Net results attributable to DBI bounced back to $1,159,000 in the first quarter, reversing last year’s loss of $17,816,000, as sales grew 1% to $696,350,000 from $686,909,000, with total comps down 1.1%. The bottom line benefited from improved margin profiles, with gross margin expanding 240 b.p. to 45.3% on a 260 b.p. lift to 45.4% at DSW and a 680 b.p. improvement at Brand Portfolio to 33.9%. Stronger IMUs, fewer markdowns, and continued optimization of promotional strategies boosted margins. SG&A was cut by 1%, leveraging 90 b.p. to 43.0% of sales, ... Log in to view full article.