Edgar Filing: CARTERS INC

form10_q.htm

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

x	QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 FOR THE QUARTERLY PERIOD ENDED OCTOBER 1, 2011 OR

¨	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:

001-31829

CARTER’S, INC.

(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)

Delaware	13-3912933
(state or other jurisdiction of	(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
incorporation or organization)

The Proscenium

1170 Peachtree Street NE, Suite 900

Atlanta, Georgia 30309

(Address of principal executive offices, including zip code)

(404) 745-2700

(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 (X) No ( )

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate website, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the Registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes (X) No ( )

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See definition of “large accelerated filer, accelerated filer, and smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one)

Large Accelerated Filer (X) Accelerated Filer ( ) Non-Accelerated Filer ( ) Smaller Reporting Company ( )

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes ( ) No (X)

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

Common Stock		Outstanding Shares at November 3, 2011
Common stock, par value $0.01 per share		58,594,661

CARTER’S, INC.

INDEX

		Page
Part I. Financial Information

Item 1.	Financial Statements
	Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of October 1, 2011, January 1, 2011, and October 2, 2010		1

	Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations for the three and nine-month periods ended October 1, 2011 and October 2, 2010		2

	Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the nine-month periods ended October 1, 2011 and October 2, 2010		3

	Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statement of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity for the nine-month period ended October 1, 2011		4

	Notes to the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements		5
Item 2.	Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations		19
Item 3.	Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk		32
Item 4.	Controls and Procedures		32

Part II. Other Information

Item 1.	Legal Proceedings		33
Item 1A.	Risk Factors		33
Item 2.	Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds		39
Item 3.	Defaults upon Senior Securities		39
Item 4.	Removed and Reserved		39
Item 5.	Other Information		39
Item 6.	Exhibits		39
Signatures			40
Certifications			41

PART I – FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

CARTER’S, INC.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(dollars in thousands, except for share data)

(unaudited)

	October 1, 2011			January 1, 2011			October 2, 2010

ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	81,634		$	247,382		$	182,329
Accounts receivable, net		214,558			121,453			171,501
Finished goods inventories, net		385,960			298,509			263,782
Prepaid expenses and other current assets		16,412			17,372			12,369
Deferred income taxes		24,384			31,547			25,701

Total current assets		722,948			716,263			655,682

Property, plant, and equipment, net		111,830			94,968			92,558
Tradenames		306,234			305,733			305,733
Goodwill		186,536			136,570			136,570
Deferred debt issuance costs, net		2,801			3,332			1,237
Other intangible assets, net		268			--			--
Other assets		499			316			305

Total assets	$	1,331,116		$	1,257,182		$	1,192,085

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Current maturities of long-term debt	$	--		$	--		$	2,450
Accounts payable		83,491			116,481			94,440
Other current liabilities		42,426			66,891			62,502

Total current liabilities		125,917			183,372			159,392

Long-term debt		236,000			236,000			229,709
Deferred income taxes		115,982			113,817			109,855
Other long-term liabilities		81,600			44,057			45,626

Total liabilities		559,499			577,246			544,582

Commitments and contingencies
Stockholders’ equity:
Preferred stock; par value $.01 per share; 100,000 shares authorized; none issued or outstanding at October 1, 2011, January 1, 2011, and October 2, 2010		--			--			--
Common stock, voting; par value $.01 per share; 150,000,000 shares authorized; 58,529,586, 57,493,567, and 57,696,317 shares issued and outstanding at October 1, 2011, January 1, 2011, and October 2, 2010, respectively		585			575			577
Additional paid-in capital		228,061			210,600			214,547
Accumulated other comprehensive loss		(6,911	)		(1,890	)		(3,378	)
Retained earnings		549,882			470,651			435,757

Total stockholders’ equity		771,617			679,936			647,503

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$	1,331,116		$	1,257,182		$	1,192,085

See accompanying notes to the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

CARTER’S, INC.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

(unaudited)

	For the three-month periods ended						For the nine-month periods ended
	October 1, 2011			October 2, 2010			October 1, 2011			October 2, 2010

Net sales	$	639,617		$	517,928		$	1,503,105		$	1,253,986
Cost of goods sold		447,744			325,125			1,018,688			764,122

Gross profit		191,873			192,803			484,417			489,864
Selling, general, and administrative expenses		145,602			123,321			380,088			333,084
Royalty income		(10,494	)		(10,396	)		(28,092	)		(27,690	)

Operating income		56,765			79,878			132,421			184,470
Interest expense, net		1,699			1,568			5,305			6,674
Foreign currency gain		(88	)		--			(319	)		--

Income before income taxes		55,154			78,310			127,435			177,796
Provision for income taxes		20,705			28,653			48,204			66,218

Net income	$	34,449		$	49,657		$	79,231		$	111,578

Basic net income per common share (Note 13)	$	0.59		$	0.84		$	1.37		$	1.89
Diluted net income per common share (Note 13)	$	0.58		$	0.83		$	1.35		$	1.86

See accompanying notes to the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

CARTER’S, INC.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(dollars in thousands)

(unaudited)

	For the nine-month periods ended
	October 1, 2011			October 2, 2010
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	$	79,231		$	111,578
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash (used in) provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization		23,522			22,730
Amortization of Bonnie Togs inventory step-up		5,944			--
Non-cash revaluation of contingent consideration		1,020			--
Amortization of Bonnie Togs tradename and non-compete agreements		96			--
Amortization of debt issuance costs		531			1,232
Non-cash stock-based compensation expense		7,161			5,397
Income tax benefit from stock-based compensation		(6,292	)		(8,973	)
Loss (gain) on disposal/sale of property, plant, and equipment		149			(3	)
Deferred income taxes		8,021			6,974
Effect of changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable		(90,263	)		(89,407	)
Inventories		(59,355	)		(49,782	)
Prepaid expenses and other assets		1,019			(1,255	)
Accounts payable and other liabilities		(56,572	)		6,710

Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities		(85,788	)		5,201

Cash flows from investing activities:
Capital expenditures		(29,157	)		(29,483	)
Acquisition of Bonnie Togs		(61,199	)		--
Proceeds from sale of property, plant, and equipment		10			286

Net cash used in investing activities		(90,346	)		(29,197	)

Cash flows from financing activities:
Payments on term loan		--			(102,364	)
Repurchases of common stock		--			(44,090	)
Income tax benefit from stock-based compensation		6,292			8,973
Withholdings from vesting of restricted stock		(1,635	)		(715	)
Proceeds from exercise of stock options		5,428			9,480

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities		10,085			(128,716	)

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash		301			--
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents		(165,748	)		(152,712	)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period		247,382			335,041

Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	$	81,634		$	182,329

See accompanying notes to the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

CARTER’S, INC.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

(dollars in thousands, except for share data)

(unaudited)

	Common stock			Additional paid-in capital			Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income			Retained earnings		Total stockholders’ equity

Balance at January 1, 2011	$	575		$	210,600		$	(1,890	)	$	470,651	$	679,936
Exercise of stock options (744,511 shares)		7			5,421			--			--		5,428
Issuance of common stock (38,520 shares)		--			1,170			--			--		1,170
Withholdings from vesting of restricted stock (57,062 shares)		(1	)		(1,634	)		--			--		(1,635	)
Income tax benefit from stock-based compensation		--			6,292			--			--		6,292
Restricted stock activity		4			(4	)		--			--		--
Stock-based compensation expense		--			6,216			--			--		6,216
Comprehensive income (loss):
Net income		--			--			--			79,231		79,231
Cumulative foreign currency translation adjustments		--			--			(5,021	)		--		(5,021	)
Total comprehensive income (loss)		--			--			(5,021	)		79,231		74,210
Balance at October 1, 2011	$	585		$	228,061		$	(6,911	)	$	549,882	$	771,617

See accompanying notes to the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

CARTER’S, INC.

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited)

NOTE 1 – THE COMPANY:

Carter’s, Inc. and its wholly owned subsidiaries (collectively, the “Company,” “we,” “us,” “its,” and “our”) design, source, and market branded childrenswear under the Carter’s, Child of Mine, Just One You, Precious Firsts, OshKosh, and other brands. Our products are sourced through contractual arrangements with manufacturers worldwide for wholesale distribution to major domestic and international retailers and for our 351 Carter’s, 176 OshKosh, 37 Bonnie Togs, and 27 Carter’s/OshKosh retail stores that market our brand name merchandise and other licensed products manufactured by other companies.

On June 30, 2011, Northstar Canadian Operations Corp. (“Northstar”), a newly formed Canadian corporation and a wholly owned subsidiary of The William Carter Company (a wholly owned subsidiary of Carter’s, Inc.), purchased all of the outstanding shares of capital stock of the entities comprising Bonnie Togs (“Bonnie Togs”), a Canadian specialty retailer focused exclusively on the children’s apparel and accessories marketplace. At the time of the acquisition, Bonnie Togs operated 59 retail stores in Canada and sells products under the Carter’s and OshKosh B’gosh brands, as well as other private label and national brands. Bonnie Togs was Carter’s principal licensee in Canada since 2007 and was a significant international licensee of the Company.

As a result of the acquisition of Bonnie Togs, the Company reevaluated and realigned certain of its reportable segments, please see Note 12, “Segment Information.”

Our unaudited condensed consolidated balance sheet as of October 1, 2011 includes Bonnie Togs. The unaudited condensed consolidated statements of operations for the three and nine-month periods ended October 1, 2011 include Bonnie Togs effective July 3, 2011.

NOTE 2 – BASIS OF PREPARATION:

The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Carter’s, Inc. and its wholly owned subsidiaries. All intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation.

In our opinion, the Company’s accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements contain all adjustments necessary for a fair statement of our financial position as of October 1, 2011, the results of our operations for the three and nine-month periods ended October 1, 2011 and October 2, 2010, cash flows for the nine-month periods ended October 1, 2011 and October 2, 2010 and changes in stockholders’ equity for the nine-month period ended October 1, 2011. Except as otherwise disclosed, all such adjustments consist only of those of a normal recurring nature. Operating results for the three and nine-month periods ended October 1, 2011 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2011. Our accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheet as of January 1, 2011 is from our audited consolidated financial statements included in our most recently filed Annual Report on Form 10-K, but does not include all disclosures required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”).

Certain information and footnote disclosure normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with GAAP have been condensed or omitted pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) and the instructions to Form 10-Q. The accounting policies we follow are set forth in our most recently filed Annual Report on Form 10-K in the notes to our audited consolidated financial statements for the fiscal year ended January 1, 2011.

Our fiscal year ends on the Saturday, in December or January, nearest the last day of December. The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements for the third quarter and first nine months of fiscal 2011 reflect our financial position as of October 1, 2011. The third quarter and first nine months of fiscal 2010 ended on October 2, 2010.

Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified to facilitate comparability with current year presentation.

CARTER’S, INC.

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

(unaudited)

NOTE 3 – ACQUISITION OF BONNIE TOGS:

As noted above, on June 30, 2011, Northstar purchased all of the outstanding shares of capital stock of Bonnie Togs (the “Acquisition”) for total consideration of up to CAD $95 million. CAD $60 million was paid in cash at closing. Such payment is subject to post-closing adjustments. The sellers may also be paid contingent consideration ranging from zero to CAD $35 million if the Canadian business meets certain earnings targets for the period beginning July 1, 2011 and ending on June 27, 2015. Sellers may receive a portion of the contingent consideration of up to CAD $25 million if interim earnings targets are met through June 2013 and June 2014, respectively. Any such payments are not recoverable by the Company in the event of any failure to meet overall targets. As of July 2, 2011, the Company had included a discounted contingent consideration liability of approximately $24 million in its unaudited condensed consolidated balance sheet based upon the high probability that Bonnie Togs will attain its earnings targets.

The fair value of the discounted contingent consideration liability as of October 1, 2011 was approximately $23 million and is included in other long-term liabilities on the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated balance sheet. The $1.0 million change in the fair value of the liability is reflected as $1.0 million in accretion expense and $2.0 million in other comprehensive income resulting from a favorable foreign currency translation adjustment. The Company determined the fair value of the contingent consideration based upon a probability-weighted discounted cash flow analysis. The Company will continue to revalue the contingent consideration at each reporting date.

