Back to GetFilings.com



UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM 1O-Q

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

For the quarterly period ended November 2, 2002
----------------

OR

[ ] TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF
THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1932

For the transition period from...............to................


Commission File Number: 1-10089

FACTORY 2-U STORES, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Delaware 51-0299573
-------- ----------
(State or other jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization) Identification No.)


4000 Ruffin Road, San Diego, CA 92123-1866
------------------------------- ----------
(Address of principal executive office) (Zip Code)


(858) 627-1800
(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. [X] YES [ ] NO

The number of shares outstanding of the registrant's common stock, as of
December 16, 2002 was 13,244,910 shares.







FACTORY 2-U STORES, INC.

FORM 10-Q FOR THE QUARTERLY PERIOD ENDED NOVEMBER 2, 2002

INDEX


PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1. Financial Statements

Factory 2-U Stores, Inc. Balance Sheets as of November 2, 2002
(Unaudited), November 3, 2001 (Unaudited) and
February 2, 2002 ..................................................F-1

Factory 2-U Stores, Inc. Statements of Operations (Unaudited) for the
13 weeks and 39 weeks ended November 2, 2002 and November 3, 2001 ..F-3

Factory 2-U Stores, Inc. Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited) for the
39 weeks ended November 2, 2002 and November 3, 2001 ...............F-4

Factory 2-U Stores, Inc. Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited)..F-5

Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and
Results of Operations ................................................3

Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk...........10

Item 4. Controls and Procedures .............................................10


PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1. Legal Proceedings ...................................................11
Item 2. Changes in Securities and Use of Proceeds............................11
Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities......................................11
Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders..................11
Item 5. Other Information ...................................................11
Item 6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K ....................................11
Signatures ................................................................13
Certifications ...............................................................14






2






PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1. Financial Statements





FACTORY 2-U STORES, INC.
Balance Sheets
(in thousands, except share and per share data)


November 2, November 3, February 2,
2002 2001 2002
----------- ----------- -----------
(Unaudited) (Unaudited)

ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash $ 5,922 $ 6,059 $ 17,390
Merchandise inventory 83,461 85,416 54,860
Accounts receivable 2,613 1,823 2,013
Income taxes receivable 7,820 1,489 -
Prepaid expenses 6,109 6,393 6,357
Deferred income taxes 3,553 2,503 3,553
----------- ----------- -----------
Total current assets 109,478 103,683 84,173

Leasehold improvements and equipment, net 34,856 42,311 37,042
Deferred income taxes 7,182 4,992 7,182
Other assets 985 1,066 1,011
Excess of cost over net assets acquired,
less accumulated amortization of $13,344,
$12,944 and $13,344, respectively 26,301 26,701 26,301
----------- ---------- -----------
Total assets $ 178,802 $ 178,753 $ 155,709
=========== ========== ===========






















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

(continued)




F-1









FACTORY 2-U STORES, INC.
Balance Sheets
(in thousands, except share and per share data)
(continued)


November 2, November 3, February 2,
2002 2001 2002
----------- ----------- -----------
(Unaudited) (Unaudited)


LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Current maturities of long-term debt $ 2,000 $ 2,058 $ 2,019
Accounts payable 42,047 50,472 36,271
Taxes payable 3,234 3,310 3,332
Accrued expenses 26,322 17,711 27,918
---------- ---------- ----------
Total current liabilities 73,603 73,551 69,540

Revolving credit facility 30,046 8,143 -
Long-term debt 9,181 10,088 8,376
Other long-term obligations 3,578 4,346 3,578
Deferred rent 3,291 3,706 3,649
---------- ---------- ----------
Total liabilities 119,699 99,834 85,143
---------- ---------- ----------


Stockholders' equity:
Common stock, $0.01 par value;
35,000,000 shares authorized and
12,969,910 shares, 12,823,370 shares
and 12,842,146 shares issued and
outstanding, respectively 130 128 128
Stock subscription notes receivable (2,149) (2,225) (2,225)
Additional paid-in capital 122,323 120,794 121,370
Accumulated deficit (61,201) (39,778) (48,707)
---------- ---------- ----------
Total stockholders' equity 59,103 78,919 70,566
---------- ---------- ----------
Total liabilities and
stockholders' equity $ 178,802 $ 178,753 $ 155,709
========== ========== ==========








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







F-2









FACTORY 2-U STORES, INC.
Statements of Operations
(in thousands, except per share data)
(Unaudited)






13 Weeks Ended 39 Weeks Ended
-------------- --------------
November 2, November 3, November 2, November 3,
2002 2001 2002 2001
----------- ----------- ----------- -----------


Net sales $ 134,506 $ 145,568 $ 379,545 $ 410,646
Cost of sales 89,854 95,308 252,706 268,807
----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Gross profit 44,652 50,260 126,839 141,839

Selling and administrative expenses 49,057 49,065 144,936 139,503
Pre-opening and closing expenses 366 989 1,069 2,881
Amortization of intangibles - 422 - 1,267
Stock-based compensation expense - - - 456
----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Operating loss (4,771) (216) (19,166) (2,268)

Interest expense, net 515 342 1,083 1,123
----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Loss before income taxes (5,286) (558) (20,249) (3,391)
Income tax benefit (1,770) (234) (7,755) (1,424)
----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Net loss $ (3,516) $ (324) $ (12,494) $ (1,967)
=========== =========== =========== ===========


