STOCK TITAN

a. Brands (NYSE: AKA) lifts 2026 EBITDA guidance after Q1 margin gains

Filing Impact
(Moderate)
Filing Sentiment
(Neutral)
Form Type
8-K

Rhea-AI Filing Summary

a. Brands Holding Corp. reported modest growth but stronger profitability metrics for Q1 2026. Net sales rose 3.0% to $132.5 million, driven by a 4.2% increase in orders despite slightly lower average order value. Net loss improved to $7.1 million, or $0.66 per share, from $8.4 million, or $0.78 per share a year earlier.

Gross margin expanded to 63.1% from 57.2%, with Adjusted Gross Margin at 59.0%. Adjusted EBITDA more than doubled to $5.1 million, or 3.9% of net sales, from $2.7 million and 2.1%. The company recorded a $25.8 million receivable tied to IEEPA tariff refunds and reduced inventory to $67.7 million.

Cash flow used in operations was $3.8 million, compared with $1.9 million a year earlier. For 2026, management kept net sales guidance at $625–$635 million but raised Adjusted EBITDA guidance to $30–$32 million from $27–$29 million, and forecast Q2 net sales of $160–$164 million and Adjusted EBITDA of $8.5–$9 million.

Positive

  • Margin expansion and profitability improvement: Gross margin rose to 63.1% from 57.2%, and Adjusted EBITDA increased to $5.1 million from $2.7 million, signaling better underlying economics.
  • Raised full-year EBITDA guidance: 2026 Adjusted EBITDA outlook increased to $30–$32 million from $27–$29 million while keeping net sales guidance unchanged at $625–$635 million.
  • Tariff refund receivable and leaner inventory: The company recorded a $25.8 million IEEPA tariff receivable and reduced inventory to $67.7 million from $94.4 million in the prior-year quarter.

Negative

  • Continuing losses and cash burn: The company still posted a Q1 2026 net loss of $7.1 million and used $3.8 million of cash in operating activities, more than the prior-year period.

Insights

Margins and EBITDA outlook improved even as growth stayed modest.

a. Brands delivered Q1 2026 net sales of $132.5 million, up 3.0%, but the real shift was profitability. Gross margin expanded to 63.1% and Adjusted EBITDA rose to $5.1 million, nearly double the prior-year level.

A key driver was mix and inventory discipline, including an IEEPA tariff adjustment that boosted gross margin, partly offset by a $12.0 million streetwear inventory write-off. The company also booked a $25.8 million tariff receivable, improving the balance sheet, while inventory fell sharply year over year.

Management reiterated 2026 net sales guidance of $625–$635 million but raised Adjusted EBITDA guidance to $30–$32 million, from $27–$29 million. Operating cash flow was negative $3.8 million in Q1 2026, so future filings will clarify whether stronger margins translate into sustained positive cash generation.

