
BY SEGMENT:
WHOLESALE FOOTWEAR SEGMENT:
Total Revenue $ 1,059,440 100.0 % $ 1,048,448 100.0 % $ 1,194,890 100.0 %
Cost of sales (exclusive of depreciation and amortization) 692,839 65.4 % 677,817 64.6 % 763,809 63.9 %
Gross profit 366,601 34.6 % 370,631 35.4 % 431,081 36.1 %
Operating expenses 175,389 16.6 % 165,681 15.8 % 166,123 13.9 %
Income from operations $ 191,212 18.0 % $ 204,950 19.5 % $ 264,958 22.2 %
WHOLESALE ACCESSORIES/APPAREL SEGMENT:
Total Revenue $ 662,673 100.0 % $ 416,532 100.0 % $ 394,676 100.0 %
Cost of sales (exclusive of depreciation and amortization) 449,676 67.9 % 281,364 67.5 % 294,591 74.6 %
Gross profit 212,997 32.1 % 135,168 32.5 % 100,085 25.4 %
Operating expenses 111,206 16.8 % 73,740 17.7 % 64,503 16.3 %
Change in valuation of contingent consideration liability 2,722 0.4 % - - % 5,807 1.5 %
Impairment of intangibles 8,635 1.3 % - - % - - %
Income from operations $ 90,434 13.6 % $ 61,428 14.7 % $ 29,775 7.5 %
DIRECT-TO-CONSUMER SEGMENT:
Total Revenue $ 550,153 100.0 % $ 506,494 100.0 % $ 521,729 100.0 %
Cost of sales (exclusive of depreciation and amortization) 203,480 37.0 % 189,987 37.5 % 189,773 36.4 %
Gross profit 346,673 63.0 % 316,507 62.5 % 331,956 63.6 %
Operating expenses 314,003 57.1 % 279,827 55.2 % 264,307 50.7 %
Impairment of intangibles 1,700 0.3 % 6,520 1.3 % - - %
Income from operations $ 30,970 5.6 % $ 30,160 6.0 % $ 67,649 13.0 %
Number of stores 296 260 238
FIRST COST SEGMENT:
Commission fee income $ - - % $ - - % $ 916 100.0 %
Gross profit - - % - - % 916 100.0 %
Operating expenses - - % - - % 150 16.4 %
Income from operations $ - - % $ - - % $ 766 83.6 %
LICENSING SEGMENT:
Licensing fee income $ 10,661 100.0 % $ 10,108 100.0 % $ 9,798 100.0 %
Gross profit 10,661 100.0 % 10,108 100.0 % 9,798 100.0 %
Operating expenses 1,600 15.0 % 1,681 16.6 % 1,944 19.8 %
Income from operations $ 9,061 85.0 % $ 8,427 83.4 % $ 7,854 80.2 %
CORPORATE:
Operating expenses $ 96,738 - % $ 91,743 - % $ 89,358 - %
Loss from operations $ (96,738) - % $ (91,743) - % $ (89,358) - %
The following section discusses our results of operations for 2024 and 2023 and year-to-year comparisons between those periods. Discussions of 2022 and year-to-year comparisons between 2023 and 2022 are not included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K and can be found within Part II, Item 7., “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in our 2023 Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on March 4, 2024.
Year Ended December 31, 2024 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2023
Consolidated
Total revenue for the year ended December 31, 2024 increased 15.2% to $2,282,927 compared to $1,981,582 in 2023, driven by growth in the Wholesale Accessories/Apparel, Direct-to-Consumer, and Wholesale Footwear segments.
Gross profit in 2024 was $936,932, or 41.0% of total revenue, as compared to $832,414, or 42.0% of total revenue, in the prior year. The decrease in gross profit as a percentage of total revenue was driven by the acquisition of Almost Famous and a greater mix of the private label footwear business. In 2024 and 2023, gross profit included $435 and $2,023, respectively, related to the fair value step-up of inventory from acquired businesses.
Operating expenses in 2024 were $698,936, or 30.6% of total revenue, as compared to $612,672, or 30.9% of total revenue, in 2023. The decrease in operating expenses as a percentage of total revenue was primarily attributable to expense leverage on a higher revenue base. Operating expenses in 2024 included an expense of $6,378 related to acquisition costs, the formation of new international joint ventures, and the reorganization of foreign entities, $3,377 related to legal costs as a result of litigation settlements and earnout-related litigation, $3,199 related to a loss on the divestiture of a business, $1,758 related to certain severances and termination benefits, and $326 of working capital adjustment in connection with the Almost Famous acquisition. Operating expenses in 2023 included $3,803 related to certain severances, termination benefits, and a corporate office relocation, acquisition costs of $2,443 primarily for Almost Famous and the formation of international joint ventures, and $538 related to the dissolution of an entity in Asia. In 2024, we also recorded a pre-tax charge of $10,335 related to the impairment of trademarks and an expense of $2,722 due to the change in valuation of a contingent consideration liability. In 2023, we also recorded a pre-tax charge of $6,520 related to the impairment of a trademark.
Income from operations in 2024 increased to $224,939, or 9.9% of total revenue, as compared to $213,222, or 10.8% of total revenue, in 2023. The effective tax rate for 2024 was 23.7% compared to 21.1% in 2023. The increase was primarily due to a lower tax benefit related to equity-based awards and an increase in pre-tax income in jurisdictions with higher tax rates. Net income attributable to Steven Madden, Ltd. in 2024 was $169,390 compared to $171,554 in 2023.