Loss per share
Basic $ (0.27) $ (0.03) $ (0.97) $ (0.15)
Diluted $ (0.27) $ (0.03) $ (0.97) $ (0.15)


Weighted average common shares outstanding
Basic 12,970 12,823 12,943 12,780
Diluted 12,970 12,823 12,943 12,780







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




F-3








FACTORY 2-U STORES, INC.
Statements of Cash Flows
(in thousands)
(Unaudited)


39 Weeks ended
--------------
November 2, November 3,
2002 2001
----------- -----------

Cash flows from operating activities
Net loss $ (12,494) $ (1,967)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash
provided by (used in) operating activities
Depreciation and amortization 11,424 12,438
Loss on disposal of equipment 48 133
Deferred rent (330) 296
Stock-based compensation expense - 456
Changes in operating assets and liabilities
Merchandise inventory (28,601) (32,972)
Prepaid expenses and other assets (8,117) (256)
Accounts payable 5,775 25,278
Accrued expenses and other liabilities (2,008) 88
----------- -----------
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities (34,303) 3,494
----------- -----------

Cash flows from investing activities
Purchases of leasehold improvements and equipment (8,065) (10,622)
----------- -----------
Net cash used in investing activities (8,065) (10,622)
----------- -----------

Cash flows from financing activities
Borrowings on revolving credit facility 74,421 76,146
Payments on revolving credit facility (44,375) (68,003)
Payments on long-term debt and capital
lease obligations (19) (132)
Payment of deferred debt issuance costs (121) (40)
Proceeds from exercise of stock options 918 477
Payments of stock subscription notes receivable 76 -
----------- -----------
Net cash provided by financing activities 30,900 8,448
----------- -----------

Net increase (decrease) in cash (11,468) 1,320
Cash at the beginning of the period 17,390 4,739
----------- -----------
Cash at the end of the period $ 5,922 $ 6,059
=========== ===========

Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information
Cash paid during the period for
Interest $ 377 $ 320
Income taxes $ 1,323 $ 5,523

Supplemental disclosure of non-cash financing activities
Issuance of common stock to board members
as compensation $ 19 $ 90





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


F-4





FACTORY 2-U STORES, INC.
Notes to Financial Statements
(Unaudited)

(1) Unaudited Interim Financial Statements

The accompanying unaudited financial statements do not include all of
the information and footnotes required by accounting principles
generally accepted in the United States for annual financial statements
and should be read in conjunction with the financial statements for the
fiscal year ended February 2, 2002 included in our Form 10-K as filed
with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

We believe that the unaudited financial statements as of and for the 13
weeks and 39 weeks ended November 2, 2002 and November 3, 2001 reflect
all adjustments necessary to present fairly the financial position,
results of operations and cash flows for the periods presented. Due to
the seasonal nature of our business, the results of operations for the
interim period may not necessarily be indicative of the results of
operations for a full year.

Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform their
presentation to the current period financial statements.

(2) Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In April 2002, the FASB issued SFAS No. 145, "Rescission of FASB
Statements No. 4, 44, and 64, Amendment of FASB Statement No. 13, and
Technical Corrections", which rescinds SFAS No. 4, "Reporting Gains
and Losses from Extinguishment of Debt" and an amendment of that
Statement, and SFAS No. 64, "Extinguishments of Debt Made to Satisfy
Sinking-Fund Requirements." SFAS No. 145 also rescinds SFAS No. 44,
"Accounting for Intangible Assets of Motor Carriers." SFAS No. 145
amends SFAS No. 13, "Accounting for Leases", to eliminate an
inconsistency between the required accounting for sale-leaseback
transactions and the required accounting for certain lease
modifications that have economic effects that are similar to
sale-leaseback transactions. SFAS No. 145 also amends other existing
authoritative pronouncements to make various technical corrections,
clarify meanings, or describe their applicability under changed
conditions. SFAS No. 145 is effective for fiscal years beginning after
May 15, 2002. We do not expect the adoption of this statement will have
a material impact on our financial position or results of operations.








F-5





In June 2002, the FASB issued SFAS No. 146, "Accounting for Costs
Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities", which addresses
significant issues regarding the recognition, measurement, and
reporting of costs associated with exit and disposal activities,
including restructuring activities. This statement requires that costs
associated with exit or disposal activities be recognized when they are
incurred rather than at the date of a commitment to an exit or disposal
plan. SFAS No. 146 is effective for all exit or disposal activities
initiated after December 31, 2002. We do not expect the adoption of
this statement will have a material impact on our financial position or
results of operations.

(3) Restructuring Charge

In January 2002, we recorded a restructuring charge of $21.2 million in
conjunction with the decision to close 28 under-performing stores, as
well as the realignment of our field organization and workforce
reductions (Fiscal 2001 restructuring initiatives). The purpose of the
restructuring was to improve store profitability, streamline field
operations, reduce costs and improve efficiency.