Item 2.02 Results of Operations and Financial Condition Financial
Disclosure of earnings results, typically an earnings press release or preliminary financials.
Item 7.01 Regulation FD Disclosure Disclosure
Material non-public information disclosed under Regulation Fair Disclosure, often investor presentations or guidance.
Item 9.01 Financial Statements and Exhibits Exhibits
Financial statements, pro forma financial information, and exhibit attachments filed with this report.
Q1 2026 net sales $132.5 million Up 3.0% vs Q1 2025
Q1 2026 net loss $7.1 million ($0.66/share) Improved from $8.4 million ($0.78/share) in Q1 2025
Q1 2026 Adjusted EBITDA $5.1 million (3.9% margin) Up from $2.7 million (2.1% margin) in Q1 2025
Gross margin 63.1% Q1 2026 vs 57.2% in Q1 2025
IEEPA tariff receivable $25.8 million Recognized in prepaid expenses and inventory as of March 2026
Inventory balance $67.7 million March 31, 2026 vs $94.4 million Q1 2025
Operating cash flow -$3.8 million Cash used in operations, Q1 2026 vs -$1.9 million Q1 2025
2026 Adjusted EBITDA guidance $30–$32 million Raised from prior $27–$29 million range
Adjusted EBITDA financial
"Adjusted EBITDA2 was $5.1 million in the first quarter of 2026, compared to $2.7 million in the first quarter of 2025."
Adjusted EBITDA is a way companies measure how much money they make from their core operations, like running a business, by removing certain costs or income that aren’t part of regular business activities. It helps investors see how well a company is doing without distractions from unusual expenses or gains, making it easier to compare companies or track performance over time.
constant currency basis financial
"Net sales increased 3.0% to $132.5 million... up 1.2% on a constant currency basis1."
A "constant currency basis" is a way companies compare financial results by removing the effects of changing exchange rates between different currencies. It helps show how the business is really performing, without the confusion caused by currency value swings, much like adjusting for inflation to see true growth.
IEEPA tariff adjustment regulatory
"The increase in gross margin was primarily driven by... the benefit of the IEEPA tariff adjustment; partially offset by a $12.0 million write-off..."
An IEEPA tariff adjustment is a change to import duties or trade restrictions made under the U.S. International Emergency Economic Powers Act, which lets the government alter customs rules during declared national emergencies or to enforce sanctions. For investors, it matters because such adjustments can suddenly raise or lower the cost of bringing goods into the country, reshuffle supply chains, and shift competitive advantages—like a toll hike on a major bridge that makes some routes much more expensive and forces companies to find alternatives.
duty drawback benefits financial
"As part of the IEEPA reversal, the Company also recognized approximately $2.0 million of charges related to the reversal of duty drawback benefits and other anticipated charges."
non-GAAP financial measures financial
"In addition to results determined in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (GAAP), management utilizes certain non-GAAP financial measures..."
Non-GAAP financial measures are numbers companies use to show their financial performance that exclude certain expenses or income. They help investors see how the company might perform without one-time costs or other unusual items, giving a different perspective from official reports. However, since they can be adjusted, they don’t always tell the full story and should be looked at alongside standard financial figures.
Adjusted Gross Margin financial
"Adjusted Gross Margin2 expanded 180 basis points to 59%."
Adjusted gross margin is a measure of how much profit a company makes from its sales after accounting for certain expenses or one-time costs, but before deducting other operating expenses. It helps investors see the company's core profitability more clearly by removing factors that might distort the usual profit picture, similar to a runner measuring their speed without considering obstacles or weather. This metric provides a clearer view of the company's ongoing financial health.
Net sales $132.5 million +3.0% year over year
Net loss $7.1 million Improved from $8.4 million in Q1 2025
Adjusted EBITDA $5.1 million Up from $2.7 million in Q1 2025
Gross margin 63.1% Up from 57.2% in Q1 2025
Guidance

For 2026, net sales guidance is $625–$635 million with Adjusted EBITDA of $30–$32 million; Q2 2026 guidance is net sales of $160–$164 million and Adjusted EBITDA of $8.5–$9 million.

0001865107FALSE00018651072026-05-122026-05-12

 
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
 
FORM 8-K
  
CURRENT REPORT
Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
Date of Report (Date of earliest event reported): May 12, 2026
 
a.k.a. Brands Holding Corp.
(Exact name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)
  
Delaware001-4082887-0970919
(State or Other Jurisdiction
of Incorporation)
(Commission File Number)(IRS Employer
Identification No.)
100 Montgomery Street, Suite 2270
San Francisco, California 94104
(Address of Principal Executive Offices, including Zip Code)
415-295-6085
(Registrant’s Telephone Number, Including Area Code)
N/A
(Former Name or Former Address, if Changed Since Last Report)
 
Check the appropriate box below if the Form 8-K filing is intended to simultaneously satisfy the filing obligation of the registrant under any of the following provisions (see General Instructions A.2. below):
    Written communications pursuant to Rule 425 under the Securities Act (17 CFR 230.425)
    Soliciting material pursuant to Rule 14a-12 under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14a-12)
    Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 14d-2(b) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14d-2(b))
    Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 13e-4(c) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.13e-4(c))
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
 
Title of each class: Trading Symbol(s): Name of each exchange on which registered:
Common Stock, par value $0.001 per share AKA New York Stock Exchange
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an emerging growth company as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act of 1933 (§230.405 of this chapter) or Rule 12b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (§240.12b-2 of this chapter).
Emerging growth company 
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. 



