Lululemon hikes revenue forecast after strong holiday sales

Lululemon Athletica Inc. says it's more optimistic about the revenue and profit that the clothing company will generate in the current quarter, which includes the Christmas-New Years period.

The Vancouver-based international retailer now estimates revenue in the its fourth quarter will be between $595 million and $600 million.

That's about $15 million higher than previously estimated.

Lululemon also estimates earnings of between 71 and 73 cents US per share — two to four cents per share above the top of its previous range of between 65 and 69 cents US per share.

A number of analysts have suggested that the recent collapse in crude oil prices will allow consumers to spend less on gasoline and more on other types of goods, such as clothing.

Lululemon also said Monday that its customers have responded well to its assortment of products, brought in under a new senior management team.

Lululemon shares gained more than four per cent in premarket trading after the announcement. They were trading at US$61.22, up $2.59 from the Friday closing price.