As of December 16, 2002, we have closed 24 of the 28 under-performing
stores, completed 18 lease terminations, and have substantially
completed the realignment of our field organization and workforce
reductions. The balance of the liability related to the restructuring
charge at November 2, 2002 was as follows:




Balance at Balance at
February 2, Cash Non-cash November 2,
(in thousands) 2002 Payments Charges 2002
----------- --------- ---------- ------------

Lease termination costs* $ 13,724 $ (5,244) $ 326 $ 8,806
Inventory liquidation costs 2,870 - (1,289) 1,581
Fixed asset write-downs 2,052 - (1,393) 659
Employee termination costs 1,159 (1,059) - 100
Other costs 1,349 (956) - 393
----------- --------- ---------- ------------
$ 21,154 $ (7,259) $ (2,356) $ 11,539
----------- --------- ---------- ------------





* The non-cash charge portion consists primarily of the write-off of
deferred rent.

As part of our on-going evaluation of the adequacy of the liability
related to this restructuring charge, we have noted a favorable
experience related to the cost of closing the 24 stores. Accordingly,
subsequent to November 2, 2002, we expect to reduce our reserve for
store closures by approximately $5.0 million. This adjustment will be
reflected in the operating results of our fourth quarter ending
February 1, 2003. See Note 11.





F-6





(4) Adoption of SFAS No. 142, "Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets"

In June 2001, the FASB issued SFAS No. 142 "Goodwill and Other
Intangible Assets", which requires that upon adoption, amortization of
goodwill will cease and instead, the carrying value of goodwill be
evaluated for impairment at least annually using a fair value test.
Identifiable intangible assets will continue to be amortized over their
useful lives and reviewed at least annually for impairment using a
method appropriate to the nature of the intangible asset.

As required, we adopted SFAS No. 142 on February 3, 2002 and ceased the
amortization of goodwill accordingly. The following table presents the
reconciliation of net income and per share data to what we would have
reported had the new rules been in effect during the 13-week and
39-week periods ended November 3, 2001 (in thousands, except per share
data):




13 Weeks Ended 39 Weeks Ended
November 3, 2001 November 3, 2001
---------------- ----------------

Reported net loss $ (324) $ (1,967)
Add back goodwill amortization, net of tax 232 697
---------------- ----------------
Adjusted net loss $ (92) $ (1,270)
---------------- ----------------

Basic net loss per common share
Reported net loss $ (0.03) $ (0.15)
Goodwill amortization, net of tax $ 0.02 $ 0.05
Adjusted net loss $ (0.01) $ (0.10)






(5) Revolving Credit Facility

We have a $50.0 million revolving credit facility, under which
generally we may borrow up to 70% of our eligible inventory and 85% of
our eligible accounts receivable, as defined. Under the terms of the
credit facility, the interest rate may increase or decrease subject to
earnings before interest, tax obligations, depreciation and
amortization expense (EBITDA), as defined, on a rolling four fiscal
quarter basis. Accordingly, prime rate borrowings could range from
prime to prime plus 1.0 % and LIBOR borrowings from LIBOR plus 1.5% to
LIBOR plus 3.0%. The credit facility expires on March 3, 2006, subject
to automatic one-year renewal periods, unless terminated earlier by
either party in accordance with the terms of the revolving credit
facility agreement. We are obligated to pay fees equal to 0.125% per
annum on the unused amount of the credit facility. The credit facility
is secured by a first lien on accounts receivable and inventory.

At November 2, 2002, based on eligible inventory and accounts
receivable, we were eligible to borrow $50.0 million under the
revolving credit facility; and we had outstanding borrowings of $30.0
million and outstanding standby letters of credit of $5.6 million.


F-7





(6) Long-Term Debt

Our long-term debt consists of Junior Subordinated Notes (the "Notes"),
which are non-interest bearing and are reflected on our balance sheets
at the present value using a discount rate of 10%. As of November 2,
2002, the Notes had a face value of $13.3 million and a related
unamortized discount of $2.2 million, resulting in a net carrying value
of $11.1 million. The discount is amortized to interest expense as a
non-cash charge over the term of the Notes. We made a principal payment
on the Notes of $2.0 million in December 2001. Additional principal
payments are scheduled on December 31, 2002 ($2.0 million), December
31, 2003 ($3.0 million), December 31, 2004 ($3.0 million) and May 28,
2005 ($5.3 million).

(7) Income (loss) per Share

We compute income (loss) per share in accordance with SFAS No. 128,
"Earnings Per Share." Under the provisions of SFAS No. 128, basic
earnings (loss) per share is computed based on the weighted average
shares outstanding. Diluted earnings per share is computed based on the
weighted average shares outstanding and potentially dilutive common
equivalent shares.

Common stock equivalent shares totaling 0, 92,783, 239,162 and 272,967,
respectively, are not included in the computation of diluted loss per
share for the 13 weeks and 39 weeks ended November 2, 2002 and
November 3, 2001 because the effect would be anti-dilutive.

(8) Provision for Income Taxes

Based on our estimated effective tax rate for the entire fiscal year,
which is subject to ongoing review and evaluation, we recorded an
income tax benefit of $1.8 million and $7.8 million for the 13 weeks
and 39 weeks ended November 2, 2002, respectively.

(9) Stock Options and Warrants

As of November 2, 2002, we had outstanding options to purchase
1,309,939 shares of our common stock. Included in these outstanding
stock options are 4,520 performance-based options, which will become
exercisable if the market price hurdle of $49.78 has been achieved and
maintained for 60 consecutive trading days. Should this occur, we will
incur a non-cash compensation expense in the minimum amount of
$187,000. These performance-based options will expire on
April 29, 2003.

