Edgar Filing: CHICOS FAS INC

Chico's FAS, Inc.

UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15 (d)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934


For the Quarter Ended:		Commission File Number:
November 3, 2007		0-21258

Chico’s FAS, Inc.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in charter)


Florida (State of Incorporation)		59-2389435 (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)

11215 Metro Parkway, Fort Myers, Florida 33966
(Address of principal executive offices)

239-277-6200
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes þ No o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of “accelerated filer and large accelerated filer” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):


Large accelerated filer þ		Accelerated filer o		Non-accelerated filer o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes o No þ

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.

At November 30, 2007, there were 176,151,883 shares outstanding of Common Stock, $.01 par value per share.

CHICO’S FAS, Inc.

Index


PART I — Financial Information

Item 1.	Financial Statements (Unaudited):

	Consolidated Balance Sheets — November 3, 2007 and February 3, 2007	3

	Consolidated Statements of Income for the Thirteen and Thirty-Nine Weeks Ended November 3, 2007 and October 28, 2006	4

	Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Thirty-Nine Weeks Ended November 3, 2007 and October 28, 2006	5

	Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements	6

Item 2.	Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations	13

Item 3.	Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk	31

Item 4.	Controls and Procedures	32

PART II — Other Information

Item 1.	Legal Proceedings	32

Item 1A.	Risk Factors	33

Item 2.	Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds	33

Item 6.	Exhibits	34

Signatures		35
Ex-10.1 Amendment No.1 to Employment Agreement
Ex-31.1 Section 302 Certification of CEO
Ex-31.2 Section 302 Certification of CFO
Ex-32.1 Section 906 Certification of CEO
Ex-32.2 Section 906 Certification of CFO

CHICO’S FAS, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Balance Sheets
(In thousands)


	November 3,			February 3,
	2007			2007
	(Unaudited)
ASSETS
Current Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	11,956		$	37,203
Marketable securities, at market		277,513			238,336
Receivables		17,130			14,246
Inventories		168,158			110,840
Prepaid expenses		19,930			15,774
Land held for sale		—			38,120
Deferred taxes		17,261			17,337

*Total Current Assets*		511,948			471,856
Property and Equipment:
Land and land improvements		15,200			14,640
Building and building improvements		60,534			56,782
Equipment, furniture and fixtures		329,556			268,122
Leasehold improvements		381,179			301,670

*Total Property and Equipment*		786,469			641,214
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization		(235,541	)		(184,474	)

*Property and Equipment, Net*		550,928			456,740
Other Assets:
Goodwill		96,774			62,596
Other intangible assets		38,930			34,040
Deferred taxes		20,801			11,837
Other assets, net		37,851			21,065

*Total Other Assets*		194,356			129,538

	$	1,257,232		$	1,058,134

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Current Liabilities:
Accounts payable	$	96,765		$	55,696
Accrued liabilities		89,823			87,367
Current portion of deferred liabilities		1,344			1,169

*Total Current Liabilities*		187,932			144,232
Noncurrent Liabilities:
Deferred liabilities		139,975			109,971

*Total Noncurrent Liabilities*		139,975			109,971
Stockholders’ Equity:
Common stock		1,758			1,757
Additional paid-in capital		245,916			229,934
Retained earnings		681,651			572,240

*Total Stockholders’ Equity*		929,325			803,931

	$	1,257,232		$	1,058,134

See Accompanying Notes

CHICO’S FAS, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Income
(Unaudited)
(In thousands, except per share amounts)


	Thirty-Nine Weeks Ended										Thirteen Weeks Ended
	November 3, 2007					October 28, 2006					November 3, 2007					October 28, 2006
	Amount			% of Sales		Amount			% of Sales		Amount			% of Sales		Amount			% of Sales
Net sales by Chico’s/Soma stores	$	942,399			72.2	$	894,423			74.8	$	300,576			72.3	$	296,820			73.8
Net sales by White House \| Black Market stores		310,928			23.8		257,171			21.5		97,337			23.4		89,788			22.3
Net sales by catalog & Internet		51,587			4.0		36,740			3.1		18,000			4.3		12,509			3.1
Other net sales		115			0.0		7,962			0.6		—			—		3,102			0.8

Net sales		1,305,029			100.0		1,196,296			100.0		415,913			100.0		402,219			100.0
Cost of goods sold		531,072			40.7		470,571			39.3		173,449			41.7		161,431			40.1

Gross profit		773,957			59.3		725,725			60.7		242,464			58.3		240,788			59.9
Selling, general and administrative expenses:
Store operating expenses		467,660			35.8		369,209			30.9		161,708			38.9		132,865			33.0
Marketing		55,897			4.3		45,481			3.8		25,511			6.1		14,896			3.7
Shared services		94,700			7.3		82,192			6.9		31,962			7.7		27,671			6.9

Total selling, general, and administrative expenses		618,257			47.4		496,882			41.6		219,181			52.7		175,432			43.6

Income from operations		155,700			11.9		228,843			19.1		23,283			5.6		65,356			16.3
Gain on sale of investment		6,833			0.6		—			—		6,833			1.6		—			—
Interest income, net		8,177			0.6		8,303			0.7		3,257			0.8		2,339			0.6

Income before taxes		170,710			13.1		237,146			19.8		33,373			8.0		67,695			16.9
Income tax provision		59,065			4.5		86,798			7.2		9,637			2.3		24,777			6.2

Income from continuing operations		111,645			8.6		150,348			12.6		23,736			5.7		42,918			10.7
Loss on discontinued operations, net of tax		2,234			0.2		1,894			0.2		166			0.0		771			0.2

Net income	$	109,411			8.4	$	148,454			12.4	$	23,570			5.7	$	42,147			10.5

Per share data:
Income from continuing operations per common share—basic	$	0.63				$	0.84				$	0.13				$	0.24
Loss on discontinued operations per common share—basic	$	(0.01	)			$	(0.01	)			$	(0.00	)			$	(0.00	)

Net income per common share—basic	$	0.62				$	0.83				$	0.13				$	0.24

Income from continuing operations per common share-diluted	$	0.63				$	0.84				$	0.13				$	0.24
Loss on discontinued operations per common share-diluted	$	(0.01	)			$	(0.01	)			$	(0.00	)			$	(0.00	)

Net income per common & common equivalent share—diluted	$	0.62				$	0.83				$	0.13				$	0.24

Weighted average common shares outstanding—basic		175,511					178,036					175,557					175,234

Weighted average common & common equivalent shares outstanding—diluted		176,614					179,238					176,281					176,184

See Accompanying Notes.

CHICO’S FAS, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(Unaudited)
(In thousands)


	Thirty-Nine Weeks Ended
	November 3, 2007			October 28, 2006
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net income	$	109,411		$	148,454

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities—
Depreciation and amortization, cost of goods sold		7,718			5,557
Depreciation and amortization, other		59,526			44,007
Deferred tax benefit		(9,743	)		(17,216	)
Stock-based compensation expense, cost of goods sold		3,597			4,833
Stock-based compensation expense, other		9,131			12,052
Deficiency (excess) tax benefit of stock-based compensation		259			(2,623	)
Deferred rent expense, net		7,574			5,133
Gain on sale of investment		(6,833	)		—
(Gain) loss on disposal of property and equipment		(919	)		820
Increase in assets—
Receivables, net		(2,495	)		(7,091	)
Inventories		(56,285	)		(41,506	)
Prepaid expenses and other		(5,508	)		(5,403	)
Increase in liabilities— Accounts payable		41,069			30,103
Accrued and other deferred liabilities		25,635			36,837

Total adjustments		72,726			65,503

Net cash provided by operating activities		182,137			213,957

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
(Purchases) sales of marketable securities, net		(39,177	)		150,242
Purchase of Fitigues assets		—			(7,527	)
Purchase of Minnesota franchise rights and stores		(32,896	)		—
Acquisition of other franchise stores		(6,361	)		(811	)
Proceeds from sale of land		13,426			—
Proceeds from sale of investment		15,090			—
Purchases of property and equipment		(160,452	)		(165,094	)

Net cash used in investing activities		(210,370	)		(23,190	)

CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Proceeds from issuance of common stock		3,524			6,181
(Deficiency) excess tax benefit of stock-based compensation		(259	)		2,623
Repurchase of common stock		(279	)		(200,000	)

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities		2,986			(191,196	)

Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents		(25,247	)		(429	)
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS — Beginning of period		37,203			3,035

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS — End of period	$	11,956		$	2,606

SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:
Cash paid for interest	$	470		$	73
Cash paid for income taxes, net	$	72,524		$	86,950
NON-CASH INVESTING AND FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Issuance of note receivable for sale of land	$	25,834		$	—

See Accompanying Notes.

CHICO’S FAS, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
November 3, 2007
(Unaudited)
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

Note 1. Basis of Presentation

The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements of Chico’s FAS, Inc. and its wholly-owned subsidiaries (collectively, the “Company”) have been prepared in accordance with the instructions to Form 10-Q and do not include all of the information and notes required by accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S. for complete financial statements. In the opinion of management, all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring accruals) considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. For further information, refer to the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto for the fiscal year ended February 3, 2007, included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on April 2, 2007. The February 3, 2007 balance sheet amounts were derived from audited financial statements included in the Company’s Annual Report.

The Company’s fiscal years end on the Saturday closest to January 31 and are designated by the calendar year in which the fiscal year commences. Operating results for the thirty-nine weeks ended November 3, 2007 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the entire year.

Other net sales for both the current and prior periods consist of net sales to franchisees.

Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified in order to conform to the current year presentation.

