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SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D. C. 20549


FORM 10-Q

(Mark One)  

ý

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

For the quarterly period ended August 2, 2003

o

TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(D) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from                        to            

Commission file number 0-23071

THE CHILDREN'S PLACE RETAIL STORES, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Delaware
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
  31-1241495
(I. R. S. employer identification number)


915 Secaucus Road
Secaucus, New Jersey 07094

(Address of Principal Executive Offices) (Zip Code)


(201) 558-2400
(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 ý No o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an accelerated filer.

        Yes ý No o

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

Common Stock, par value $0.10 per share, outstanding at September 10, 2003: 26,628,998 shares.





THE CHILDREN'S PLACE RETAIL STORES, INC.

QUARTERLY REPORT ON FORM 10-Q

FOR THE PERIOD ENDED AUGUST 2, 2003

TABLE OF CONTENTS


Part I—Financial Information

 
   
  Page

Item 1.

 

Consolidated Financial Statements:

 

 

 

 

Consolidated Balance Sheets

 

1

 

 

Consolidated Statements of Income

 

2

 

 

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

 

3

 

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

4

Item 2.

 

Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

 

7

Item 3.

 

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risks

 

12

Item 4.

 

Controls and Procedures

 

12


Part II—Other Information

Item 1.

 

Legal Proceedings

 

13

Item 4.

 

Submission to a Vote of Security Holders

 

13

Item 6.

 

Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K

 

13

Signatures

 

14


PART I—FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1. CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

THE CHILDREN'S PLACE RETAIL STORES, INC.
AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(In thousands, except per share amounts)

 
  August 2, 2003
  February 1, 2003
  August 3, 2002
 
 
  (Unaudited)

   
  (Unaudited)

 
ASSETS                    
Current assets:                    
  Cash and cash equivalents   $ 25,194   $ 36,645   $ 31,705  
  Accounts receivable     15,412     13,571     17,506  
  Inventories     87,321     75,417     62,261  
  Prepaid expenses and other current assets     25,749     19,277     18,986  
  Deferred income taxes     293     293     4,551  
   
 
 
 
    Total current assets     153,969     145,203     135,009  
Property and equipment, net     154,617     155,000     159,645  
Other assets     9,326     9,125     6,148  
   
 
 
 
    Total assets   $ 317,912   $ 309,328   $ 300,802  
   
 
 
 
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY                    
LIABILITIES:                    
Current liabilities:                    
  Revolving credit facility   $ 426   $ 0   $ 0  
  Accounts payable     35,488     30,805     29,169  
  Taxes payable     345     198     179  
  Accrued expenses, interest and other current liabilities     40,473     34,926     35,790  
   
 
 
 
    Total current liabilities     76,732     65,929     65,138  
Other long-term liabilities     15,189     14,391     12,169  
   
 
 
 
    Total liabilities     91,921     80,320     77,307  
   
 
 
 
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES                    
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY:                    
Common stock, $0.10 par value; 100,000,000 shares authorized; 26,627,522                    
shares, 26,569,864 shares and 26,504,808 shares issued and outstanding,                    
at August 2, 2003, February 1, 2003 and August 3, 2002, respectively     2,663     2,657     2,650  
Additional paid-in capital     99,221     98,765     97,686  
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)     604     253     (281 )
Retained earnings     123,503     127,333     123,440  
   
 
 
 
    Total stockholders' equity     225,991     229,008     223,495  
   
 
 
 
    Total liabilities and stockholders' equity   $ 317,912   $ 309,328   $ 300,802  
   
 
 
 

The accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements are an integral part of these consolidated statements.

1



THE CHILDREN'S PLACE RETAIL STORES, INC.
AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
(Unaudited)

(In thousands, except per share amounts)

 
  Thirteen Weeks Ended
  Twenty-Six Weeks Ended
 
  August 2, 2003
  August 3, 2002
  August 2, 2003
  August 3, 2002
Net sales   $ 159,082   $ 128,295   $ 340,092   $ 301,342
Cost of sales     108,612     91,909     219,732     185,828
   
 
 
 

Gross profit

 

 

50,470

 

 

36,386

 

 

120,360

 

 

115,514
Selling, general and administrative expenses     55,988     44,597     107,379     90,970
Depreciation and amortization     9,875     8,441     19,403     16,711
   
 
 
 

Operating (loss) income

 

 

(15,393

)

 

(16,652

)

 

(6,422

)

 

7,833
Interest income, net     52     118     145     364
   
 
 
 

(Loss) income before income taxes

 

 

(15,341

)

 

(16,534

)

 

(6,277

)

 

8,197
(Benefit) provision for income taxes     (5,982 )   (6,367 )   (2,447 )   3,156
   
 
 
 
Net (loss) income   $ (9,359 ) $ (10,167 ) $ (3,830 ) $ 5,041
   
 
 
 

Basic net (loss) income per common share

 

$

(0.35

)

$

(0.38

)

$

(0.14

)

$

0.19
Basic weighted average common shares outstanding     26,620     26,492     26,609     26,460

Diluted net (loss) income per common share

 

$

(0.35

)

$

(0.38

)

$

(0.14

)

$

0.19
Diluted weighted average common shares outstanding     26,620     26,492     26,609     27,219

The accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements are an integral part of these consolidated statements.