At November 2, 2002, warrants to purchase 82,690 shares of our common
stock were outstanding. These warrants have an exercise price of $19.91
and expire May 2005.





F-8





(10) Note Receivable

In July 2002, we entered into a temporary bridge financing agreement
(the "Agreement") with one of our trade vendors (the "Borrower") in
which we, subject to the terms and conditions of the Agreement,
provided a $4.0 million revolving line of credit facility to the
Borrower. Advances made to the Borrower under this Agreement are
secured by the Borrower's accounts receivable, inventory, personal
property and other assets including cash. Borrowings under this
facility are also secured by personal guarantees from the principals of
the Borrower. This Agreement expired on October 11, 2002, and we have
not made any direct advances to the Borrower thereafter. As of
November 2, 2002, there were outstanding borrowings of approximately
$1.4 million, net of allowance for receivable, under this Agreement.
Subsequently, we have collected approximately $215,000 from the
Borrower.

(11) Subsequent Events

On December 3, 2002, our Board of Directors adopted a Fiscal 2002
restructuring plan and other initiatives to improve operating results
and liquidity. The plan and other initiatives include (1) the closure
of 23 under-performing stores, of which 12 will be closed immediately
and 11 will be closed during Fiscal 2003, (2) inventory liquidation in
conjunction with the store closures and a reduction of inventory levels
chain-wide, and (3) consolidation of both our distribution center
network and corporate overhead structure. We estimate these initiatives
will result in approximately $5.0 million in cost savings in Fiscal
2003.

In addition, we announced our intent to reduce the current reserve
balance related to our Fiscal 2001 restructuring efforts by
approximately $5.0 million. This reduction is a result of favorable
experience related to the costs of closing 28 stores previously
identified in our Fiscal 2001 restructuring efforts. See Note 3.

We currently anticipate these initiatives and net of the reduction of
the prior year restructuring reserve to result in after-tax charges
of approximately $13.2 million ($6.9 million non-cash), or $1.02 per
share, in our fourth quarter ending February 1, 2003.

(11) Legal Matters, Commitments and Contingencies

We are at all times subject to pending and threatened legal actions
that arise in the normal course of business. In the opinion of our
management, based in part on the assessment of legal counsel, the
ultimate disposition of these current matters will not have a material
adverse effect on our financial position or results of operations.







F-9





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

The following discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with our
Financial Statements and notes thereto, included elsewhere in this Form 10-Q.

General

As of November 2, 2002, we operated 261 "Factory 2-U" off-price retail stores
which sell branded casual apparel for the family, as well as selected domestics
and household merchandise at prices which generally are significantly lower than
the prices offered by other discount chains. We had 273 stores in operation
as of November 3, 2001. We opened 4 new stores during the 13-week period ended
November 2, 2002; we opened 12 new stores and closed 2 stores during the same
period last year. For the 39-week period ended November 2, 2002, we opened 12
new stores and closed 30 stores as compared to 33 new store openings and 3
stores closing for the comparable period last year.

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles
generally accepted in the United States requires management to make estimates
and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and
disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial
statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the
reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Specifically, we must make estimates in the following areas:

o Inventory valuation. Merchandise inventory is stated at the lower of cost
or market determined using the retail inventory method ("RIM") on a
first-in, first-out basis. Under the RIM, the valuation of inventory at
cost and the resulting gross margin are calculated by applying a computed
cost-to-retail ratio to the retail value of inventory. RIM is an averaging
method that has been widely used in the retail industry due to its
practicality. Also, it is recognized that the use of the RIM will result
in valuing inventory at the lower of cost or market if markdowns are
currently taken as a reduction of the retail value of inventory. Inherent
in the RIM calculation are certain significant management judgments and
estimates regarding markdowns and shrinkage, which may from time to time
cause adjustments to the gross margin in the subsequent period. Factors
that can lead to distortion in the calculation of the inventory balance
include applying the RIM to a group of merchandise items that is not
fairly uniform in terms of its cost and selling price relationship and
turnover, and applying RIM to transactions over a period of time that
includes different rates of gross profit, such as those relating to
seasonal merchandise items. To minimize the potential of such
distortions in the valuation of inventory from occurring, we utilize
83 sub-departments in which fairly homogeneous classes of merchandise
items having similar gross margin are grouped. In addition, failure to
take timely markdowns may result in an overstatement of cost under the
lower of cost or market principle. We believe that the use of our RIM
provides an inventory valuation that reasonably approximates cost and
results in carrying inventory at the lower of cost or market.

