tween brands, inc. 10-Q
Table of Contents

 
 
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
 
FORM 10-Q
     
þ   QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended August 4, 2007
OR
     
o   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 1-14987
 
(TWEEN BRANDS LOGO)
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
     
Delaware
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
  31-1333930
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
     
8323 Walton Parkway, New Albany, OH
(Address of principal executive offices)
  43054
(Zip Code)
(614) 775-3500
(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 þ No o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of “accelerated filer and large accelerated filer” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
Large accelerated filer þ      Accelerated filer o      Non-accelerated filer o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes o No þ
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 at August 29, 2007
     
$.01 Par Value   30,793,454 Shares
 
 

 


 

TWEEN BRANDS, INC.
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 EX-10.1
 EX-31.1
 EX-31.2
 EX-32.1
 EX-32.2

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PART I – FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1. Financial Statements.
TWEEN BRANDS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(unaudited, in thousands, except per share amounts)
                                 
    Thirteen Weeks Ended     Twenty-Six Weeks Ended  
    August 4,     July 29,     August 4,     July 29,  
    2007     2006     2007     2006  
Net sales
  $ 213,703     $ 185,801     $ 436,931     $ 380,937  
Cost of goods sold, including buying and occupancy costs
    145,195       122,979       283,865       244,369  
 
                       
Gross income
    68,508       62,822       153,066       136,568  
Store operating, general and administrative expenses
    66,383       55,603       132,914       111,901  
 
                       
Operating income
    2,125       7,219       20,152       24,667  
Interest income, net
    608       1,245       1,640       2,598  
 
                       
Earnings before income taxes
    2,733       8,464       21,792       27,265  
Provision for income taxes
    626       2,552       7,219       9,664  
 
                       
Net income
  $ 2,107     $ 5,912     $ 14,573     $ 17,601  
 
                       
 
                               
Net income per share:
                               
 
                               
Basic
  $ 0.07     $ 0.18     $ 0.47     $ 0.53  
 
                       
Diluted
  $ 0.07     $ 0.18     $ 0.46     $ 0.52  
 
                       
 
                               
Weighted average common shares:
                               
 
                               
Basic
    30,716       32,696       30,974       32,925  
 
                       
Diluted
    31,363       33,419       31,532       33,607  
 
                       
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

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TWEEN BRANDS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(unaudited, in thousands, except share amounts)
                 
    August 4,     February 3,  
    2007     2007  
ASSETS
               
Current Assets:
               
Cash and equivalents
  $ 45,664     $ 48,394  
Investments
    14,907       99,164  
Restricted assets
    1,257       1,235  
Accounts receivable, net
    20,939       13,878  
Inventories, net
    117,536       91,742  
Store supplies
    14,864       14,806  
Prepaid income taxes
    9,382        
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
    15,041       15,236  
 
           
Total current assets
    239,590       284,455  
 
Property and equipment, net
    275,508       235,516  
Long-term investments
    11,469       17,054  
Deferred income taxes
    10,631       8,166  
Assets held in trust and other
    25,438       24,486  
 
           
 
Total assets
  $ 562,636     $ 569,677  
 
           
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
               
Current Liabilities:
               
Accounts payable
  $ 60,458     $ 37,150  
Accrued expenses
    43,970       38,849  
Deferred revenue
    11,162       13,584  
Income taxes payable and unrecognized tax benefits
    4,095       20,879  
 
           
Total current liabilities
    119,685       110,462  
 
           
 
               
Deferred tenant allowances from landlords
    63,599       53,687  
Supplemental retirement and deferred compensation liability
    21,549       20,362  
Accrued straight-line rent, unrecognized tax benefits and other
    25,916       13,840  
 
               
Commitments and contingencies
               
 
               
SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
               
Preferred stock, $.01 par value, 50 million shares authorized Common stock, $.01 par value, 100 million shares authorized, 36.9 million and 36.6 million shares issued, 30.8 million and 32.1 million shares outstanding at August 4, 2007 and February 3, 2007, respectively
    369       366  
Treasury stock, at cost, 6.1 million and 4.5 million shares at August 4, 2007 and February 3, 2007, respectively
    (181,435 )     (120,554 )
Paid in capital
    182,846       173,394  
Retained earnings
    330,107       318,120  
 