Note 2. Discontinued Operations

As disclosed in the Company’s Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 3, 2007, during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2006, the Company completed its evaluation of its Fitigues brand and decided that it would close down operations of the Fitigues brand. In connection with this conclusion, in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2006, the Company recorded an aggregate $8.6 million impairment charge. The charge consisted of a loss on impairment of goodwill totaling $6.8 million, accelerated depreciation totaling approximately $1.2 million, and other impairment charges, mainly for inventory, totaling approximately $0.6 million.

In accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (“SFAS”) No. 144, Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, the Company has segregated the operating results of Fitigues from continuing operations and classified the results as discontinued operations in the consolidated statements of income for all periods presented as shown in the following table:


	Thirty-Nine Weeks Ended				Thirteen Weeks Ended
	November 3, 2007		October 28, 2006		November 3, 2007		October 28, 2006
Net sales	$	1,688	$	3,900	$	—	$	1,344

Loss from operations	$	3,416	$	2,988	$	181	$	1,216
Income tax benefit	$	1,182	$	1,094	$	15	$	445

Net loss on discontinued operations	$	2,234	$	1,894	$	166	$	771

As of November 3, 2007, the operations of the Fitigues brand have ceased and the Company does not expect to incur any further material costs associated with the closing down of this brand.

CHICO’S FAS, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
November 3, 2007
(Unaudited)
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

Note 3. Land Held for Sale

During the third quarter of fiscal 2006, the Company reclassified a parcel of land located in south Fort Myers, Florida with a book value of $38.1 million from a long-term asset to a current asset that was being held for sale. On August 1, 2007, the Company consummated a transaction to sell the land with a sales price totaling $39.7 million consisting of approximately $13.4 million in cash proceeds, net of closing costs, and a note receivable with a principal amount of approximately $25.8 million and secured by a purchase money mortgage. The note, which accrues interest at a fixed rate of 6.0% annually with interest payable quarterly and the principal amount payable in a balloon payment in two years, is included within other assets on the Company’s consolidated balance sheet.

Note 4. Income Taxes

Effective February 4, 2007, the Company adopted the provisions of Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Interpretation No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes” (“FIN 48”). FIN 48 prescribes a comprehensive model of how a company should recognize, measure, present and disclose in its financial statements uncertain tax positions that the company has taken or expects to take on a tax return. FIN 48 states that a tax benefit from an uncertain tax position may be recognized if it is “more likely than not” that the position is sustainable, based upon its technical merits. The tax benefit of a qualifying position is the largest amount of tax benefit that has greater than a 50% likelihood of being realized upon the ultimate settlement with a taxing authority having full knowledge of all relevant information.

The cumulative effect of adoption of FIN 48 did not result in any adjustment in the Company’s liability for unrecognized income tax benefits. As of the date on which the Company adopted FIN 48, the total amount of unrecognized tax benefits associated with uncertain tax positions was $8.9 million, of which $6.5 million if recognized, would favorably affect the effective tax rate if ultimately resolved in the Company’s favor. There have been no significant changes to the total amount of unrecognized tax benefits associated with uncertain tax positions during the thirty-nine weeks ended November 3, 2007.

The Company’s continuing practice is to include estimated interest and penalties, if any, in computing the amount that is recognized within income tax expense relating to uncertain income tax positions. As of the date of adoption, the Company had accrued $1.0 million of interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions, which is included in the $8.9 million unrecognized tax benefits noted above.

Although the Company believes that it has adequately provided for all tax positions, amounts asserted by tax authorities could be greater or less than the Company’s accrued position. Accordingly, the Company’s provisions on federal, state and local tax-related matters to be recorded in the future may change as revised estimates are made or the underlying matters are settled or otherwise resolved. As of November 3, 2007, the Company does not believe that its estimates, as otherwise provided for, on such tax positions will significantly increase or decrease within the next twelve months.

CHICO’S FAS, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
November 3, 2007
(Unaudited)
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

Note 4. Income Taxes (continued)

The Company and certain of its subsidiaries are subject to U.S. federal income tax as well as income tax of multiple state and local jurisdictions. In late fiscal 2005, following the Company’s receipt of an invitation from the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”), the Company agreed to participate in the IRS’s real time audit program, Compliance Assurance Process (“CAP”), beginning in fiscal 2006. Under the CAP program, material tax issues and initiatives were disclosed to the IRS throughout the year with the objective of reaching agreement as to the proper reporting treatment. During the first quarter of 2007, the Company received the IRS’s letter of a tentative full acceptance of the Company’s 2006 federal tax return subject to the completion of a post-filing review.

The Company had previously reached agreement with the IRS and closed the audits of fiscal years 2002 through 2005, such that the Company no longer has any open years subject to examination by the IRS (other than the current fiscal year). The Company believes that its participation in the CAP real time audit program reduced tax-related uncertainties and enhanced transparency. The Company has agreed with the IRS to participate in the CAP program again in fiscal 2007.

As for state and local income taxes, with few exceptions, the Company is no longer subject to state and local income tax examinations by taxing authorities for years prior to 2002.

Note 5. Acquisitions of Chico’s Franchised Stores

On February 4, 2007, the Company consummated its asset purchase of Intraco, Inc. (“Intraco”) pursuant to which the Company acquired the franchise rights for the state of Minnesota and purchased a substantial portion of the assets of Intraco. Intraco, which held territorial franchise rights to the entire state of Minnesota for the Chico’s brand, operated twelve Chico’s brand store locations in Minnesota at that time. The acquisition included all of the existing retail store locations together with the reacquisition of the territorial franchise rights to the state of Minnesota. The total purchase price for the acquisition of the twelve stores was approximately $32.9 million. The Company’s preliminary allocation of the purchase price to the tangible and intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the acquisition at their estimated fair values with the remainder allocated to goodwill was as follows: $0.9 million to current assets, $1.4 million to fixed assets, $4.9 million to intangible assets, which represents the fair value of re-acquired territory rights, $27.7 million to goodwill, net of $2.0 million to current liabilities. The Company’s consolidated statements of income include the results of operations for these twelve stores from and after February 4, 2007, the date of acquisition of such stores.

In addition, on March 4, 2007, the Company consummated its asset purchase of a franchise store from its franchisee in Florida. The Company’s consolidated statements of income include the results of operations for this particular store from and after March 4, 2007, the date of acquisition of such store. With this acquisition completed, the Company now has no franchise stores remaining and does not intend to pursue, at this time, any franchises or to enter into any additional franchise territory development agreements for any of its brands.

CHICO’S FAS, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
November 3, 2007
(Unaudited)
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

Note 6. Goodwill and Intangible Assets

The Company’s goodwill and its indefinite-lived intangible assets are reviewed annually for impairment or more frequently if impairment indicators arise. The annual valuation will be performed during the fourth quarter of each year. The change in the carrying amount of goodwill for the thirty-nine weeks ended November 3, 2007 is as follows:


Balance as of February 3, 2007	$	62,596
Goodwill related to the acquisition of MN franchise stores		27,733
Goodwill related to the acquisition of FL franchise store		6,445

Total	$	96,774

Note 7. Long Term Investment

On July 26, 2007, VF Corporation announced that it had entered into a definitive agreement to acquire lucy activewear, inc. (“Lucy”), a privately held retailer of women’s activewear apparel, in which the Company held a cost method investment. The transaction was completed during the third quarter and the Company recorded a pre-tax gain of approximately $6.8 million, which is reflected as non-operating income in the accompanying statement of operations.

Note 8. Stock-Based Compensation

General

Effective January 29, 2006, the Company adopted the provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (“SFAS”) No. 123R, “Share-Based Payment” (“SFAS 123R”) using the modified prospective transition method. Under this transition method, stock-based compensation expense for share-based awards recognized during the thirty-nine weeks ended November 3, 2007 includes: (a) the applicable portion of compensation expense for all stock-based compensation awards granted prior to, but not yet vested as of, January 29, 2006, based on the grant date fair value estimated in accordance with the original provisions of SFAS No. 123, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation” (“SFAS 123”), and (b) the applicable portion of compensation expense for all stock-based compensation awards granted subsequent to January 29, 2006, based on the grant date fair value estimated in accordance with the provisions of SFAS 123R.

CHICO’S FAS, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
November 3, 2007
(Unaudited)
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

Note 8. Stock-Based Compensation (continued)

Methodology Assumptions

The Company uses the Black-Scholes option-pricing model to value the Company’s stock options. Using this option-pricing model, the fair value of each stock option award is estimated on the date of grant. The fair value of the Company’s stock option awards, which are subject to pro-rata vesting generally over 3 years, is expensed on a straight-line basis over the vesting period of the stock options. The expected volatility assumption is based on the historical volatility of the Company’s stock over a term equal to the expected term of the option granted. The expected term of stock option awards granted is derived from historical exercise experience for each of two identified employee populations under the Company’s stock option plans and represents the period of time that stock option awards granted are expected to be outstanding for each of the identified employee populations. The expected term assumption incorporates the contractual term of an option grant, which is ten years, as well as the vesting period of an award, which is generally pro-rata vesting over three years. The risk-free interest rate is based on the implied yield on a U.S. Treasury constant maturity with a remaining term equal to the expected term of the option granted.

The weighted average assumptions relating to the valuation of the Company’s stock options for the thirty-nine and thirteen weeks ended November 3, 2007 and October 28, 2006 were as follows:


	Thirty-Nine Weeks Ended						Thirteen Weeks Ended
	November 3, 2007			October 28, 2006			November 3, 2007			October 28, 2006
Weighted average fair value of grants	$	9.13		$	15.37		$	6.16		$	9.32
Expected volatility		43	%		46	%		42	%		46	%
Expected term (years)		4.5			4.5			4.5			4.5
Risk-free interest rate		4.5	%		4.6	%		4.0	%		4.6	%
Expected dividend yield		N/A			N/A			N/A			N/A

Stock Based Compensation Activity

As of November 3, 2007, 5,328,194 nonqualified options are outstanding at a weighted average exercise price of $20.86 per share, and 1,604,240 remain available for future grants of either stock options, restricted stock or restricted stock units, subject to certain sublimits applicable to restricted stock.