Wholesale Footwear Segment
Revenue from the Wholesale Footwear segment for the year ended December 31, 2024 was $1,059,440, or 46.4% of total revenue, as compared to $1,048,448, or 52.9% of total revenue, in 2023. The increase of 1.0% was primarily driven by growth in our private label business partially offset by a decline in the branded business.
Gross profit in 2024 was $366,601, or 34.6% of Wholesale Footwear revenue, compared to $370,631, or 35.4% of Wholesale Footwear revenue, in 2023. The decrease in gross profit as a percentage of revenue was primarily attributable to a greater mix of our private label business.
Operating expenses in 2024 were $175,389, or 16.6% of Wholesale Footwear revenue, as compared to $165,681, or 15.8% of Wholesale Footwear revenue, in 2023. The increase in operating expenses as a percentage of Wholesale Footwear revenue was mainly due to higher payroll-related expenses. Operating expenses in 2024 included $1,161 related to legal costs as a result of certain litigation settlements, $387 related to certain severances and termination benefits, and $278 related to acquisition costs and the formation of new international joint ventures. Operating expenses in 2023 included costs of $2,712 related to the dissolution of an entity in Asia, $1,546 related to certain severances, termination benefits, and a corporate office relocation, and $929 related to the formation of new international joint ventures.
Income from operations in 2024 was $191,212, or 18.0% of Wholesale Footwear revenue, compared to $204,950, or 19.5% of Wholesale Footwear revenue, in 2023.
Wholesale Accessories/Apparel Segment
Revenue from the Wholesale Accessories/Apparel segment for the year ended December 31, 2024 was $662,673, or 29.0% of total revenue, compared to $416,532, or 21.0% of total revenue, in 2023. The increase of 59.1% was primarily driven by the acquisition of Almost Famous and strength in the Steve Madden handbag business.
Gross profit in 2024 was $212,997, or 32.1% of Wholesale Accessories/Apparel revenue, compared to $135,168, or 32.5% of Wholesale Accessories/Apparel revenue, in 2023. The decline in gross profit as a percentage of revenue was due to the addition of the Almost Famous business. In 2024 and 2023, gross profit included $435 and $2,023, respectively, related to the fair value step-up of inventory from acquired businesses.
Operating expenses in 2024 were $111,206, or 16.8% of Wholesale Accessories/Apparel revenue, as compared to $73,740, or 17.7% of Wholesale Accessories/Apparel revenue, in 2023. The decrease in operating expenses as a percentage of Wholesale Accessories/Apparel revenue was primarily attributable to expense leverage on a higher revenue base. Operating expenses in 2024 included $1,335 related to legal costs as result of litigation settlements and earnout-related litigation, $1,180 related to certain severances and termination benefits, $677 related to acquisition costs and the formation of new international joint ventures, and $326 of working capital adjustment in connection with the Almost Famous acquisition. Operating expenses in 2023 included acquisition costs of $1,505 for Almost Famous. In 2024, we also recorded a pre-tax charge of $8,635 related to the impairment of a trademark and an expense of $2,722 due to the change in valuation of a contingent consideration liability.
Income from operations in 2024 was $90,434, or 13.6% of Wholesale Accessories/Apparel revenue, compared to $61,428, or 14.7% of Wholesale Accessories/Apparel revenue, in 2023.
Direct-to-Consumer Segment
Revenue from the Direct-to-Consumer segment for the year ended December 31, 2024 was $550,153, or 24.1% of total revenue, as compared to $506,494, or 25.6% of total revenue, in 2023. The increase of 8.6% was driven by growth in both our brick-and-mortar and e-commerce businesses. During 2024, we opened 54 brick-and-mortar stores and closed 18 resulting in a total of 291 brick-and-mortar stores as compared to 255 brick-and-mortar stores as of December 31, 2023. We also opened one e-commerce website and closed one e-commerce website ending the year with five e-commerce websites. Additionally, we operated 42 concessions in international markets as of December 31, 2024, up from 25 concessions at the end of 2023.
Gross profit in 2024 was $346,673, or 63.0% of Direct-to-Consumer revenue, compared to $316,507, or 62.5% of Direct-to-Consumer revenue, in 2023. The increase in gross profit as a percentage of revenue was primarily due to a reduction in promotional activity.
Operating expenses in 2024 were $314,003, or 57.1% of Direct-to-Consumer revenue, compared to $279,827, or 55.2% of Direct-to-Consumer revenue, in 2023. The increase in operating expenses as a percentage of revenue was attributable to higher marketing expenses and occupancy-related costs. Operating expenses in 2024 included $5,090 related to acquisition costs and the formation of new international joint ventures, $3,199 related to a loss on the divestiture of a business, and $515 related to legal costs as a result of litigation settlements. Operating expenses in 2023 included a benefit of $2,174 related to the dissolution of an entity in Asia. In 2024 and 2023, we also recorded pre-tax charges of $1,700 and $6,520, respectively, related to the impairment of a trademark.
Income from operations in 2024 was $30,970, or 5.6% of Direct-to-Consumer revenue as compared to $30,160, or 6.0% of Direct-to-Consumer revenue, in 2023.
Licensing Segment
Royalty income from the Licensing segment for the year ended December 31, 2024 was $10,661, or 0.5% of total revenue, compared to $10,108, or 0.5% of total revenue, in 2023. Operating expenses were $1,600 in 2024 compared to $1,681 in 2023. Income from operations in 2024 was $9,061 compared to $8,427 in 2023.