           
 
               
Total shareholders’ equity
    331,887       371,326  
 
           
 
               
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
  $ 562,636     $ 569,677  
 
           
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

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TWEEN BRANDS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(unaudited, in thousands)
                 
    Twenty-Six Weeks Ended  
    August 4,     July 29,  
    2007     2006  
Operating activities:
               
 
               
Net income
  $ 14,573     $ 17,601  
 
               
Impact of other operating activities on cash flows:
               
Depreciation and amortization expense
    17,214       15,196  
Amortization of tenant allowances
    (4,565 )     (4,004 )
Loss on disposal of fixed assets
    698       735  
Deferred income taxes
    354       (2,774 )
Tax benefit from stock option exercises
    (1,169 )     (1,422 )
Stock-based compensation expense
    4,818       4,010  
 
               
Changes in assets and liabilities:
               
Inventories
    (25,794 )     (31,698 )
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
    16,502       99  
Income taxes payable
    (20,329 )     (9,407 )
Other assets
    (1,269 )     (1,941 )
Tenant allowances received
    9,414       4,583  
Other long-term liabilities
    3,190       2,159  
 
           
Net cash provided by (used for) operating activities
    13,637       (6,863 )
 
           
 
               
Investing activities:
               
Capital expenditures
    (54,956 )     (25,317 )
Funding of nonqualified benefit plans
    (1,222 )     (4,388 )
Purchase of investments
    (74,762 )     (109,014 )
Sale of investments
    164,423       195,520  
Change in restricted assets
    (22 )     (11 )
 
           
Net cash provided by investing activities
    33,461       56,790  
 
           
 
               
Financing activities:
               
Purchases of treasury stock
    (60,881 )     (39,998 )
Excess tax benefit from stock option exercises
    1,169       1,422  
Change in cash overdraft
    6,416       1,666  
Stock options and other equity changes
    3,468       5,336  
 
           
Net cash used for financing activities
    (49,828 )     (31,574 )
 
           
Net (decrease) increase in cash and equivalents
    (2,730 )     18,353  
Cash and equivalents, beginning of year
    48,394       22,248  
 
           
Cash and equivalents, end of period
  $ 45,664     $ 40,601  
 
           
 
               
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:
               
Cash paid for income taxes
  $ 14,114     $ 22,145  
Cash paid for interest
  $ 37     $ 91  
Fixed asset additions in accounts payable
  $ 2,948     $ 381  
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

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TWEEN BRANDS, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(unaudited)
1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Tween Brands, Inc., (referred to herein as “Tween Brands,” the “Company,” “we,” “our” or “us”; formerly “Too, Inc.”) is the operator of two specialty retailing businesses, Limited Too and Justice. We were established in 1987 and, prior to our August 1999 spin-off, were a wholly-owned subsidiary of The Limited, Inc. (“The Limited” or “Limited Brands”). Since the spin-off, we have operated as an independent, separately traded, public company. We currently operate two brands focusing on tween girls. Limited Too sells apparel, footwear, lifestyle and girlcare products for fashion-aware, trend-setting tween girls. Justice, launched in January 2004, sells apparel, footwear and lifestyle accessories and hosts in-store parties for tween girls. Our fiscal year is comprised of two principal selling seasons: spring (the first and second quarters) and fall (the third and fourth quarters).
The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Tween Brands, Inc. and all subsidiaries more than 50% owned and reflect our assets, liabilities, results of operations and cash flows on a historical cost basis. These statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”). All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
In accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 131, “Disclosures about Segments of an Enterprise and Related Information” (“SFAS No. 131”), we determine our operating segments on the same basis that we use internally to evaluate performance and allocate resources. The operating segments identified by us, Limited Too and Justice, have been aggregated and are reported as one reportable financial segment. We aggregate our two operating segments as they are similar in each of the following areas: class of customer, economic characteristics, nature of products, nature of production processes and distribution methods.
In our opinion, the accompanying consolidated financial statements reflect all adjustments (which are of a normal recurring nature) necessary to present fairly the financial position, results of operations and cash flows for the interim periods, but are not necessarily indicative of the results of operations to be anticipated for the fiscal year ending February 2, 2008 (the “2007 fiscal year”). A more complete discussion of our significant accounting policies can be found in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements in our Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 3, 2007 (the “2006 fiscal year”).
2. Income Taxes
The effective tax rate for the second quarter of 2007 decreased to 22.9%, down from the second quarter of 2006 effective tax rate of 30.2%. The decrease was primarily the result of favorable state tax settlements and higher than expected tax credits.
We adopted the provisions of Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Interpretation No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes” (“FIN 48”), an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109 (“SFAS 109”), on February 4, 2007. As a result of the implementation of FIN 48, we recorded a decrease of $2.6 million to opening retained earnings. At the adoption date, we had $12.6 million of gross unrecognized tax benefits. At August 4, 2007, we had $11.7 million of gross unrecognized tax benefits.
We recognize interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense, which is consistent with the recognition of these items in prior reporting periods. As of February 4, 2007, we recorded gross liabilities of approximately $2.8 million for the payment of interest and penalties. There has been no material change to this amount as of August 4, 2007.
The Internal Revenue Service began its audit of our fiscal 2004 and 2005 income tax returns during the first quarter of 2007. In addition, we are currently under examination by several state jurisdictions for fiscal periods spanning