The following table presents a summary of the Company’s stock options activity for the thirty-nine weeks ended November 3, 2007:


				Weighted Average
	Number of Shares			Exercise Price
Outstanding, beginning of period		5,101,065		$	21.08
Granted		778,375			21.88
Exercised		(164,657	)		15.72
Canceled or expired		(386,589	)		27.99

Outstanding, end of period		5,328,194			20.86

Exercisable at November 3, 2007		3,744,673			18.24

CHICO’S FAS, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
November 3, 2007
(Unaudited)
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

Note 8. Stock-Based Compensation (continued)

The following table presents a summary of the Company’s restricted stock activity for the thirty-nine weeks ended November 3, 2007:


				Weighted Average
				Grant Date Fair
	Number of Shares			Value
Nonvested, beginning of period		377,589		$	30.84
Granted		263,618			21.10
Vested		(56,608	)		27.71
Canceled		(59,743	)		28.71

Nonvested, end of period		524,856			26.52

For the thirty-nine and thirteen weeks ended November 3, 2007 and October 28, 2006, respectively, stock-based compensation expense was allocated as follows (in thousands):


	Thirty-Nine Weeks Ended				Thirteen Weeks Ended
	November 3, 2007		October 28, 2006		November 3, 2007		October 28, 2006
Cost of goods sold	$	3,597	$	4,833	$	731	$	1,689
General, administrative and store operating expenses		9,130		12,052		2,027		4,292

Stock-based compensation expense before income taxes	$	12,727	$	16,885	$	2,758	$	5,981
Income tax benefit		4,346		6,072		785		2,106

Total stock-based compensation expense after income taxes	$	8,381	$	10,813	$	1,973	$	3,875

CHICO’S FAS, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
November 3, 2007
(Unaudited)
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

Note 9. Net Income Per Share

Basic Earnings Per Share (EPS) is computed by dividing net income by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding. Restricted stock grants to employees and directors are not included in the computation of basic EPS until the securities vest. Diluted EPS reflects the dilutive effect of potential common shares from securities such as stock options and unvested restricted stock. The following is a reconciliation of the denominators of the basic and diluted EPS computations shown on the face of the accompanying consolidated statements of income:


	Thirty-Nine Weeks Ended				Thirteen Weeks Ended
	November 3,		October 28,		November 3,		October 28,
	2007		2006		2007		2006
Weighted average common shares outstanding — basic		175,510,734		178,036,341		175,557,197		175,234,410
Dilutive effect of stock options and unvested restricted stock outstanding		1,103,722		1,202,122		724,049		950,012

Weighted average common and common equivalent shares outstanding — diluted		176,614,456		179,238,463		176,281,246		176,184,422

For the three and nine month periods ended November 3, 2007, of the securities then outstanding, 4,175,079 and 2,786,784 shares of common stock, respectively, were excluded from the computation of diluted EPS on the basis that such options were antidilutive.

For each of the three and nine month periods ended October 28, 2006, of the securities then outstanding, 2,351,433 and 801,213 shares of common stock, respectively, were excluded from the computation of diluted EPS on the basis that such options were antidilutive.

ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (“MD&A”) should be read in conjunction with the accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto and the Company’s 2006 Annual Report to Stockholders.

Executive Overview

Chico’s FAS, Inc. (together with its subsidiaries, the “Company”) is a specialty retailer of private branded, sophisticated, casual-to-dressy clothing, intimates, complementary accessories, and other non-clothing gift items operating primarily under the Chico’s, White House | Black Market (“WH|BM”) and Soma Intimates (“Soma”) brand names. On March 6, 2007, the Company announced the planned closure of the Fitigues brand operations (“Fitigues”). Accordingly, for all periods presented, the operating results for Fitigues are shown as discontinued operations in the Company’s consolidated statements of income.

Chico’s, which began operations in 1983, focuses on fashion conscious women who are 35 and over with a moderate to high income level. The styling interprets fashion trends in a unique, relaxed, figure-flattering manner using mainly easy-care fabrics. WH|BM, which the Company acquired in September 2003, and which began operations in 1985, targets middle-to-upper income women who are 25 years old and up. The styling is contemporary, feminine and unique, assorted primarily in the classic and timeless colors of white and black and related shades. Soma Intimates was initially launched in August 2004 under the name Soma by Chico’s. This concept offers foundation products in intimate apparel, sleepwear, and activewear that was initially aimed at the Chico’s target customer. The Company believes, however, that Soma’s focus and styling appeals to a broader customer base and the Company is pursuing this broader customer base, having changed the name to Soma Intimates and expanded its marketing focus earlier this year.

The Company earns revenues and generates cash through the sale of merchandise in its retail stores, and through its call centers, which handle sales related to catalog and online operations for all brands.

The primary factors which historically have influenced the Company’s profitability and success have been its growth in number of stores and selling square footage, its positive comparable store sales, and its strong operating margin. The Company has grown from 378 stores as of February 1, 2003 to 1,004 stores as of November 3, 2007, which includes the store growth resulting from the acquisition of the 107 WH|BM stores in fiscal 2003 and the launch of the Soma brand in fiscal 2004. The Company continues to expand its presence through the opening of new stores, the development of new opportunities such as Soma and through the extension of its merchandise line. As described in previous Forms 10-K and 10-Q, the Company anticipates that its rate of growth (measured by overall growth in sales, growth in comparable store sales, and other factors) can be expected to decrease from the rate of overall sales growth experienced in years prior to fiscal 2006 (which had been in the range of 30-40%), such anticipated decrease in rate of growth reflecting in large part the Company’s significantly increased size, its more manageable 22-24% net square footage growth goal for fiscal 2007, its approximate 10% net square footage growth goal for fiscal 2008, its net square footage growth for fiscal 2009, which is currently expected to be in the 10% range, and the uncertainty as to how long its same store sales will continue to experience decreases, as was the case during the second half of fiscal 2006 and the first nine months of fiscal 2007, and the expectation that when its same store sales again reflect increases, such increases are likely to be more moderate than has been the case historically. The Company generally expects to continue to generate from its operations the necessary cash flow to fund its expansion and to take advantage of new opportunities. The Company has no long-term debt and foresees no current need to incur long-term debt to support its continued growth.

Factors that will be critical to determining the Company’s future success include, among others, managing the overall growth strategy, including the ability to open and operate stores effectively, maximizing efficiencies in the merchandising, product development and sourcing processes, maintaining high standards for customer service and assistance, providing compelling merchandise, maintaining newness, fit and comfort in its merchandise offerings, matching merchandise offerings to customer preferences and needs, effectuating customer acceptance of new store concepts, integrating new or acquired businesses, maturing the newer brand concepts, implementing the process of senior management succession, continuing to compete in an increasingly competitive business sector, and generating cash to fund the Company’s expansion needs. In order to monitor the Company’s success, the Company’s senior management monitors certain key performance indicators, including:

	•		Comparable same store sales growth — For the thirteen-week and thirty-nine week periods ended November 3, 2007, the Company’s consolidated comparable store sales results (sales from stores open for at least twelve full months, including stores that have been expanded or relocated within the same general market) decreased 9.3% and 5.5%, respectively compared to the comparable period last year ending November 4, 2006. The Company believes its same store sales were affected by numerous challenges including a difficult macro economic environment, declining consumer confidence resulting in particularly cautious spending, one of the warmest fall selling seasons on record, lower than anticipated traffic and from merchandise offerings that were not as compelling from a fashion sense as the Company has offered in the past. The Company’s current strategy is to target a general overall trend to return to comparable store sales growth. The Company believes that its ability to realize such a general overall positive trend in comparable store sales will prove to be a key factor in determining its future levels of success particularly in terms of the Company’s success (i) in effectively operating its stores across all brands, (ii) in managing its continuing store expansion program across all brands, (iii) in maturing and developing its newer brands and (iv) in achieving its targeted levels of earnings per share.

	•		Positive operating cash flow — For the thirty-nine week period ended November 3, 2007, cash flow from operations totaled $182 million compared with $214 million for the prior year’s thirty-nine week period ended October 28, 2006. The Company believes that a key strength of its business is the ability to consistently generate cash flow from operations. Strong cash flow generation is critical to the future success of the Company, not only to support the general operating needs of the Company, but also to fund capital expenditures related to new store openings, relocations, expansions and remodels, costs associated with the Company’s proposed expansions of its existing corporate headquarters and distribution center, any future stock repurchase programs, costs associated with continued improvement of information technology tools, including the conversions to the SAP software platform, and costs associated with potential strategic acquisitions that may arise from time to time. See further discussion of the Company’s cash flows in the Liquidity and Capital Resources section of this MD&A.

	•		Loyalty Clubs and Customer Development — Management believes that a significant indicator of the Company’s success is the extent of the growth and frequency of shopping, associated with its loyalty programs, the “Passport Club” and “The Black Book”, and support for such loyalty programs that is provided through its personalized customer service training programs and its marketing initiatives. The Passport Club, the Chico’s/Soma frequent shopper club, features discounts and other special promotions for its members. Preliminary members may join the Passport Club at no cost and, upon spending $500, customers automatically become permanent members and are entitled to a lifetime 5% discount and other benefits. The Black Book loyalty program, the WH\|BM frequent shopper club, is similar to the Passport Club in most key respects except that customers become permanent

			members upon spending $300, compared to $500 for the Passport Club. The Company believes that the continued growth in new members and repeat shopping of its existing Passport and Black Book club members indicates that the Company is still generating strong interest from its customers due in large part to the Company’s commitment to personalized customer service and constant newness of product. The Company is currently evaluating and testing various enhancements to its loyalty programs which the Company believes will further the growth in new members and increase the frequency of shopping by its loyalty club members.