Corporate
Corporate does not constitute a reportable segment and includes costs not directly attributable to the reportable operating segments. These expenses are primarily related to corporate executives, corporate finance, corporate social responsibility, legal, human resources, information technology, cybersecurity, and other shared services. Corporate operating expenses were $96,738 for the year ended December 31, 2024 compared to $91,743 in 2023.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Our primary sources of liquidity are cash flows from operations, cash, cash equivalents, and short-term investments. Cash, cash equivalents, and short-term investments totaled $203,408 and $219,813 as of December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively. Of the total cash, cash equivalents, and short-term investments as of December 31, 2024, $119,569, or approximately 59%, was held in our foreign subsidiaries. Of the total cash, cash equivalents, and short-term investments as of December 31, 2023, $134,745, or approximately 61%, was held in our foreign subsidiaries.
On July 22, 2020, we entered into a $150,000, five-year, asset-based revolving credit facility with various lenders and Citizens Bank (the “Credit Agreement”). On March 25, 2022, we entered into an amendment to the Credit Agreement, which replaced the London Interbank Offering Rate (“LIBOR”) with the Bloomberg Short-Term Bank Yield Index (“BSBY”) as the interest rate benchmark, among other changes. On April 3, 2023, we entered into a second amendment to the Credit Agreement, which reflects CIT Group/Commercial Services, Inc. (“CIT”) as an additional receivables collection agent for us and certain guarantors. Further, on October 23, 2023, we entered into a third amendment to the Credit Agreement in order to accommodate certain changes made to our existing factoring arrangement with CIT.
As of December 31, 2024, we had working capital of $480,974, cash and cash equivalents of $189,924, short-term investments of $13,484, no cash borrowing, and $504 in letters of credit outstanding unrelated to the Credit Agreement.
We believe that based on our current financial position and available cash, cash equivalents, and short-term investments, we will meet all our financial commitments and operating needs for at least the next twelve months. In addition, our $150,000 asset-based revolving credit facility provides us with additional liquidity and flexibility on a long-term basis.
In connection with and concurrently with the entry into the acquisition of Kurt Geiger (the "Transaction"), we have entered into a commitment letter dated February 12, 2025 ("Commitment Letter"), with Citizens Bank, JPMorgan Chase Bank, and Citibank ("Commitment Parties") pursuant to which, among other things, the Commitment Parties have committed to provide debt financing for the Transaction, consisting of senior secured credit facilities of up to an aggregate total of $550,000, which includes a $300,000 term loan and a $250,000 revolving credit facility, on the terms and conditions set forth in the Commitment Letter.
Cash Flows
A summary of our cash provided by and used in operating, investing, and financing activities was as follows.
Operating Activities
Cash provided by operating activities was $198,096 for the year ended December 31, 2024, as compared to $229,237 in the prior year. The decrease was primarily driven by unfavorable changes in inventories, receivables, and deferred taxes, partially offset by favorable changes in accounts payable, and net income.
Investing Activities
Cash used in investing activities was $39,493 for the year ended December 31, 2024, which was primarily attributed to capital expenditures of $25,911 for leasehold improvements, new stores, and systems enhancements; purchases of short-term investments of $21,405, and acquisitions of $13,976. This was partially offset by proceeds from the sale of short-term investments of $22,139.
Financing Activities
Cash used in financing activities was $167,906 for the year ended December 31, 2024, which was primarily attributable to share repurchases and net settlements of stock awards of $98,433, dividends paid of $61,039, and the payment of a contingent consideration liability of $8,547.
Contractual and Other Obligations
Firm Commitments
Our contractual obligations as of December 31, 2024 were as follows:
Payment due by period
(in thousands) Total 2025 2026-2027 2028-2029 2030 and after
Operating lease obligations(1)
$ 172,821 $ 49,831 $ 69,786 $ 32,522 $ 20,682
Purchase obligations(2)
262,521 262,521 - - -
Future minimum royalty(3)
12,000 6,000 6,000 - -
Employment Agreements(4)
60,336 10,368 17,985 16,491 15,492
Total $ 507,678 $ 328,720 $ 93,771 $ 49,013 $ 36,174
(1) Refer to Note 13 - Leases to the consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for further information.
(2) Substantially all our products are produced by independent manufacturers at overseas locations, the majority of which are located in China, with a growing percentage located in Cambodia, Mexico, Vietnam, India, Italy, Brazil, Tunisia, and various other European and Asian countries. We have not entered into any long-term manufacturing or supply contracts with any of these foreign manufacturers. We believe that a sufficient number of alternative sources exist outside of the United States for the manufacture of our products. Purchases are made primarily in United States dollars.
(3) Future minimum royalty and advertising payments represent our obligation in connection with our licenses agreement. Refer to Note 15 - Commitments, Contingencies, and Other to the consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for further information.
(4) We have employment agreements with our Founder and Creative and Design Chief, Steven Madden, and certain executive officers, which provide for the payment of compensation. In addition, some of these employment agreements provide for incentive compensation based on various performance criteria and some provide for discretionary bonuses as well as other benefits, including stock-based compensation.
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
In addition to the commitments included in the Contractual Obligations table above, we have outstanding letters of credit of $504 outstanding as of December 31, 2024 related to the purchase of inventory. These letters of credit expire at various dates through 2030.
In connection with and concurrently with the entry into the Acquisition of Kurt Geiger (the "Transaction"), we have entered into a commitment letter dated February 12, 2025, with Citizens Bank, JPMorgan Chase Bank, and Citibank ("Commitment Parties") pursuant to which, among other things, to provide debt financing for the Transaction. Refer to Note 21 - Subsequent Events to the consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for further information.