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from 1999 through 2005. Based on the number of tax years currently under audit by the relevant taxing authorities, we anticipate several of these examinations may be finalized in the foreseeable future. Due to the nature of these examinations, however, it is not possible to estimate the impact of such changes, if any, to previously recorded uncertain tax positions. Of the gross unrecognized tax benefits recorded as of the adoption date, approximately $6.1 million would, if recognized, favorably impact the effective income tax rate in future periods. The remaining balance would be adjusted through the consolidated balance sheet without impacting our annual effective tax rate.
We believe the increase or decrease in unrecognized tax benefits will not be significant within the next twelve months. However, it is reasonably possible the amount of unrecognized tax benefits could significantly increase or decrease within the next twelve months. These changes could result from the completion of ongoing examinations, the expiration of the statute of limitations or other circumstances. Thus, an estimate of the range of the reasonably possible change cannot be made.
3. Share-Based Compensation
In 1999, we adopted the Too, Inc. 1999 Stock Option and Performance Incentive Plan and the Too, Inc. 1999 Stock Plan for Non-Associate Directors, and in 2005, our shareholders approved the adoption of the Too, Inc. 2005 Stock Option and Performance Incentive Plan and the Too, Inc. 2005 Stock Plan for Non-Associate Directors (collectively, the “Plans”).
Under the Plans, as amended, up to 7.5 million shares are reserved and may be granted to our associates and certain non-associates. The Plans allow for the grant of incentive stock options, non-qualified stock options and restricted stock to officers, directors and key associates. Stock options are granted at the fair market value of our common shares on the date of grant and generally have 10-year terms. Option grants generally vest ratably over the first four anniversaries from the grant date. We currently issue new shares to satisfy option exercises. Of the restricted shares granted, approximately forty percent vest ratably over the first four anniversaries from the grant date with only certain executive officers having performance criteria attached to the vesting schedule. The remaining sixty percent vest at the end of a two-year cliff period and have performance targets associated with vesting for all associates.
For the thirteen weeks ended August 4, 2007, our results of operations included $2.3 million ($1.6 million net of tax) of share-based compensation expense which had a $0.05 impact on both earnings per basic share and earnings per diluted share. For the thirteen weeks ended July 29, 2006, our results of operations included $2.0 million ($1.3 million net of tax) of share-based compensation expense which had a $0.04 impact on both earnings per basic share and earnings per diluted share.
For the twenty-six weeks ended August 4, 2007, our results of operations included $4.8 million ($3.3 million net of tax) of share-based compensation expense which had an $0.11 impact on earnings per basic share and a $0.10 impact on earnings per diluted share. For the twenty-six weeks ended July 29, 2006, our results of operations include $4.0 million ($2.7 million net of tax) of share-based compensation expense which had a $0.08 impact on both earnings per basic share and earnings per diluted share.