2



THE CHILDREN'S PLACE RETAIL STORES, INC.
AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(Unaudited)

(In thousands)

 
  Twenty-Six Weeks Ended
 
 
  August 2, 2003
  August 3, 2002
 
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:              
Net (loss) income   $ (3,830 ) $ 5,041  
Adjustments to reconcile net (loss) income to net cash provided by operating activities:              
  Depreciation and amortization     19,403     16,711  
  Deferred financing fee amortization     30     30  
  Loss on disposals of property and equipment     263     325  
  Deferred taxes     0     (688 )
  Deferred rent     1,110     1,201  
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:              
  Accounts receivable     (1,646 )   (5,611 )
  Inventories     (11,400 )   (3,166 )
  Prepaid expenses and other current assets     (6,414 )   (6,989 )
  Other assets     (53 )   (11 )
  Accounts payable     4,517     6,992  
  Accrued expenses, interest and other current liabilities     4,214     (2,047 )
   
 
 
    Total adjustments     10,024     6,747  
   
 
 
Net cash provided by operating activities     6,194     11,788  
   
 
 
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:              
Property and equipment purchases and lease acquisition     (18,353 )   (26,704 )
   
 
 
Net cash used in investing activities     (18,353 )   (26,704 )
   
 
 
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:              
Exercise of stock options and employee stock purchases     462     1,699  
Deferred financing costs     (175 )   0  
Borrowings under revolving credit facility     38,940     13,228  
Repayments under revolving credit facility     (38,514 )   (13,228 )
   
 
 
Net cash provided by financing activities     713     1,699  
   
 
 
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash     (5 )   (269 )
   
 
 
  Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents     (11,451 )   (13,486 )
  Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period     36,645     45,191  
   
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period   $ 25,194   $ 31,705  
   
 
 
OTHER CASH FLOW INFORMATION:              
Cash paid during the period for interest   $ 87   $ 60  
Cash paid during the period for income taxes     1,104     14,735  

The accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements are an integral part of these consolidated statements.

3



THE CHILDREN'S PLACE RETAIL STORES, INC.
AND SUBSIDIARIES


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)

1.     BASIS OF PRESENTATION

        The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States ("GAAP") for interim financial information. Certain information and footnote disclosures required by GAAP for complete financial statements have been condensed or omitted pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission. In the opinion of management, the accompanying unaudited financial statements contain all material adjustments, consisting of normal recurring accruals, necessary to present fairly the Company's financial position, results of operations and cash flow for the periods indicated, and have been prepared in a manner consistent with the audited financial statements as of February 1, 2003. These financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited financial statements and footnotes for the fiscal year ended February 1, 2003 included in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended February 1, 2003 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Due to the seasonal nature of the Company's business, the results of operations for the twenty-six weeks ended August 2, 2003 and August 3, 2002 are not necessarily indicative of operating results for a full fiscal year.

2.     NET (LOSS) INCOME PER COMMON SHARE

        In accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 128, "Earnings Per Share," the following table reconciles net (loss) income and share amounts utilized to calculate basic and diluted net income per common share.

 
  Thirteen Weeks Ended
  Twenty-Six Weeks Ended
 
  August 2, 2003
  August 3, 2002
  August 2, 2003
  August 3, 2002
Net (loss) income (in thousands)   $ (9,359 ) $ (10,167 ) $ (3,830 ) $ 5,041
   
 
 
 
Basic shares     26,619,649     26,492,003     26,609,417     26,459,877
Dilutive effect of stock options     0     0     0     758,970
   
 
 
 
Dilutive shares     26,619,649     26,492,003     26,609,417     27,218,847
   
 
 
 
Antidilutive options     1,334,659     1,062,377     1,390,922     299,974

        The net loss per share presented in the consolidated statements of income for the thirteen and twenty-six weeks ended August 2, 2003 and the thirteen weeks ended August 3, 2002, excludes the dilutive effect of stock options, which would be antidilutive as a result of the net loss.

        Antidilutive options consist of the weighted average of stock options for the respective periods ended August 2, 2003 and August 3, 2002 that had an exercise price greater than the average market price during the period. Such options are therefore excluded from the computation of diluted shares.

3.     STOCK BASED COMPENSATION

        In December 2002, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 148, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation Transition and Disclosure ("SFAS 148"). SFAS 148 amends SFAS No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation" ("SFAS 123"), to provide alternative methods of transition to the fair value method of accounting for stock-based employee compensation. In addition, SFAS 148 amends the disclosure

4



provisions of SFAS 123 to require prominent disclosures in both annual and interim financial statements about the method of accounting for stock-based employee compensation and the effect of the method used on reported results. SFAS 148 does not amend SFAS 123 to require companies to account for their employee stock-based awards using the fair value method. However, the disclosure provisions are required for all companies with stock-based employee compensation, regardless of whether they utilize the fair value method of accounting described in SFAS 123 or the intrinsic value method described in Accounting Principles Board ("APB") Opinion No. 25, "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees" ("APB 25").