We do not maintain any other off-balance sheet arrangements, transactions, obligations, or other relationships with unconsolidated entities that would be expected to have a material current or future effect on our consolidated financial statements. Refer to Note 15 - Commitments, Contingencies, and Other to the consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for further information.
Dividends
In February 2024, our Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.21 per share on our outstanding shares of common stock. The dividend was paid on March 22, 2024, to stockholders of record as of the close of business on March 8, 2024. We paid total cash dividends for the three months ended March 31, 2024 of $15,416.
In May 2024, our Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.21 per share on our outstanding shares of common stock. The dividend was paid on June 21, 2024, to stockholders of record as of the close of business on June 10, 2024. We paid total cash dividends for the three months ended June 30, 2024 of $15,292.
In July 2024, our Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.21 per share on our outstanding shares of common stock. The dividend was paid on September 23, 2024, to stockholders of record as of the close of business on September 13, 2024. We paid total cash dividends for the three months ended September 30, 2024 of $15,172.
In November 2024, our Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.21 per share on our outstanding shares of common stock. The dividend was paid on December 27, 2024, to stockholders of record as of the close of business on December 13, 2024. We paid total cash dividends for the three months ended December 31, 2024 of $15,159.
On February 25, 2025, our Board of Directors approved a quarterly cash dividend. The quarterly dividend of $0.21 per share is payable on March 21, 2025 to stockholders of record as of the close of business on March 10, 2025.
Future quarterly cash dividend payments are subject to the discretion of our Board of Directors and contingent upon future earnings, our financial condition, capital requirements, general business conditions, and other factors. Therefore, we can give no assurance that dividends will be paid to holders of our common stock in the future.
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND THE USE OF ESTIMATES
Management believes the following critical accounting estimates are the most significantly affected by judgments and assumptions used in the preparation of our consolidated financial statements: allowances for doubtful accounts; markdowns and chargeback allowances, co-op advertising allowances, customer returns; inventory valuation; the valuation of goodwill and other intangible assets; and contingent consideration liabilities. Our estimates are made based upon historical factors, current and future circumstances and market conditions, and the experience and judgment of management. Assumptions and estimates are evaluated on an ongoing basis, and we may employ outside experts to assist in the valuation process of our intangible assets and goodwill.
Allowances for doubtful accounts. A vast majority of our customers’ receivable balances are protected under our factoring and collection agency agreements with Rosenthal & Rosenthal, Inc. (“Rosenthal”) and CIT Group/Commercial Services, Inc. (“CIT”), described in Note 17 - Factoring Agreements to the consolidated financial statements included in this Form 10-K. Under this agreement, Rosenthal assumes the credit risk resulting from a customer’s financial inability to make payment of credit-approved receivables. We also use risk insurance, letters of credit, and put agreements to mitigate credit risk for a significant portion of the receivables not covered under our Rosenthal agreement. The balance of receivables not covered under our Rosenthal agreement is reduced by an allowance for amounts that may be uncollectible in the future.
The estimated allowance for doubtful accounts is based on an analysis of the aging of accounts receivable, assessments of collectability based on historical trends, the financial condition of our customers, and an evaluation of economic conditions. Differences in management’s estimation of the above factors could impact our results of operations and financial position. The balances of allowances for doubtful accounts are generally correlated with our revenues from wholesale customers whose receivables are not covered under our Rosenthal agreement, and actual losses have historically been within our expectations and in line with the allowances we have established. The balances and activity in the allowances for doubtful accounts are presented in Note 20 - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts to the consolidated financial statements included in this Form 10-K. A hypothetical 5% increase in our allowance for doubtful accounts as of December 31, 2024 would have increased our 2024 operating expenses by approximately $200.
Markdowns, chargebacks, co-op advertising, and customer returns. As described in Note 2 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies to the consolidated financial statements included in this Form 10-K, we provide variable consideration to our wholesale customers to maximize sales of our product on the retail floor, in the form of markdowns and chargeback allowances, co-op advertising allowances, and return reserves related to the current period sales.
a.Markdowns and chargeback allowances. We evaluate anticipated customer markdowns and chargeback allowances by reviewing several performance indicators for our major customers. These performance indicators, which include inventory levels on the retail floors, sell through rates to the end consumer, and gross margin levels, are analyzed by management to estimate the amount of customer allowances. We also discuss product performance with our retail partners on an ongoing basis to gather more intelligence to inform our estimation process. Differences in management’s estimation of the above factors from period to period could impact our results of operations and financial position. The levels of markdown and chargeback allowances are generally correlated with our revenues to wholesale customers. A hypothetical 5% increase in the reserve balance for markdowns and chargeback allowances as of December 31, 2024 would have decreased our 2024 revenue by approximately $1,700.
b.Co-op advertising allowances. Under our co-op advertising programs, we agree to reimburse the retailer for a portion of the costs incurred by the retailer to advertise and promote some of our products. We estimate the costs of co-op advertising programs based on the terms of the agreements with our customers. Differences in management’s estimation of the co-op advertising activity at our customers and the resulting amount of the reserve for these allowances from period to period could impact our results of operations and financial position. The level of co-op advertising support is generally correlated with our revenues to wholesale customers. A hypothetical 5% increase in the reserve balance for co-op advertising allowances as of December 31, 2024 would have an immaterial impact on our 2024 revenue.
c.Return reserve. Our Direct-to-Consumer segment accepts unworn returns within 30 days from the date of a sale, or 30 days from the date of delivery for online orders. We estimate a return reserve in the Direct-to-Consumer segment by establishing a return rate using historical returns data. The rate is then applied to eligible revenues recorded in the current period to calculate the reserve. We do not accept returns as a normal business practice in our wholesale segments, except for our Blondo® and Dolce Vita® product lines. We estimate such returns based on historical experience and current market conditions. The level of returns is generally correlated with our revenues. A hypothetical 5% increase in the return reserve as of December 31, 2024 would have an immaterial impact on our 2024 revenue.