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The weighted average fair value per share of options granted is estimated using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model and the following weighted average assumptions:
                                 
    Thirteen   Twenty-Six
    Weeks Ended   Weeks Ended
    August 4,   July 29,   August 4,   July 29,
    2007   2006   2007   2006
Expected life (in years)
    5.3       5.3       5.3       5.3  
Forfeiture rate
    14 %     14 %     14 %     14 %
Dividend rate
                       
Price volatility
    44 %     47 %     44 %     47 %
Risk-free interest rate
    4.5 %     4.3 %     4.7 %     4.3 %
The weighted average fair value per share of options granted during the thirteen weeks ended August 4, 2007 was $17.68. No options were granted during the thirteen weeks ended July 29, 2006. The weighted average fair value per share of options granted during the twenty-six weeks ended August 4, 2007 and July 29, 2006 was $17.02 and $14.17, respectively.
A summary of changes in our outstanding stock options for the thirteen and twenty-six week periods ended August 4, 2007 and July 29, 2006 is presented below:
                                 
    Thirteen Weeks Ended  
    August 4, 2007     July 29, 2006  
            Weighted             Weighted  
    Number of     Average     Number of     Average  
    Shares     Exercise Price     Shares     Exercise Price  
Outstanding, beginning of quarter
    1,769,255     $ 27.30       1,795,765     $ 24.22  
Granted
    9,000       40.72              
Exercised
    (90,914 )     18.71       (81,857 )     21.63  
Cancelled
    (37,794 )     36.05       (7,620 )     22.25  
 
                       
Outstanding, end of quarter
    1,649,547     $ 27.65       1,706,288     $ 24.43  
 
                       
 
                               
Options exercisable, end of quarter
    1,011,930     $ 24.77       1,058,199     $ 24.41  
 
                       
                                 
    Twenty-Six Weeks Ended  
    August 4, 2007     July 29, 2006  
            Weighted             Weighted  
    Number of     Average     Number of     Average  
    Shares     Exercise Price     Shares     Exercise Price  
Outstanding, beginning of year
    1,620,849     $ 25.57       1,711,663     $ 23.02  
Granted
    242,257       38.97       253,807       29.73  
Exercised
    (175,265 )     19.90       (247,500 )     20.88  
Cancelled
    (38,294 )     29.91       (11,682 )     20.06  
 
                       
Outstanding, end of period
    1,649,547     $ 27.65       1,706,288     $ 24.43  
 
                       
 
                               
Options exercisable, end of period
    1,011,930     $ 24.77       1,058,199     $ 24.41  
 
                       

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A summary of changes in our restricted stock granted as compensation to employees and directors for the thirteen and twenty-six week periods ended August 4, 2007 and July 29, 2006 is presented below:
                                 
    Thirteen Weeks Ended  
    August 4, 2007     July 29, 2006  
            Weighted             Weighted Average  
    Number of     Average Grant Date     Number of     Grant Date Fair  
    Shares     Fair Value     Shares     Value  
Outstanding, beginning of quarter
    591,320     $ 30.58       535,920     $ 27.08  
Granted
    2,000       39.49              
Vested
    (36 )     34.36              
Cancelled
    (18,160 )     36.76       (4,751 )     28.25  
 
                       
Outstanding, end of quarter
    575,124     $ 30.44       531,169     $ 27.07  
 
                       
                                 
    Twenty-Six Weeks Ended  
    August 4, 2007     July 29, 2006  
            Weighted             Weighted Average  
    Number of     Average Grant Date     Number of     Grant Date Fair  
    Shares     Fair Value     Shares     Value  
Outstanding, beginning of year
    588,158     $ 28.28       512,945     $ 25.52  
Granted
    146,453       37.08       128,285       29.73  
Vested
    (137,877 )     34.66       (101,316 )     22.46  
Cancelled
    (21,610 )     35.94       (8,745 )     28.27  
 
                       
Outstanding, end of period
    575,124     $ 30.44       531,169     $ 27.07  
 
                       
As of August 4, 2007, total unrecognized share-based compensation expense related to non-vested stock options and restricted stock was $16.8 million, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 2.5 years. As of July 29, 2006, total unrecognized share-based compensation expense related to non-vested stock options was approximately $13.4 million, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of approximately 2.6 years.
4. Investments
At August 4, 2007, we held investments in securities that were classified as held-to-maturity based on our intent and ability to hold the securities to maturity. We determine the appropriate classification at the time of purchase. All such securities held by us at August 4, 2007 were municipal debt securities issued by states of the United States or political subdivisions of the states.
The table below details the investments classified as held-to-maturity owned by us at August 4, 2007 and February 3, 2007, respectively (in thousands):
                                 