			As of November 3, 2007, the Company had approximately 1.8 million active Chico’s/Soma permanent Passport Club members and approximately 1.5 million active preliminary Passport Club members, while as of October 28, 2006, the Company had approximately 1.5 million active Chico’s/Soma permanent Passport Club members and approximately 1.5 million active preliminary Passport Club members.

			As of November 3, 2007, the Company had approximately 0.7 million active WH\|BM permanent Black Book members and approximately 1.4 million active preliminary Black Book members, while as of October 28, 2006, the Company had approximately 0.5 million active WH\|BM permanent Black Book members and approximately 1.2 million active preliminary Black Book members.

			“Active” customers are defined as those who have purchased at one of the Company’s brands within the preceding 12 months.

	•		Quality of merchandise offerings — To monitor and maintain the acceptance of its merchandise offerings, the Company monitors sell-through levels, inventory turns, gross margins and markdown rates on a classification and style level. Although the Company does not disclose these statistics for competitive reasons, this analysis helps identify comfort, fit, and newness issues at an early date and helps the Company plan future product development and buying.

In addition to the key performance indicators mentioned above, the Company’s operational strategies are focused on qualitative factors as well. The Company’s ability to manage its multiple brands, to develop and grow its Soma Intimates concept, to expand the Company’s direct to consumer business, to secure new quality store locations including relocations and/or expansions of existing stores and to launch new product categories within all brands, are all important strategies that, if successful, should contribute to the continued growth of the Company.

The Company continues to evaluate and monitor the progress of its intimate apparel initiative with its Soma Intimates brand. The Company recognizes that the Soma Intimates business can be seen as complementary to its basic apparel business, but also understands that many aspects of this business require unique attention. The Company monitors Soma Intimates merchandise offerings in a manner similar to its other brands with special emphasis on repeat purchases in the foundation category. The Company anticipates that additional investment will be required to establish the Soma brand as a suitable business that meets the profitability goals of the Company over the longer term. The Company estimates that the Soma brand reduced the Company’s earnings by approximately $.08 per diluted share for the thirty-nine weeks ended November 3, 2007. The Company is now expecting that the investment in the continued growth and development of the Soma brand will reduce fiscal year 2007 earnings by approximately $.10 to $.11 per diluted share and will continue to reduce earnings in fiscal year 2008. The Company further believes that the continued investment in the Soma brand is in the best long-term interest of its shareholders and that an impact on earnings per share of this order is acceptable when balanced against the potential of the brand’s perceived longer term potential.

For the thirteen weeks ended November 3, 2007 (the “current period”), the Company reported net sales, operating income and net income of $416 million, $23 million and $24 million, respectively. Net sales increased by 3.4% from the comparable period in the prior fiscal year, while operating income and net income decreased by 64.4% and 44.1%, respectively, from the comparable thirteen-week period ended October 28, 2006 (the “prior period”). The Company’s gross profit percentage was 58.3% for the current period compared to 59.9% in the prior period primarily due to decreased merchandise margins at the Chico’s front-line stores, attributable primarily to a higher markdown rate compared to the prior period as well as the mix effect of WH|BM and Soma sales continuing to become a larger percentage of overall net sales (both WH|BM and Soma operate with lower gross margins than the gross margins experienced by the Chico’s brand) and to a lesser extent, by the Company’s continued investment in its product development and merchandising functions for each of its three brands. Selling, general and administrative expenses in the current period increased as a percentage of net sales over the prior period by approximately 910 basis points due to increased store operating expenses (primarily occupancy and personnel costs) and marketing costs as a percentage of sales as well as from the deleverage associated with the Company’s negative same store sales and increased shared services costs (primarily an increase in personnel relocation and recruitment expenses) offset somewhat by a reduction in incentive and stock-based compensation as a percentage of sales.

For the thirty-nine weeks ended November 3, 2007 (the “current period”), the Company reported net sales, operating income and net income of $1.31 billion, $156 million and $109 million, respectively. Net sales increased by 9.1% from the comparable period in the prior fiscal year, while operating income and net income decreased by 32.0% and 26.3%, respectively, from the thirty-nine week period ended October 28, 2006 (the “prior period”). The Company’s gross profit percentage was 59.3% for the current period compared to the 60.7% in prior period primarily due to decreased merchandise margins at the Chico’s front-line stores, attributable primarily to a higher markdown rate compared to the prior period as well as the mix effect of WH|BM and Soma sales continuing to become a larger percentage of overall net sales (both WH|BM and Soma operate with lower gross margins than the gross margins experienced by the Chico’s brand) and to a lesser extent, by the Company’s continued investment in its product development and merchandising functions for each of its three brands. Selling, general and administrative expenses in the current period increased as a percentage of net sales over the prior period by approximately 580 basis points due to increased store operating expenses (primarily occupancy and personnel costs), the deleverage associated with the Company’s negative same store sales, and to a lesser extent, from increased marketing costs as a percentage of sales and increased shared services costs (primarily an increase in relocation expenses) offset somewhat by a reduction in incentive and stock-based compensation as a percentage of sales.

Future Outlook

The entire retail sector continues to be affected by numerous challenges. It now appears that based on the Company’s November sales performance, that fourth quarter earnings could approach the break even level.

The Company is currently focused on executing its holiday strategies, providing its customers with outstanding personal service and capturing as much of its customers holiday spending as possible. The Company intends to end the season with clean inventory levels and is aggressively moving to control many other expenditures, including capital expenditures, both presently and for 2008. To that end, the Company is taking a more conservative approach to its fiscal 2008 growth and expansion plans than previously announced by reducing the square footage growth rate from 12%-15% to approximately 10%, which will reduce the number of planned store openings to approximately 60-65 net new stores. Expansions and relocations are expected to come in at the low-end of previous guidance. The Company will continue to evaluate its 2009 growth and expansion plans as well.

In 2008, the Company will continue to focus on improving the performance of its existing stores, expanding its direct to consumer business, and investing in design and merchandising talent, and other critical infrastructure needs. The Company believes these strategies, coupled with its strong financial position, will position it to take full advantage of market opportunities when economic conditions improve.

Results of Operations — Thirteen Weeks Ended November 3, 2007 Compared to the Thirteen Weeks Ended October 28, 2006.

Net Sales

The following table shows net sales by Chico’s/Soma stores, net sales by WH|BM stores, net sales by catalog and Internet and other net sales (which includes net sales to franchisees) in dollars and as a percentage of total net sales for the thirteen weeks ended November 3, 2007 and October 28, 2006 (dollar amounts in thousands):


	Thirteen Weeks Ended
	November 3, 2007				October 28, 2006
Net sales by Chico’s/Soma stores	$	300,576	72.3	%	$	296,820	73.8	%
Net sales by WH\|BM stores		97,337	23.4			89,788	22.3
Net sales by catalog and Internet		18,000	4.3			12,509	3.1
Other net sales		—	—			3,102	0.8

Net sales	$	415,913	100.0	%	$	402,219	100.0	%

Net sales by Chico’s, Soma Intimates and WH|BM stores increased in the current period from the prior period, both in the aggregate and separately by brand, primarily due to new store openings. At the same time, the extent of the increase in net sales by Chico’s/Soma and WH|BM stores was negatively impacted by decreases in the Chico’s/Soma and WH|BM brand’s comparable store net sales. A summary of the factors impacting year-over-year sales increases is provided in the table below (dollar amounts in thousands):


	Thirteen Weeks Ended
	November 3, 2007			October 28, 2006
Comparable same store sales decreases	$	(34,896	)	$	(4,091	)
Comparable same store sales %		(9.3	)%		(1.2	)%
New store sales increase, net	$	46,201		$	45,842

The comparable same store sales decrease of 9.3% (for the thirteen-week period ended November 3, 2007 compared to the thirteen-week period ending November 4, 2006) was driven primarily by a decrease of 7.6% in the Chico’s front-line average unit retail price (which average unit retail price is a financial indicator, the percentage change of which is believed by management to represent a reasonable approximation of the percentage change in Company store net sales attributable to price changes or mix). The Company believes its same store sales were affected by numerous challenges including a difficult macro economic environment, declining consumer confidence resulting in particularly cautious spending, one of the warmest fall selling seasons on record, lower than anticipated traffic and from merchandise offerings that were not as compelling from a fashion sense as the Company has offered in the past. The comparable store sales decrease was also impacted by a decrease in transactions at WH|BM stores, offset in part by a 3.7% increase in the average unit retail price. In the current period, WH|BM same store sales represent approximately 22% of the total same store sales base compared to 21% in the prior period. The Chico’s brand same store sales decreased by approximately 8% and the WH|BM brand’s same store sales decreased by approximately 13% when comparing fiscal 2007 to the comparable weeks last year. Soma Intimates stores sales, which were included in the comparable store sales calculation beginning in September 2005, have not had a material impact on the calculation.

Net sales by catalog and Internet for the current period, which included merchandise from the Chico’s, WH|BM, and Soma Intimates brands increased by $5.5 million, or 43.9%, compared to net sales by catalog and Internet for the prior period. The Company believes this increase is attributable to the

implementation of the Company’s improvements in its website and call center infrastructure and its current approach to merchandising on the website. The Company intends to continue making improvements to further promote sales through these channels.

As a result of the Company’s acquisition of all of its franchise locations in early fiscal 2007, the Company did not earn revenues that otherwise would have been classified as other net sales during the current period.