        The Company accounts for its stock option plans and its employee stock purchase plan under the intrinsic value method described in APB 25. Accordingly, no compensation expense has been recognized for stock-based compensation, since the options granted were at prices that equaled or exceeded their estimated fair market value at the date of grant. If compensation expense for the Company's stock options and employee stock purchases issued during the thirteen weeks and twenty-six weeks ended August 2, 2003 and August 3, 2002 had been determined based on the fair value method of accounting, in accordance with SFAS 123, the Company's net (loss) income would have been adjusted to the pro forma amounts indicated below for the thirteen weeks and twenty-six weeks ended August 2, 2003 and August 3, 2002, respectively:

 
  Thirteen Weeks Ended
  Twenty-Six Weeks Ended
 
  August 2, 2003
  August 3, 2002
  August 2, 2003
  August 3, 2002
Net (loss) income—(in thousands)                        
  As reported   $ (9,359 ) $ (10,167 ) $ (3,830 ) $ 5,041
  Deduct: Total stock-based compensation expense determined under fair value based method for all awards, net of related tax effects     1,019     1,034     2,125     2,015
   
 
 
 
  Pro forma   $ (10,378 ) $ (11,201 ) $ (5,955 ) $ 3,026

(Loss) earnings per share—

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
  Basic—as reported   $ (0.35 ) $ (0.38 ) $ (0.14 ) $ 0.19
  Basic—pro forma   $ (0.39 ) $ (0.42 ) $ (0.22 ) $ 0.11
  Diluted—as reported   $ (0.35 ) $ (0.38 ) $ (0.14 ) $ 0.19
  Diluted—pro forma   $ (0.39 ) $ (0.42 ) $ (0.22 ) $ 0.11

4.     COMPREHENSIVE (LOSS) INCOME

        The following table presents the Company's comprehensive (loss) income (in thousands):

 
  Thirteen Weeks Ended
  Twenty-Six Weeks Ended
 
 
  August 2, 2003
  August 3, 2002
  August 2, 2003
  August 3, 2002
 
Net (loss) income   $ (9,359 ) $ (10,167 ) $ (3,830 ) $ 5,041  
Translation adjustments     37     (269 )   351     (269 )
   
 
 
 
 
Comprehensive (loss) income   $ (9,322 ) $ (10,436 ) $ (3,479 ) $ 4,772  
   
 
 
 
 

5.     WELLS FARGO CREDIT FACILITY

        In April 2003, the Company amended, restated and extended its principal working capital facility for a term of 3 years to April 2006 with one year renewal options. Previously, Foothill Capital Corporation had assigned its rights under this facility to Wells Fargo Retail Finance LLC ("Wells Fargo"). The amended and restated working capital facility with Wells Fargo (the "Wells Fargo Credit

5



Facility") was increased during the thirteen weeks ended August 2, 2003 and currently provides for borrowings up to $85 million (including a sublimit for letters of credit of $80 million). The Wells Fargo Credit Facility also contains provisions to increase borrowings up to $120 million (including a sublimit for letters of credit of $100 million), subject to sufficient collateralization and the syndication of the incremental line of borrowing. The amount that may be borrowed under the Wells Fargo Credit Facility depends on the Company's levels of inventory and accounts receivable. Amounts outstanding under the facility bear interest at a floating rate equal to the prime rate or, at the Company's option, a LIBOR rate plus a pre-determined spread. The LIBOR spread is 1.50% to 3.00%, depending on the Company's level of availability from time to time. The Wells Fargo Credit Facility contains covenants, including, among others, certain limitations on the Company's annual capital expenditures, and maintenance of certain levels of excess collateral, as well as a prohibition on the payment of dividends. As of August 2, 2003, the Company was in compliance with all of its covenants under the Wells Fargo Credit Facility. Credit extended under the Wells Fargo Credit Facility is secured by a first priority security interest in all the assets of the Company, except for its assets in Canada.

6.     INSURANCE PROCEEDS

        During the twenty-six weeks ended August 2, 2003, the Company received approximately $1.5 million in a partial settlement of its business interruption claim for its World Trade Center store. During the twenty-six weeks ended August 3, 2002, the Company received approximately $1.3 million in insurance proceeds, which included approximately $1.1 million for the settlement of a property claim for one of our distribution centers. These proceeds reduced selling, general and administrative expenses on the Company's consolidated statement of income.

7.     LITIGATION

        The Company is involved in various legal proceedings arising in the normal course of its business. In the opinion of management, any ultimate liability arising out of such proceedings will not have a material adverse effect on the Company's financial position or results of operations.