The following table summarizes the preliminary fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed at June 30, 2011, the date of the Acquisition:

(U.S. dollars in thousands)

Current assets	$	40,999
Property, plant, and equipment, net		13,165
Goodwill		54,340
Bonnie Togs tradename		623
Non-compete agreements		311
Total asset acquired		109,438
Current liabilities		17,437
Non-current liabilities		6,725
Total liabilities assumed		24,162
Net assets acquired	$	85,276

In connection with the Acquisition, the Company recorded total acquired intangible assets of approximately $55.3 million, including $54.3 million of goodwill, $0.6 million related to the Bonnie Togs tradename (estimated life of two years), and $0.3 million related to non-compete agreements for certain executives (estimated life of four years). The fair value of these intangible assets are subject to change until finalization of purchase accounting.

CARTER’S, INC.

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

(unaudited)

NOTE 4 – COMPREHENSIVE INCOME:

Comprehensive income, which includes net income, cumulative foreign currency translation adjustments, and unrealized gain on interest rate swap agreements, is as follows:

	For the three-month periods ended					For the nine-month periods ended
(dollars in thousands)	October 1, 2011			October 2, 2010		October 1, 2011			October 2, 2010

Net income	$	34,449		$	49,657	$	79,231		$	111,578
Cumulative foreign currency translation adjustments		(4,922	)		--		(5,021	)		--
Unrealized gain on interest rate swap agreements, net of tax of $107 and $379, respectively		--			225		--			688
Total comprehensive income	$	29,527		$	49,882	$	74,210		$	112,266

The components of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) consisted of the following:


(dollars in thousands)	October 1, 2011			January 1, 2011			October 2, 2010

Cumulative foreign currency translation adjustments	$	(5,021	)	$	--		$	--
OshKosh defined benefit plan, net of tax		(2,894	)		(2,894	)		(4,031	)
Carter’s post-retirement benefit obligation, net of tax		1,004			1,004			819
Interest rate swap agreements, net of tax		--			--			(166	)
Total accumulated other comprehensive loss	$	(6,911	)	$	(1,890	)	$	(3,378	)

NOTE 5 – LONG-TERM DEBT:

Long-term debt consisted of the following:

(dollars in thousands)	October 1, 2011		January 1, 2011		October 2, 2010

Revolving credit facility	$	236,000	$	236,000	$	--
Former term loan		--		--		232,159
Current maturities		--		--		(2,450	)
Total long-term debt	$	236,000	$	236,000	$	229,709

On October 15, 2010, the Company entered into a $375 million ($130 million sub-limit for letters of credit and a swing line sub-limit of $40 million) revolving credit facility with Bank of America as sole lead arranger and administrative agent, JP Morgan Chase Bank as syndication agent, and other financial institutions. The revolving credit facility was immediately drawn upon to pay off the Company’s former term loan of $232.2 million and pay transaction fees and expenses of $3.8 million, leaving approximately $130 million available under the revolver for future borrowings (net of letters of credit of approximately $8.6 million). At January 1, 2011, we had approximately $236.0 million in revolver borrowings, exclusive of $8.6 million of outstanding letters of credit, at an effective interest rate of 2.51%. At October 1, 2011, we had approximately $236.0 million in revolver borrowings, exclusive of $13.8 million of outstanding letters of credit, at an effective interest rate of 2.48%.

CARTER’S, INC.

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

(unaudited)

NOTE 5 – LONG-TERM DEBT: (Continued)

The term of the revolving credit facility expires October 15, 2015. This revolving credit facility provides for two pricing options for revolving loans: (i) revolving loans on which interest is payable quarterly at a base rate equal to the highest of (x) the Federal Funds Rate plus ½ of 1%, (y) the rate of interest in effect for such day as publicly announced from time to time by Bank of America, N.A. as its prime rate, or (z) the Eurodollar Rate plus 1%, plus, in each case, an applicable margin initially equal to 1.25%, which may be adjusted based upon a leverage-based pricing grid ranging from 1.00% to 1.50% and (ii) revolving loans on which interest accrues for one, two, three, six or if, generally available, nine or twelve month interest periods (but is payable not less frequently than every three months) at a rate of interest per annum equal to an adjusted British Bankers Association LIBOR rate, plus an applicable margin initially equal to 2.25%, which may be adjusted based upon a leverage-based pricing grid ranging from 2.00% to 2.50%. Amounts currently outstanding under the revolving credit facility initially accrue interest at a LIBOR rate plus 2.25%.

The revolving credit facility contains and defines financial covenants, including a lease adjusted leverage ratio (defined as, with certain adjustments, the ratio of the Company’s consolidated indebtedness plus six times rent expense to consolidated net income before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization, and rent expense (“EBITDAR”)) to exceed (x) if such period ends on or before December 31, 2014, 3.75:1.00 and (y) if such period ends after December 31, 2014, 3.50:1.00; and consolidated fixed charge coverage ratio (defined as, with certain adjustments, the ratio of consolidated EBITDAR to consolidated fixed charges (defined as interest plus rent expense)), for any such period to be less than 2.75:1.00. As of October 1, 2011, the Company believes it was in compliance with its financial debt covenants.

The Company’s former senior credit facility was comprised of a $232.2 million term loan (the “former term loan”) and a $125 million revolving credit facility (the “former revolver”) (including a sub-limit for letters of credit of $80 million). There were no borrowings outstanding under the former revolver, exclusive of approximately $8.6 million of outstanding letters of credit at October 2, 2010. Amounts borrowed under the former term loan had an applicable rate of LIBOR + 1.50%, regardless of the Company’s overall leverage level. Interest was payable at the end of interest rate reset periods, which vary in length but in no case exceeded 12 months for LIBOR rate loans and quarterly for prime rate loans. The effective interest rate on former term loan borrowings as of October 2, 2010 was 1.8%.

NOTE 6 – GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS:

In connection with the Acquisition, the Company recorded preliminary estimates of goodwill and other intangible assets including a Bonnie Togs tradename and non-compete agreements for certain executives of Bonnie Togs, in accordance with accounting guidance on business combinations.

Goodwill as of October 1, 2011, represents the excess of the cost of the acquisitions of Carter’s, Inc., which was consummated on August 15, 2001, and of Bonnie Togs, which was consummated on June 30, 2011, over the fair value of the net assets acquired. Our goodwill is not deductible for tax purposes. The OshKosh tradename was recorded in connection with the acquisition of OshKosh on July 14, 2005. Our Carter’s and Bonnie Togs goodwill and Carter’s and OshKosh tradenames are deemed to have indefinite lives and are not being amortized. The Bonnie Togs tradename and non-compete agreements for certain executives are expected to have definite lives and are being amortized over two and four years, respectively.

The Company’s intangible assets were as follows:

		October 1, 2011						January 1, 2011
(dollars in thousands)	Weighted-average useful life	Gross amount		Accumulated amortization		Net amount		Gross amount		Accumulated amortization		Net amount

Carter’s goodwill (1)	Indefinite	$	136,570	$	--	$	136,570	$	136,570	$	--	$	136,570
Bonnie Togs goodwill (2)	Indefinite	$	49,966	$	--	$	49,966	$	--	$	--	$	--
Carter’s tradename	Indefinite	$	220,233	$	--	$	220,233	$	220,233	$	--	$	220,233
OshKosh tradename	Indefinite	$	85,500	$	--	$	85,500	$	85,500	$	--	$	85,500
Bonnie Togs tradename	2 years	$	576	$	75	$	501	$	--	$	--	$	--
Non-compete agreements	4 years	$	287	$	19	$	268	$	--	$	--	$	--
OshKosh licensing agreements	4.7 years	$	19,100	$	19,100	$	--	$	19,100	$	19,100	$	--

CARTER’S, INC.

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

(unaudited)

NOTE 6 – GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS: (Continued)

		October 2, 2010
(dollars in thousands)	Weighted-average useful life	Gross amount		Accumulated amortization		Net amount

Carter’s goodwill (1)	Indefinite	$	136,570	$	--	$	136,570
Carter’s tradename	Indefinite	$	220,233	$	--	$	220,233
OshKosh tradename	Indefinite	$	85,500	$	--	$	85,500
OshKosh licensing agreements	4.7 years	$	19,100	$	19,100	$	--

(1)	$54.5 million of which relates to Carter’s wholesale segment and $82.0 million of which relates to Carter’s retail segment.

(2)	Relates to International segment.

The following is a reconciliation of Bonnie Togs intangible assets:

	Bonnie Togs Goodwill			Bonnie Togs Tradename			Non-compete agreements

Gross Balance at June 30, 2011	$	54,480		$	623		$	311
Purchase accounting adjustments		(140	)		--			--
Foreign currency exchange adjustments		(4,374	)		(47	)		(24	)
Gross Balance at October 1, 2011	$	49,966		$	576		$	287

Amortization expense for intangible assets was approximately $0.1 million and $0.2 million for the three-month periods ended October 1, 2011 and October 2, 2010, respectively. Amortization expense for intangible assets was approximately $0.1 million and $1.8 million for the nine-month periods ended October 1, 2011 and October 2, 2010, respectively.

NOTE 7 – INCOME TAXES:

The Company and its subsidiaries file income tax returns in the United States and in various states and local jurisdictions. Bonnie Togs, the Company’s Canadian subsidiary will file income tax returns in Canada and various Canadian provinces. The Internal Revenue Service initiated an income tax audit for fiscal 2009 during the second quarter of fiscal 2011. The Company is not anticipating a material payment or material impact on its effective tax rate as a result of this ongoing audit. In most cases, the Company is no longer subject to state and local tax authority examinations for years prior to fiscal 2007.

During the third quarter of fiscal 2011, we reversed approximately $0.3 million of reserves for which the statute of limitations expired during the quarter. During the third quarter of fiscal 2010, we reversed approximately $0.5 million of reserves for which the statute of limitations expired during the quarter.

As of October 1, 2011, the Company had gross unrecognized tax benefits of approximately $9.6 million, $6.7 million of which, if ultimately recognized, will impact the Company’s effective tax rate in the period settled. The Company has recorded tax positions for which the ultimate deductibility is highly certain, but for which there is uncertainty about the timing of such deductions. Because of deferred tax accounting, changes in the timing of these deductions would not impact the annual effective tax rate, but would accelerate the payment of cash to the taxing authorities.

Included in the reserves for unrecognized tax benefits as of October 1, 2011, are approximately $2.2 million of reserves for which the statute of limitations is expected to expire within the next year. If these tax benefits are ultimately recognized, such recognition, net of federal income taxes, may impact our annual effective tax rate and the effective tax rate in the quarter in which the benefits are recognized.

CARTER’S, INC.

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

(unaudited)

NOTE 7 – INCOME TAXES: (Continued)

We recognize interest related to unrecognized tax benefits as a component of interest expense and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits as a component of income tax expense. During the third quarter of fiscal 2011 and 2010, the Company recognized a reduction of interest expense on uncertain tax positions of approximately $0.1 million due to the settlement of prior year uncertain tax positions. The Company had approximately $0.7 million, $0.6 million, and $0.6 million of interest accrued as of October 1, 2011, January 1, 2011, and October 2, 2010, respectively.

NOTE 8 – FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS:

The Company accounts for its fair value measurements in accordance with accounting guidance which defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value, and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. The fair value hierarchy for disclosure of fair value measurements is as follows:

Level 1	- Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities

Level 2	- Quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets or inputs that are observable

Level 3	- Inputs that are unobservable (for example, cash flow modeling inputs based on assumptions)

The following table summarizes assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis:

	October 1, 2011						January 1, 2011						October 2, 2010
(dollars in millions)	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3

Assets
Investments	$	25.2	$	--	$	--	$	226.5	$	--	$	--	$	150.4	$	13.0	$	--
Foreign exchange forward contracts	$	1.1	$	--	$	--	$	--	$	--	$	--	$	--	$	--	$	--

Liabilities
Interest rate swap agreements	$	--	$	--	$	--	$	--	$	--	$	--	$	--	$	0.3	$	--
Contingent consideration	$	--	$	--	$	23.4	$	--	$	--	$	--	$	--	$	--	$	--

At October 1, 2011, we had approximately $25.2 million of cash invested in money market deposit accounts ($25.0 million in JP Morgan and $0.2 million in Bank of America).

At January 1, 2011, we had approximately $151.5 million of cash invested in money market deposit accounts ($73.3 million in Bank of America and $78.2 million in JP Morgan) and $75.0 million in U.S. Treasury bills.

At October 2, 2010, we had approximately $110.4 million invested in money market deposit accounts, $40.0 million in U.S. Treasury Bills, and $13.0 million invested in a Black Rock Treasury fund, which invests only in U.S. Treasury Bills and U.S. Government securities.

On June 22, 2011, as part of the Acquisition, the Company entered into a forward foreign currency exchange contract to reduce its risk from exchange rate fluctuations on the purchase price of Bonnie Togs. The contract was settled on June 30, 2011 and a gain of $0.2 million was recognized in earnings.