    August 4, 2007     February 3, 2007  
    Maturity of     Maturity of  
    Less than             Less than        
    1 Year     1 to 5 Years     1 Year     1 to 5 Years  
Aggregate fair value
  $ 10,750     $ 11,419     $ 14,308     $ 16,982  
Gross unrealized holding gains
                       
Gross unrealized holding losses
    27       50       32       72  
 
                       
Net carrying amount
  $ 10,777     $ 11,469     $ 14,340     $ 17,054  
 
                       
During the twenty-six weeks ended August 4, 2007, $0.8 million of cash was used to purchase held-to-maturity securities while $9.8 million of cash was generated by the maturation of held-to-maturity securities.
Investments also include auction rate municipal bonds, variable rate municipal demand notes, and preferred shares of tax-exempt closed-end mutual funds classified as available-for-sale securities. Our investments in these

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securities are recorded at cost, which approximates fair value due to their variable interest rates, which typically reset every 7 to 35 days. Despite the long-term nature of their stated contractual maturities, we have the ability to quickly liquidate these securities to support current operations. As a result, we have no accumulated unrealized gains or losses in other comprehensive income from these current investments. All income generated from these current investments is recognized as interest income.
The table below details the marketable securities classified as available-for-sale owned by us at August 4, 2007 and February 3, 2007, respectively (in thousands):
                 
    August 4, 2007     February 3, 2007  
    Maturity of     Maturity of  
    Less than 1 Year     Less than 1 Year  
Aggregate fair value
  $ 4,130     $ 84,824  
Net gains in accumulated other comprehensive income
           
Net losses in accumulated other comprehensive income
           
 
           
Net carrying amount
  $ 4,130     $ 84,824  
 
           
During the twenty-six weeks ended August 4, 2007, $74.0 million of cash was used to purchase available-for-sale securities while $154.6 million of cash was generated by the sale of available-for-sale securities.
5. Property and Equipment
Property and equipment, at cost, consisted of (in thousands):
                 
    August 4,     February 3,  
    2007     2007  
Land and land improvements
  $ 14,963     $ 14,963  
Buildings
    43,736       43,836  
Furniture, fixtures and equipment
    224,794       210,522  
Leasehold improvements
    145,269       134,238  
Construction-in-progress
    34,269       10,680  
 
           
Total
    463,031       414,239  
 
               
Less: accumulated depreciation
    (187,523 )     (178,723 )
 
           
 
               
Property and equipment, net
  $ 275,508     $ 235,516  
 
           
6. Credit Facility
In October 2005, we entered into an unsecured $100 million credit facility with National City Bank, Fifth Third Bank, Bank of America, N.A., LaSalle Bank National Association and Citicorp USA, Inc. (“current credit facility”). The current credit facility replaced the April 29, 2003 credit facility and provides for a $100 million revolving line of credit, which can be increased to up to $150 million at our option under certain circumstances. The current credit facility is available for direct borrowing, issuance of letters of credit, stock repurchases and general corporate purposes, and is guaranteed on an unsecured basis by all current and future domestic subsidiaries of Tween Brands, Inc. Our current credit facility contains financial covenants which require us to maintain minimum net worth, cash flow and leverage covenants as well as restricts our ability to incur additional debt. As of August 4, 2007, we believe we are in compliance with all applicable terms of the current credit facility.
7. Earnings per Share
Basic earnings per share are computed by dividing net income by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Earnings per diluted share reflect the potential dilution that could occur if stock options or restricted stock were converted into common stock using the treasury stock method.