Cost of Goods Sold/Gross Profit

The following table shows cost of goods sold and gross profit in dollars and the related gross profit percentages for the thirteen weeks ended November 3, 2007 and October 28, 2006 (dollar amounts in thousands):


	Thirteen Weeks Ended
	November 3, 2007			October 28, 2006
Cost of goods sold	$	173,449		$	161,431
Gross profit		242,464			240,788
Gross profit percentage		58.3	%		59.9	%

Gross profit percentage decreased by 160 basis points compared to the prior period resulting primarily from a 100 basis point decrease in merchandise margins at the Chico’s front-line stores as well as from lower merchandise margins in the direct to consumer and outlet divisions primarily due to higher markdown rates resulting from lower than anticipated sales in the Company’s front-line divisions. To a lesser extent, gross profit percentage was also negatively impacted by the mix effect resulting from the WH|BM and Soma Intimates sales continuing to become a larger portion of the Company’s overall net sales (both WH|BM and Soma brands operate with lower gross margins than the gross margins experienced by the Chico’s brand), and by the Company’s continued investment in its product development and merchandising functions for each of its three brands.

Selling, General, and Administrative Expenses

The following tables show store operating expenses, marketing, and shared services in dollars and as a percentage of total net sales for the thirteen weeks ended November 3, 2007 and October 28, 2006 (dollar amounts in thousands):


	Thirteen Weeks Ended
	November 3, 2007			October 28, 2006
Store operating expenses	$	161,708		$	132,865
Percentage of total net sales		38.9	%		33.0	%

Store operating expenses include all direct expenses, including such items as personnel, occupancy, depreciation and supplies, incurred to operate each of the Company’s stores. In addition, store operating expenses include those costs necessary to support the operation of each of the Company’s stores including district and regional management expenses and other store support functions. Store operating expenses as a percentage of net sales in the current period increased by approximately 590 basis points compared to the prior period primarily due to increased occupancy and personnel costs attributable mainly to the investment in larger sized Chico’s and WH|BM new and expanded stores, the Company’s continuing increased investment in store payroll to improve service levels, the mix effect of the WH|BM and Soma Intimates stores becoming a larger portion of the Company’s store base (both WH|BM and Soma brands operate with

higher store operating costs as a percentage of sales than the store operating costs as a percentage of sales experienced by the Chico’s brand) and from the deleverage associated with the Company’s negative same store sales. To a lesser degree, store operating expenses as a percentage of sales also increased as a result of additional store level promotion and outreach events across all brands.


	Thirteen Weeks Ended
	November 3, 2007			October 28, 2006
Marketing	$	25,511		$	14,896
Percentage of total net sales		6.1	%		3.7	%

Marketing expenses include expenses related to the Company’s national marketing programs such as direct marketing efforts (including direct mail and e-mail) and national advertising expenses. Marketing expenses increased as a percentage of net sales by approximately 240 basis points primarily due to the Company’s planned increase in its marketing spend in an effort to protect and enhance its market share and to highlight its Fall and Holiday product offerings and the deleverage associated with the Company’s negative same store sales.


	Thirteen Weeks Ended
	November 3, 2007			October 28, 2006
Shared services	$	31,962		$	27,671
Percentage of total net sales		7.7	%		6.9	%

Shared services expenses consist of the corporate level functions including executive management, human resources, management information systems and finance, among others. Shared services expenses increased as a percentage of net sales by approximately 80 basis points mainly due to increased personnel relocation and recruitment costs, severance, technology and marketing support costs and from the deleverage associated with the Company’s negative same store sales. This increase was offset, in part, by a reduction in stock-based compensation when compared to the comparable prior period.

Gain on Sale of Investment

Interest Income, net

The following table shows interest income, net in dollars and as a percentage of total net sales for the thirteen weeks ended November 3, 2007 and October 28, 2006 (dollar amounts in thousands):


	Thirteen Weeks Ended
	November 3, 2007			October 28, 2006
Interest income, net	$	3,257		$	2,339
Percentage of total net sales		0.8	%		0.6	%

The increase in net interest income during the current period was primarily the result of an increase in the total amount of marketable securities when compared to the prior period and, to a lesser extent, from interest income related to the note receivable issued in conjunction with the Company’s land sale.

Provision for Income Taxes

The Company’s effective tax rate for the current period was 28.9% compared to an effective tax rate of 36.6% for the prior period. Generally, income taxes for the interim periods are computed using the effective tax rate estimated to be applicable for the full fiscal year, which is subject to ongoing review and evaluation by the Company. In light of the Company’s revised estimate of pre-tax income for the full fiscal year of 2007 and the favorable permanent differences (mainly higher charitable inventory contributions and tax-free interest) representing a considerably higher proportion of pre-tax income in the current period compared to the prior period, the Company reevaluated and adjusted its effective tax rate estimate for the full 2007 fiscal year.

Loss on Discontinued Operations, net of tax

The following table shows loss on discontinued operations, net in dollars and as a percentage of total net sales for the thirteen weeks ended November 3, 2007 and October 28, 2006 (dollar amounts in thousands):


	Thirteen Weeks Ended
	November 3, 2007			October 28, 2006
Loss on discontinued operations, net of tax	$	166		$	771
Percentage of total net sales		0.0	%		0.2	%

In accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (SFAS) No. 144, Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, the Company has segregated the operating results of Fitigues from continuing operations and classified the results as discontinued operations in the consolidated statements of income for all periods presented. In the current period, the Company incurred additional immaterial costs from such discontinued operations and does not expect to incur additional material costs from such discontinued operations in future quarters.

Net Income

The following table shows net income in dollars and as a percentage of total net sales for the thirteen weeks ended November 3, 2007 and October 28, 2006 (dollar amounts in thousands):


	Thirteen Weeks Ended
	November 3, 2007			October 28, 2006
Net income	$	23,570		$	42,147
Percentage of total net sales		5.7	%		10.5	%

Results of Operations — Thirty-Nine Weeks Ended November 3, 2007 Compared to the Thirty-Nine Weeks Ended October 28, 2006.

Net Sales

The following table shows net sales by Chico’s/Soma stores, net sales by WH|BM stores, net sales by catalog and Internet and other net sales (which includes net sales to franchisees) in dollars and as a percentage of total net sales for the thirty-nine weeks ended November 3, 2007 and October 28, 2006 (dollar amounts in thousands):


	Thirty-Nine Weeks Ended
	November 3, 2007				October 28, 2006
Net sales by Chico’s/Soma stores	$	942,399	72.2	%	$	894,423	74.8	%
Net sales by WH\|BM stores		310,928	23.8			257,171	21.5
Net sales by catalog and Internet		51,587	4.0			36,740	3.1
Other net sales		115	0.0			7,962	0.6

Net sales	$	1,305,029	100.0	%		1,196,296	100.0	%

Net sales by Chico’s, Soma Intimates and WH|BM stores increased in the current period from the prior period, both in the aggregate and separately by brand, primarily due to new store openings. At the same time, the extent of the increase in net sales by Chico’s/Soma and WH|BM stores in the current period was negatively impacted by decreases in the Chico’s/Soma and WH|BM brand’s comparable store net sales. A summary of the factors impacting year-over-year sales increases is provided in the table below (dollar amounts in thousands):


	Thirty-Nine Weeks Ended
	November 3, 2007			October 28, 2006
Comparable same store sales (decreases) increases	$	(61,973	)	$	35,724
Comparable same store sales %		(5.5	)%		3.6	%
New store sales increase, net	$	163,706		$	123,101

The comparable same store sales decrease of 5.5% (for the thirty-nine week period ended November 3, 2007 compared to the thirty-nine week period ending November 4, 2006) was driven primarily by a decrease of 8.3% in the Chico’s front-line average unit retail price (which average unit retail price is a financial indicator, the percentage change of which is believed by management to represent a reasonable approximation of the percentage change in Company store net sales attributable to price changes or mix). The Company believes its same store sales were affected by numerous challenges including a difficult macro economic environment, declining consumer confidence resulting in particularly cautious spending, one of the warmest fall selling seasons on record, lower than anticipated traffic and from merchandise offerings that were not as compelling from a fashion sense as the Company has offered in the past. In the current period, WH|BM same store sales represent approximately 22% of the total same store sales base compared to 20% in the prior period. The Chico’s brand same store sales decreased by approximately 5% and the WH|BM brand’s same store sales decreased by approximately 6% when comparing fiscal 2007 to the comparable weeks last year. Soma Intimates stores sales, which were included in the comparable store sales calculation beginning in September 2005, have not had a material impact on the calculation.

Net sales by catalog and Internet for the current period, which included merchandise from the Chico’s, WH|BM, and Soma Intimates brands increased by $14.8 million, or 40.4%, compared to net sales by catalog and Internet for the prior period. The Company believes this increase is attributable to the implementation of the Company’s improvements in its website and call center infrastructure and its current approach to merchandising on the website. The Company intends to continue making improvements to further promote sales through these channels.

As a result of the Company’s acquisition of all of its franchise locations in early fiscal 2007, the Company earned an immaterial amount of revenue that has been classified as other net sales during the current period.

Cost of Goods Sold/Gross Profit

The following table shows cost of goods sold and gross profit in dollars and the related gross profit percentages for the thirty-nine weeks ended November 3, 2007 and October 28, 2006 (dollar amounts in thousands):


	Thirty-Nine Weeks Ended
	November 3, 2007			October 28, 2006
Cost of goods sold	$	531,072		$	470,571
Gross profit		773,957			725,725
Gross profit percentage		59.3	%		60.7	%

Gross profit percentage was negatively impacted by a 70 basis point decrease in merchandise margins at Chico’s front-line stores which was primarily attributable to a higher markdown rate in the current period compared to the prior period. Gross profit percentage was also negatively impacted by the mix effect resulting from the WH|BM and Soma Intimates sales continuing to become a larger portion of the Company’s overall net sales (both WH|BM and Soma brands operate with lower gross margins than the gross margins experienced by the Chico’s brand). To a lesser extent, gross profit percentage decreased due to the Company’s continued investment in its product development and merchandising functions for each of its three brands.