Item 2.02    Results of Operations and Financial Condition.
On May 12, 2026, a.k.a. Brands Holding Corp. (the "Company") issued a press release announcing its financial results for its first quarter ended March 31, 2026. A copy of the press release is furnished as Exhibit 99.1 to this Current Report on Form 8-K and is incorporated herein by reference.
In accordance with General Instructions B.2 and B.6 of Form 8-K, the information included in Items 2.02 and 7.01 of this Current Report on Form 8-K and Exhibit 99.1 hereto shall not be deemed “filed” for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), or otherwise subject to the liabilities of that section, nor shall it be deemed incorporated by reference into any filing under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Exchange Act, except as expressly set forth by specific reference in such filing.
Item 7.01    Regulation FD Disclosure.
The disclosure contained in Item 2.02 is incorporated herein by reference.
Item 9.01    Financial Statements and Exhibits.
(d)    Exhibits.
The following exhibits are filed as part of this report:
Exhibit No.Description
99.1
Press release dated May 12, 2026
104Cover page interactive data file (embedded within the inline XBRL document)

1


SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned hereunto duly authorized.
 a.k.a. Brands Holding Corp.
   
Date: May 12, 2026
By:/s/ Kevin Grant
 Name:Kevin Grant
 Title:Chief Financial Officer
2

Exhibit 99.1
a.k.a. Brands Holding Corp. Reports First Quarter 2026 Financial Results
Net Sales Increased 3% to $132.5 Million and Active Customer Growth of 3.1% on a Trailing Twelve-Month Basis
Gross Margin Expansion and Continued Progress Across Strategic Priorities
SAN FRANCISCO – May 12, 2026 – a.k.a. Brands Holding Corp. (NYSE: AKA), a portfolio of next generation fashion brands, today announced financial results for the quarter ended March 31, 2026.
Results for the First Quarter
Net sales increased 3.0% to $132.5 million, compared to $128.7 million in the first quarter of 2025, up 1.2% on a constant currency basis1.
Net loss was $7.1 million, or $0.66 per share, in the first quarter of 2026, compared to net loss of $8.4 million, or $0.78 per share, in the first quarter of 2025.
Adjusted EBITDA2 was $5.1 million in the first quarter of 2026, compared to $2.7 million in the first quarter of 2025.
“We delivered a solid start to the year that marks a meaningful inflection point in our journey,” said Ciaran Long, Chief Executive Officer, a.k.a. Brands. “Over the past three years, we have fundamentally repositioned the business to improve profitability and durability. We’ve expanded distribution across stores, wholesale, and marketplace, strengthened our operational foundation, and instilled greater financial discipline across the business. Our first quarter results demonstrate that this strategic work is translating into our financials, and we believe 2026 will be a meaningful proof point in our trajectory.”
“First quarter net sales grew 3% to $132.5 million, and we delivered adjusted EBITDA of $5.1 million, ahead of expectations. More importantly, excluding one-time adjustments, gross margin expanded materially year-over-year, driven by improved inventory discipline, stronger full-price sell-through, and the continued rollout of our test-and-repeat model.”
“Our brands continued to advance their strategic priorities during the quarter. Princess Polly is on pace with its retail expansion with 17 U.S. stores and 2 Australian stores expected to be open by the end of the year, along with a pop-up store opening at The Grove in Los Angeles later this month. Petal & Pup built wholesale momentum with strong performance across an expanding base of retail partners. Culture Kings’ sustained investment in its in-house brand portfolio is delivering measurable results, with gross margin and full-price mix improving materially year-over-year. We are confident that the progress across our brands, combined with the strength of our financial foundation, positions us well for continued growth and profitability over the long term,” Long concluded.
First Quarter Financial Details
Net sales increased 3.0% to $132.5 million, compared to $128.7 million in the first quarter of 2025. The increase was driven by a 4.2% increase in the number of orders, that was partially offset by a 1.3% decrease in average order value. On a constant currency basis1, net sales increased 1.2%.
Gross margin was 63.1%, compared to 57.2% in the first quarter of 2025. Adjusted Gross Margin2 expanded 180 basis points to 59%. The increase in gross margin was primarily driven by an improved inventory position, more full-price selling and the benefit of the IEEPA tariff adjustment; partially offset by a $12.0 million write-off of streetwear inventory, as we fully transition to our test-and-repeat model, and other tariff-related charges.
Selling expenses were $41.0 million, compared to $38.2 million in the first quarter of 2025. Selling expenses were 30.9% of net sales, compared to 29.7% of net sales in the first quarter of 2025. The increase was primarily driven by an increase in store selling expenses as our retail footprint expands.
1 In order to provide a framework for assessing the performance of our underlying business, excluding the effects of foreign currency rate fluctuations, we compare the percent change in the results from one period to another period using a constant currency methodology wherein current and comparative prior period results for our operations reporting in currencies other than U.S. dollars are converted into U.S. dollars at constant exchange rates (i.e., the rates in effect on December 31, 2025, which was the last day of our prior fiscal year) rather than the actual exchange rates in effect during the respective periods.
2 See additional information at the end of this release regarding non-GAAP financial measures.