The balances and activity in the markdown, chargeback, co-op advertising allowances, and return reserves are included in Note 20 - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts to the consolidated financial statements included in this Form 10-K.
Inventory valuation. Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value, on a first-in, first-out basis. We review inventory on a regular basis for excess and slow-moving inventory. The review is based on an analysis of the age and styles of inventory on hand, historical sales of the same or similar products, and expected net realizable value through future sales. The analysis includes a review of inventory quantities on hand at period-end in relation to year-to-date sales and projections for sales in the foreseeable future as well as subsequent sales and discussions with both traditional and off-price retailers. We consider quantities on hand in excess of estimated future sales to be at risk for market impairment. The estimated net realizable value is determined based on the estimate of selling prices of inventory through off-price and discount store channels, department stores, and our own direct-to-consumer channel. The likelihood of any material inventory write-down is dependent primarily on the expectation of future consumer demand for our products, which is influenced by consumer trends, economic and market conditions, and weather patterns for seasonal good. A misinterpretation or misunderstanding of future consumer demand for our products due to these or any other factors could result in inventory valuation changes compared to the valuation determined to be appropriate as of the balance sheet date.
In general, our inventory obsolescence estimates have historically been within our expectations and in line with the reserves established, and although possible, significant variation is not expected in the future. A hypothetical 5% increase to inventory reserves as of December 31, 2024 would have decreased our 2024 gross profit by approximately $500.
Valuation of goodwill and other intangible assets. We estimate and record the fair value of purchased intangible assets at the time of their acquisition. The fair values of these intangible assets are estimated based on independent third-party appraisals that are reviewed and approved by us. Goodwill and other intangible assets deemed to have indefinite useful lives are not amortized. These assets are tested for impairment at least annually, on the first day of the third quarter, or more frequently if impairment indicators are present. Intangible assets with finite lives are amortized over their estimated useful lives and tested for impairment if indicators are present.
Our annual impairment assessment of goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets is generally performed using a qualitative approach to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit or intangible asset is less than its carrying amount. Performance of the qualitative impairment assessment requires judgment in identifying and considering the significance of relevant events and circumstances including external factors, such as macroeconomic and industry conditions, and the legal and regulatory environment, as well as entity-specific factors, such as actual and planned financial performance, that could impact the fair value of our reporting units and indefinite-lived intangible assets. The results of our most recent quantitative tests are also considered in performing the qualitative assessment.
If the results of the annual qualitative assessment conclude that it is not more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit or an indefinite-lived intangible asset exceeds its carrying value, or if interim indicators of impairment are identified, a quantitative impairment test is performed.
A quantitative impairment test involves comparing the fair value of a reporting unit or intangible asset with its carrying value. If the fair value is less than the carrying value, an impairment loss is recorded for an amount equal to the excess of the carrying value over the fair value. For goodwill, the impairment loss is limited to the amount of the respective reporting unit’s allocated goodwill. Determination of the fair value of a reporting unit or indefinite-lived intangible asset is subjective in nature and involves the use of significant estimates and assumptions including consideration of external factors, such as macroeconomic and industry conditions, and the legal and regulatory environment, as well as entity-specific factors such as actual and planned financial performance. These estimates and assumptions could have a significant impact on whether an impairment charge is recognized and the amount of any such charge. Estimates of fair value are primarily determined using discounted cash flows, market comparisons, and recent transactions. These approaches use significant estimates and assumptions, including projected future cash flows, discount rates, growth rates, and determination of appropriate market comparisons. It is possible that our conclusions regarding impairment of goodwill or other intangible assets could change in future periods if, for example, our businesses do not perform as projected or overall economic conditions in future periods vary from current assumptions.
Our annual impairment tests were last performed as of July 1, 2024, using a qualitative impairment test as described above, the results of which concluded that the fair values of its reporting units exceeded their carrying values and the fair values of its indefinite-lived intangibles exceeded their respective carrying values. A hypothetical 10% decrease in the fair values of our reporting units and our indefinite-lived intangible assets as of December 31, 2024 would not have resulted in any material impairment charges. No goodwill or intangible asset impairment charges were recorded as a result of our annual impairment tests during any of the years presented in this Form 10-K.
In the first quarter of 2024, circumstances occurred that caused a change in the estimated useful life of the GREATS® trademark from an indefinite life to an estimated useful life of 10 years, and as a result, the Company performed an impairment test. The estimated fair value of this trademark was determined using an excess earnings method, incorporating the use of projected financial information and a discount rate of 14.0% which was developed using market participant-based assumptions. Changes in these significant unobservable inputs might result in a significantly higher or lower fair value measurement. As a result of this assessment, the GREATS® trademark was written down from the carrying value of $6,150 to its fair value of $4,450, resulting in a pre-tax non-cash impairment charge of $1,700. Additionally, during the third quarter of 2024, the Company completed the sale of its GREATS business. As part of the divestiture, the remaining carrying amounts of the net
intangible assets of GREATS, which included a trademark of $4,287 and customer relationships of $861, were written off. This was recorded within operating expenses in our Consolidated Statements of Income for the year ended December 31, 2024.