During the third quarter of fiscal 2011, the Company recorded a $0.1 million gain related to the mark-to-market of open foreign currency exchange contracts and Bonnie Togs’ foreign denominated payables.

In connection with the Acquisition, the Company acquired open forward foreign exchange contracts which were undesignated hedges used to reduce its risk from cash flows associated with U.S. dollar denominated inventory purchases. As part of its overall strategy to manage the level of exposure to the risk of foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations, primarily exposure to changes in the value of the U.S. dollar in relation to the Canadian dollar, the Company hedges a portion of its foreign currency exposures anticipated over the ensuing twelve-month period. The Company uses foreign exchange contracts that generally have maturities of up 12 months to provide continuing coverage throughout the hedging period.

CARTER’S, INC.

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

(unaudited)

NOTE 8 – FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: (Continued)

As of October 1, 2011, the Company had contracts for sales of $23.4 million of Canadian dollars and for the purchase of $23.5 million of U.S. dollars at fixed rates. The fair value of these forward contracts was an asset of $1.1 million. The Company accounts for these foreign exchange contracts as undesignated positions in accordance with accounting standards on derivatives and hedging. As such, these positions are marked to fair value through earnings at each reporting date.

Our former senior credit facility required us to hedge at least 25% of our variable rate debt under this facility. The Company historically entered into interest rate swap agreements in order to hedge the risk of interest rate fluctuations. These interest rate swap agreements were designated as cash flow hedges of the variable interest payments on a portion of our variable rate former term loan debt. Our interest rate swap agreements were traded in the over-the-counter market. Fair values were based on quoted market prices for similar assets or liabilities or determined using inputs that use as their basis readily observable market data that are actively quoted and can be validated through external sources, including third-party pricing services, brokers, and market transactions. Our interest rate swap agreements were classified as current as their terms spanned less than one year.

As of October 2, 2010, approximately $100.0 million of our $232.2 million of outstanding debt was hedged under interest rate swap agreements. In connection with the repayment of the Company’s former term loan, the Company terminated these effective interest rate swap agreements originally scheduled to mature in January 2011.

The fair value of the discounted contingent consideration liability was approximately $24 million as of July 2, 2011 and approximately $23 million as of October 1, 2011. The $1.0 million change in the fair value of the liability is reflected as $1.0 million in accretion expense and $2.0 million in accumulated other comprehensive income reflecting a favorable foreign currency translation adjustment. The Company determined the fair value of the contingent consideration based upon a probability-weighted discounted cash flow analysis.

The fair value of our derivative instruments in our accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated balance sheets were as follows:

	Asset Derivatives			Liability Derivatives

(dollars in millions)	Balance sheet location	Fair value		Balance sheet location	Fair value

October 1, 2011	Prepaid expenses and other current assets	$	1.1	Other current liabilities	$	--
January 1, 2011	Prepaid expenses and other current assets	$	--	Other current liabilities	$	--
October 2, 2010	Prepaid expenses and other current assets	$	--	Other current liabilities	$	0.3

CARTER’S, INC.

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

(unaudited)

NOTE 8 – FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: (Continued)

The effect of derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges on our accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements was as follows:

For the three-month period ended

October 1, 2011

For the nine-month period ended

October 1, 2011

(dollars in thousands)

Amount of gain

recognized in accumulated

other comprehensive

income (loss) on effective hedges

Amount of loss

reclassified

from accumulated

other comprehensive

income (loss)

into interest expense

Amount of gain

recognized in accumulated

other comprehensive

income (loss) on

effective hedges

Amount of loss

reclassified

from accumulated

other comprehensive

income (loss)

into interest expense

Interest rate hedge agreements

	For the three-month period ended October 2, 2010					For the nine-month period ended October 2, 2010
(dollars in thousands)	Amount of gain recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) on effective hedges (1)		Amount of loss reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) into interest expense			Amount of loss recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) on effective hedges (1)		Amount of loss reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) into interest expense

Interest rate hedge agreements	$	225	$	(291	)	$	688	$	(1,440	)

(1) Amount recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax of $107,000 and $379,000 for the three and nine-month periods ended October 2, 2010, respectively.

The effect of undesignated derivative instruments on our accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements was as follows:

	Gains recognized in earnings

	For the three-month periods ended		For the nine-month periods ended
(dollars in thousands)	October 1, 2011	October 2, 2010	October 1, 2011	October 2, 2010

Foreign exchange forward contract	$1,549	$ --	$1,780	$ --

CARTER’S, INC.

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

(unaudited)

NOTE 9 – EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS:

Under a defined benefit plan frozen in 1991, we offer a comprehensive post-retirement medical plan to current and certain future retirees and their spouses until they become eligible for Medicare or a Medicare Supplement Plan. We also offer life insurance to current and certain future retirees. Employee contributions are required as a condition of participation for both medical benefits and life insurance and our liabilities are net of these expected employee contributions. See Note 7 “Employee Benefit Plans” to our audited consolidated financial statements in our most recently filed Annual Report on Form 10-K for further information.

The components of post-retirement benefit expense charged to operations are as follows:

	For the three-month periods ended						For the nine-month periods ended
(dollars in thousands)	October 1, 2011			October 2, 2010			October 1, 2011			October 2, 2010

Service cost – benefits attributed to service during the period	$	18		$	23		$	54		$	69
Interest cost on accumulated post-retirement benefit obligation		106			133			318			399
Amortization net actuarial gain		(5	)		(7	)		(15	)		(21	)
Total net periodic post-retirement benefit cost	$	119		$	149		$	357		$	447

We have an obligation under a defined benefit plan covering certain former officers and their spouses. The component of pension expense charged to operations is as follows:

	For the three-month periods ended				For the nine-month periods ended
(dollars in thousands)	October 1, 2011		October 2, 2010		October 1, 2011		October 2, 2010

Interest cost on accumulated pension benefit obligation	$	7	$	12	$	23	$	36

Under a defined benefit pension plan frozen as of December 31, 2005, certain current and former employees of OshKosh are eligible to receive benefits. The net periodic pension (benefit) expense associated with this pension plan and included in the statement of operations was comprised of:

	For the three-month periods ended						For the nine-month periods ended
(dollars in thousands)	October 1, 2011			October 2, 2010			October 1, 2011			October 2, 2010

Interest cost on accumulated pension benefit obligation	$	614		$	598		$	1,841		$	1,794
Expected return on assets		(779	)		(718	)		(2,335	)		(2,156	)
Amortization of actuarial loss		1			34			1			101
Total net periodic pension (benefit) expense	$	(164	)	$	(86	)	$	(493	)	$	(261	)

CARTER’S, INC.

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

(unaudited)

NOTE 10 – COMMON STOCK:

During the first nine months of fiscal 2011, the Company issued 38,520 shares of common stock at a fair market value of $30.38 per share to its non-management board members. In connection with this issuance, we recognized approximately $1.2 million in stock-based compensation expense. During the first nine months of fiscal 2010, the Company issued 24,032 and 2,115 shares of common stock at a fair market value of $33.29 and $23.65 per share, respectively, to its non-management board members. In connection with these issuances, we recognized approximately $850,000 in stock-based compensation expense. We received no proceeds from the issuance of these shares.

On February 16, 2007, the Company’s Board of Directors approved a share repurchase authorization, pursuant to which the Company was authorized to purchase up to $100 million of its outstanding common shares (the “2007 Authorization”). On June 15, 2010, the Company’s Board of Directors approved a new share repurchase authorization, pursuant to which the Company is authorized to purchase up to an additional $100 million of its outstanding common shares (the “2010 Authorization”). The Company has completed repurchase of outstanding shares in the amount totaling the entire $100 million approved under the 2007 Authorization. Under the 2010 Authorization, the Company has repurchased and retired 1,686,830 shares, or approximately $41.1 million, of its common stock at an average price of $24.37 per share. The total remaining capacity under this authorization was approximately $58.9 million as of October 1, 2011. This authorization has no expiration date.

The Company did not repurchase any shares of its common stock during the three and nine-month periods ended October 1, 2011. During the first nine months of fiscal 2010, beginning in the third quarter, the Company repurchased and retired 1,837,450 shares of its common stock at an average price of $24.00 per share. We have reduced common stock by the par value of such shares repurchased and have deducted the remaining excess repurchase price over par value from additional paid-in capital. Future repurchases may occur from time to time in the open market, in negotiated transactions, or otherwise. The timing and amount of any repurchases will be determined by the Company’s management, based on its evaluation of market conditions, share price, other investment priorities, and other factors.

NOTE 11 – STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION:

Under our Amended and Restated Equity Incentive Plan, the compensation committee of our Board of Directors may award incentive stock options (ISOs and non-ISOs), stock appreciation rights (SARs), restricted stock, unrestricted stock, stock deliverable on a deferred basis (including restricted stock units), and performance-based stock awards, intended to help defray the cost of awards. The fair value of time-based or performance-based stock option grants are estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing method with the following weighted-average assumptions used for grants issued during the nine-month period ended October 1, 2011.

	Assumptions

Volatility		34.97	%
Risk-free interest rate		2.67	%
Expected term (years)		6.8
Dividend yield		--

The fair value of restricted stock and restricted stock units (collectively, “restricted stock awards”) is determined based on the quoted closing price of our common stock on the date of grant.

CARTER’S, INC.

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

(unaudited)

NOTE 11 – STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION: (Continued)

The following table summarizes our stock option and restricted stock awards activity during the nine-month period ended October 1, 2011:

	Time-based stock options			Restricted stock awards

Outstanding, January 1, 2011		2,471,486			481,413

Granted		450,600			384,300
Exercised		(744,511	)		--
Vested restricted stock		--			(163,137	)
Forfeited		(100,600	)		(50,550	)
Expired		(16,200	)		--

Outstanding, October 1, 2011		2,060,775			652,026

Exercisable, October 1, 2011		1,085,163			--

During the three-month period ended October 1, 2011, we granted 46,500 time-based stock options with a weighted-average Black-Scholes fair value of $9.54 per share and a weighted-average exercise price of $30.17 per share. In connection with this grant, we recognized approximately $18,000 in stock-based compensation expense during the three-month period ended October 1, 2011.

During the nine-month period ended October 1, 2011, we granted 450,600 time-based stock options with a weighted-average Black-Scholes fair value of $11.79 per share and a weighted-average exercise price of $28.76 per share. In connection with these grants, we recognized approximately $651,000 in stock-based compensation expense during the nine-month period ended October 1, 2011.

During the three-month period ended October 1, 2011, we granted 40,000 shares of restricted stock awards to employees with a weighted-average fair value on the date of grant of $30.17 per share. In connection with these grants, we recognized approximately $48,000 in stock-based compensation expense during the three-month period ended October 1, 2011.

During the nine-month period ended October 1, 2011, we granted 384,300 shares of restricted stock awards to employees with a weighted-average fair value on the date of grant of $28.85 per share. In connection with these grants, we recognized approximately $1,332,000 in stock-based compensation expense during the nine-month period ended October 1, 2011.

Unrecognized stock-based compensation expense related to outstanding unvested stock options and unvested restricted stock awards is expected to be recorded as follows:

(dollars in thousands)	Time-based stock options		Restricted stock awards		Total

2011 (period from October 2 through December 31, 2011)	$	863	$	1,290	$	2,153
2012		3,074		4,843		7,917
2013		2,355		3,823		6,178
2014		1,347		2,680		4,027
Total	$	7,639	$	12,636	$	20,275

CARTER’S, INC.

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

(unaudited)

NOTE 12 – SEGMENT INFORMATION:

We report segment information in accordance with accounting guidance on segment reporting, which requires segment information to be disclosed based upon a “management approach.” The management approach refers to the internal reporting that is used by management for making operating decisions and assessing the performance of our reportable segments. We report our corporate expenses and acquisition-related expenses separately as they are not included in the internal measures of segment operating performance used by the Company in order to measure the underlying performance of our reportable segments.

In light of the Acquisition, the Company reevaluated and realigned certain of its reportable segments. As a result, the Company’s reportable segments include a new international segment reflecting our new Canadian operations, our existing international wholesale business, and royalty income from our international licensees. In addition, the Company combined its historical mass channel segments with its wholesale segments. The Company believes these changes in segment reporting better reflect how its five business segments, Carter’s wholesale, Carter’s retail, OshKosh retail, OshKosh wholesale, and international, are managed and how each segment’s performance is evaluated. Effective October 1, 2011, the Company changed its segment presentation to reflect this new structure, and recast all prior periods presented to conform to the new presentation.