Marketing expenses were $16.8 million, compared to $15.2 million in the first quarter of 2025. Marketing expenses were 12.6% of net sales, compared to 11.8% of net sales in the first quarter of 2025.
General and administrative (“G&A”) expenses were $30.0 million, compared to $25.7 million in the first quarter of 2025. G&A expenses were 22.7% of net sales, compared to 20.0% of net sales in the first quarter of 2025.
Adjusted EBITDA2 was $5.1 million, or 3.9% of net sales, compared to $2.7 million, or 2.1% of net sales, in the first quarter of 2025.
Balance Sheet and Cash Flow
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the first quarter totaled $12.9 million, compared to $20.3 million at the end of fiscal year 2025.
Inventory at the end of the first quarter totaled $67.7 million, compared to $86.2 million at the end of fiscal year 2025 and $94.4 million at the end of the first quarter of 2025.
Debt at the end of the first quarter totaled $109.6 million, compared to $111.1 million at the end of fiscal year 2025 and $119.9 million at the end of the first quarter of 2025.
Cash flow used in operations for the three months ended March 31, 2026 was $3.8 million, compared to cash flow used in operations of $1.9 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025.
Tariff Update
Following the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision that the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (“IEEPA”) does not authorize tariffs, the U.S. Court of International Trade has ordered U.S. Customs and Border Protection to refund IEEPA duties.
The Company believes it is probable that it will recover the IEEPA tariffs previously paid and therefore has recognized a receivable in prepaid expenses and other current assets of $25.8 million as of March 2026. Of this amount, $18.6 million was recognized in cost of goods sold and $7.2 million is capitalized as inventory on the balance sheet. As part of the IEEPA reversal, the Company also recognized approximately $2.0 million of charges related to the reversal of duty drawback benefits and other anticipated charges.
The below outlook contemplates tariff rates that were in place exiting 2025 due to the uncertainty surrounding go-forward tariff rates.
Outlook
We are providing the following guidance for the full year ending December 31, 2026 and the second quarter ending June 30, 2026:
(in millions)
Updated FY 2026 Outlook
Prior FY 2026 Outlook
Net Sales
$625 - $635
$625 - $635
Adjusted EBITDA3
$30 - $32
$27 - $29
Weighted average diluted share count
11
11
Capital expenditures
$18 - $20
$18 - $20
(in millions)
Second Quarter 2026 Outlook
Net Sales
$160 - $164
Adjusted EBITDA3
$8.5 - $9
Weighted average diluted share count
10.9
The guidance and forward-looking statements made in this press release and on the conference call are based on management’s expectations as of the date of this press release. See “Forward-Looking Statements” for additional information.
3 The Company has not provided a quantitative reconciliation of its Adjusted EBITDA outlook to a GAAP net income (loss) outlook because it is unable, without making unreasonable efforts, to project certain reconciling items. These items include, but are not limited to, future equity-based compensation expense, income taxes, interest expense and transaction costs. These items are inherently variable and uncertain and depend on various factors, some of which are outside of the Company’s control or ability to predict. See additional information at the end of this release regarding non-GAAP financial measures.