Additionally, during the third quarter of 2024, the Company decided to discontinue the use of its Almost Famous brand and transition its marketing and sales efforts under the Madden Girl brand. As a result of this decision, the Company reassessed the carrying amount of its Almost Famous trademark for impairment in accordance with ASC 350, Intangibles - Goodwill and Other. Based on this assessment, the Company determined that the estimated future cash flows related to the Almost Famous trademark was less than its carrying value, and therefore, the asset was impaired. As such, the Company recognized an impairment charge of $8,635, representing the remaining carrying amount of the asset, which was recorded within Impairment of intangibles in our Consolidated Statements of Income for the year ended December 31, 2024. Prior to writing off the Almost Famous trademark, it was recorded within our Wholesale Apparel/Accessories segment.
See Note 7 - Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets to the consolidated financial statements included in this Form 10-K for further details.
Contingent consideration liabilities. We have completed acquisitions that may require us to make contingent consideration payments to the sellers based on the future financial performance of the acquired businesses over a period from one to five years. The fair values of the contingent consideration liabilities are estimated using the present values of management's projections of the financial results of the acquired businesses. Failure to correctly project the financial results of the acquired businesses could materially impact our results of operations and financial position. See Note 4 - Acquisitions, Purchases and Sales of Joint Ventures, and Divestitures and Note 5 - Fair Value Measurements to the consolidated financial statements included in this Form 10-K for further details.

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ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
($ in thousands)
Interest Rate Risk
We do not engage in the trading of market risk sensitive instruments in the normal course of our business. Our financing arrangements are subject to variable interest rates, primarily based on the prime rate and the BSBY. The terms of our $150,000 asset-based revolving credit agreement (the “Credit Facility”) and our collection agency agreements with Rosenthal & Rosenthal, Inc. and CIT Group/Commercial Services, Inc. can be found in the Liquidity and Capital Resources section of Item 7 and in Note 16 - Credit Agreement and Note 17 - Factoring Agreements, respectively, to the consolidated financial statements included in this Form 10-K. Because we had no cash borrowings under the Credit Facility as of December 31, 2024, a 10% change in interest rates, with all other variables held constant, would have an immaterial effect on our reported interest expense.
As of December 31, 2024, we held short-term investments valued at $13,484, which consist of time deposits. We have the ability to hold these investments until maturity.
Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Risk
We face market risk to the extent that our U.S. or foreign operations involve the transaction of business in foreign currencies. In addition, our inventory purchases are primarily done in foreign jurisdictions and inventory purchases may be impacted by fluctuations in the exchange rates between the U.S. dollar and the local currencies of our contract manufacturers, which could have the effect of increasing the cost of goods sold in the future. We manage these risks primarily by denominating these purchases in U.S. dollars. To mitigate the risk of purchases that are denominated in foreign currencies we may enter into forward foreign exchange contracts for terms of no more than two years. A description of our accounting policies for derivative financial instruments is included in Note 2 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Note 12 - Derivative Instruments to the consolidated financial statements.
As of December 31, 2024, we had entered into forward foreign exchange contracts with notional amounts totaling $90,031. We performed a sensitivity analysis based on a model that measures the impact of a hypothetical change in foreign currency exchange rates to determine the effects that market risk exposures may have on the fair values of our forward foreign exchange contracts that were outstanding as of December 31, 2024. As of December 31, 2024, a 10% increase or decrease of the U.S. dollar against the exchange rates for foreign currencies under forward foreign exchange contracts, with all other variables held constant, would result in a net increase or decrease in the fair value of our derivatives portfolio of approximately $136, which is immaterial to the consolidated financial statements.
In addition, we are exposed to translation risk in connection with our foreign operations because our subsidiaries and joint ventures in these countries utilize the local currency as their functional currency, and those financial results are translated into U.S. dollars. As currency exchange rates fluctuate, foreign currency exchange rate translation adjustments reflected in our financial statements with respect to our foreign operations affects the comparability of financial results between years.
Inflation Risk
Inflationary factors generally affect us by reducing consumer spending, increasing our labor and overhead costs, and negatively impacting our direct sales to end consumers and our sales to our wholesale customers, which may adversely affect our results of operations and financial position. We have historically been able to minimize the impacts of inflation by raising prices, renegotiating costs, changing suppliers, and improving operating efficiencies. However, no assurance can be given that we will be able to offset such inflationary impacts in the future.

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ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
The information required by this Item is incorporated herein by reference to the consolidated financial statements listed in response to Item 15. of Part IV of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

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ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS
ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
Not applicable.

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ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Disclosure Controls and Procedures
As required by Rule 13a-15(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"), our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, has evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the fiscal year covered by this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Based on that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Exchange Act) were effective as of the end of the fiscal year covered by this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Management's Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
Management of Steven Madden, Ltd. is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) of the Exchange Act).
Our internal control over financial reporting is a process designed by, or under the supervision of, our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, and effected by the Board of Directors, management, and other personnel, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("GAAP"). Our internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of our assets; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with GAAP, and that our receipts and expenditures are being made only in accordance with authorizations of our management and directors; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of our assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect all misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
With the participation of the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer, our management conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness, as of the end of our fiscal year ended December 31, 2024, of our internal control over financial reporting based on the framework and criteria established in the 2013 Internal Control-Integrated Framework, issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). Based on this evaluation our management has concluded that, as of December 31, 2024, our internal control over financial reporting was effective.