3






o Valuation of goodwill, intangible and other long-lived assets. We use
certain assumptions in establishing the carrying value and estimated
lives of our long-lived assets and goodwill. The criteria used for these
evaluations include management's estimate of the asset's continuing
ability to generate income from operations and positive cash flows. If
assets are considered to be impaired, the impairment recognized is
measured by the amount that the carrying value of the assets exceeds the
fair value of the assets. Useful lives and related depreciation or
amortization expense are based on our estimate of the period that the
assets will generate revenues or otherwise be used in operations.
Factors that would influence the likelihood of a material change in our
reported results include a significant decline in our stock price and
market capitalization compared to our net book value, significant changes
in an asset's ability to generate positive cash flows, significant
changes in our strategic business objectives and utilization of the asset.

o Accrued restructuring costs. We have estimated an amount for the charge and
the related liability regarding our restructuring initiatives including
store closures, realignment of our field organization and workforce
reductions in accordance with the Emerging Issues Task Force ("EITF") Issue
94-3, "Liability Recognition for Certain Employee Termination Benefits and
Other Costs to Exit an Activity (including Certain Costs Incurred in a
Restructuring)." Materially different reported results would be likely if
the timing and extent of the adopted restructuring plan were changed.

o Litigation reserves. Based in part on the assessment of our legal counsel,
estimated amounts for litigation and claims that are probable and can be
reasonably estimated are recorded as liabilities in the balance sheet. The
likelihood of a material change in these estimated reserves would be
dependent on new claims as they may arise and the favorable or unfavorable
outcome of the particular litigation. We anticipate these reserves will be
re-evaluated as new facts come to light in any particular case.

o Worker's compensation accrual. At the beginning of fiscal 2001, we
transitioned to a self-insured worker's compensation program. This new
program has both specific and aggregate stop-loss limits. The maximum
specific stop-loss is $250,000 per occurrence and the aggregate stop-loss
is $3.2 million for the policy year ended January 31, 2002. We utilize
internal actuarial methods, as well as an independent third-party actuary
for the purpose of estimating ultimate costs for a particular policy year.
Based on these actuarial methods along with current available information
and insurance industry statistics, the ultimate expected losses for the
policy year ended January 31, 2002 were estimated to be approximately
$2.6 million. Our estimate is based on average claims experience in our
industry and our own experience in terms of frequency and severity of
claims, with no explicit provision for adverse fluctuation from year to
year and is subject to inherent variability. This variability may lead to
ultimate payments being either greater or less than the amounts presented
above. For the policy year ending January 31, 2003, our self-insured
worker's compensation program includes a maximum specific stop-loss
limit of $250,000 per occurrence with no aggregate stop-loss limit.



4






o Valuation of deferred income taxes. Valuation allowances are established,
if deemed necessary, to reduce deferred tax assets to the amount expected
to be realized. The likelihood of a material change in our expected
realization of these assets is dependent on future taxable income, our
ability to use the net operating loss carryforwards, the effectiveness of
our tax planning and strategies among the various tax jurisdictions that we
operate in, and any significant changes in the tax treatment we currently
receive.


Results of Operations

Net sales were $134.5 million for the 13 weeks ended November 2, 2002 compared
to $145.6 million for the 13 weeks ended November 3, 2001, a decrease of $11.1
million, or 7.6%. Comparable store sales for the 13-week period ended November
2, 2002 decreased 5.6% versus a decrease of 10.5% for the same period last year.

For the 39 weeks ended November 2, 2002, net sales were $379.5 million versus
$410.6 million for the same period last year, a decrease of $31.1 million or
7.6%. Comparable store sales decreased 8.5% in the first 39 weeks of this year
compared to a decrease of 6.6% for the same period last year.

The decline in net sales for the 13 and 39 weeks ended November 2, 2002 from the
comparable periods last year was primarily due to lower average number of stores
in operation, reduced customer traffic, and lower average customer purchase
size.

Gross profit was $44.7 million or 33.2% of net sales for the 13 weeks ended
November 2, 2002 compared to $50.3 million or 34.5% of net sales for the 13
weeks ended November 3, 2001. For the 39 weeks ended November 2, 2002 and
November 3, 2001, gross profit was $126.8 million or 33.4% of net sales and
$141.8 million or 34.5% of net sales, respectively.

The decline in gross profit as a percentage of net sales for the 13 and 39 weeks
ended November 3, 2002 from the comparable periods last year was primarily
related to higher markdown volume and lower initial mark-up. These impacts for
the 39 weeks ended November 3, 2002 were partially offset by improved efficiency
in our distribution centers operation. As a percentage of net sales, our
distribution centers costs for the 13 weeks ended November 3, 2002 were flat
compared to the 13 weeks ended November 3, 2001. The higher markdown rate for
the 13 weeks ended November 3, 2002 was a result of clearing slow-moving
inventory and retail price reductions on selected items to reinforce the value
image of our stores. In addition to the clearance of slow-moving inventory and
retail price reductions, the higher markdown volume for the 39 weeks ended
November 3, 2002 was also due to increased promotional activity this year, which
included our July chain-wide grand re-opening event.





5





For the 13 weeks ended November 2, 2002, the selling and administrative expenses
were $49.1 million, which was consistent with the same period last year.
Included in the selling and administrative expenses for the third quarter this
year were consulting fees of $910,000. As a percentage of net sales, selling
and administrative expenses for the third quarter this year were 36.5%, 280
basis points higher compared to the same period last year. The increase in the
selling and administrative expenses ratio this year was due to lower sales
volume and the consulting fees mentioned above. Excluding the consulting fees,
our selling and administrative expenses were $48.1 million or 35.8% of net
sales.