Conference Call
A conference call to discuss the Company’s first quarter results is scheduled for May 12, 2026, at 4:30 p.m. ET. Those who wish to participate in the call may do so by dialing (877) 858-5495 or (201) 689-8853. The conference call will also be webcast live at https://ir.aka-brands.com in the Events and Presentations section. A recording will be available shortly after the conclusion of the call. To access the replay, please dial (877) 660-6853 or (201) 612-7415 for international callers, conference ID 13760260. An archive of the webcast will be available on a.k.a. Brands’ investor relations website.
Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures and Other Operating Metrics
In addition to results determined in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (GAAP), management utilizes certain non-GAAP financial measures such as Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA margin for purposes of evaluating ongoing operations and for internal planning and forecasting purposes. We believe that these non-GAAP financial measures, when reviewed collectively with our GAAP financial information, provide useful supplemental information to investors in assessing our operating performance. The non-GAAP financial measures should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for the GAAP financial measures. The non-GAAP financial measures used by the Company may be different from similarly-titled non-GAAP financial measures used by other companies. See additional information at the end of this release regarding non-GAAP financial measures.
About a.k.a. Brands
a.k.a. Brands maintains a portfolio of global fashion brands, Princess Polly, Culture Kings, Petal & Pup and mnml. Through these brands, we reach a broad audience of next-generation consumers who seek fashion inspiration on social media and primarily shop online. Our brands are hyper-focused on the customer and serving them newness and a seamless experience throughout the entire shopping journey. We leverage a data-driven ‘test and repeat’ merchandising model that allows us to introduce new and exclusive fashion weekly, so our customers are always on-trend. We leverage innovative data-driven insights to authentically connect and engage with customers across the latest marketing platforms. Further, we are committed to showing up for customers wherever they shop, whether that’s online, in-stores or through wholesale channels. Leveraging our industry expertise and operational synergies, we help accelerate our brands so they can grow faster, reach broader audiences, achieve greater scale and enhance their profitability. We believe we are disrupting the status quo and pioneering a new approach to fashion.



Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements made in this release are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. When used in this press release, the words “estimates,” “projected,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “forecasts,” “plans,” “intends,” “believes,” “seeks,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “future,” “propose” and variations of these words or similar expressions (or the negative versions of such words or expressions) are intended to identify forward-looking statements.
These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, conditions or results, and involve a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other important factors, many of which are outside the Company’s control, that could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements.
Important factors, among others, that may affect actual results or outcomes include the effects of economic downturns and unstable market conditions; our ability in the future to continue to comply with the New York Stock Exchange’s (NYSE) listing standards and maintain the listing of our common stock on the NYSE; risks related to doing business in China, including the imposition of tariffs and duties on goods imported from China; our ability to anticipate rapidly-changing consumer preferences in the apparel, footwear and accessories industries; our ability to execute our strategic initiatives, including transitioning Culture Kings to a data-driven, short lead time merchandising cycle; our ability to acquire new customers, retain existing customers or maintain average order value levels; the effectiveness of our marketing and our level of customer traffic; merchandise return rates; our ability to manage our inventory effectively; our success in identifying brands to acquire, integrate and manage on our platform; our ability to expand into new markets; the global nature of our business, including international economic, geopolitical instability (including the ongoing Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Palestine wars, relations between China and Taiwan, trade wars and relations between the U.S. and Mexico), legal, compliance and supply chain risks (including as a result of trade policies, including the negotiation or termination of trade agreements and the imposition of higher tariffs and duties on imports into the U.S. and Australia); interruptions in or increased costs of shipping and distribution, which could affect our ability to deliver our products to the market; our use of social media platforms and influencer sponsorship initiatives, which could adversely affect our reputation or subject us to fines or other penalties; fluctuating operating results; the inherent challenges in measuring certain of our key operating metrics, and the risk that real or perceived inaccuracies in such metrics may harm our reputation and negatively affect our business; the potential for tax liabilities that may increase the costs to our consumers; our ability to attract and retain highly qualified personnel, including key members of our leadership team; fluctuations in wage rates and the price, availability and quality of raw materials and finished goods, which could increase costs; foreign currency fluctuations; and other risks and uncertainties set forth in the sections entitled “Risk Factors,” “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and “Forward-Looking Statements” in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and any other periodic reports that the Company may file with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the SEC). a.k.a. Brands does not undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.
Investor Contact
investors@aka-brands.com
Media Contact
media@aka-brands.com