The table below presents certain segment information for the periods indicated:

	For the three-month periods ended																For the nine-month periods ended
(dollars in thousands)	October 1, 2011				% of Total			October 2, 2010			% of Total			October 1, 2011				% of Total			October 2, 2010			% of Total
Net sales:

Carter’s Wholesale	$	288,775				45.1	%	$	251,943			48.7	%	$	703,028				46.7	%	$	603,599			48.1	%
Carter’s Retail (a)		184,498				28.9	%		150,838			29.1	%		465,281				31.0	%		382,570			30.5	%
Total Carter’s		473,273				74.0	%		402,781			77.8	%		1,168,309				77.7	%		986,169			78.6	%

OshKosh Retail (a)		80,472				12.6	%		77,946			15.0	%		191,578				12.7	%		185,050			14.8	%
OshKosh Wholesale		26,472				4.1	%		25,810			5.0	%		61,248				4.1	%		55,935			4.5	%
Total OshKosh		106,944				16.7	%		103,756			20.0	%		252,826				16.8	%		240,985			19.3	%

International (b)		59,400				9.3	%		11,391			2.2	%		81,970				5.5	%		26,832			2.1	%

Total net sales	$	639,617				100.0	%	$	517,928			100.0	%	$	1,503,105				100.0	%	$	1,253,986			100.0	%

Operating income (loss):					% of segment net sales						% of segment net sales								% of segment net sales						% of segment net sales

Carter’s Wholesale	$	33,023				11.4	%	$	44,496			17.7	%	$	90,603				12.9	%	$	122,407			20.3	%
Carter’s Retail (a)		25,698				13.9	%		31,579			20.9	%		72,897				15.7	%		76,405			20.0	%

Total Carter’s		58,721				12.4	%		76,075			18.9	%		163,500				14.0	%		198,812			20.2	%

OshKosh Retail (a)		2,154				2.7	%		9,420			12.1	%		(10,079	)			(5.3	%)		10,474			5.7	%
OshKosh Wholesale		362				1.4	%		3,855			14.9	%		(260	)			(0.4	%)		4,476			8.0	%

Total OshKosh		2,516				2.4	%		13,275			12.8	%		(10,339	)			(4.1	%)		14,950			6.2	%

International (b)		7,919		(c)		13.3	%		5,567			48.9	%		16,500		(c)		20.1	%		12,794			47.7	%

Segment operating income		69,156				10.8	%		94,917			18.3	%		169,661				11.3	%		226,556			18.1	%

Corporate expenses (d)		(12,391	)	(e)		(1.9	%)		(15,039	)		(2.9	%)		(37,240	)	(e)		(2.5	%)		(42,086	)		(3.4	%)

Total operating income	$	56,765				8.9	%	$	79,878			15.4	%	$	132,421				8.8	%	$	184,470			14.7	%

(a)	Includes eCommerce results.

(b)	Includes international retail and wholesale sales, and international licensing income.

(c)	Includes $5.9 million related to the amortization of the fair value step-up for Bonnie Togs inventory acquired and a $1.0 million charge associated with the revaluation of the Company’s contingent consideration.

(d)	Corporate expenses generally include expenses related to incentive compensation, stock-based compensation, executive management, severance and relocation, finance, building occupancy, information technology, certain legal fees, consulting, and audit fees.

(e)	Includes $0.1 million and $2.3 million of professional service fees associated with the Acquisition for the three and nine-month periods ended October 1, 2011, respectively.

CARTER’S, INC.

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

(unaudited)

NOTE 13 – EARNINGS PER SHARE:

The Company calculates basic and diluted net income per common share in accordance with accounting guidance which requires earnings per share to be calculated pursuant to the two-class method for unvested share-based payment awards that contain non-forfeitable rights to dividends or dividend equivalents (whether paid or unpaid).

Basic net income per share is calculated by dividing net income for the period by the weighted-average common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted net income per share includes the effect of dilutive instruments, such as stock options and restricted stock awards, and uses the average share price for the period in determining the number of shares that are to be added to the weighted-average number of shares outstanding.

The following is a reconciliation of basic common shares outstanding to diluted common and common equivalent shares outstanding:

	For the three-month periods ended						For the nine-month periods ended
	October 1, 2011			October 2, 2010			October 1, 2011			October 2, 2010

Weighted-average number of common and common equivalent shares outstanding:
Basic number of common shares outstanding		57,729,572			58,325,162			57,366,529			58,513,228
Dilutive effect of unvested restricted stock awards		121,633			89,931			108,577			111,110
Dilutive effect of stock options		464,846			599,598			599,805			781,849
Diluted number of common and common equivalent shares outstanding		58,316,051			59,014,691			58,074,911			59,406,187

Basic net income per common share:
Net income	$	34,449,000		$	49,657,000		$	79,231,000		$	111,578,000
Income allocated to participating securities		(384,738	)		(427,084	)		(890,416	)		(956,589	)
Net income available to common shareholders	$	34,064,262		$	49,229,916		$	78,340,584		$	110,621,411

Basic net income per common share	$	0.59		$	0.84		$	1.37		$	1.89

Diluted net income per common share:
Net income	$	34,449,000		$	49,657,000		$	79,231,000		$	111,578,000
Income allocated to participating securities		(381,699	)		(422,775	)		(881,305	)		(944,082	)
Net income available to common shareholders	$	34,067,301		$	49,234,225		$	78,349,695		$	110,633,918

Diluted net income per common share	$	0.58		$	0.83		$	1.35		$	1.86

For the three and nine-month periods ended October 1, 2011, anti-dilutive shares of 963,925 were excluded from the computations of diluted earnings per share. For the three and nine-month periods ended October 2, 2010, anti-dilutive shares of 673,804 and 601,404, respectively, were excluded from the computations of diluted earnings per share.

CARTER’S, INC.

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

(unaudited)

NOTE 14 – RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS:

In May 2011, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued updated accounting guidance related to fair value measurements and disclosures that result in common fair value measurements and disclosures between GAAP and International Financial Reporting Standards. This guidance includes amendments that clarify the intent about the application of existing fair value measurements and disclosures, while other amendments change a principle or requirement for fair value measurements or disclosures. This guidance is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2011. The Company does not believe the adoption of this guidance will have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.

In June 2011, the FASB issued guidance to amend the presentation of comprehensive income to allow an entity the option to present the total of comprehensive income, the components of net income, and the components of other comprehensive income either in a single continuous statement of comprehensive income or in two separate but consecutive statements. In both choices, an entity is required to present each component of net income along with total net income, each component of other comprehensive income along with a total for other comprehensive income, and a total amount for comprehensive income. The guidance eliminates the option to present the components of other comprehensive income as part of the statement of changes in stockholders' equity. This guidance is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2011, and is to be applied retrospectively. The Company will include such disclosures in our first quarter of fiscal 2012 quarterly report.

In September 2011, the FASB issued new guidance on testing goodwill for impairment. This guidance gives companies the option to perform a qualitative assessment to first assess whether the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. If an entity determines it is not more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, then performing the two-step impairment test is unnecessary. This guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2011. The Company does not believe the adoption of this guidance will have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.

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

The following is a discussion of our results of operations and current financial position. This discussion should be read in conjunction with our unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements and the accompanying notes included elsewhere in this quarterly report.

On June 30, 2011, Northstar Canadian Operations Corp. (“Northstar”), a newly formed Canadian corporation and a wholly owned subsidiary of The William Carter Company (a wholly owned subsidiary of Carter’s, Inc.), purchased all of the outstanding shares of capital stock of Bonnie Togs (the “Acquisition”) for total consideration of up to CAD $95 million. CAD $60 million was paid in cash at closing. Such payment is subject to post-closing adjustments. The sellers may also be paid contingent consideration ranging from zero to CAD $35 million if the Canadian business meets certain earnings targets for the period beginning July 1, 2011 and ending on June 27, 2015. Sellers may receive a portion of the contingent consideration of up to CAD $25 million if interim earnings targets are met through June 2013 and June 2014, respectively. Any such payments are not recoverable by the Company in the event of any failure to meet overall targets.

As of July 2, 2011, the Company had included a discounted contingent consideration liability of approximately $24 million in its unaudited condensed consolidated balance sheet based upon the high probability that Bonnie Togs will attain its earnings targets. The fair value of the discounted contingent consideration liability as of October 1, 2011 was approximately $23 million and is included in other long-term liabilities on the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated balance sheet. The $1.0 million change in the fair value of the liability is reflected as $1.0 million in accretion expense and $2.0 million in other comprehensive income resulting from a favorable foreign currency translation adjustment. The Company determined the fair value of the contingent consideration based upon a probability-weighted discounted cash flow analysis. The Company will continue to revalue the contingent consideration at each reporting date.

Our unaudited condensed consolidated statements of operations for the three and nine-month periods ended October 1, 2011 include the results of Bonnie Togs effective July 3, 2011.

ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS: (Continued)

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated (i) selected statement of operations data expressed as a percentage of net sales and (ii) the number of retail stores open at the end of each period:

	Three-month periods ended						Nine-month periods ended
	October 1, 2011			October 2, 2010			October 1, 2011			October 2, 2010

Net sales

Carter’s Wholesale		45.1	%		48.7	%		46.7	%		48.1	%
Carter’s Retail		28.9			29.1			31.0			30.5
Total Carter’s		74.0			77.8			77.7			78.6

OshKosh Retail		12.6			15.0			12.7			14.8
OshKosh Wholesale		4.1			5.0			4.1			4.5
Total OshKosh		16.7			20.0			16.8			19.3

International		9.3			2.2			5.5			2.1

Consolidated net sales		100.0			100.0			100.0			100.0
Cost of goods sold		70.0			62.8			67.8			60.9

Gross profit		30.0			37.2			32.2			39.1
Selling, general, and administrative expenses		22.8			23.8			25.3			26.6
Royalty income		(1.7	)		(2.0	)		(1.9	)		(2.2	)

Operating income		8.9			15.4			8.8			14.7
Interest expense, net		0.3			0.3			0.3			0.5
Foreign currency gain		--			--			--			--

Income before income taxes		8.6			15.1			8.5			14.2
Provision for income taxes		3.2			5.5			3.2			5.3

Net income		5.4	%		9.6	%		5.3	%		8.9	%

Number of retail stores at end of period:
Carter’s		351			297			351			297
OshKosh		176			177			176			177
Bonnie Togs		37			--			37			--
Carter’s/OshKosh stores		27			--			27			--
Total		591			474			591			474

ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS: (Continued)

Three and nine-month periods ended October 1, 2011 compared to the three and nine-month periods ended October 2, 2010

CONSOLIDATED NET SALES

In the third quarter of fiscal 2011, consolidated net sales increased $121.7 million, or 23.5%, to $639.6 million. In the first nine months of fiscal 2011, consolidated net sales increased $249.1 million, or 19.9%, to $1.5 billion. The increases in consolidated net sales for the third quarter and first nine months of fiscal 2011 reflect the acquisition of Bonnie Togs and growth in all segments.

	For the three-month periods ended										For the nine-month periods ended
(dollars in thousands)	October 1, 2011		% of Total			October 2, 2010		% of Total			October 1, 2011		% of Total			October 2, 2010		% of Total

Net sales:
Carter’s Wholesale	$	288,775		45.1	%	$	251,943		48.7	%	$	703,028		46.7	%	$	603,599		48.1	%
Carter’s Retail		184,498		28.9	%		150,838		29.1	%		465,281		31.0	%		382,570		30.5	%
Total Carter’s		473,273		74.0	%		402,781		77.8	%		1,168,309		77.7	%		986,169		78.6	%

OshKosh Retail		80,472		12.6	%		77,946		15.0	%		191,578		12.7	%		185,050		14.8	%
OshKosh Wholesale		26,472		4.1	%		25,810		5.0	%		61,248		4.1	%		55,935		4.5	%
Total OshKosh		106,944		16.7	%		103,756		20.0	%		252,826		16.8	%		240,985		19.3	%
International		59,400		9.3	%		11,391		2.2	%		81,970		5.5	%		26,832		2.1	%
Total net sales	$	639,617		100.0	%	$	517,928		100.0	%	$	1,503,105		100.0	%	$	1,253,986		100.0	%

CARTER’S WHOLESALE SALES

Carter’s wholesale sales increased $36.8 million, or 14.6%, in the third quarter of fiscal 2011 to $288.8 million. This growth was driven primarily by an 8% increase in units shipped and a 6% increase in average price per unit, as compared to the third quarter of fiscal 2010.