Our independent registered public accounting firm, Ernst & Young LLP, has audited our consolidated financial statements and the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2024. Their attestation report appears in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
There was no change in our internal control over financial reporting, as identified in connection with the evaluation required by paragraph (d) of Rule 13a-15 of the Exchange Act, that occurred during the fiscal quarter ended December 31, 2024, which has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

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ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION
During the three months ended December 31, 2024, none of the Company's directors or officers (as defined in Rule 16a-1(f) of the Exchange Act) adopted, modified, or terminated any contract, instruction, or written plan for the purchase or sale of our securities that was intended to satisfy the affirmative defense conditions of Rule 10b5-1(c) of the Exchange Act or any non-Rule 10b5-1 trading arrangement as defined in Item 408(a) of Regulation S-K under the Exchange Act.
A copy of our insider trading policy and related Rule 10b5-1 trading plan policy has been filed as Exhibit 19.1 to this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

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ITEM 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
ITEM 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
The information required to be furnished pursuant to this Item will be set forth in our proxy statement for the 2025 Annual Meeting of Stockholders and is incorporated herein by reference.

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ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
The information required to be furnished pursuant to this Item will be set forth in our proxy statement for the 2025 Annual Meeting of Stockholders and is incorporated herein by reference.

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ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS
ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS
The information required to be furnished pursuant to this Item will be set forth in our proxy statement for the 2025 Annual Meeting of Stockholders and is incorporated herein by reference.

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ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS
ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE
The information required to be furnished pursuant to this Item will be set forth in our proxy statement for the 2025 Annual Meeting of Stockholders and is incorporated herein by reference.

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ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES
ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES
The information required to be furnished pursuant to this Item will be set forth in our proxy statement for the 2025 Annual Meeting of Stockholders and is incorporated herein by reference.
PART IV

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ITEM 15. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES
ITEM 15. EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES
(a) Exhibits.
See the Exhibit Index included herein.
(b) Financial Statements and Financial Statements Schedules
See Index to Consolidated Financial Statements included herein.
Exhibit Index
3.01
Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Steven Madden, Ltd. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on May 28, 2024)
3.02
Second Amended and Restated By-Laws of the Company, dated as November 1, 2022 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on November 2, 2022)
4.01
Specimen Certificate for shares of Common Stock (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 2013 filed with the SEC on August 8, 2013)
4.02
Description of the Registrant’s Securities Registered Under Section 12 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.02 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022 filed with the SEC on March 1, 2023)
10.01
Collection Agency Agreement dated July 10, 2009 between Rosenthal & Rosenthal, Inc. and the Company (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for its fiscal quarter ended September 30, 2010 filed with the SEC on November 9, 2010)
10.02
Amendment to Collection Agency Agreement dated February 16, 2010 between Rosenthal & Rosenthal, Inc. and the Company (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.10 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for its fiscal year ended December 31, 2010 filed with the SEC on March 12, 2010)
10.03
Collection Agency Agreement dated July 10, 2009 between Rosenthal & Rosenthal, Inc. and Daniel Friedman & Associates, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on July 16, 2009)
10.04
Collection Agency Agreement dated July 10, 2009 between Rosenthal & Rosenthal, Inc. and Diva Acquisition Corp. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on July 16, 2009)
10.05
Collection Agency Agreement dated July 10, 2009 between Rosenthal & Rosenthal, Inc. and Steven Madden Retail, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on July 16, 2009)
10.06
Collection Agency Agreement dated July 10, 2009 between Rosenthal & Rosenthal, Inc. and Stevies, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on July 16, 2009)
10.07
Collection Agency Agreement dated July 10, 2009 between Rosenthal & Rosenthal, Inc. and SML Acquisition Corp. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.6 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on July 16, 2009)
10.08
Letter Agreement dated July 10, 2009 among Rosenthal & Rosenthal, Inc., the Company, Daniel Friedman & Associates, Inc., Diva Acquisition Corp., Steven Madden Retail, Inc., Stevies, Inc., and SML Acquisition Corp. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.7 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on July 16, 2009)
10.09
Guarantee dated July 10, 2009 of the Company, Daniel Friedman & Associates, Inc., Diva Acquisition Corp., Steven Madden Retail, Inc., Stevies, Inc., and SML Acquisition Corp. in favor of Rosenthal & Rosenthal, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.8 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on July 16, 2009)
10.10
Amendment to Collection Agency Agreement, dated May 6, 2020, between Rosenthal & Rosenthal, Inc. and the Company (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on May 28, 2020)
10.11
Credit Agreement, dated as of July 22, 2020, among Steven Madden, Ltd., the other subsidiary borrowers from time to time party thereto, the lenders from time to time party thereto, and Citizens Bank, N.A., as administrative agent (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on July 28, 2020)
10.12
First Amendment to Credit Agreement, dated as of March 25, 2022, among Steven Madden, Ltd., the other loan parties party thereto, the lenders party thereto, and Citizen Bank, N.A., as administrative agent (which includes the marked Credit Agreement as Annex I thereto) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on March 31, 2022)
10.13
Amended and Restated Deferred Purchase Factoring Agreement, dated as of July 22, 2020, among Steven Madden, Ltd., certain subsidiaries of Steven Madden, Ltd. party thereto and Rosenthal & Rosenthal, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on July 28, 2020)
10.14
Third Amended Employment Agreement dated July 15, 2005 between the Company and Steven Madden (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on July 20, 2005)
10.15
Amendment dated December 14, 2009 to Third Amended Employment Agreement between the Company and Steven Madden (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on December 17, 2009)
10.16
Amended and Restated Second Amendment dated as of December 31, 2011 to Third Amended Employment Agreement between the Company and Steven Madden (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.17 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for its fiscal year ended December 31, 2011 filed with the SEC on February 29, 2012)