a.k.a. BRANDS HOLDING CORP.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
(in thousands, except share and per share data)
(unaudited)
 Three Months Ended March 31,
 20262025
Net sales$132,464 $128,657 
Cost of sales48,835 55,001 
Gross profit83,629 73,656 
Operating expenses:
Selling40,956 38,184 
Marketing16,751 15,173 
General and administrative30,026 25,682 
Total operating expenses87,733 79,039 
Loss from operations
(4,104)(5,383)
Other expense
Interest expense(2,178)(2,663)
Other expense
(642)(295)
Total other expense
(2,820)(2,958)
Loss before income taxes(6,924)(8,341)
Provision for income tax
(210)(9)
Net loss$(7,134)$(8,350)
Net loss per share:
Basic and diluted
$(0.66)$(0.78)
Weighted average shares outstanding:
Basic and diluted
10,807,930 10,686,730 



a.k.a. BRANDS HOLDING CORP.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(in thousands)
(unaudited)
 
March 31,
2026
December 31,
2025
Assets  
Current assets:  
Cash and cash equivalents$12,862 $20,273 
Accounts receivable, net
7,638 10,650 
Inventory
67,690 86,177 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets37,192 12,371 
Total current assets125,382 129,471 
Property and equipment, net39,524 39,315 
Operating lease right-of-use assets93,279 88,624 
Intangible assets, net41,322 43,470 
Goodwill95,375 93,695 
Deferred tax assets
Other assets2,797 2,799 
Total assets$397,687 $397,382 
Liabilities and stockholders’ equity
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable$29,491 $31,248 
Accrued liabilities34,147 33,532 
Sales returns reserve8,571 7,889 
Deferred revenue13,029 12,707 
Income taxes payable449 243 
Operating lease liabilities, current13,451 13,052 
Current portion of long-term debt6,375 6,375 
Total current liabilities105,513 105,046 
Long-term debt103,194 104,695 
Operating lease liabilities92,583 87,668 
Other long-term liabilities1,979 2,202 
Total liabilities303,269 299,611 
Stockholders’ equity:
Preferred stock— — 
Common stock128 128 
Additional paid-in capital477,074 476,124 
Accumulated other comprehensive loss(50,813)(53,644)
Accumulated deficit(331,971)(324,837)
Total stockholders’ equity94,418 97,771 
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity$397,687 $397,382 