Selling, General, and Administrative Expenses

The following tables show store operating expenses, marketing, and shared services in dollars and as a percentage of total net sales for the thirty-nine weeks ended November 3, 2007 and October 28, 2006 (dollar amounts in thousands):


	Thirty-Nine Weeks Ended
	November 3, 2007			October 28, 2006
Store operating expenses	$	467,660		$	369,209
Percentage of total net sales		35.8	%		30.9	%

Store operating expenses include all direct expenses, including personnel, occupancy, depreciation and supplies, incurred to operate each of the Company’s stores. In addition, store operating expenses include those costs necessary to support the operation of each of the Company’s stores, including district and regional management expenses and other store support functions. Store operating expenses as a percentage of net sales in the current period increased by approximately 490 basis points compared to the prior period primarily due to increased occupancy and personnel costs attributable mainly to the investment in larger sized Chico’s and WH|BM new and expanded stores, the Company’s continuing increased investment in store payroll to improve service levels, the mix effect of the WH|BM and Soma stores becoming a larger portion of the Company’s store base (both WH|BM and Soma brands operate with higher store operating costs as a percentage of sales than the store operating costs as a percentage of sales experienced by the Chico’s brand) and from the deleverage associated with the Company’s negative same store sales. To a lesser degree, store operating expenses as a percentage of sales also increased as a result of additional store level promotion and outreach events across all brands.


	Thirty-Nine Weeks Ended
	November 3, 2007			October 28, 2006
Marketing	$	55,897		$	45,481
Percentage of total net sales		4.3	%		3.8	%

Marketing expenses include expenses related to the Company’s national marketing programs such as direct marketing efforts (including direct mail and e-mail) and national advertising expenses. Marketing expenses increased as a percentage of net sales by approximately 50 basis points primarily due to the Company’s planned increase in its marketing spend during the third quarter of fiscal 2007 in an effort to protect and enhance its market share and to highlight its Fall and Holiday product offerings and the deleverage associated with the Company’s negative same store sales.


	Thirty-Nine Weeks Ended
	November 3, 2007			October 28, 2006
Shared services	$	94,700		$	82,192
Percentage of total net sales		7.3	%		6.9	%

Shared services expenses consist of the corporate level functions including executive management, human resources, management information systems and finance, among others. Shared services expenses increased as a percentage of net sales by approximately 40 basis points mainly due to increased personnel relocation and recruitment costs, from the deleverage associated with the Company’s negative same store sales and, to a lesser degree, from increased marketing support costs. This increase was offset, in part, by a reduction in incentive compensation and stock-based compensation when compared to the prior period.

Gain on Sale of Investment

Interest Income, net

The following table shows interest income, net in dollars and as a percentage of total net sales for the thirty-nine weeks ended November 3, 2007 and October 28, 2006 (dollar amounts in thousands):


	Thirty-Nine Weeks Ended
	November 3, 2007			October 28, 2006
Interest income, net	$	8,177		$	8,303
Percentage of total net sales		0.6	%		0.7	%

The slight decrease in net interest income during the current period was primarily the result of a decrease in the total amount of marketable securities when compared to the prior period primarily due to the Company’s repurchase of $200 million in stock completed in fiscal 2006.

Provision for Income Taxes

The Company’s effective tax rate for the current period was 34.6% compared to an effective tax rate of 36.6% for the prior period. Generally, income taxes for the interim periods are computed using the effective tax rate estimated to be applicable for the full fiscal year, which is subject to ongoing review and evaluation by the Company. In light of the Company’s revised estimate of pre-tax income for the full fiscal year of 2007 and the favorable permanent differences (mainly higher charitable inventory contributions and tax-free interest) representing a considerably higher proportion of pre-tax income in the current period compared to the prior period, the Company reevaluated and adjusted its effective tax rate estimate for the full 2007 fiscal year.

Loss on Discontinued Operations, net of tax

The following table shows loss on discontinued operations, net of tax in dollars and as a percentage of total net sales for the thirty-nine weeks ended November 3, 2007 and October 28, 2006 (dollar amounts in thousands):


	Thirty-Nine Weeks Ended
	November 3, 2007			October 28, 2006
Loss on discontinued operations, net of tax	$	2,234		$	1,894
Percentage of total net sales		0.2	%		0.2	%

In accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (SFAS) No. 144, Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, the Company has segregated the operating results of Fitigues from continuing operations and classified the results as discontinued operations in the consolidated statements of income for all periods presented. The loss on discontinued operations, net of tax, which for the thirty-nine week period ended November 3, 2007 included certain one-time costs related to employee severance and lease termination costs, reduced the company’s year-to-date earnings for the current period by approximately $.01 per diluted share. The Company does not expect to incur material additional costs from such discontinued operations in future quarters.

Net Income

The following table shows net income in dollars and as a percentage of total net sales for the thirty-nine weeks ended November 3, 2007 and October 28, 2006 (dollar amounts in thousands):


	Thirty-Nine Weeks Ended
	November 3, 2007			October 28, 2006
Net income	$	109,411		$	148,454
Percentage of total net sales		8.4	%		12.4	%

Comparable Company Store Net Sales

Comparable Company store net sales decreased by 9.3% in the current quarter and 5.5% for the first nine months when compared to the comparable period last year ended November 4, 2006 (the Chico’s brand same store sales decreased by approximately 8% in the current quarter and 5% for the first nine months of the fiscal year and the WH|BM brand’s same store sales decreased by approximately 13% in the current quarter and 6% in the first nine months of the fiscal year). The Company believes that its same store sales were affected by numerous challenges including a difficult macro economic environment, declining consumer confidence resulting in particularly cautious spending, one of the warmest fall selling seasons on record, lower than anticipated traffic and from merchandise offerings that were not as compelling from a fashion sense as the Company has offered in the past. Comparable Company store net sales data is calculated based on the change in net sales of currently open stores that have been operated as a Company store for at least twelve full months, including stores that have been expanded or relocated within the same general market area (approximately five miles).

The comparable store percentage reported above includes 46 and 110 stores that were expanded or relocated within the last twelve months from the beginning of the respective prior period by an average of 1,310 and 1,321 net selling square feet, respectively. If the stores that were expanded and relocated had been excluded from the comparable store base, the decrease in comparable store net sales would have been 10.5% for the current quarter and 6.8% for the first nine months (versus a decrease of 9.3% and 5.5% as reported, respectively). The Company does not consider the effect to be material to the overall comparable store sales results and believes the inclusion of expanded stores in the comparable store net sales to be an acceptable practice, consistent with the practice followed by the Company in prior periods and by some other retailers. Soma Intimates stores sales, which were included in the comparable store sales calculation beginning in September 2005, have not had a material impact on the calculation.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

The Company’s ongoing capital requirements have been, and continue to be for, funding capital expenditures for new, expanded, relocated and remodeled stores and increased merchandise inventories, for planned expansion of its headquarters, distribution center and other central support facilities, to fund stock repurchases under the Company’s previous stock repurchase programs, and for continued improvement in information technology tools, including the ongoing conversions the Company is planning to the SAP software platform.

The following table shows the Company’s capital resources as of November 3, 2007 and October 28, 2006 (amounts in thousands):


	November 3, 2007		October 28, 2006
Cash and cash equivalents	$	11,956	$	2,606
Marketable securities		277,513		251,297
Working capital		324,016		320,770

Working capital increased from October 28, 2006 to November 3, 2007 primarily due to the Company’s ability to generate cash from operating activities, which cash was more than necessary to satisfy the Company’s investment in capital expenditures. The significant components of the Company’s working capital are cash and cash equivalents, marketable securities and inventories reduced by accounts payable and accrued liabilities.

Based on past performance and current expectations, the Company believes that its cash and cash equivalents, marketable securities and cash generated from operations will satisfy the Company’s working capital needs, capital expenditure needs (see “New Store Openings and Facility Expansions” discussed

below), commitments, and other liquidity requirements associated with the Company’s operations through at least the next 12 months.

Operating Activities

Net cash provided by operating activities was $182 million and $214 million for the thirty-nine weeks ended November 3, 2007 and October 28, 2006, respectively. The cash provided by operating activities for the current and prior periods was due to the Company’s net income adjusted for non-cash charges, changes in working capital and other items such as:

	•		Depreciation and amortization expense;

	•		Deferred tax benefits;

	•		Stock-based compensation expense and the related income tax effects thereof;

	•		Gain on sale of investment;

	•		Normal fluctuations in accounts receivable, inventories, prepaid and other current assets, accounts payable and accrued liabilities.

Investing Activities

Net cash used in investing activities was $210.4 million and $23.2 million for the thirty-nine weeks ended November 3, 2007 and October 28, 2006, respectively.

The Company’s investment in capital expenditures during the current period primarily related to the planning and opening of new, relocated, remodeled and expanded Chico’s/Soma and WH|BM stores ($125.2 million), costs associated with system upgrades and new software implementations ($24.1 million) and other miscellaneous capital expenditures ($11.2 million).

In addition, the Company purchased $39.2 million, net, of marketable securities during the current thirty-nine week period. In contrast, in the prior period, the Company sold $150.2 million, net, in marketable securities, primarily to fund the Company’s stock repurchase programs in fiscal 2006.

On August 1, 2007, the Company consummated a transaction to sell a parcel of land in south Fort Myers, Florida for a sale price totaling approximately $39.7 million consisting of approximately $13.4 million in cash proceeds, net of closing costs, and a note receivable with a principal amount of approximately $25.8 million and secured by a purchase money mortgage.