Carter’s wholesale sales increased $99.4 million, or 16.5%, in the first nine months of fiscal 2011 to $703.0 million. This growth was driven primarily by a 13% increase in units shipped and a 3% increase in average price per unit, as compared to the first nine months of fiscal 2010.

The increases in units shipped in both periods were driven by continued strong demand for our Carter’s, Child of Mine, Just One You, and Precious Firsts product offerings and an increase in shipments in the off-price channel. The increases in average price per unit in both periods were driven by higher prices on our product offerings.

CARTER’S RETAIL SALES

Carter’s retail store sales increased $33.7 million, or 22.3%, in the third quarter of fiscal 2011 to $184.5 million. The increase was driven by incremental sales of $15.9 million generated by new store openings, $10.9 million generated by eCommerce sales, and a comparable store sales increase of $7.9 million, or 5.5%, partially offset by the impact of store closings of $0.8 million. On a comparable store basis, average prices increased 7.8% primarily on our Fall product offerings and transactions decreased 2.6% due primarily to a decline in consumer traffic.

Carter’s retail store sales increased $82.7 million, or 21.6%, in the first nine months of fiscal 2011 to $465.3 million. The increase was driven by incremental sales of $37.7 million generated by new store openings, $27.8 million generated by eCommerce sales, and a comparable store sales increase of $18.1 million, or 4.9%, partially offset by the impact of store closings of $0.8 million. On a comparable store basis, average prices increased 3.6% on our product offerings and transactions decreased 1.8% due primarily to a decline in consumer traffic.

ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS: (Continued)

The Company’s comparable store sales calculations include sales for all stores that were open during the comparable fiscal period, including remodeled stores, and certain relocated stores. If a store relocates within the same center with no business interruption or material change in square footage, the sales of such store will continue to be included in the comparable store calculation. If a store relocates to another center, or there is a material change in square footage, such store is treated as a new store. Stores that are closed during the period are included in the comparable store sales calculation up to the last full fiscal month of operations.

During the third quarter of fiscal 2011, the Company opened 23 Carter’s retail stores. During the first nine months of fiscal 2011, the Company opened 47 and closed two Carter’s retail stores. There were a total of 351 Carter’s retail stores as of October 1, 2011. In total, the Company plans to open 55 Carter’s retail stores during fiscal 2011 and anticipates no additional store closures in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2011.

OSHKOSH RETAIL SALES

OshKosh retail store sales increased $2.5 million, or 3.2%, in the third quarter of fiscal 2011 to $80.5 million. The increase reflects incremental sales of $3.3 million generated by eCommerce sales and $2.5 million generated by new store openings, partially offset by a comparable store sales decrease of $1.7 million, or 2.3%, and the impact of store closings of $1.6 million. On a comparable store basis, average prices increased 4.3%, primarily on our Fall product offerings and transactions decreased 6.9% due to a decline in consumer traffic.

OshKosh retail store sales increased $6.5 million, or 3.5%, in the first nine months of fiscal 2011 to $191.6 million. The increase reflects incremental sales of $8.2 million generated by eCommerce sales and $7.3 million generated by new store openings, partially offset by a comparable store sales decrease of $5.8 million, or 3.3%, and the impact of store closings of $3.2 million. On a comparable store basis, transactions decreased 4.8% due to a decline in consumer traffic and average prices decreased 0.9% reflecting higher levels of promotional activity.

During the third quarter of fiscal 2011, the Company opened one and closed two OshKosh retail stores. During the first nine months of fiscal 2011, the Company opened three and closed seven OshKosh retail stores. There were a total of 176 OshKosh retail stores as of October 1, 2011. In total, the Company plans to open three and close 13 OshKosh retail stores during fiscal 2011.

OSHKOSH WHOLESALE SALES

OshKosh wholesale sales increased $0.7 million, or 2.6%, in the third quarter of fiscal 2011 to $26.5 million. This increase reflects an 11% increase in average price per unit, partially offset by a 7% decrease in units shipped as compared to the third quarter of fiscal 2010.

OshKosh wholesale sales increased $5.3 million, or 9.5%, in the first nine months of fiscal 2011 to $61.2 million. This increase reflects a 6% increase in average price per unit and a 3% increase in units shipped as compared to the first nine months of fiscal 2010.

The increases in average price per unit primarily reflect higher average selling prices on our Fall product offerings as compared to the third quarter and first nine months of fiscal 2010. The decrease in units shipped during the third quarter of fiscal 2011 was due to a decrease in units shipped to our regular-priced wholesale customers. The increase in units shipped during the first nine months of fiscal 2011 was primarily driven by an increase in shipments to our off-price customers.

INTERNATIONAL SALES

International sales increased $48.0 million, or 421.5%, in the third quarter of fiscal 2011 to $59.4 million. The increase reflects the Acquisition in the current year and higher international wholesale sales driven primarily by the expansion in our multi-national accounts and growth primarily in the Middle East.

International sales increased $55.1 million, or 205.5%, in the first nine months of fiscal 2011 to $82.0 million. The increase reflects the Acquisition in the current year and higher international wholesale sales. We operate a total of 37 Bonnie Togs and 27 Carter’s/OshKosh retail stores as of October 1, 2011. In total, the Company plans to open one Carter’s/OshKosh retail store and anticipates no store closures in Canada in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2011.

ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS: (Continued)

GROSS PROFIT

Our gross profit decreased $0.9 million, or 0.5%, to $191.9 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2011. Gross margin decreased 720 basis points from 37.2% in the third quarter of fiscal 2010 to 30.0% in the third quarter of fiscal 2011. Our gross profit decreased $5.4 million, or 1.1%, to $484.4 million in the first nine months of fiscal 2011. Gross margin decreased 690 basis points from 39.1% in the first nine months of fiscal 2010 to 32.2% in the first nine months of fiscal 2011.

The decline in gross profit as a percentage of net sales primarily reflects higher product costs of approximately $70 million and $120 million, in the third quarter and first nine months of fiscal 2011, respectively. The product cost increases are primarily related to increases in cotton prices and labor rates and were partially offset by selective price increases. In addition, the third quarter and first nine months of fiscal 2011 includes an amortization charge of approximately $5.9 million related to a fair value step-up of inventory acquired at the Acquisition and sold during the third quarter of fiscal 2011.

The Company includes distribution costs in its selling, general, and administrative expenses. Accordingly, the Company’s gross profit may not be comparable to other companies that include such distribution costs in their cost of goods sold.

SELLING, GENERAL, AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES

Selling, general, and administrative expenses in the third quarter of fiscal 2011 increased $22.3 million, or 18.1%, to $145.6 million. As a percentage of net sales, selling, general, and administrative expenses in the third quarter of fiscal 2011 decreased to 22.8% from 23.8% in the third quarter of fiscal 2010.

Selling, general, and administrative expenses in the first nine months of fiscal 2011 increased $47.0 million, or 14.1%, to $380.1 million. As a percentage of net sales, selling, general, and administrative expenses in the first nine months of fiscal 2011 decreased to 25.3% from 26.6% in the first nine months of fiscal 2010.

The improvements in selling, general, and administrative expenses as a percentage of net sales reflect:

·	a 100 basis points decrease (from 12.2% to 11.2%) in our U.S. retail store expenses as compared to the third quarter of fiscal 2010 and an 80 basis points decrease (from 14.2% to 13.4%) as compared to the first nine months of fiscal 2010;

·	$3.2 million and $7.3 million in lower provisions for performance-based compensation for the third quarter and first nine months of fiscal 2011, respectively; and

·	controlling growth in spending to a lower rate than growth in net sales.

Partially offsetting these reductions were:

·	$9.8 million in Bonnie Togs expenses and $1.0 million of accretion expense associated with the revaluation of the Bonnie Togs contingent consideration;

·	$3.1 million and $9.5 million in incremental operating expenses during the third quarter and first nine months of fiscal 2011, respectively, associated with the growth of the eCommerce business; and

·	$0.1 million and $2.3 million of Bonnie Togs acquisition-related expenses during the third quarter and first nine months of fiscal 2011, respectively.

ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS: (Continued)

ROYALTY INCOME

We license the use of our Carter’s, Just One You, Child of Mine, OshKosh B’gosh, OshKosh, and Genuine Kids from OshKosh brand names. Royalty income from these brands in the third quarter of fiscal 2011 was approximately $10.5 million (including $1.9 million of international royalty income), an increase of $0.1 million, or 0.9%, as compared to the third quarter of fiscal 2010. The increase for third quarter was driven by increased sales by our OshKosh and Child of Mine brand licensees, partially offset by lower international royalties due to the Acquisition. Prospectively, the Company’s international royalty income will no longer include royalty income from Bonnie Togs.

Royalty income from these brands in the first nine months of fiscal 2011 was approximately $28.1 million (including $6.9 million of international royalty income), an increase of $0.4 million, or 1.5%, as compared to the first nine months of fiscal 2010. The increase for the first nine months of fiscal 2011 was driven by increased sales by our Genuine Kids from OshKosh brand licensee and our Carter’s and OshKosh brand international licensees, partially offset by lower levels of licensed sales of our Child of Mine brand and the absence of royalty income from Bonnie Togs during the third quarter of fiscal 2011.

OPERATING INCOME

Operating income decreased $23.1 million, or 28.9%, to $56.8 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2011. Operating income decreased $52.0 million, or 28.2%, to $132.4 million in the first nine months of fiscal 2011. The decreases in operating income were due to the factors described above.

INTEREST EXPENSE, NET

Interest expense in the third quarter of fiscal 2011 increased $0.1 million, or 8.4%, to $1.7 million, compared to the third quarter of fiscal 2010. The increase is primarily attributable to higher weighted-average borrowings and a higher effective interest rate. Weighted-average borrowings in the third quarter of fiscal 2011 were $236.0 million at an effective interest rate of 3.15%, including amortization of debt issuance costs, as compared to weighted-average borrowings in the third quarter of fiscal 2010 of $232.8 million at an effective interest rate of 3.00%, including amortization of debt issuance costs. In the third quarter of fiscal 2010, we recorded $0.3 million in interest expense related to our interest rate swap agreements.

Interest expense in the first nine months of fiscal 2011 decreased $1.4 million, or 20.5%, to $5.3 million, compared to the first nine months of fiscal 2010. The decrease is primarily attributable to lower weighted-average borrowings. Weighted-average borrowings in the first nine months of fiscal 2011 were $236.0 million at an effective interest rate of 3.19%, including amortization of debt issuance costs, as compared to weighted-average borrowings in the first nine months of fiscal 2010 of $299.2 million at an effective interest rate of 3.15%, including amortization of debt issuance costs. In the first nine months of fiscal 2010, we recorded $1.4 million in interest expense related to our interest rate swap agreements and a $0.5 million write-off of debt issuance costs related to the prepayment of a portion of our term loan debt.

FOREIGN CURRENCY GAIN

As part of the Acquisition, the Company entered into a forward foreign currency exchange contract to reduce its risk from exchange rate fluctuations on the purchase price of Bonnie Togs. The contract was settled on June 30, 2011 and a gain of $0.2 million was recognized in earnings during the second quarter of fiscal 2011. In addition, during the third quarter of fiscal 2011, the Company recorded $0.1 million net gain related to the mark-to-market of open foreign currency exchange contracts and Bonnie Togs’ foreign denominated payables.

INCOME TAXES

Our effective tax rate was 37.5% for the third quarter of fiscal 2011 as compared to 36.6% for the third quarter of fiscal 2010, due primarily to the impact of certain non-deductible costs associated with the Acquisition. Our effective tax rate was 37.8% for the first nine months of fiscal 2011 and 37.2% for the first nine months of fiscal 2010.

ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS: (Continued)

NET INCOME

As a result of the factors described above, our net income for the third quarter of fiscal 2011 decreased $15.2 million, or 30.6%, to $34.4 million as compared to $49.7 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2010. Our net income for the first nine months of fiscal 2011 decreased $32.3 million, or 29.0%, to $79.2 million as compared to $111.6 million in the first nine months of fiscal 2010.

FINANCIAL CONDITION, CAPITAL RESOURCES, AND LIQUIDITY

Our primary cash needs are working capital and capital expenditures. Our primary source of liquidity will continue to be cash and cash equivalents on hand, cash flow from operations, and borrowings under our revolving credit facility, and we expect that these sources will fund our ongoing requirements for working capital and capital expenditures. These sources of liquidity may be impacted by events described in our risk factors, as further discussed in Part II, Item 1A of this filing.