a.k.a. BRANDS HOLDING CORP.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(in thousands)
(unaudited)
Three Months Ended March 31,
20262025
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net loss$(7,134)$(8,350)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities:
Depreciation expense2,397 1,855 
Amortization expense2,331 2,519 
Amortization of debt issuance costs152 144 
Lease incentives657 1,025 
Non-cash operating lease expense3,185 2,833 
Equity-based compensation1,171 2,059 
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable, net
3,027 (5,289)
Inventory19,314 1,572 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets(24,870)2,279 
Accounts payable(2,194)(2,699)
Income taxes payable205 (388)
Accrued liabilities297 143 
Sales returns reserve
651 2,042 
Deferred revenue230 941 
Lease liabilities(3,247)(2,561)
Net cash used in operating activities
(3,828)(1,875)
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchases of property and equipment(2,582)(3,436)
Net cash used in investing activities
(2,582)(3,436)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from line of credit, net of issuance costs
— 21,500 
Repayment of line of credit— (11,300)
Repayment of debt(1,594)(2,100)
Taxes paid related to net share settlement of equity awards(221)(248)
Repurchase of shares— (257)
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities
(1,815)7,595 
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash
742 108 
Net (decrease) increase in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash
(7,483)2,392 
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of period
22,514 26,479 
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of period
$15,031 $28,871 
Reconciliation of cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash:
Cash and cash equivalents
$12,862 $26,679 
Restricted cash, included in prepaid expenses and other current assets
106 472 
Restricted cash, included in other assets
2,063 1,720 
Total cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash$15,031 $28,871 




a.k.a. BRANDS HOLDING CORP.
KEY FINANCIAL AND OPERATING METRICS AND NON-GAAP MEASURES
(unaudited)
Three Months Ended March 31,
(dollars in thousands)20262025
Gross margin
63.1 %57.2 %
Net loss
$(7,134)$(8,350)
Net loss margin
(5.4)%(6.5)%
Adjusted EBITDA2
$5,148 $2,665 
Adjusted EBITDA margin2
3.9 %2.1 %
Key Operational Metrics and Regional Sales
 Three Months Ended March 31,
(metrics in millions, except AOV; sales in thousands)20262025% Change
Key Operational Metrics
Active customers4
4.26 4.13 3.1 %
Average order value
$77 $78 (1.3)%
Number of orders
1.73 1.66 4.2 %
Sales by Region
U.S.$90,849 $88,054 3.2 %
Australia & New Zealand
36,932 35,593 3.8 %
Rest of world4,683 5,010 (6.5)%
Total$132,464 $128,657 3.0 %
Year-over-year growth on a constant currency basis1
1.2 %
Active Customers
We view the number of active customers as a key indicator of our growth, our value proposition and consumer awareness of our brand, and their desire to purchase our products. In any particular period, we determine our number of active customers by counting the total number of unique customer accounts who have made at least one purchase in the preceding 12-month period, measured from the last date of such period.
Average Order Value
We define average order value (“AOV”) as net sales in a given period divided by the total orders placed in that period. AOV may fluctuate as we expand into new categories or geographies or as our assortment changes.
Number of Orders
We define the number of orders as the total number of orders placed by our customers, prior to product returns, across our platform or in our stores in any given period. An order is counted on the day the customer places the order. We consider the number of orders to be a key indicator of our ability to attract and retain customers, as well as an indicator of the desirability of our products.
4 Trailing twelve months.



a.k.a. BRANDS HOLDING CORP.
RECONCILIATION OF NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES
(in thousands, except per share data)
(unaudited)

Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA Margin
Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA margin are non-GAAP financial measures that management uses to assess our operating performance. Because Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA margin facilitate internal comparisons of our historical operating performance on a more consistent basis, we use these measures for business planning purposes.
We also believe this information will be useful for investors to facilitate comparisons of our operating performance and better identify trends in our business. We expect Adjusted EBITDA margin to increase over the long-term as we continue to scale our business and achieve greater leverage in our operating expenses.
We calculate Adjusted EBITDA as net income (loss) adjusted to exclude: interest and other expense; provision for (benefit from) income taxes; depreciation and amortization expense; equity-based compensation expense; costs to establish or relocate distribution centers; transaction costs; costs related to severance from headcount reductions; goodwill and intangible asset impairment; sales tax penalties; insured losses, net of any recoveries; and one-time or non-recurring items. We calculate Adjusted EBITDA margin as Adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of net sales. Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA margin are considered non-GAAP financial measures under the SEC’s rules because they exclude certain amounts included in net income (loss) and net income (loss) margin, the most directly comparable financial measures calculated in accordance with GAAP.
A reconciliation of non-GAAP Adjusted EBITDA to net loss for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025, is as follows:
 Three Months Ended March 31,
(dollars in thousands)20262025
Net loss$(7,134)$(8,350)
Add (deduct):
Total other expense
2,820 2,958 
Provision for income tax
210 
Depreciation and amortization expense4,728 4,374 
Equity-based compensation expense1,171 2,059 
Distribution center relocation costs
484 737 
Non-routine legal matters
2,650 711 
Non-routine items5219 167 
Adjusted EBITDA$5,148 $2,665 
Net loss margin(5.4)%(6.5)%
Adjusted EBITDA margin3.9 %2.1 %
5 Non-routine items include severance from headcount reductions, one time supply chain sourcing costs and sales tax penalties.



Adjusted Gross Margin
Adjusted Gross Margin is a non-GAAP financial measure that management uses to assess our operating performance. Because Adjusted Gross Margin facilitates internal comparison of our historical operating performance on a more consistent basis, we use this measure for business planning purposes.
We also believe this information will be useful for investors to facilitate comparisons of our operating performance and better identify trends in our business. We expect Adjusted Gross Margin to increase over the long-term as we continue to leverage our test-and-repeat strategy, curate our brand portfolios and elevate product quality.
We calculate Adjusted Gross Margin as gross margin (calculated in accordance with GAAP) adjusted to exclude: the IEEPA tariff adjustment; any reversal of duty drawback benefits and other charges related to the IEEPA tariff adjustment; an inventory write-off; and one-time or non-recurring items. Adjusted Gross Margin is considered a non-GAAP financial measure under the SEC’s rules because it excludes certain amounts included in gross margin, the most directly comparable financial measure calculated in accordance with GAAP.
A reconciliation of non-GAAP Adjusted Gross Margin to gross margin for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025, is as follows:
 Three Months Ended March 31,
20262025
Gross margin
63.1 %57.2 %
Add (deduct):
IEEPA tariff adjustment
(13.9)%— %
Reversal of duty drawback benefits and related charges
0.8 %— %
Inventory write-off
9.0 %— %
Adjusted Gross Margin
59.0 %57.2 %

FAQ

How did a. Brands (AKA) perform in Q1 2026?

a. Brands reported Q1 2026 net sales of $132.5 million, up 3.0% year over year. Net loss improved to $7.1 million from $8.4 million, while Adjusted EBITDA nearly doubled to $5.1 million, reflecting stronger margins.

What happened to a. Brands (AKA) margins in Q1 2026?

Gross margin increased to 63.1% from 57.2% in Q1 2025, and Adjusted Gross Margin reached 59.0%. The improvement came from better inventory discipline, more full-price selling, and the IEEPA tariff adjustment, partly offset by a $12.0 million inventory write-off.

What is a. Brands (AKA) 2026 outlook for sales and Adjusted EBITDA?

For 2026, a. Brands guides net sales to $625–$635 million and now expects Adjusted EBITDA of $30–$32 million. This raises the prior EBITDA outlook of $27–$29 million while leaving the sales range unchanged.

How is a. Brands (AKA) managing tariffs and the IEEPA decision?

The company recognized a $25.8 million receivable for IEEPA tariff refunds as of March 2026. Of this, $18.6 million was recorded in cost of goods sold and $7.2 million as inventory, while about $2.0 million in related charges was also recognized.

What did a. Brands (AKA) report about cash flow and debt in Q1 2026?

Cash used in operating activities was $3.8 million in Q1 2026, compared with $1.9 million a year earlier. Debt totaled $109.6 million at quarter-end, down from $119.9 million at the end of Q1 2025, indicating gradual deleveraging.

Filing Exhibits & Attachments

4 documents