On July 26, 2007, VF Corporation announced that it had entered into a definitive agreement to acquire lucy activewear, inc. (“Lucy”), a privately held retailer of women’s activewear apparel, in which the Company held a cost method investment. The transaction was completed during the third quarter and the Company received approximately $15.1 million in cash proceeds. The Company also holds a receivable of approximately $2.0 million for the balance of the proceeds to be received in conjunction with this transaction. The Company expects that this additional amount will be received during fiscal 2008.

Also, during the current thirty-nine week period, the Company acquired all the territorial franchise rights to the state of Minnesota and the existing franchise locations in Minnesota for $32.9 million and acquired a franchise store in Florida for $6.4 million, while in the prior period, the Company purchased most of the assets of the Fitigues brand stores for $7.5 million and repurchased one franchise store for $0.8 million.

Financing Activities

Net cash provided by financing activities was $3.0 million for the thirty-nine weeks ended November 3, 2007. In contrast, in the prior period, net cash used in financing activities was $191.2 million primarily reflecting the Company’s repurchase of $200 million of common stock in fiscal 2006.

SFAS 123R requires that cash flows resulting from tax benefits related to tax deductions attributable to stock-based compensation awards in excess of the compensation expense recognized for those awards (excess tax benefits) or tax deductions less than the compensation expense recognized for those awards (deficiency tax benefits) be classified as financing cash flows. For the thirty-nine weeks ended November 3, 2007, the Company classified $0.3 million of deficient tax benefits as a financing cash outflow while classifying $2.6 million of excess tax benefits for the thirty-nine weeks ended October 28, 2006 as a financing cash inflow.

During the thirty-nine weeks ended November 3, 2007, the Company repurchased 15,938 shares in connection with employee tax withholding obligations under employee compensation plans, which are not purchases under any publicly announced plan.

In March 2006, the Company’s Board of Directors (the “Board”) approved the repurchase, over a twelve-month period ending in March 2007, of up to $100 million of the Company’s outstanding common stock. During the thirty-nine weeks ended October 28, 2006, the Company repurchased 3,081,104 shares of its common stock in connection with this stock repurchase program, which represents the entire $100 million initial stock repurchase program authorized by the Company’s Board.

In May 2006, the Company announced that its Board had approved the repurchase of an additional $100 million of the Company’s common stock over a twelve month period ending in May 2007. During the thirty-nine weeks ended October 28, 2006, the Company repurchased 3,591,352 shares of its common stock in connection with this stock repurchase program, which represented the entire additional $100 million program authorized by the Company’s Board.

The Company received proceeds in both periods from the issuance of common stock related to current and former employee option exercises and employee participation in its employee stock purchase plan. During the first nine months of the current fiscal year, certain of the Company’s current and former officers exercised an aggregate of 106,003 stock options at a price of $8.80 to $21.95 and certain employees and former employees exercised an aggregate of 58,654 options at prices ranging from $0.1805 to $20.465. Also, during this period, the Company sold 40,013 and 12,810 shares of common stock during the March and September offering periods under its employee stock purchase plan at prices of $19.03 and $13.59, respectively. The proceeds from these issuances of stock, exclusive of the tax benefit realized by the Company, amounted to approximately $3.5 million.

New Store Openings and Headquarters Expansion

The Company is planning a 22-24% increase in its selling square footage for fiscal 2007, which is expected to result from approximately 128-132 net new stores and 50 to 55 relocations and expansions of existing stores. The anticipated breakdown of net new stores by brand for fiscal 2007 is as follows: 53 to 56 Chico’s stores, 57 to 59 WH|BM stores and approximately 17 Soma Intimates stores. Of the net new stores to be opened, 130 had been opened as of December 4, 2007. The Company is on track to meet its planned net new store openings, relocations and expansions for fiscal 2007.

The Company’s fiscal 2008 plan currently includes a targeted approximate 10% growth rate in selling square feet, with an estimated 60 to 65 net new stores and 30 to 35 relocations/expansions. At this time,

the Company estimates these net new openings will be broken down by brand as follows: 25 to 27 Chico’s stores, 29 to 31 WH|BM stores and 6 to 7 Soma Intimates stores. The Company, however, continuously evaluates the appropriate new store growth rate in light of current economic conditions and may adjust the growth rate as conditions require.

During the first quarter of fiscal 2006, the Company completed the purchase of approximately 22 acres of property adjacent to the Company’s current headquarters site on Metro Parkway in Fort Myers, Florida to serve as the base for expansion of the Company’s corporate headquarters operations. The property includes seven existing buildings aggregating approximately 200,600 square feet of space, some of which continue to be leased to unrelated third parties. As leases expire or are bought out, the Company is utilizing the vacant space, which, in many cases, is likely to require modifications, for its expanding corporate headquarters needs. The acquisition was funded from the Company’s existing cash and marketable securities balances.

With respect to addressing the needs for additional distribution center space, the Company is evaluating its requirements and the appropriate timing to make additional distribution center capacity available. The Company’s present goal in this regard is to begin design work in late fiscal 2007. It is currently anticipated that the Company will require additional distribution space in early fiscal 2009 and, initially, the Company is focusing its evaluation on the expansion of its current distribution center on existing adjacent land that is already owned by the Company.

During the third quarter of fiscal 2006, the Company reclassified a parcel of land located in south Fort Myers, Florida with a book value of $38.1 million from a long-term asset to a current asset that was being held for sale. On August 1, 2007, the Company consummated a transaction to sell the land with a sales price totaling approximately $39.7 million consisting of approximately $13.4 million in cash proceeds, net of closing costs, and a note receivable with a principal amount of approximately $25.8 million and secured by a purchase money mortgage. The note, which accrues interest at a fixed rate of 6.0% annually with interest payable quarterly and the principal amount payable in a balloon payment in two years, is included within other assets on the Company’s consolidated balance sheet.

In May 2006, the Company announced that it will work with SAP, a third party vendor, to implement an enterprise resource planning system (ERP) to assist in managing its retail stores, beginning first with its Soma brand. This fully integrated system is expected to support and coordinate all aspects of product development, merchandising, finance and accounting and to be fully scalable to accommodate its future growth. On February 4, 2007, the Company successfully completed the first major phase of its multi-year, planned implementation of the new ERP system by converting its Soma Intimates brand to the new merchandising system and rolling out the new financial systems at the same time. The second major phase currently anticipates an initial roll out and utilization of this new system in each of its other two brands beginning as early as mid fiscal 2008 with completion anticipated in early fiscal 2009. The third major phase contemplates on-going enhancements and optimization of the new ERP across all three brands, as well as the deployment of additional functionality across various other functions within the Company through fiscal 2009 and beyond.

The Company believes that the liquidity needed for its planned new store growth (including the continued investment associated with its Soma Intimates brand), its continuing store remodel/expansion program, the investments required for its Headquarters and distribution center expansions, its continued installation and upgrading of new and existing software packages, and maintenance of proper inventory levels associated with this growth will be funded primarily from cash flow from operations and its existing cash and marketable securities balances, and, if necessary, the capacity included in its bank credit facilities. The Company does not believe that it would need to seek other sources of financing to conduct its

operations or pursue its expansion plans even if cash flow from operations should prove to be less than anticipated or if there should arise a need for additional letter of credit capacity due to establishing new and expanded sources of supply, or if the Company were to increase the number of new stores planned to be opened in future periods.

Contractual Obligations

As of the adoption date for FIN 48, the total amount of unrecognized tax benefits associated with uncertain tax positions was $8.9 million. Due to the nature and timing of the ultimate outcome of these uncertain tax positions, the Company cannot make a reasonably reliable estimate of the amount and period of related future payments and therefore is not updating the disclosures in the contractual obligations table presented in its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 3, 2007.

Seasonality and Inflation

Although the operations of the Company are influenced by general economic conditions, the Company does not believe that inflation has had a material effect on the results of operations during the current or prior periods. The Company does not consider its business to be seasonal.

The Company reports its sales on a monthly basis in line with other public companies in the women’s apparel industry. Although the Company believes this regular reporting of interim sales may provide for greater transparency to investors, the Company is concerned that these interim results tend to be relied upon too heavily as a trend. For example, such factors as the weather (numerous hurricanes in fiscal 2005 and 2004), national events (elections and adverse economic conditions such as the increasingly more difficult housing market in 2007), international events (9/11 and developments in Iraq), interest rates, increased oil and other energy costs, changes in the nature of its merchandise promotions, and similar factors can significantly affect the Company for a particular period. In addition, the Company’s periodic results can be directly and significantly impacted by the extent to which the Company’s new merchandise offerings are accepted by its customers and by the timing of the introduction of such new merchandise.

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

The Company’s discussion and analysis of its financial condition and results of operations are based upon the Company’s consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. The critical accounting matters that are particularly important to the portrayal of the Company’s financial condition and results of operations and require some of management’s most difficult, subjective and complex judgments are described in detail in the Company’s Annual Report on
Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 3, 2007. The preparation of consolidated financial statements requires the Company to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenue and expenses, and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. On an ongoing basis, the Company evaluates its estimates, including those related to customer product returns, inventories, income taxes, insurance reserves, contingencies and litigation. The Company bases its estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions. Management believes that other than the adoption of FIN 48, there have been no other significant changes to the Company’s critical accounting policies as disclosed in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 3, 2007.

Income Taxes

Effective February 4, 2007, the Company adopted the provisions of FIN 48. FIN 48 prescribes a recognition threshold and measurement element for the financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. Due to the substantial amounts involved and judgment necessary, the Company deems this policy could be critical to its financial statements.