For the 39 weeks ended November 2, 2002, the selling and administrative expenses
were $144.9 million or 38.2% of net sales compared to $139.5 million or 34.0% of
net sales for the same period last year. Included in these amounts was a charge
of $2.1 million recorded during the second quarter of this year in conjunction
with the settlement of litigation, and a charge of $1.2 million recorded during
the second quarter of last year related to the retirement and replacement of an
executive officer. In addition, the current year's selling and administrative
expenses included consulting fees of $2.6 million.

Excluding these charges, selling and administrative expenses were $140.2 million
or 36.9% of net sales and $138.4 million or 33.7% of net sales for the 39 weeks
ended November 2, 2002 and November 3, 2001, respectively. The dollar increase
in selling and administrative expenses was primarily a result of increased
spending for advertising and store occupancy. Selling and administrative
expenses increased as a percentage of net sales due to lower sales volume and
increased spending related to the items cited above.

Pre-opening and closing expenses were $366,000 for the 13 weeks ended November
2, 2002 compared to $1.0 million for the same period last year, a decrease of
approximately $623,000 or 63.0%. For the 39 weeks ended November 2, 2002,
pre-opening and closing expenses were $1.1 million versus $2.9 million for the
same period last year, a decrease of approximately $1.8 million. The decrease in
pre-opening and closing expenses for the 13 and 39 weeks ended November 2, 2002
from the comparable periods last year was due to the opening of 8 and 21 fewer
new stores, respectively, during the current periods versus the same periods
last year.

We did not record any amortization of intangibles for the 13 weeks and 39 weeks
ended November 2, 2002 versus $422,000 and $1.3 million, respectively, recorded
during the same periods last year. This change was due to the elimination of
goodwill amortization in conjunction with the adoption of SFAS No. 142 and
cessation of amortization associated with prior business acquisitions.

For the 39 weeks ended November 3, 2001, we recorded a stock-based compensation
expense of $456,000 due to the removal of the price target of certain stock
options.

Interest expense, net was $515,000 and $1.1 million for the 13 weeks and 39
weeks ended November 2, 2002, respectively, compared to $342,000 and $1.1
million for the comparable periods last year. The increase in the interest
expense for the current quarter was due to higher average outstanding borrowings
on the revolving credit facility.


6





We recorded an income tax benefit of $1.8 million and $7.8 million for the 13
weeks and 39 weeks ended November 2, 2002, respectively, compared to $234,000
and $1.4 million for the 13 weeks and 39 weeks ended November 3, 2001. The
increase in income tax benefit was the result of an increased pre-tax loss
compared to the same periods a year ago.

For the 13 weeks and 39 weeks ended November 2, 2002, the net loss was $3.5
million and $12.5 million as compared to $324,000 and $2.0 million for the 13
weeks and 39 weeks ended November 3, 2001. The increase in net loss was a result
of the operating and other factors cited above.


Liquidity and Capital Resources

General

We finance our operations through credit provided by vendors and other
suppliers, amounts borrowed under our $50.0 million revolving credit facility,
and internally generated cash flow. Credit terms provided by vendors and other
suppliers are usually net 30 days. Amounts, which may be borrowed under the
revolving credit facility, are based on a percentage of eligible inventory and
accounts receivable, as defined, outstanding from time to time, as more fully
described in Note 5 of Notes to Financial Statements. At November 2, 2002, the
availability under our revolving credit facility was $14.4 million versus $40.4
million as of November 3, 2001.

During the 39 weeks ended November 2, 2002, we used $34.3 million in operating
activities, $8.1 million in investing activities and generated $30.9 million
from financing activities, which resulted a net decrease in cash of $11.5
million. For the same period last year, we generated $3.5 million from operating
activities, used $10.6 million in investing activities and generated $8.4
million from financing activities, which resulted a net increase in cash of $1.3
million. The change in cash flows from operating activities was primarily due to
the higher cumulative operating loss and the reduced number of days payables
were outstanding this year. The decrease in cash used in investing activities
was due to a reduction in capital expenditures associated with fewer new store
openings this year.

We believe that our sources of cash, including the revolving credit facility,
will be adequate to finance our operations, capital requirements and debt
obligations as they become due for the next twelve months.

Capital Expenditures

We anticipate capital expenditures of approximately $1.5 million for the
remainder of the current fiscal year ending February 1, 2003, primarily in
connection with the construction of our new distribution center in San Diego,
California, in which we plan to consolidate both of our existing San Diego


7





distribution centers. This distribution center will approximate 600,000 square
feet and have the capability to service up to 400 stores. We anticipate that it
will become operational in our second quarter of fiscal 2003. We estimate the
total capital expenditures for this distribution center at approximately $4.5
million, of which we have already paid $1.3 million. We believe the capital
expenditures for this facility and other capital requirements will be financed
from internal cash flow.


Store Closures and Restructuring Initiatives

As of December 16, 2002, we have closed 24 of the 28 under-performing stores as
identified in our Fiscal 2001 restructuring efforts. In addition, we have closed
six other stores, as a result of either non-renewable leases or relocation
opportunities. We estimate the cash requirement for the remainder of this
current fiscal year for the Fiscal 2001 restructuring efforts will be
approximately $1.6 million, which we intend to fund from our sources of cash,
including the revolving credit facility.