Net accounts receivable at October 1, 2011 were $214.6 million compared to $171.5 million at October 2, 2010 and $121.5 million at January 1, 2011. The increase of $43.1 million, or 25.1%, as compared to October 2, 2010 primarily reflects increased wholesale sales in the third quarter of fiscal 2011 as compared to the third quarter of fiscal 2010. Due to the seasonal nature of our operations, the net accounts receivable balance at October 1, 2011 is not comparable to the net accounts receivable balance at January 1, 2011.

Net inventories at October 1, 2011 were $386.0 million compared to $263.8 million at October 2, 2010 and $298.5 million at January 1, 2011. The increase of $122.2 million, or 46.3%, as compared to October 2, 2010 is primarily due to higher product costs, the Acquisition, and business growth and operational improvements. Due to the seasonal nature of our operations, net inventories at October 1, 2011 are not comparable to net inventories at January 1, 2011.

Product costs can vary depending on the underlying cost of raw materials, such as cotton and polyester, and the level of labor and transportation costs. A substantial portion of the Company’s products utilize cotton based fabrics, the cost of which has recently reached historically high levels. Additionally, labor costs have increased across Asia, particularly in China, where the Company currently sources approximately 50% of its products. The Company purchases finished goods largely from foreign suppliers and pays its suppliers in U.S. currency. Consequently, the Company’s product costs have been adversely impacted by the devaluation of the U.S. dollar relative to foreign currencies. These inflationary and currency risk factors have resulted in higher costs of goods sold and inventory levels, and have adversely impacted our profitability and cash flows from operations. We expect that higher product costs will continue to adversely impact our profitability and cash flow through at least the first half of fiscal 2012.

Net cash used in operating activities for the first nine months of fiscal 2011 was $85.8 million compared to net cash provided by operating activities of $5.2 million in the first nine months of fiscal 2010. The decrease in operating cash flow primarily reflects changes in net working capital and decreased earnings.

We invested $29.2 million in capital expenditures during the first nine of fiscal 2011 compared to $29.5 million during the first nine months of fiscal 2010. We plan to invest approximately $50 million in capital expenditures during fiscal 2011, primarily for retail store openings and investments in information technology.

On February 16, 2007, the Company’s Board of Directors approved a share repurchase authorization, pursuant to which the Company was authorized to purchase up to $100 million of its outstanding common shares (the “2007 Authorization”). On June 15, 2010, the Company’s Board of Directors approved a new share repurchase authorization, pursuant to which the Company is authorized to purchase up to an additional $100 million of its outstanding common shares (the “2010 Authorization”). The Company has completed repurchase of outstanding shares in the amount totaling the entire $100 million approved under the 2007 Authorization. Under the 2010 Authorization, the Company has repurchased and retired 1,686,830 shares, or approximately $41.1 million, of its common stock at an average price of $24.37 per share. We have reduced common stock by the par value of such shares repurchased and have deducted the remaining excess repurchase price over par value from additional paid-in capital. The total remaining capacity under this authorization was approximately $58.9 million as of October 1, 2011. The 2010 Authorization has no expiration date.

ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS: (Continued)

At October 1, 2011, we had approximately $236.0 million in revolver borrowings, exclusive of $13.8 million of outstanding letters of credit. Weighted-average borrowings in the first nine months of fiscal 2011 were $236.0 million at an effective interest rate of 3.19%, including amortization of debt issuance costs, as compared to weighted-average borrowings in the first nine months of fiscal 2010 of $299.2 million at an effective interest rate of 3.15%, including amortization of debt issuance costs.

Our operating results are subject to risk from interest rate fluctuations on our revolving credit facility, which carries variable interest rates. As of October 1, 2011, our outstanding variable rate debt aggregated approximately $236.0 million. An increase or decrease of 1% in the applicable rate would increase or decrease our annual interest cost by approximately $2.4 million and could have an adverse effect on our net income (loss) and cash flow.

On June 30, 2011, Northstar purchased all of the outstanding shares of capital stock of Bonnie Togs for total consideration of up to CAD $95 million. CAD $60 million was paid in cash at closing. Such payment is subject to post-closing adjustments. The sellers may also be paid contingent consideration ranging from zero to CAD $35 million if the Canadian business meets certain earnings targets for the period beginning July 1, 2011 and ending on June 27, 2015. Sellers may receive a portion of the contingent consideration of up to CAD $25 million if interim earnings targets are met through June 2013 and June 2014, respectively. Any such payments are not recoverable in the event of any failure to meet overall targets.

ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS: (Continued)

Based on our current outlook, we believe that cash generated from operations and available cash, together with amounts available under our revolving credit facility, will be adequate to meet our working capital needs and capital expenditure requirements for the foreseeable future, although no assurance can be given in this regard. We may, however, need to refinance all or a portion of the principal amount, if any, outstanding under our revolving credit facility on or before October 15, 2015.

EFFECTS OF INFLATION AND DEFLATION

The Company is subject to both inflationary and deflationary risks. With respect to inflation, the Company is experiencing higher product costs, driven by increases in underlying component costs, such as cotton, polyester, labor rates, and transportation costs. The Company expects product costs will remain at elevated levels or increase further for at least the first half of fiscal 2012. The Company’s product costs have also been adversely impacted by the devaluation of the U.S. dollar relative to foreign currencies. These inflationary and currency risk factors have resulted in higher costs of goods sold and inventory levels. Although we have raised our selling prices on some of our products, we do not expect in the near term to be able to fully absorb these cost increases and our profitability will be adversely impacted.

In recent years, the Company has also experienced deflationary pressure on its selling prices, in part driven by intense price competition in the young children’s apparel industry. In this environment there is a risk that customers will not accept our price increases. If the Company is unable to effectively raise selling prices to help offset higher production costs, the adverse effect on our profitability may be even greater than anticipated.

SEASONALITY

We experience seasonal fluctuations in our sales and profitability due to the timing of certain holidays and key retail shopping periods, generally resulting in lower sales and gross profit in the first half of our fiscal year. Our consolidated net sales over the past five fiscal years have typically been generated in the second half of our fiscal year (approximately 57%). Accordingly, our results of operations during the first half of the year may not be indicative of the results we expect for the full year.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES

Our discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations are based upon our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. The preparation of these financial statements requires us to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues, expenses, and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that we believe are reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions.

Our significant accounting policies are described in Note 2 to our audited consolidated financial statements contained in our most recently filed Annual Report on Form 10-K. The following discussion addresses our critical accounting policies and estimates, which are those policies that require management’s most difficult and subjective judgments, often as a result of the need to make estimates about the effect of matters that are inherently uncertain.

ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS: (Continued)

Revenue recognition: We recognize wholesale and eCommerce revenue after shipment of products to customers, when title passes, when all risks and rewards of ownership have transferred, the sales price is fixed or determinable, and collectability is reasonably assured. In certain cases, in which we retain the risk of loss during shipment, revenue recognition does not occur until the goods have reached the specified customer. In the normal course of business, we grant certain accommodations and allowances to our wholesale customers to assist these customers with inventory clearance or promotions. Such amounts are reflected as a reduction of net sales and are recorded based upon agreements with customers, historical trends, and annual forecasts. Retail store revenues are recognized at the point of sale. We reduce revenue for estimated customer returns and deductions. We also maintain an allowance for doubtful accounts for estimated losses resulting from the inability of our customers to make payments and other actual and estimated deductions. If the financial condition of our customers were to deteriorate, resulting in an impairment of their ability to make payments, an additional allowance could be required. Past due balances over 90 days are reviewed individually for collectability. Our credit and collections department reviews all other balances regularly. Account balances are charged off against the allowance when we believe it is probable the receivable will not be recovered.

We contract with a third-party service to provide us with the fair value of cooperative advertising arrangements entered into with certain of our major wholesale customers. Such fair value is determined based upon, among other factors, comparable market analysis for similar advertisements. In accordance with accounting guidance on consideration given by a vendor to a customer/reseller, we have included the fair value of these arrangements of approximately $0.1 million and $2.1 million in the third quarter and first nine months of fiscal 2011, respectively, and $0.7 million and $2.4 million in the third quarter and first nine months of fiscal 2010, respectively, as a component of selling, general, and administrative expenses on the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated statements of operations rather than as a reduction of revenue. Amounts determined to be in excess of the fair value of these arrangements are recorded as a reduction of net sales.

Inventory: We provide reserves for slow-moving inventory equal to the difference between the cost of inventory and the estimated market value based upon assumptions about future demand and market conditions. If actual market conditions are less favorable than we project, additional write-downs may be required.

Goodwill and tradename: As of October 1, 2011, we had approximately $186.5 million in Carter’s and Bonnie Togs goodwill and $306.2 million of aggregate value related to the Carter’s, OshKosh, and Bonnie Togs tradename assets. The fair value of the Carter’s tradename was estimated using a discounted cash flow analysis at the time of the acquisition of Carter’s, Inc. which was consummated on August 15, 2001. The particular discounted cash flow approach utilized the hypothetical cost savings that accrue as a result of our ownership of the tradename. The fair value of the OshKosh tradename was estimated at its acquisition date, July 14, 2005, using an identical discounted cash flow analysis. The Carter’s and OshKosh tradenames were determined to have indefinite lives. The Bonnie Togs tradename was estimated using a relief from royalty analysis at the time of acquisition on June 30, 2011. The Bonnie Togs tradename was determined to have a definite life and will be amortized over a period of two years.

The carrying values of the goodwill and tradename assets are subject to annual impairment reviews in accordance with accounting guidance on goodwill and other intangible assets, as of the last day of each fiscal year. Impairment reviews may also be triggered by any significant events or changes in circumstances affecting our business. Factors affecting such impairment reviews include the continued market acceptance of our offered products and the development of new products. We use discounted cash flow models to determine the fair value of these assets, using assumptions we believe hypothetical marketplace participants would use. For indefinite-lived intangible assets, if the carrying amount exceeds the fair value, an impairment charge is recognized in the amount equal to that excess. We do not believe there were any triggering events as of October 1, 2011 that would require us to perform an updated impairment review.

ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS: (Continued)

We perform impairment tests of our goodwill at our reporting unit level, which is consistent with our operating segments. The goodwill impairment test consists of a two-step process, if necessary. The first step is to compare the fair value of a reporting unit to its carrying value, including goodwill. We use discounted cash flow models to determine the fair value of a reporting unit. The assumptions used in these models are consistent with those we believe hypothetical marketplace participants would use. If the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying value, the second step of the impairment test must be performed in order to determine the amount of impairment loss, if any. The second step compares the implied fair value of the reporting unit goodwill with the carrying amount of that goodwill. If the carrying amount of the reporting unit’s goodwill exceeds its implied fair value, an impairment charge is recognized in an amount equal to that excess. The loss recognized cannot exceed the carrying amount of goodwill.

A deterioration of macroeconomic conditions may not only negatively impact the estimated operating cash flows used in our cash flow models, but may also negatively impact other assumptions used in our analyses, including, but not limited to, the estimated cost of capital and/or discount rates. Additionally, as discussed above, in accordance with accounting guidance, we are required to ensure that assumptions used to determine fair value in our analyses are consistent with the assumptions a hypothetical marketplace participant would use. As a result, the cost of capital and/or discount rates used in our analyses may increase or decrease based on market conditions and trends, regardless of whether our actual cost of capital has changed. Therefore, we may recognize an impairment of an intangible asset or assets even though realized actual cash flows are approximately equal to or greater than our previously forecasted amounts.

Accrued expenses: Accrued expenses for workers’ compensation, incentive compensation, health insurance, and other outstanding obligations are assessed based on actual commitments, statistical trends, and estimates based on projections and current expectations, and these estimates are updated periodically as additional information becomes available.

Loss contingencies: We record accruals for various contingencies including legal exposures as they arise in the normal course of business. In accordance with accounting guidance on contingencies, we determine whether to disclose and accrue for loss contingencies based on an assessment of whether the risk of loss is remote, reasonably possible or probable. Our assessment is developed in consultation with our internal and external counsel and other advisors and is based on an analysis of possible outcomes under various strategies. Loss contingency assumptions involve judgments that are inherently subjective and can involve matters that are in litigation, which, by its nature is unpredictable. We believe that our assessment of the probability of loss contingencies is reasonable, but because of the subjectivity involved and the unpredictable nature of the subject matter at issue, our assessment may prove ultimately to be incorrect, which could materially impact our consolidated financial statements.

