|
Certain statements contained in this
Annual Report are forward-looking and involve a number of risks
and uncertainties. Among the factors that could cause actual
results to differ materially are the following: general economic
conditions and consumer demand and consumer preferences and
weather patterns in the U.S., Canada and Europe; competitive
factors, including continuing pressure from pricing and promotional
activities of competitors; impact of excess retail capacity
and the availability of desirable store locations on suitable
terms; the availability, selection and purchasing of attractive
merchandise on favorable terms; import risks, including potential
disruptions and duties, tariffs and quotas on imported merchandise,
including economic and political problems in countries from
which merchandise is imported; currency and exchange rate factors
in the Company's foreign operations; risks in the development
of new businesses and application of the Company's off-price
strategies in foreign countries; acquisition and divestment
activities; and other factors that may be described in the Company's
filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company
does not undertake to publicly update or revise its forward-looking
statements even if experience or future changes make it clear
that any projected results expressed or implied therein will
not be realized. |