8.     RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

        In April 2003, the FASB issued SFAS No. 149, "Amendment of Statement No. 133 on Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities" ("SFAS 149"). SFAS 149 amends and clarifies the accounting for derivative instruments, including certain derivative instruments embedded in other contracts and for hedging activities under SFAS No. 133. The adoption of SFAS 149 is not expected to have a material impact on the financial position or results of operations as the Company does not engage in derivative activity.

        In May 2003, the FASB issued SFAS No. 150, "Accounting for Certain Financial Instruments with Characteristics of Both Liabilities and Equity" ("SFAS 150"). SFAS 150 establishes standards for how a company classifies and measures certain financial instruments with characteristics of both liabilities and equity. Pursuant to SFAS 150, such freestanding financial instruments (i.e., those entered into separately from an entity's other financial instruments or equity transactions or that are legally detachable and separately exercisable) must be classified as liabilities or, in some cases, assets. In addition, SFAS 150 requires that financial instruments containing obligations to repurchase the issuing entity's equity shares and, under certain circumstances, obligations that are settled by delivery of the issuer's shares be classified as liabilities. SFAS 150 is effective for financial instruments entered into or modified after May 31, 2003 and otherwise is effective at the beginning of the first interim period beginning after June 15, 2003. The adoption of SFAS 150 is not expected to have a material impact on the Company's results of operations, financial position or cash flows, as the Company does not have financial instruments that have the characteristics of both liabilities and equity.

6


Item 2.    MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

        This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of federal securities laws, which are intended to be covered by the safe harbors created thereby. Those statements include, but may not be limited to, the discussions of the Company's operating and growth strategy. Investors are cautioned that all forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties including, without limitation, those set forth under the caption "Risk Factors" in the Business section of the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended February 1, 2003. Although the Company believes that the assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements contained herein are reasonable, any of the assumptions could prove to be inaccurate, and therefore, there can be no assurance that the forward-looking statements included in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q will prove to be accurate. In light of the significant uncertainties inherent in the forward-looking statements included herein, the inclusion of such information should not be regarded as a representation by the Company or any other person that the objectives and plans of the Company will be achieved. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly release any revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect events and circumstances occurring after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

        The following discussion should be read in conjunction with the Company's unaudited financial statements and notes thereto included elsewhere in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and the annual audited financial statements and notes thereto included in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended February 1, 2003, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Critical Accounting Policies

        The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, as well as the reported revenues and expenses during the reported period. Actual results could differ from our estimates. The accounting policies that we believe are the most critical to aid in fully understanding and evaluating reported financial results include the following:

        Revenue Recognition—Sales are recognized upon purchase by customers at our retail stores or when shipped from our distribution center if the product was purchased via the internet, net of anticipated returns. Actual merchandise return rates have historically been within our expectations and the allowance established. However, in the unlikely event that the actual rate of sales returns by customers increased significantly, our operational results could be adversely affected. Our policy with respect to gift cards is to record revenue as the gift cards are redeemed for merchandise. Prior to their redemption, gift cards are recorded as a liability. Revenue is deferred for our private label credit card promotions that provide a future discount on purchases once a minimum customer purchase threshold is satisfied.

        Inventory Valuation—Merchandise inventories are stated at the lower of average cost or market, using the retail inventory method. Under the retail inventory method, the valuation of inventories at cost and the resulting gross margins are calculated by applying a cost-to-retail ratio to the retail value of inventories. At any one time, inventories include items that have been marked down to our best estimate of their fair market value. We base our decision to mark down merchandise based upon its current rate of sale, the season, age and sell-through of the item. To the extent that our estimates differ from actual results, additional markdowns may have to be recorded, which could reduce our gross margins and operating results. Our success is largely dependent upon our ability to gauge the fashion taste of our customers and provide a well-balanced merchandise assortment that satisfies customer

7



demand. Any inability to provide the proper quantity of appropriate merchandise in a timely manner could increase future markdown rates.

        Impairment of Assets—We continually evaluate each store's performance and measure the carrying value of each location's fixed assets, principally leasehold improvements and fixtures, versus its projected cash flows. An impairment loss is recorded if the projected future cash flows are insufficient to recapture the net book value of their assets. To the extent our estimates of future cash flows are incorrect, additional impairment charges may be recorded in future periods.

        Litigation—We are involved in various legal proceedings arising in the normal course of our business. In our opinion, any ultimate liability arising out of such proceedings will not have a material adverse effect on our business.

        Stock Options—We record no compensation expense on our financial statements for stock-based compensation, since we grant stock options at prices that equal or exceed fair market value at the date of the grant. If the Company elects or is required to adopt fair value accounting for its stock-based compensation, the related compensation charge will adversely impact net income. In addition, increases to our stock price would result in more diluted shares outstanding and reduce our diluted net income per common share.