With respect to our Fiscal 2002 restructuring initiatives, as previously
discussed in this report, we have already begun closing activities for 12
stores, which we expect will be closed by the end of January 2003. We also
expect to complete the consolidation of our corporate overhead structure by
February 1, 2003. We will begin the consolidation of our distribution center
network beginning with the closure of two distribution centers in San Diego,
California. We expect these distribution centers to close during the second
quarter of Fiscal 2003 when our new San Diego distribution facility becomes
operational.

Contractual Obligations and Commitments

The following table summarizes our significant contractual obligations, as well
as estimated cash requirements related to our restructuring initiatives, as of
November 2, 2002. These should be read in conjunction with "Note 3 -
Restructuring Charge" and "Note 6 - Long-Term Debt" in the accompanying
unaudited financial statements, as well as our fiscal 2001 Annual Report on Form
10-K as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.




(in thousands)
Junior Accenture
Subordinated Operating Restructuring Consulting
Notes Leases Charge* Agreement Total
------------- --------- ------------- ---------- -----------

Fiscal Year:
2002 (Remaining 3 months) $ 2,000 $ 837 $ 1,600 $ 196 $ 4,633
2003 3,000 33,726 5,864 - 42,590
2004 3,000 30,851 - - 33,851
2005 5,300 24,113 - - 29,413
2006 - 17,736 - - 17,736
Thereafter - 54,647 - - 54,647
------------- --------- ------------- ---------- -----------
$ 13,300 $161,910 $ 7,464 $ 196 $ 182,870
------------- --------- ------------- ---------- -----------




* Amounts reflect management's best estimate to complete store closures and
other restructuring initiatives



8





In the first quarter of fiscal 2002, we entered into a master Consulting
Services Agreement (the "Agreement") with Accenture LLP ("Accenture") to provide
consulting services on merchandise assortment planning and in-season management,
advertising effectiveness and brand development. The Agreement was generally
terminable on a 30-day notice. In August 2002, this Agreement was amended to
reflect a reduction in the scope of services to be provided by Accenture. On
November 12, 2002, we terminated the Agreement. In the aggregate, we paid
Accenture approximately $2.8 million under the Agreement.

During the first quarter of fiscal 2002, we entered into a lease agreement for
our new San Diego distribution facility. The lease is for a term of 12 years.
The monthly minimum base rent payment of approximately $225,000 is expected to
commence in June 2003.


Forward-Looking Statements

In this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, we have made both historical and
forward-looking statements. All of our statements other than those of historical
fact are, or may be deemed to be, forward-looking statements within the meaning
of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934. These forward-looking statements are not based on
historical facts, but rather reflect our current expectations concerning future
results and events. These forward-looking statements generally may be identified
by the use of phrases such as "believe", "expect", "anticipate", "intend",
"plan", "foresee", "likely", "will" or other similar words or phrases.
Similarly, statements that describe our objectives, plans or goals are or may be
forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve known and
unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause our actual
results, performance or achievements to be different from any future results,
performance or achievements expressed or implied by these statements.

The following important factors, among others, could affect our future results,
causing these results to differ materially from those expressed in any of our
forward-looking statements: general economic and business conditions, trends in
our business and consumer preferences, especially as may be impacted by economic
weakness on consumer spending, the effects of government regulations and
legislation, litigation and other claims that may be asserted against us, the
effects of intense competition, changes in our business strategy or development
plans, including anticipated growth strategies and capital expenditures, the
costs and difficulties of attracting and retaining qualified personnel, the
effects of increasing labor, utility, fuel and other operating costs, our
ability to obtain adequate quantities of suitable merchandise at favorable
prices and on favorable terms and conditions, the effectiveness of our operating
initiatives and advertising and promotional strategies and other risk factors
described in our fiscal 2001 Annual Report on Form 10-K and in our other filings
with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

We do not undertake to publicly update or revise any of our forward-looking
statements, whether as a result of new information, future events and
developments or otherwise, except to the extent that we may be obligated to do
so by applicable law.



9





Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

We are exposed to interest rate risk on our Junior Subordinated Notes, which are
non-interest bearing and discounted at an annual rate of 10%. At November 2,
2002, our long-term debt had a face value of $13.3 million with a net carrying
value of $11.2 million. While generally an increase in market interest rates
will decrease the value of this debt, and decreases in interest rates will have
the opposite effect, we are unable to estimate the impact that interest rate
changes will have on the value of this debt as there is no active public market
for the debt and we are unable to determine the market interest rate at which
alternate financing would have been available at November 2, 2002.


Item 4. Controls and Procedures

Evaluation. Within 90 days prior to the date of this Quarterly Report on
Form 10-Q, we have evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of
our disclosure controls and procedures as defined under Rule 13a-14 and Rule
15d-14 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. This evaluation was
done under the supervision and with the participation of management, including
our Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Chief Financial Officer (CFO).

Limitations. Our management, including the CEO and CFO, does not expect that
our disclosure controls and procedures will necessarily prevent all errors.
Such controls and procedures, no matter how well conceived and operated, can
provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that their objectives are met.

Conclusions. Based upon our evaluation, we have concluded that, subject to the
limitations noted above, our disclosure controls and procedures are effective to
ensure that material information relating to the Company is made known to
management, including the CEO and CFO, particularly during the period when our
periodic reports are being prepared.

Changes in Internal Controls. There have not been any significant changes in
our internal controls or in other factors that could significantly affect these
controls subsequent to the date or our last evaluation of such internal
controls, including any corrective actions with regard to significant
deficiencies and material weaknesses.


