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BBWI's International Momentum Adds Strength to Its Growth Story

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Key Takeaways

  • BBWI's international net sales rose low double digits in Q2, exceeding management's expectations.
  • Strong overseas demand and higher product shipments supported Bath & Body Works' international growth.
  • BBWI expanded its international network to 596 stores and raised its 2026 adjusted EPS outlook.

Bath & Body Works, Inc. (BBWI - Free Report) is gaining support from international markets as it works to restore sustainable growth. Healthy overseas demand, rising product shipments and continued partner expansion are strengthening this business. With North American stores under pressure, international operations offer a valuable source of diversification and a platform for extending the brand’s reach.

That strength was evident in second-quarter fiscal 2026, when international retail sales increased in the high single digits, meeting management’s expectations. International net sales advanced low double digits and exceeded expectations, supported by increased product shipments across regions. These measures reflect consumer demand across partner channels and the company’s sales into its international network.

International and Other sales climbed 24.9% year over year to $108 million. Higher international product sales contributed to the increase, alongside expanded domestic wholesale distribution through Ulta Beauty and Amazon. While this category includes more than overseas operations, its performance highlights the growing contribution from channels beyond BBWI’s traditional North American stores.

The international footprint also continued to expand. Partners opened 17 stores during the second quarter, bringing the network to 596 locations, including 37 travel retail stores. This broader presence creates more opportunities for consumers to discover the brand and provides additional outlets for its personal care and home fragrance products.

For fiscal 2026, BBWI narrowed its sales guidance to a decline of 2.5-4% and raised adjusted earnings expectations to $2.60-$2.80 per share. The outlook reflects second-quarter outperformance and management’s latest business assessment. Sustained overseas demand and continued partner expansion could provide further support as BBWI invests in its transformation and works toward renewed growth.

BBWI’s Price Performance, Valuation & Estimates

Shares of Bath & Body Works have jumped 11.3% over the past six months against the industry’s 5.2% decline.

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From a valuation standpoint, BBWI trades at a forward price-to-earnings ratio of 7.66, down from the industry’s average of 15.31. It has a Value Score of A.

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The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Bath & Body Works’ fiscal 2026 earnings implies a year-over-year decline of 14.6%, whereas the same for fiscal 2027 indicates an uptick of 4.3%. Earnings estimates for fiscal 2026 and 2027 have been revised upward by a penny and remained unchanged, respectively, over the past 30 days.

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BBWI currently carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).

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