Results of Operations

        The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, selected income statement data expressed as a percentage of net sales:

 
  Thirteen Weeks Ended
  Twenty-Six Weeks Ended
 
 
  August 2, 2003
  August 3, 2002
  August 2, 2003
  August 3, 2002
 
Net sales   100.0 % 100.0 % 100.0 % 100.0 %
Cost of sales   68.3   71.6   64.6   61.7  
   
 
 
 
 
Gross profit   31.7   28.4   35.4   38.3  
Selling, general and administrative expenses   35.2   34.8   31.6   30.2  
Depreciation and amortization   6.2   6.6   5.7   5.5  
   
 
 
 
 
Operating (loss) income   (9.7 ) (13.0 ) (1.9 ) 2.6  
Interest income, net   0.1   0.1   0.1   0.1  
   
 
 
 
 
(Loss) income before income taxes   (9.6 ) (12.9 ) (1.8 ) 2.7  
(Benefit) provision for income taxes   (3.7 ) (5.0 ) (0.7 ) 1.0  
   
 
 
 
 
Net (loss) income   (5.9 )% (7.9 )% (1.1 )% 1.7%  
   
 
 
 
 
Number of stores, end of period   679   600   679   600  

Thirteen Weeks Ended August 2, 2003 (the "Second Quarter 2003") Compared to Thirteen Weeks Ended August 3, 2002 (the "Second Quarter 2002")

        Net sales increased by $30.8 million, or 24%, to $159.1 million during the Second Quarter 2003 from $128.3 million during the Second Quarter 2002. During the Second Quarter 2003, we opened 19 new stores and closed 2 stores. Net sales for the 19 new stores, as well as other stores that did not qualify as comparable stores, increased our net sales by $27.2 million. Our comparable store sales increased 3% and contributed $3.6 million of our net sales increase in the Second Quarter 2003. Comparable store sales decreased 9% during the Second Quarter 2002.

        During the Second Quarter 2003, our comparable store sales increase reflected the impact of strategic initiatives we commenced in fiscal 2002 to improve our negative comparable store sales trend.

8



These initiatives included a more focused product offering with a greater concentration of basic merchandise, as well as, improved garment quality and the reduction of our prices to an everyday value pricing strategy. During the Second Quarter 2003, our comparable store sales increase was primarily the result of increases in the number of comparable store transactions, increases in our average transaction size and the number of full price units sold, partially offset by lower average unit selling prices due largely to our strategic decision to lower prices.

        During the four weeks ended August 30, 2003, we experienced a 1% comparable store sales increase, as compared to a 16% comparable store sales decline in the four weeks ended August 31, 2002. We believe our August comparable store sales increase was favorably impacted by the implementation of our strategic initiatives, as discussed above, partially offset by the mid-August blackout that impacted our heavy concentration of stores in the Northeast and Midwest.

        Gross profit increased by $14.1 million to $50.5 million during the Second Quarter 2003 from $36.4 million during the Second Quarter 2002. As a percentage of net sales, gross profit increased to 31.7% during the Second Quarter 2003 from 28.4% during the Second Quarter 2002. The increase in gross profit, as a percentage of net sales, was principally due to lower markdowns and the leveraging of occupancy costs over a larger sales base, partially offset by a lower initial markup due to our strategic decision to lower prices.

        Selling, general and administrative expenses increased $11.4 million to $56.0 million during the Second Quarter 2003 from $44.6 million during the Second Quarter 2002. Selling, general and administrative expenses were 35.2% of net sales during the Second Quarter 2003 as compared with 34.8% of net sales during the Second Quarter 2002. This increase, as a percentage of net sales, was primarily due to increased marketing costs to promote brand awareness of The Children's Place and increased store payroll to enhance our customer service. These expenses were partially offset by the leveraging of our corporate administrative payroll and lower medical expenses. In addition, the impact of lower pre-opening costs associated with the opening of 19 new stores in the Second Quarter 2003, as compared to 46 new stores opened in the Second Quarter 2002, mostly offset the approximately $1.1 million in insurance proceeds received in the Second Quarter 2002 from a property claim settlement for one of our distribution centers.

        Depreciation and amortization amounted to $9.9 million, or 6.2% of net sales, during the Second Quarter 2003, as compared to $8.4 million, or 6.6% of net sales, during the Second Quarter 2002. The increase in depreciation and amortization primarily was a result of increases to our store base and increased software amortization. As a percentage of net sales, depreciation and amortization decreased as a result of the leveraging over a larger sales base.

        Our benefit for income taxes was $6.0 million in the Second Quarter 2003, as compared to a $6.4 million benefit in the Second Quarter 2002. Our effective tax rate was 39.0% and 38.5% during the Second Quarter 2003 and the Second Quarter 2002, respectively.

        Our net loss in the Second Quarter 2003 decreased to $9.4 million from $10.2 million during the Second Quarter 2002, due to the factors discussed above.