10





PART II - OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1. Legal Proceedings

As disclosed in our financial statements for the fiscal year ended
February 2, 2002 included in our Form 10-K as filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission, in December 2000, a former
employee in our Alameda, California store filed a lawsuit against us
(the "O'Hara Lawsuit"). This lawsuit alleged that we violated the
California Labor Code and Internal Wage Commission Orders, by
classifying store managers and assistant managers as exempt salaried
employees and thereby failing to pay them overtime. On November 7,
2002, the court entered an order approving the settlement. However,
the settlement does not become effective until the later of 60 days
after November 7, 2002 (January 6, 2003) and until any appeals from
the court's order are resolved. To date, we are unaware of any appeal
of the court's order.

Item 2. Changes in Securities and Use of Proceeds

None.

Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities

None.

Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

None.

Item 5. Other Information

None.

Item 6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K

(a) Exhibit

99.1 Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as
adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley
Act of 2002 by William R. Fields, Chief Executive Officer.

99.2 Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as
adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley
Act of 2002 by Douglas C. Felderman, Executive Vice
President and Chief Financial Officer.





11






(b) Reports on Form 8-K

Item 5 - On November 19, 2002, we filed a report on Form 8-K
regarding the appointment of William R. Fields as Chairman and
Chief Executive Officer of the Company effective November 7,
2002 and the appointment of Ronald Rashkow as the Lead Director
of the Board of Directors effective November 4, 2002.








































12






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.


FACTORY 2-U STORES, INC.

Date: December 17, 2002




By: /s/Douglas C. Felderman
------------------------
Name: Douglas C. Felderman
Title: Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
(duly authorized officer and principal financial officer)




























13






CERTIFICATION


I, William R. Fields, certify that:

1. I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of Factory 2-U Stores,
Inc. (the "Registrant").

2. Based on my knowledge, this quarterly report does not contain any untrue
statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to
make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such
statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by
this quarterly report.

3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial
information included in this quarterly report, fairly present in all
material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash
flows of the Registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this
quarterly report.

4. The Registrant's other certifying officer and I are responsible for
establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined
in Exchange Act Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14) for the Registrant and we have:

(a) designed such disclosure controls and procedures to ensure that
material information relating to the Registrant, including its
consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those
entities, particularly during the period in which this quarterly report
is being prepared;

(b) evaluated the effectiveness of the Registrant's disclosure controls and
procedures as of a date within 90 days prior to the filing date of this
quarterly report (the "Evaluation Date"); and

(c) presented in this quarterly report our conclusions about the
effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures based on our
evaluation as of the Evaluation Date;

5. The Registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our
most recent evaluation, to the Registrant's auditors and the audit committee
of Registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent
function):

(a) all significant deficiencies in the design or operation of internal
controls which could adversely affect the Registrant's ability to
record, process, summarize and report financial data and have
identified for the Registrant's auditors any material weaknesses in
internal controls; and



14






(b) any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other
employees who have a significant role in the Registrant's internal
controls; and

6. The Registrant's other certifying officers and I have indicated in this
quarterly report whether or not there were significant changes in internal
controls or in other factors that could significantly affect internal
controls subsequent to the date of our most recent evaluation, including any
corrective actions with regard to significant deficiencies and material
weaknesses.



Date: December 17, 2002 /s/ William R. Fields
---------------------
Name: William R. Fields
Title: Chief Executive Officer































15





CERTIFICATION


I, Douglas C. Felderman, certify that:

1. I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of Factory 2-U Stores,
Inc. (the "Registrant").

2. Based on my knowledge, this quarterly report does not contain any untrue
statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to
make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such
statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by
this quarterly report.

3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial
information included in this quarterly report, fairly present in all
material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash
flows of the Registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this
quarterly report.

4. The Registrant's other certifying officer and I are responsible for
establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined
in Exchange Act Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14) for the Registrant and we have:

(a) designed such disclosure controls and procedures to ensure that
material information relating to the Registrant, including its
consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those
entities, particularly during the period in which this quarterly report
is being prepared;

(b) evaluated the effectiveness of the Registrant's disclosure controls and
procedures as of a date within 90 days prior to the filing date of this
quarterly report (the "Evaluation Date"); and

(c) presented in this quarterly report our conclusions about the
effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures based on our
evaluation as of the Evaluation Date;

5. The Registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our
most recent evaluation, to the Registrant's auditors and the audit committee
of Registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent
function):

(a) all significant deficiencies in the design or operation of internal
controls which could adversely affect the Registrant's ability to
record, process, summarize and report financial data and have
identified for the Registrant's auditors any material weaknesses in
internal controls; and




16






(b) any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other
employees who have a significant role in the Registrant's internal
controls; and

6. The Registrant's other certifying officers and I have indicated in this
quarterly report whether or not there were significant changes in internal
controls or in other factors that could significantly affect internal
controls subsequent to the date of our most recent evaluation, including any
corrective actions with regard to significant deficiencies and material
weaknesses.



Date: December 17, 2002 /s/ Douglas C. Felderman
------------------------
Name: Douglas C. Felderman
Title:Executive Vice President and
Chief Financial Officer






























17