Accounting for income taxes: As part of the process of preparing the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements, we are required to estimate our actual current tax exposure (state, federal, and foreign). We assess our income tax positions and record tax benefits for all years subject to examination based upon management’s evaluation of the facts, circumstances, and information available at the reporting dates. For those uncertain tax positions where it is “more likely than not” that a tax benefit will be sustained, we have recorded the largest amount of tax benefit with a greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement with a taxing authority that has full knowledge of all relevant information. For those income tax positions where it is not “more likely than not” that a tax benefit will be sustained, no tax benefit has been recognized in the financial statements. Where applicable, associated interest is also recognized. We also assess permanent and temporary differences resulting from differing bases and treatment of items for tax and accounting purposes, such as the carrying value of intangibles, deductibility of expenses, depreciation of property, plant, and equipment, stock-based compensation expense, and valuation of inventories. Temporary differences result in deferred tax assets and liabilities, which are included within our consolidated balance sheets. We must then assess the likelihood that our deferred tax assets will be recovered from future taxable income. Actual results could differ from this assessment if sufficient taxable income is not generated in future periods. To the extent we determine the need to establish a valuation allowance or increase such allowance in a period, we must include an expense within the tax provision in the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated statements of operations.

Foreign currency: The functional currency of the Company’s foreign operations is the local currency. Assets and liabilities are translated into U.S. dollars using the current exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet date, while revenues and expenses are translated at the average exchange rates for the period. The resulting translation adjustments are recorded as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income within stockholders’ equity.

ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS: (Continued)

Employee benefit plans: We sponsor a defined contribution plan, a frozen defined benefit pension plan and other unfunded post-retirement plans. The defined benefit pension and post-retirement plans require an actuarial valuation to determine plan obligations and related periodic costs. We use independent actuaries to assist with these calculations. Plan valuations require economic assumptions, including expected rates of return on plan assets, discount rates to value plan obligations, employee demographic assumptions including mortality rates, and changes in health care costs. The actuarial assumptions used may differ materially from actual results due to changing market and economic conditions. Actual results that differ from the actuarial assumptions are reflected as unrecognized gains and losses. Unrecognized gains and losses that exceed 10% of the greater of the plan’s projected benefit obligations or market value of assets are amortized to earnings over the estimated service life of the remaining plan participants.

The most significant assumption used to determine the Company’s projected benefit obligation under its post-retirement life and medical plan under which retirement benefits were frozen in 1991 is the discount rate used to determine the plan’s projected benefit obligation.

See Note 7, “Employee Benefits Plans,” to our audited consolidated financial statements, in our most recently filed Annual Report in Form 10-K for further details on rates and assumptions.

Stock-based compensation arrangements: The Company accounts for stock-based compensation in accordance with the fair value recognition provisions of accounting guidance on share-based payments. The Company adopted this guidance using the modified prospective application method of transition. The Company uses the Black-Scholes option pricing model, which requires the use of subjective assumptions. These assumptions include the following:

Volatility – This is a measure of the amount by which a stock price has fluctuated or is expected to fluctuate. The Company uses actual monthly historical changes in the market value of our stock covering the expected life of stock options being valued. An increase in the expected volatility will increase compensation expense.

Risk-free interest rate – This is the U.S. Treasury rate as of the grant date having a term equal to the expected term of the stock option. An increase in the risk-free interest rate will increase compensation expense.

Expected term – This is the period of time over which the stock options granted are expected to remain outstanding and is based on historical experience and estimated future exercise behavior. Separate groups of employees that have similar historical exercise behavior are considered separately for valuation purposes. An increase in the expected term will increase compensation expense.

Dividend yield – The Company does not have plans to pay dividends in the foreseeable future. An increase in the dividend yield will decrease compensation expense.

Forfeitures – The Company estimates forfeitures of stock-based awards based on historical experience and expected future activity.

Changes in the subjective assumptions can materially affect the estimate of fair value of stock-based compensation and consequently, the related amount recognized in the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated statements of operations.

The Company accounts for its performance-based awards in accordance with accounting guidance on share-based payments and records stock-based compensation expense over the vesting term of the awards that are expected to vest based on whether it is probable that the performance criteria will be achieved. The Company reassesses the probability of vesting at each reporting period for awards with performance criteria and adjusts stock-based compensation expense based on its probability assessment.

ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS: (Continued)

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Statements contained herein that relate to our future performance, including, without limitation, statements with respect to our anticipated results of operations or level of business for fiscal 2011 or any other future period, are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements are based on current expectations only and are subject to certain risks, uncertainties, and assumptions. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those anticipated, estimated, or projected. These risks are described herein under Item 1A of Part II. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

CURRENCY AND INTEREST RATE RISKS

In the operation of our business, we have market risk exposures including those related to foreign currency risk and interest rates. These risks and our strategies to manage our exposure to them are discussed below.

We contract for production with third parties primarily in Asia and South and Central America. While these contracts are stated in United States dollars, there can be no assurance that the cost for the future production of our products will not be affected by exchange rate fluctuations between the United States dollar and the local currencies of these contractors. Due to the number of currencies involved, we cannot quantify the potential impact of future currency fluctuations on net income (loss) in future years. In order to manage this risk, we source products from over 100 vendors in 15 countries, providing us with flexibility in our production should significant fluctuations occur between the United States dollar and various local currencies. To date, such exchange fluctuations have not had a material impact on our financial condition or results of operations.

Transactions by our Canadian subsidiary may be denominated in a currency other than the entity’s functional currency, which is the Canadian dollar. Fluctuations in exchange rates, primarily between the United States dollar and the Canadian dollar, may affect our results of operations, financial position, and cash flows. Historically, Bonnie Togs has employed foreign exchange contracts to hedge foreign currency exchange rate risk associated with the procurement of U.S. dollar denominated finished goods. Other than the hedging arrangements at Bonnie Togs in existence prior to the acquisition, we are not currently hedging foreign currency exchange rate risk.

Our operating results are subject to risk from interest rate fluctuations on our revolving credit facility, which carries variable interest rates. As of October 1, 2011, our outstanding variable rate debt aggregated approximately $236.0 million. An increase or decrease of 1% in the applicable rate would increase or decrease our annual interest cost by $2.4 million and could have an adverse effect on our net income (loss) and cash flow.

OTHER RISKS

We enter into various purchase order commitments with our suppliers. We can cancel these arrangements, although in some instances, we may be subject to a termination charge reflecting a percentage of work performed prior to cancellation. As we rely exclusively on our full-package global sourcing network, we could incur more of these termination charges, which could increase our cost of goods sold and have a material impact on our business.

ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

Our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined under Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”)) as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based upon that evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of October 1, 2011.

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

On June 30, 2011, the Company acquired Bonnie Togs (see Note 3 to the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements). In connection with the Acquisition, we have expanded our internal controls over financial reporting to include Bonnie Togs. Future material changes to internal controls, if any, will be disclosed in accordance with the applicable SEC requirements. Other than the changes described above, no other changes in the Company’s internal controls over financial reporting during the period covered by this report have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

PART II – OTHER INFORMATION

ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS:

A shareholder class action lawsuit was filed on September 19, 2008 in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Georgia entitled Plymouth County Retirement System v. Carter’s, Inc., No. 1:08-CV-02940-JOF (the “Plymouth Action”). The Amended Complaint filed on May 12, 2009 in the Plymouth Action asserted claims under Sections 10(b), 20(a), and 20A of the 1934 Securities Exchange Act, and alleged that between February 1, 2006 and July 24, 2007, the Company and certain current and former executives made material misrepresentations to investors regarding the successful integration of OshKosh into the Company’s business, and that the share price of the Company’s stock later fell when the market learned that the integration had not been as successful as represented. Defendants in the Plymouth Action filed a motion to dismiss the Amended Complaint for failure to state a claim under the federal securities laws on July 17, 2009, and briefing of that motion was complete on October 22, 2009.

A separate shareholder class action lawsuit was filed on November 17, 2009 in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Georgia entitled Mylroie v. Carter’s, Inc., No. 1:09-CV-3196-JOF (the “Mylroie Action”). The initial Complaint in the Mylroie Action asserted claims under Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the 1934 Securities Exchange Act, and alleged that between April 27, 2004 and November 10, 2009, the Company and certain current and former executives made material misstatements to investors regarding the Company’s accounting for discounts offered to some wholesale customers. The Court consolidated the Plymouth Action and the Mylroie Action on November 24, 2009 (the “Consolidated Action”). On March 15, 2010, the plaintiffs in the Consolidated Action filed their amended and consolidated complaint. The Company filed a motion to dismiss on April 30, 2010, and briefing of the motion was complete on July 23, 2010.

On March 16, 2011, the United States District Court for the Northern District of Georgia granted without prejudice the Company’s motion to dismiss all of the claims in the amended and consolidated complaint in the Consolidated Action for failure to state a claim under the federal securities laws. The plaintiffs filed a second amended and consolidated complaint on July 20, 2011. On November 1, 2011, the Company reached an agreement in principle to settle the Consolidated Action for an amount which will be paid by the Company’s insurance providers. The proposed settlement provides for a full and complete release of all related claims that were or could have been brought against the Company, its subsidiaries, and any and all current and former directors, officers, and employees of the Company and its subsidiaries. Both the terms of the proposed settlement and the plan of distribution for the settlement fund are subject to execution of definitive agreements and court approval.

A shareholder derivative lawsuit was filed on May 25, 2010 in the Superior Court of Fulton County, Georgia, entitled Alvarado v. Bloom, No. 2010-cv-186118 (the “Alvarado Action”). The Complaint in the Alvarado Action alleges, among other things, that certain current and former directors and executives of the Company breached their fiduciary duties to the Company in connection with the Company’s accounting for discounts offered to some wholesale customers. The Company is named solely as a nominal defendant against whom the plaintiff seeks no recovery. Pursuant to a series of stipulations, the parties agreed to defer the time by which defendants are to respond to the Complaint pending the potential resolution of the Consolidated Action referenced above.

The Company is subject to various other claims and pending or threatened lawsuits in the normal course of our business. The Company is not currently party to any other legal proceedings that it believes would have a material adverse effect on its financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS:

You should carefully consider each of the following risk factors as well as the other information contained in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and other filings with the SEC in evaluating our business. The risks and uncertainties described below are not the only we face. Additional risks and uncertainties not presently known to us or that we currently consider immaterial may also impact our business operations. If any of the following risks actually occur, our operating results may be affected.

Risks Relating to Our Business

The loss of one or more of our major customers could result in a material loss of revenues.

In the third quarter and first nine months of fiscal 2011, we derived approximately 37.4% and 36.8% of our consolidated net sales from our top eight customers. No one customer represented greater than 10% of our consolidated net sales in the third quarter or first nine months of fiscal 2011. We do not enter into long-term sales contracts with our major customers, relying instead on long-standing relationships and on our position in the marketplace. As a result, we face the risk that one or more of our major customers may significantly decrease their business with us or terminate their relationships with us. Any such decrease or termination of our major customers' business could result in a material decrease in our sales and operating results.

The acceptance of our products in the marketplace is affected by consumers’ tastes and preferences, along with fashion trends.

We believe that continued success depends on our ability to provide a unique and compelling value proposition for our consumers in the Company’s distribution channels. There can be no assurance that the demand for our products will not decline, or that we will be able to successfully and timely evaluate and adapt our products to changes in consumers’ tastes and preferences or fashion trends. If consumers’ tastes and preferences are not aligned with our product offerings, promotional pricing may be required to move seasonal merchandise. Increased use of promotional pricing would have a material adverse effect on our sales, gross margin, and results of operations.

The value of our brand, and our sales, could be diminished if we are associated with negative publicity.

Although our employees, agents, and third-party compliance auditors periodically visit and monitor the operations of our vendors, independent manufacturers, and licensees, we do not control these vendors, independent manufacturers, licensees, or their labor practices. A violation of our vendor policies, licensee agreements, labor laws, or other laws by these vendors, independent manufacturers, or licensees could interrupt or otherwise disrupt our supply chain or damage our brand image. As a result, negative publicity regarding our Company, brands or products, including licensed products, could adversely affect our reputation and sales.

In addition, the Company’s brand image, which is associated with providing a consumer product with outstanding quality and name recognition, makes it valuable as a royalty source. The Company is able to generate royalty income from the sale of licensed products that bear its Carter’s, Just One Year, Just One You, Precious Firsts, Child of Mine, OshKosh, OshKosh Est. 1895, Genuine Kids, and related trademarks. While the Company takes significant steps to ensure the reputation of its brand is maintained through its license agreements, there can be no guarantee that the Company’s brand image will not be negatively impacted through its association with products outside of the Company’s core apparel products.

We may incur substantial costs as a result of litigation, investigations or other proceedings, including those related to our previously filed restatements.