Twenty-Six Weeks Ended August 2, 2003 Compared to Twenty-Six Weeks Ended August 3, 2002

        Net sales increased $38.8 million, or 13%, to $340.1 million during the twenty-six weeks ended August 2, 2003 from $301.3 million during the twenty-six weeks ended August 3, 2002. During the twenty-six weeks ended August 2, 2003, we opened 38 stores and closed 2 stores. Net sales for the 38 stores opened during the twenty-six weeks ended August 2, 2003, as well as other stores that did not qualify as comparable stores, contributed $55.1 million of the net sales increase. This net sales increase was partially offset by a 6% comparable store sales decline during the twenty-six weeks ended August 2, 2003, which decreased our net sales by $16.3 million. Comparable store sales declined 10% during the

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twenty-six weeks ended August 3, 2002. During the twenty-six weeks ended August 2, 2003, our comparable store sales decline primarily was the result of a decrease in our average dollar transaction size, due largely to our strategic decision to lower prices, partially offset by an increase in the number of comparable store transactions.

        Gross profit increased by $4.9 million during the twenty-six weeks ended August 2, 2003 to $120.4 million from $115.5 million during the twenty-six weeks ended August 3, 2002. As a percentage of net sales, gross profit decreased to 35.4% during the twenty-six weeks ended August 2, 2003 from 38.3% during the twenty-six weeks ended August 3, 2002. The decrease in gross profit, as a percentage of net sales, was principally due to lower initial markups associated with our strategic decision to lower prices, higher occupancy costs and higher markdowns. Occupancy costs were higher, as a percentage of net sales, due to our comparable store sales decline and increased occupancy costs from new stores that have not been open long enough to leverage their rent through an established store base.

        Selling, general and administrative expenses increased $16.4 million to $107.4 million during the twenty-six weeks ended August 2, 2003 from $91.0 million during the twenty-six weeks ended August 3, 2002. Selling, general and administrative expenses were 31.6% of net sales during the twenty-six weeks ended August 2, 2003 as compared with 30.2% of net sales during the twenty-six weeks ended August 3, 2002. As a percentage of net sales, selling, general and administrative expenses increased due to higher store payroll and higher marketing costs, partially offset by lower pre-opening costs and the leveraging of corporate administrative payroll. Store payroll, as a percentage of net sales, was unfavorably impacted by our comparable store sales decline and an increase in store payroll to improve customer service.

        Depreciation and amortization amounted to $19.4 million, or 5.7% of net sales, during the twenty-six weeks ended August 2, 2003, as compared to $16.7 million, or 5.5% of net sales, during the twenty-six weeks ended August 3, 2002. The increase in depreciation and amortization primarily was a result of a larger store base and increased software amortization.

        Our benefit for income taxes for the twenty-six weeks ended August 2, 2003 was $2.4 million. During the twenty-six weeks ended August 3, 2002, we recorded a tax provision of $3.2 million, due to our net earnings. Our effective tax rate was 39.0% and 38.5% during the twenty-six weeks ended August 2, 2003 and the twenty-six weeks ended August 3, 2002, respectively.

        Due to the factors discussed above, we recorded a net loss of $3.8 million during the twenty-six weeks ended August 2, 2003 as compared to net income of $5.0 million during the twenty-six weeks ended August 3, 2002.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Debt Service/Liquidity

        Our primary uses of cash are financing new store openings and providing for working capital, which principally represents the purchase of inventory. Our working capital needs follow a seasonal pattern, peaking during the second and third quarters when inventory is purchased for the back to school and holiday seasons. We have been able to meet our cash needs principally by using cash on hand, cash flows from operations and seasonal borrowings under our working capital facilities. As of August 2, 2003, we had no long-term debt obligations.

        In April 2003, we amended, restated and extended our principal working capital facility for a term of 3 years to April 2006 with one year renewal options. Previously, Foothill Capital Corporation had assigned its rights under this facility to Wells Fargo Retail Finance LLC ("Wells Fargo"). The amended and restated working capital facility with Wells Fargo (the "Wells Fargo Credit Facility") was increased during the thirteen weeks ended August 2, 2003 and currently provides for borrowings up to $85 million (including a sublimit for letters of credit of $80 million). The Wells Fargo Credit Facility

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also contains provisions to increase borrowings up to $120 million (including a sublimit for letters of credit of $100 million), subject to sufficient collateralization and the syndication of the incremental line of borrowing. The amount that may be borrowed under the Wells Fargo Credit Facility depends on our levels of inventory and accounts receivable. Amounts outstanding under the facility bear interest at a floating rate equal to the prime rate or, at our option, a LIBOR rate plus a pre-determined spread. The LIBOR spread is 1.50% to 3.00%, depending on our level of availability from time to time. The Wells Fargo Credit Facility contains covenants, including, among others, certain limitations on our annual capital expenditures, and maintenance of certain levels of excess collateral, as well as a prohibition on the payment of dividends. Credit extended under the Wells Fargo Credit Facility is secured by a first priority security interest in all our assets, except for our assets in Canada.

        As of August 2, 2003, we had no borrowings under our Wells Fargo Credit Facility and had outstanding letters of credit of $34.8 million. Availability under the Wells Fargo Credit Facility was $50.2 million. The maximum outstanding letter of credit usage under our working capital facility during the twenty-six weeks ended August 2, 2003 was $36.3 million. As of August 2, 2003, we were in compliance with all of our covenants under the Wells Fargo Credit Facility.