Interpretations and guidance surrounding income tax laws and regulations adjust over time. The Company establishes reserves for uncertain tax positions that management believes are supportable, but are potentially subject to successful challenge by the applicable taxing authority. Consequently, changes in our assumptions and judgments can materially affect amounts recognized related to income tax uncertainties and may affect the Company’s results of operations or financial position. See Note 4 to the consolidated financial statements for further discussion regarding the impact of the Company’s adoption of FIN 48.

Certain Factors That May Affect Future Results

This Form 10-Q may contain certain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, which reflect the current views of the Company with respect to certain events that could have an effect on the Company’s future financial performance, including but without limitation, statements regarding future growth rates of the established Company store concepts and the roll out of the Soma Intimates concept. The statements may address items such as future sales, gross profit expectations, operating margin expectations, earnings per share expectations, planned store openings, closings and expansions, future comparable store sales, future product sourcing plans, inventory levels, planned marketing expenditures, planned capital expenditures and future cash needs. In addition, from time to time, the Company may issue press releases and other written communications, and representatives of the Company may make oral statements, which contain forward-looking information.

These statements, including those in this Form 10-Q and those in press releases or made orally, may include the words “expects,” “believes,” and similar expressions. Except for historical information, matters discussed in such oral and written statements, including this Form 10-Q, are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from historical results or those currently anticipated. Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to, those discussed below and in Item 1A, “Risk Factors” of the Company’s most recent Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 2, 2007.

These potential risks and uncertainties include the financial strength of retailing in particular and the economy in general, the extent of financial difficulties that may be experienced by customers, the ability of the Company to secure and maintain customer acceptance of the Company’s styles and store concepts, the propriety of inventory mix and sizing, the quality of merchandise received from vendors, the extent and nature of competition in the markets in which the Company operates, the extent of the market demand and overall level of spending for women’s private label clothing and related accessories, the adequacy and perception of customer service, the ability to coordinate product development with buying and planning, the ability of the Company’s suppliers to timely produce and deliver clothing and accessories, the changes in the costs of manufacturing, labor and advertising, the rate of new store openings, the buying public’s acceptance of any of the Company’s new store concepts, the performance, implementation and integration of management information systems, the ability to effectively integrate newly engaged senior executives, the ability to hire, train, energize and retain qualified sales associates and other employees, the availability of quality store sites, the ability to expand headquarters, distribution center and other support facilities in an

efficient and effective manner, the ability to hire and train qualified managerial employees, the ability to effectively and efficiently establish and operate catalog and Internet sales, the ability to secure and protect trademarks and other intellectual property rights, the ability to effectively and efficiently operate the Chico’s, WH|BM, and Soma Intimates merchandise divisions, risks associated with terrorist activities, risks associated with natural disasters such as hurricanes and other risks. In addition, there are potential risks and uncertainties that are peculiar to the Company’s reliance on sourcing from foreign vendors, including the impact of work stoppages, transportation delays and other interruptions, political or civil instability, imposition of and changes in tariffs and import and export controls such as import quotas, changes in governmental policies in or towards foreign countries, currency exchange rates and other similar factors.

The forward-looking statements included herein are only made as of the date of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Litigation

In the normal course of business, the Company is subject to proceedings, lawsuits and other claims including proceedings under laws and government regulations relating to labor, product, intellectual property and other matters, including the matters described in Item 1 of Part II of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. Such matters are subject to many uncertainties, and outcomes are not predictable with assurance. Consequently, the ultimate aggregate amount of monetary liability or financial impact with respect to these matters at November 3, 2007, cannot be ascertained. Although these matters could affect the operating results of any one quarter when resolved in future periods, and although there can be no assurance with respect thereto, management believes that, after final disposition, any monetary liability or financial impact to the Company would not be material to the annual consolidated financial statements.

ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

The market risk of the Company’s financial instruments as of November 3, 2007 has not significantly changed since February 3, 2007. The Company is exposed to market risk from changes in interest rates on any future indebtedness and its marketable securities.

The Company’s exposure to interest rate risk relates in part to its revolving line of credit with its bank; however, as of November 3, 2007, the Company did not have any outstanding borrowings on its line of credit and, given its liquidity position, does not expect to utilize its line of credit in the foreseeable future except for its continuing use of the letter of credit facility portion thereof.

The Company’s investment portfolio is maintained in accordance with the Company’s investment policy which identifies allowable investments, specifies credit quality standards and limits the credit exposure of any single issuer. The Company’s investment portfolio consists of cash equivalents and marketable securities, virtually all of which are variable rate demand notes and certain other highly liquid municipal debt securities. Although these securities have long-term nominal maturity dates ranging from 2009 to 2041, the interest rates are reset, depending on the type of security, either daily, or every 7, 28 or 35 days. Despite the long-term nature of the underlying securities, the Company has the ability to quickly liquidate these securities based on the Company’s cash needs thereby creating a short-term instrument. Accordingly, the Company’s investments are classified as available-for-sale securities. As of November 3, 2007, an increase or decrease of 100 basis points in interest rates would have had an immaterial impact on the fair value of the marketable securities portfolio.

ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

As of the end of the period covered by this report, an evaluation was carried out under the supervision and with the participation of the Company’s management, including its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer (the former Chief Financial Officer was involved in this evaluation because the newly appointed Chief Financial Officer had just been appointed shortly after the end of the period), of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended). Based upon that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and former Chief Financial Officer concluded that, as of the end of such period, the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective in timely alerting them to material information relating to the Company (including its consolidated subsidiaries) required to be included in the Company’s periodic SEC filings.

Changes in Internal Controls

There were no significant changes in the Company’s internal controls or in other factors that could significantly affect the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures subsequent to the date of the above referenced evaluation. Furthermore, there was no change in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting or in other factors during the quarterly period covered by this report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

PART II — OTHER INFORMATION

ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

The Company was named as the defendant in a suit filed in October 2004 in the Circuit Court of Lee County, Florida, Ajit Patel v. Chico’s FAS, Inc. The Complaint alleges that the Company breached an implied contract with the plaintiff, the Company’s former Vice President — Chief Information Officer, and, alternatively, that the Company fraudulently induced the plaintiff to work for the Company. It is the Company’s position that no contract, express or implied, existed between the Company and the plaintiff and that the Company did not engage in any fraudulent conduct. The Company asserted certain counterclaims against the plaintiff. The parties have reached an agreement and have settled their disputes. The settlement did not have a material impact on the Company’s results of operations or financial condition.

On May 9, 2007, the Company was served with a lawsuit in which it was named as defendant in a putative class action in the Superior Court for the State of California, County of Los Angeles, Linda Balint v. Chico’s FAS, Inc. et al. The Complaint alleges that the Company, in violation of California law, failed to: (1) pay overtime wages, and (2) provide meal periods, among other claims. The Company timely filed its response to the Complaint. In October 2007, the parties participated in an early mediation of this matter and reached a settlement as a result of that mediation. The settlement is subject to preliminary and final approval by the Court. Assuming the Court provides its preliminary approval, notice of the settlement will be sent to all class members, who will be given the opportunity to partake in, opt out of, or object to the settlement. The settlement, if approved by the Court, is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s results of operations or financial condition.

The Company is not a party to any other legal proceedings, other than various claims and lawsuits arising in the normal course of business, none of which the Company believes should have a material adverse effect on its financial condition or results of operations.

ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS

In addition to the other information discussed in this report, the factors described in Part I, Item 1A., “Risk Factors” in the Company’s 2006 Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 2, 2007 should be considered as they could materially affect the Company’s business, financial condition or future results. There have not been any significant changes with respect to the risks described in our 2006 Form 10-K, but these are not the only risks facing the Company. Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to the Company or that the Company currently deems to be immaterial also may adversely affect the Company’s business, financial condition or operating results.

ITEM 2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS

The following table sets forth information concerning purchases made by the Company of its common stock for the periods indicated (dollar amounts in thousands, except per share amounts):


							Approximate Dollar
							Value of Shares
					Total Number of		that May Yet Be
					Shares Purchased as		Purchased Under the
	Total Number of		Average Price Paid		Part of Publicly		Publicly Announced
Period	Shares Purchased(a)		per Share		Announced Plans		Plans
August 5, 2007 to September 1, 2007		1,482	$	17.93		—	$	—
September 2, 2007 to October 6, 2007		10,029	$	14.55		—	$	—
October 7, 2007 to November 3, 2007		109	$	13.14		—	$	—

Total		11,620	$	14.97		—	$	—


(a)		Consists of 11,620 shares of restricted stock repurchased in connection with employee tax withholding obligations under employee compensation plans, which are not purchases under any publicly announced plan.

ITEM 6. EXHIBITS

(a)

The following documents are filed as exhibits to this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (exhibits marked with an asterisk have been previously filed with the Commission as indicated and are incorporated herein by this reference):


		Exhibit 10.1		Amendment No. 1 to Employment Agreement between the Company and Patricia Murphy Kerstein, effective as of October 3, 2007

		Exhibit 31.1		Chico’s FAS, Inc. and Subsidiaries Certification Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 — Chief Executive Officer

		Exhibit 31.2		Chico’s FAS, Inc. and Subsidiaries Certification Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 — Chief Financial Officer

		Exhibit 32.1		Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

		Exhibit 32.2		Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

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 thereunto duly authorized.


	CHICO’S FAS, INC.
Date: December 4, 2007	By:	/s/ Scott A. Edmonds
		Scott A. Edmonds
		Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer)



Date: December 4, 2007	By:	/s/ Kent A. Kleeberger
		Kent A. Kleeberger
		Executive Vice President — Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer (Principal Financial Officer)



Date: December 4, 2007	By:	/s/ Michael J. Kincaid
		Michael J. Kincaid
		Senior Vice President — Finance, Chief Accounting Officer, and Assistant Secretary (Principal Accounting Officer)

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