10.17
Third Amendment dated April 8, 2016 to Third Amended Employment Agreement between the Company and Steven Madden (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the fiscal quarter ended March 31, 2016 filed with the SEC on May 6, 2016)
10.18
Fourth Amendment dated March 25, 2019 to Third Amended Employment Agreement between the Company and Steven Madden (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on March 26, 2019)
10.19
Employment Agreement dated as of May 15, 2023 between the Company and Karla Frieders (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.19 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023 filed with the SEC on March 4, 2024)#
10.20
Employment Agreement, dated as of February 27, 2024, between the Company and Edward R. Rosenfeld (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.20 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023 filed with the SEC on March 4, 2024)#
10.21
Employment Agreement, dated as of December 21, 2022, between the Company and Amelia Newton Varela (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.26 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022)#
10.22
Employment Agreement dated as of November 10, 2023, between the Company and Zine Mazouzi (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on November 15, 2023)#
10.23
2006 Stock Incentive Plan (Amended and Restated Effective May 22, 2009), amended by the Board of Directors of the Company on April 5, 2012 and approved and adopted by the Company's stockholders on May 25, 2012 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.30 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2012 filed with the SEC on March 1, 2013)#
10.24
2019 Incentive Compensation Plan, as amended (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on May 28, 2024)#
10.25
Form of Non-Qualified Stock Option Agreement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.25 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on March 4, 2024)#
10.26
Form of Restricted Stock Award Agreement (Non-Employee Directors) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.26 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on March 4, 2024)
10.27
Form of Restricted Stock Award Agreement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.27 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on March 4, 2024)#
10.28
Form of Performance-Based Restricted Stock Award Agreement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.28 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023 filed with the SEC on March 4, 2024)#
10.29
Form of Acknowledgment of Clawback Policy (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.29 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022 filed with the SEC on March 1, 2023)
10.30
Second Amendment to Credit Agreement, dated as of April 3, 2023, among Steven Madden, Ltd., the other loan parties party thereto, the lenders party thereto, and Citizens Bank, N.A., as administrative agent (which includes the marked Credit Agreement as Annex I thereto) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on April 6, 2023)
10.31
Credit Approved Receivables Purchasing Agreement, dated as of April 3, 2023, among Steven Madden, Ltd., the subsidiaries and affiliates of Steven Madden, Ltd. party thereto, and The CIT Group/Commercial Services, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on April 6, 2023)
10.32
Third Amendment to Credit Agreement, dated as of October 23, 2023, among Steven Madden, Ltd., the other loan parties party thereto, the lenders party thereto, and Citizens Bank, N.A., as administrative agent (which includes the marked Credit Agreement as Annex I thereto) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on October 26, 2023)
10.33
Notification Factoring Rider to the Credit Approved Receivables Purchasing Agreement, dated as of October 23, 2023, among Steven Madden, Ltd., Daniel M. Friedman & Associates, Inc., and The CIT Group/Commercial Services, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on October 26, 2023)
10.34
Fifth Amendment to Third Amended Employment Agreement, dated November 10, 2023, between the Company and Steven Madden (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on November 15, 2023)
10.35
Employment Agreement dated as of January 24, 2024, between the Company and Lisa Keith (incorporated by reference to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023 filed with the SEC on March 4, 2024)#
10.36
Amendment No. 1 to Employment Agreement, dated May 6, 2024, by and between the Company and Lisa Keith (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on May 6, 2024)#
10.37
Notice of Benchmark Replacement and Conforming Changes Amendment to Credit Agreement, dated as of November 16, 2024, by Citizens Bank, N.A.†
10.38
Steven Madden - Form of Restricted Stock Agreement (Steven Madden) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed on May 2, 2024)#
10.39
Edward Rosenfeld - Form of Restricted Stock Agreement (Edward Rosenfeld) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed on May 2, 2024)#
14.01
Code of Ethics for the Chief Executive Officer and Senior Financial Officers (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 14.01 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for its fiscal year ended December 31, 2023 filed with the SEC on March 4, 2024)
14.02
Code of Business Conduct and Ethics for the Board of Directors (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 14.02 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for its fiscal year ended December 31, 2023 filed with the SEC on March 4, 2024)
14.03
Code of Business Conduct and Ethics (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 14.03 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for its fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 filed with the SEC on February 28, 2019)
19.01
Insider Trading Policy†
21.01
Subsidiaries of the Registrant†
23.01
Consent of Ernst & Young LLP†
24.01
Power of Attorney (included on signature page hereto)
31.01
Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) or 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002†
31.02
Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) or 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002†
32.01
Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002†*
32.02
Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002†*
Clawback Policy
101 The following materials from Steven Madden, Ltd.'s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024, formatted in iXBRL (Inline Extensible Business Reporting Language): (i) the Consolidated Balance Sheets, (ii) the Consolidated Statements of Income, (iii) the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income, (iv) the Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders' Equity, (v) the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, (vi) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, and (vii) information set forth under paragraph (b) in Part II, Item 9B, tagged as blocks of text.*
104 Cover Page Interactive Data File, formatted in Inline Extensible Business Reporting Language (iXBRL) with applicable taxonomy extension information contained in Exhibit 101.*
† Filed herewith.
# Indicates management contract, or compensatory plan, or arrangement required to be identified pursuant to Item 15(b) of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
* This exhibit shall not be deemed “filed” for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or otherwise subject to the liability of that section, nor shall it be deemed incorporated by reference into any filing under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, whether made before or after the date hereof and irrespective of any general incorporation language in any filing, except to the extent the Company specifically incorporates it by reference.