        To support our Canadian operations, we have also entered into a $7.2 million facility with Toronto Dominion Bank that is secured by a standby letter of credit. Our Canadian credit facility is currently collateralized to provide for $1.8 million in borrowings. As of August 2, 2003, we had $0.4 million in borrowings under our Canadian facility and had outstanding letters of credit of $0.1 million. The maximum outstanding usage under our Canadian credit facility was $1.8 million during the twenty-six weeks ended August 2, 2003. Interest rates charged under the Canadian credit facility were 4.75% as of August 2, 2003.

Cash Flows/Capital Expenditures

        During the twenty-six weeks ended August 2, 2003 and the twenty-six weeks ended August 3, 2002, operating activities provided $6.2 million and $11.8 million in cash flow, respectively. During the twenty-six weeks ended August 2, 2003, cash flows provided by operating activities decreased primarily as a result of higher inventory levels and lower operating earnings, partially offset by increases in current liabilities and lower increases in accounts receivable as compared to the twenty-six weeks ended August 3, 2002. During the twenty-six weeks ended August 2, 2003, we have increased our inventory levels to support our sales. We believe our comparable store sales decline during the twenty-six weeks ended August 3, 2002 could partially be attributed to low inventory levels.

        Cash flows used in investing activities were $18.4 million and $26.7 million in the twenty-six weeks ended August 2, 2003 and the twenty-six weeks ended August 3, 2002, respectively. Cash flows used in investing activities primarily represented capital expenditures for new store openings and remodelings. The reduction in cash flows used in investing activities reflects the opening of 38 stores in the twenty-six weeks ended August 2, 2003, as compared to 80 stores in the twenty-six weeks ended August 3, 2002. During the twenty-six weeks ended August 2, 2003, we completed 11 store remodels, as compared with 5 store remodels during the twenty-six weeks ended August 3, 2002. Capital expenditures also include hardware and software to support our information systems initiatives, along with ongoing store, office and distribution equipment needs. We continue to anticipate that total capital expenditures during fiscal 2003 will be approximately $25 million to $30 million. We plan to fund these capital expenditures primarily with cash on hand and cash flows from operations.

        Cash flows provided by financing activities were $0.7 million during the twenty-six weeks ended August 2, 2003 as compared to $1.7 million provided by financing activities in the twenty-six weeks ended August 3, 2002. During the twenty-six weeks ended August 2, 2003, cash flows provided by financing activities reflected borrowings under our Canadian credit facility and funds received from the exercise of employee stock options and employee stock purchases, partially offset by deferred financing

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fees. During the twenty-six weeks ended August 3, 2002, cash flow provided by financing activities reflected funds received from the exercise of employee stock options and employee stock purchases.

        During fiscal 2003, we anticipate opening approximately 54 stores and closing 5 stores. During the twenty-six weeks ended August 2, 2003, we opened 38 stores and closed 2 stores. We believe that cash on hand, cash generated from operations and funds available under our working capital facilities will be sufficient to fund our capital and other cash flow requirements for at least the next 12 months. In addition, we will consider additional sources of financing to fund our long-term growth, as necessary.

        Our ability to meet our capital requirements will depend on our ability to generate cash from operations and successfully implement our strategic initiatives.

Item 3.    Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risks

        None.

Item 4.    Controls and Procedures

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Part II—Other Information

Item 1.    Legal Proceedings

        The Company is involved in various legal proceedings arising in the normal course of its business. In the opinion of management, any ultimate liability arising out of such proceedings will not have a material adverse effect on the Company's financial position or results of operations.

Item 4.    Submission to a Vote of Security Holders

        The Company's Annual Meeting of Stockholders was held on June 17, 2003. The following matters were voted on by the stockholders:

Item 6.    Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K

(a)   Exhibits

Exhibit No.

  Description of Document
10.1   Amendment Number One to Third Amended and Restated Loan and Security Agreement between the Company and Wells Fargo Retail Finance, LLC, dated July 11, 2003.
31   Section 302 Certifications
32   Section 906 Certifications

(b)    Reports on Form 8-K

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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.

    THE CHILDREN'S PLACE
RETAIL STORES, INC.
Date: September 12, 2003        
    By:   /s/ Ezra Dabah
Chairman of the Board and
Chief Executive Officer
(Principal Executive Officer)

Date: September 12, 2003

 

By:

 

/s/ Seth L. Udasin

Vice President and
Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial Officer)

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915 Secaucus Road Secaucus, New Jersey 07094 (Address of Principal Executive Offices) (Zip Code)
(201) 558-2400 (Registrant's Telephone Number, Including Area Code)
THE CHILDREN'S PLACE RETAIL STORES, INC. QUARTERLY REPORT ON FORM 10-Q FOR THE PERIOD ENDED AUGUST 2, 2003 TABLE OF CONTENTS
Part I—Financial Information
PART I—FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1. CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
THE CHILDREN'S PLACE RETAIL STORES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (Unaudited) (In thousands, except per share amounts)
THE CHILDREN'S PLACE RETAIL STORES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (Unaudited) (In thousands)
THE CHILDREN'S PLACE RETAIL STORES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
Part II—Other Information
SIGNATURES