We are currently involved in litigation matters and investigations and may be subject to additional actions in the future. As disclosed in the Company’s amended and restated Annual Report on Form 10-K for fiscal 2008, we announced on November 10, 2009, that our Audit Committee, with the assistance of outside counsel, had commenced a review of customer margin support provided by the Company and an investigation into undisclosed margin support commitments and related matters. The Company self-reported information concerning this investigation to the SEC in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2009 and has also been informed that the United States Attorney’s Office is conducting an investigation into this matter. In December 2010, the Company and the SEC entered into a non-prosecution agreement pursuant to which the SEC agreed not to charge the Company with any violations of the federal securities laws, commence any enforcement action against the Company, or require the Company to pay any financial penalties in connection with the SEC’s investigation of customer margin support provided by the Company, conditioned upon the Company’s continued cooperation with the SEC’s investigation and with any related enforcement proceedings. The Company has incurred, and expects to continue to incur, substantial expenses for legal and accounting services due to the SEC and United States Attorney’s Office investigations and any resulting litigation. These matters have diverted in the past, and may continue to divert in the future, management’s time and attention away from operations and cause the Company to continue to incur substantial costs. The Company also may bear additional costs to the extent it is required, under the terms of organizational documents or under Delaware law, to indemnify former officers of the Company in respect of costs they incur in connection with any proceedings related to these matters. At this point, the Company is unable to predict the duration, costs, scope or result of these matters.

As described in more detail in Part II - Item 1 of this filing, the Company is also currently subject to two class action lawsuits and a derivative shareholder action lawsuit, as well as various other claims and pending or threatened lawsuits in the normal course of our business. We have only limited amounts of insurance, which may not provide coverage to offset a negative judgment or a settlement payment, which could be substantial. We may be unable to obtain additional insurance in the future, or we may be unable to do so on favorable terms. Our insurers may also dispute our claims for coverage. Further, these lawsuits may result in diversion of management's time and attention, the expenditure of large amounts of cash on legal fees and other expenses, and injury to our reputation, all of which may adversely affect our operations and financial condition. As further described in more detail in Part II - Item 1 of this filing, on November 1, 2011, the Company reached an agreement in principle to settle the class action lawsuits. Both the terms of the proposed settlement and the plan of distribution for the settlement fund are subject to execution of definitive agreements and court approval.

The Company’s databases containing personal information of our retail customers could be breached, which could subject us to adverse publicity, litigation, and expenses. In addition, if we are unable to comply with security standards created by the banks and payment card industry, our operations could be adversely affected.

Database privacy, network security, and identity theft are matters of growing public concern. In an attempt to prevent unauthorized access to our network and databases containing confidential, third-party information, we have installed privacy protection systems, devices, and activity monitoring on our network. Nevertheless, if unauthorized parties gain access to our networks or databases, they may be able to steal, publish, delete, or modify our private and sensitive third-party information. In such circumstances, we could be held liable to our customers or other parties or be subject to regulatory or other actions for breaching privacy rules. This could result in costly investigations and litigation, civil or criminal penalties, and adverse publicity that could adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations, and reputation. Further, if we are unable to comply with the security standards, established by banks and payment card industry, we may be subject to fines, restrictions, and expulsion from card acceptance programs, which could adversely affect our retail operations.

Increased production costs and deflationary pressures on our selling prices may adversely affect our results.

The Company’s product costs, driven by inflation in significant component costs such as cotton, polyester, labor, and transportation, have increased and may remain at elevated levels or increase further for at least the first half of fiscal 2012. Our product costs have also been adversely impacted by the devaluation of the U.S. dollar relative to foreign currencies. These inflationary and currency risk factors have resulted in higher costs of goods sold and inventory levels. Although we have raised our selling prices on some of our products, we do not expect in the near term to be able to fully absorb these cost increases, and we expect our profitability to be adversely impacted. In recent years, the Company has also experienced deflationary pressure on its selling prices, in part driven by intense price competition in the young children’s apparel industry. In this environment, there is a risk that customers will not accept our price increases. If the Company is unable to effectively raise selling prices to help offset higher production costs, the adverse effect on our profitability may be even greater than anticipated.

Our business is sensitive to overall levels of consumer spending, particularly in the young children’s apparel segment.

Consumers’ demand for young children’s apparel, specifically brand name apparel products, is impacted by the overall level of consumer spending. Discretionary consumer spending is impacted by employment levels, gasoline and utility costs, business conditions, availability of consumer credit, tax rates, interest rates, levels of consumer indebtedness, and overall levels of consumer confidence. Recent and further reductions in the level of discretionary spending may have a material adverse effect on the Company’s sales and results of operations.

We source substantially all of our products through foreign production arrangements. Our dependence on foreign supply sources could result in disruptions to our operations in the event of political instability, unfavorable economic conditions, international events, or new foreign regulations and such disruptions may increase our cost of goods sold and decrease gross profit.

We source substantially all of our products through a network of vendors primarily in Asia, coordinated by our sourcing agents. The following could disrupt our foreign supply chain, increase our cost of goods sold, decrease our gross profit, or impact our ability to get products to our customers:

· financial instability of one or more of our major vendors;

· political instability or other international events resulting in the disruption of trade in foreign countries from which we source our products;

· increases in transportation costs as a result of increased fuel prices or significant changes in the relationship between carrier capacity and shipper demand;

· interruptions in the supply, or increases in the cost of raw materials, including cotton, fabric, and trim items;

· significant changes in the cost of labor in our sourcing locations;

· the imposition of new regulations relating to imports, duties, taxes, and other charges on imports;

· the occurrence of a natural disaster, unusual weather conditions, or an epidemic, the spread of which may impact our ability to obtain products on a timely basis;

· changes in the United States customs procedures concerning the importation of apparel products;

· unforeseen delays in customs clearance of any goods;

· disruption in the global transportation network such as a port strike, capacity withholding, world trade restrictions, or war;

· the application of foreign intellectual property laws;

· the ability of our vendors to secure sufficient credit to finance the manufacturing process including the acquisition of raw materials; and

· exchange rate fluctuations between the Company’s and/or its subsidiaries’ functional currency and the currencies paid to foreign contractors.

These and other events beyond our control could interrupt our supply chain and delay receipt of our products into the United States.

We source all of our products through a network of vendors. We have limited control over these vendors and we may experience delays, product recalls or loss of revenues if our products do not meet our quality standards or regulatory requirements.

Our vendors, independent manufacturers, and licensees may not continue to provide products that are consistent with our standards. We have occasionally received, and may in the future continue to receive, shipments of product that fail to conform to our quality control standards. A failure in our quality control program may result in diminished product quality, which may result in increased order cancellations and returns, decreased consumer demand for our products, or product recalls, any of which may have a material adverse affect on our results of operations and financial condition. In addition, notwithstanding our strict quality control procedures, because we do not control our vendors, products that fail to meet our standards, or other unauthorized products, could end up in the marketplace without our knowledge. This could materially harm our brand and our reputation in the marketplace.

Our products are subject to regulation of and regulatory standards set by various governmental authorities including the Consumer Product Safety Commission, with respect to quality and safety. Regulations and standards in this area are currently in place. These regulations and standards may change from time to time. Our inability, or that of our vendors, to comply on a timely basis with regulatory requirements could result in significant fines or penalties, which could adversely affect our reputation and sales. Issues with the quality and safety of merchandise we sell in our stores, regardless of our culpability, or customer concerns about such issues, could result in damage to our reputation, lost sales, uninsured product liability claims or losses, merchandise recalls, and increased costs.

The loss of a sourcing agent could negatively impact our ability to timely deliver our inventory supply and disrupt our business, which may adversely affect our operating results.

One sourcing agent manages approximately 90% of our inventory purchases. Although we believe that other buying agents could be retained, the loss of this buying agent could delay our ability to timely receive inventory supply and disrupt our business, which could result in a material adverse effect on our operating results.

We operate in a highly competitive market and the size and resources of some of our competitors may allow them to compete more effectively than we can, resulting in a loss of market share and, as a result, a decrease in revenue and gross profit.

The baby and young children's apparel market is highly competitive. Both branded and private label manufacturers compete in the baby and young children's apparel market. Our primary competitors in our wholesale businesses include Disney, Gerber, and private label product offerings. Our primary competitors in the retail store channel include Old Navy, The Gap, The Children’s Place, Gymboree, 77kids, and Disney. Because of the fragmented nature of the industry, we also compete with many other manufacturers and retailers. Some of our competitors have greater financial resources and larger customer bases than we have and are less financially leveraged than we are. As a result, these competitors may be able to:

·adapt to changes in customer requirements more quickly;

·take advantage of acquisition and other opportunities more readily;

·devote greater resources to the marketing and sale of their products; and

·adopt more aggressive pricing strategies than we can.

The Company’s retail success and future growth is dependent upon identifying locations and negotiating appropriate lease terms for retail stores.

The Company’s retail stores are located in leased retail locations across the country. Successful operation of a retail store depends, in part, on the overall ability of the retail location to attract a consumer base sufficient to make store sales volume profitable. If the Company is unable to identify new retail locations with consumer traffic sufficient to support a profitable sales level, retail growth may consequently be limited. Further, if existing outlet and brand stores do not maintain a sufficient customer base that provides a reasonable sales volume or the Company is unable to negotiate appropriate lease terms for the retail stores, there could be a material adverse impact on the Company’s sales, gross margin, and results of operations.

Profitability could be negatively impacted if we do not adequately forecast the demand for our products and, as a result, create significant levels of excess inventory or insufficient levels of inventory.

If the Company does not adequately forecast demand for its products and purchases inventory to support an inaccurate forecast, the Company could experience increased costs due to the need to dispose of excess inventory or lower profitability due to insufficient levels of inventory.

We face various risks arising from our recent acquisition of Bonnie Togs. We may fail to realize growth opportunities and other benefits from the acquisition of Bonnie Togs, and we may fail to successfully integrate the Bonnie Togs business with our existing business, either of which could adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.

We may fail to realize growth opportunities and other benefits from the acquisition of Bonnie Togs. We have no prior experience operating a retail business in Canada, and we may not be as successful in operating and growing this business in Canada as we have been in the United States. We may be unable to continue existing, or to develop new, vendor and customer relationships, and enhance our position in Canada. Further, our operations in Canada are subject to the various risks and uncertainties to which our United States retail operations are subject. Our ability to successfully integrate Bonnie Togs is subject to risks, including delays or difficulties in completing integration and higher than expected costs. In connection with the integration efforts, our management’s attention and our resources could be diverted from other business concerns. If integration difficulties arise, the diversion of attention and resources may be increased. Any of these may adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.

We may not achieve sales growth plans, cost savings, and other assumptions that support the carrying value of our intangible assets.

As of October 1, 2011, the Company had Carter’s goodwill of $136.6 million, a $220.2 million Carter’s brand tradename asset, an $85.5 million OshKosh brand tradename asset, Bonnie Togs estimated goodwill of $50.0 million, and a $0.5 million Bonnie Togs tradename asset on its unaudited condensed consolidated balance sheet. The carrying value of these assets is subject to annual impairment reviews as of the last day of each fiscal year or more frequently, if deemed necessary, due to any significant events or changes in circumstances.

Estimated future cash flows used in these impairment reviews could be negatively impacted if we do not achieve our sales plans, planned cost savings, and other assumptions that support the carrying value of these intangible assets, which could result in potential impairment of the remaining asset value.

The Company’s success is dependent upon retaining key individuals within the organization to execute the Company’s strategic plan.

The Company’s ability to attract and retain qualified executive management, marketing, merchandising, design, sourcing, operations, and support function staffing is key to the Company’s success. If the Company were unable to attract and retain qualified individuals in these areas, an adverse impact on the Company’s growth and results of operations may result.

ITEM 2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURTIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS:

N/A

ITEM 3. DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES:

N/A

ITEM 4. REMOVED AND RESERVED:

N/A

ITEM 5. OTHER INFORMATION:

N/A

ITEM 6. EXHIBITS:

(a)

Exhibits:

Exhibit Number	Description of Exhibits

31.1	Rule 13a-15(e)/15d-15(e) and 13a-15(f)/15d-15(f) Certification

31.2	Rule 13a-15(e)/15d-15(e) and 13a-15(f)/15d-15(f) Certification

32	Section 1350 Certification

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrants have duly caused this report to be signed on their behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

CARTER’S, INC.


Date: November 3, 2011	/s/ MICHAEL D. CASEY
	Michael D. Casey
	Chief Executive Officer
	(Principal Executive Officer)


Date: November 3, 2011	/s/ RICHARD F. WESTENBERGER
	Richard F. Westenberger
	Executive Vice President and
	Chief Financial Officer
	(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)