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Exhibit 10.1


AMENDMENT NUMBER ONE TO THIRD AMENDED AND
RESTATED LOAN AND SECURITY AGREEMENT

        This Amendment Number One to Third Amended and Restated Loan and Security Agreement ("Amendment") is entered into as of July 11, 2003, by and among WELLS FARGO RETAIL FINANCE LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, as Agent and Lender, and THE CHILDREN'S PLACE RETAIL STORES, INC., a Delaware corporation ("Borrower"), in light of the following:

        A.    Borrower, Agent and Lenders, by assignment, have previously entered into that certain Third Amended and Restated Loan and Security Agreement, dated as of April 25, 2003, as amended (the "Agreement").

        B.    Borrower, Agent and Lenders desire to further amend the Agreement as provided for and on the conditions herein.

        NOW, THEREFORE, Borrowers, Agent and Lenders hereby amend and supplement the Agreement as follows:

        1.    DEFINITIONS.    All initially capitalized terms used in this Amendment shall have the meanings given to them in the Agreement unless specifically defined herein.

        2.    AMENDMENTS.    

        3.    REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES.    Borrower hereby affirms to Agent and Lenders that all of Borrower's representations and warranties set forth in the Agreement are true, complete and accurate in all respects as of the date hereof.

        4.    NO DEFAULTS.    Borrower hereby affirms to Agent and Lenders that no Event of Default has occurred and is continuing as of the date hereof.

        5.    CONDITION PRECEDENT.    The effectiveness of this Amendment is expressly conditioned upon receipt by Agent of an executed copy of this Amendment.

        6.    COSTS AND EXPENSES.    Borrower shall pay to Agent all of Agent's out-of-pocket costs and expenses (including, without limitation, the fees and expenses of its counsel, which counsel may include any local counsel deemed necessary, search fees, filing and recording fees, documentation fees, appraisal fees, travel expenses, and other fees) arising in connection with the preparation, execution, and delivery of this Amendment and all related documents.

        7.    LIMITED EFFECT.    In the event of a conflict between the terms and provisions of this Amendment and the terms and provisions of the Agreement, the terms and provisions of this

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Amendment shall govern. In all other respects, the Agreement, as amended and supplemented hereby, shall remain in full force and effect.

        8.    COUNTERPARTS; EFFECTIVENESS.    This Amendment may be executed in any number of counterparts and by different parties on separate counterparts, each of which when so executed and delivered shall be deemed to be an original. All such counterparts, taken together, shall constitute but one and the same Amendment. This Amendment shall become effective upon the execution of a counterpart of this Amendment by each of the parties hereto.

        IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Amendment as of the date first set forth above.

    WELLS FARGO RETAIL FINANCE LLC,
as Agent and a Lender

 

 

By:

/s/  
FRANK O'CONNOR      
Frank O'Connor
    Title: Senior Vice President

 

 

THE CHILDREN'S PLACE RETAIL STORES, INC.,
a Delaware corporation

 

 

By:

/s/  
SETH L. UDASIN      
Seth L. Udasin
    Title: Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

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SCHEDULE C-1

Revised Commitments as of July 11, 2003

1.   Wells Fargo Retail Finance LLC   $ 50,000,000
2.   LaSalle Retail Finance, a division of LaSalle Business Credit, LLC   $ 25,000,000
3.   Whitehall Business Credit Corporation through its division Whitehall Retail Finance   $ 10,000,000
       
    Total   $ 85,000,000

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AMENDMENT NUMBER ONE TO THIRD AMENDED AND RESTATED LOAN AND SECURITY AGREEMENT
SCHEDULE C-1 Revised Commitments as of July 11, 2003

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EXHIBIT 31


CERTIFICATIONS

I, Ezra Dabah, certify that:


Date: September 12, 2003        
    By:   /s/  EZRA DABAH      
Chairman of the Board and
Chief Executive Officer


CERTIFICATIONS

I, Seth L. Udasin, certify that:


Date: September 12, 2003        
    By:   /s/  SETH L. UDASIN      
Vice President and
Chief Financial Officer

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CERTIFICATIONS
CERTIFICATIONS

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EXHIBIT 32


CERTIFICATIONS

        I, Ezra Dabah, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of The Children's Place Retail Stores, Inc. (the "Company"), pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, do hereby certify as follows:

        IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have executed this Certification this 12 day of September, 2003.

    By:   /s/  EZRA DABAH      
Chairman of the Board and
Chief Executive Officer
         
         

        I, Seth L. Udasin, Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of The Children's Place Retail Stores, Inc. (the "Company"), pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, do hereby certify as follows:

        IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have executed this Certification this 12 day of September, 2003.

    By:   /s/  SETH L. UDASIN      
Vice President and
Chief Financial Officer

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CERTIFICATIONS