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The following table shows the amounts used in the computation of earnings per basic share and earnings per diluted share (in thousands):
                                 
    Thirteen     Twenty-Six  
    Weeks Ended     Weeks Ended  
    August 4,     July 29,     August 4,     July 29,  
    2007     2006     2007     2006  
Net income
  $ 2,107     $ 5,912     $ 14,573     $ 17,601  
 
                       
Weighted average common shares — basic
    30,716       32,696       30,974       32,925  
Dilutive effect of stock options and restricted stock
    647       723       558       682  
 
                       
Weighted average common shares — diluted
    31,363       33,419       31,532       33,607  
 
                       
Due to the options’ strike price exceeding the average market price of the common shares for the reporting periods, certain options were excluded from the calculation of net income per diluted share. For the thirteen and twenty-six weeks ended August 4, 2007, options to purchase 3,000 and 39,500 common shares, respectively, were not included in the computation. For the thirteen and twenty-six weeks ended July 29, 2006, options to purchase 0 and 25,000 common shares, respectively, were not included in the computation.
8. Recently Issued Accounting Standards
In June 2006, the FASB ratified the Emerging Issues Task Force (“EITF”) position EITF 06-3 (“EITF 06-3”), “How Taxes Collected from Customers and Remitted to Governmental Authorities Should Be Presented in the Income Statement (That is, Gross versus Net Presentation).” EITF 06-3 provides that entities should present such taxes on either a gross or net basis based on their accounting policies. Our accounting policy is to record such taxes on a net basis. EITF 06-3 is effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2006. The adoption of EITF 06-3 on February 4, 2007, had no material impact on our financial position or results of operations.
In September 2006, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 157 (“SFAS No. 157”), “Fair Value Measurements.” SFAS No. 157 defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value in accordance with GAAP and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. SFAS No. 157 is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007, and interim periods within those fiscal years. We are in the process of evaluating the effects of the adoption of SFAS No. 157 and have not yet determined the impact on our financial position or results of operations.
In September 2006, the FASB ratified the EITF position EITF 06-5 (“EITF 06-5”), “Accounting for Purchases of Life Insurance – Determining the amount that could be realized in accordance with FASB Technical Bulletin 85-4.” EITF 06-5 addresses whether a policyholder should consider any additional amounts included in the contractual terms of the insurance policy other than the cash surrender value in determining the amount that could be realized under the insurance contract in accordance with Technical Bulletin 85-4. EITF 06-5 also addresses whether a policyholder should consider the contractual ability to surrender all of the individual-life policies (or certificates in a group policy) at the same time in determining the amount that could be realized under the insurance contract in accordance with Technical Bulletin 85-4. The provisions of EITF 06-5 are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2006, with earlier application permitted. The adoption of EITF 06-5 had no material impact on our financial position or results of operations.
In February 2007, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 159 (“SFAS No. 159”), “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities—Including an amendment of FASB Statement No. 115.” SFAS No. 159 allows entities to choose, at specific election dates, to measure eligible financial assets and liabilities at fair value that are not otherwise required to be measured at fair value (the “Fair Value Option”). Election of the Fair Value Option is made on an instrument-by-instrument basis and is irrevocable. At the adoption date, unrealized gains and losses on financial assets and liabilities for which the Fair Value Option has been elected would be reported in earnings at each subsequent reporting date. SFAS No. 159 is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007, and interim periods within those fiscal years. We are in the process of

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evaluating the effects of the adoption of SFAS No. 159 and have not yet determined the impact on our financial position or results of operations.
We have reviewed and continue to monitor the actions of the various financial and regulatory reporting agencies and are currently not aware of any other pronouncement that could have a material impact on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
9. Legal Proceedings
On August 24, 2007, a proposed class action complaint was filed by a purported purchaser of Tween Brands securities naming Tween Brands, Inc. and our Chief Executive Officer as defendants. The complaint, captioned June Gruhn v. Tween Brands, Inc., et al. (07 CV 852), was filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Ohio and asserts a single cause of action under Section 10(b) of the Securities Exchange Act and Rule 10b-5 promulgated thereunder (the “Gruhn action”). The Gruhn action purports to be brought on behalf of all purchasers of Tween Brands common stock from June 8, 2007 through August 21, 2007. At this stage, it is impossible to predict the outcome of this proceeding or its impact on Tween Brands. However, we currently do not believe the impact of this litigation will have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, cash flows or financial position.

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Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
Company Overview
We operate two brands: Limited Too and Justice. Limited Too, with stores located primarily in shopping malls, is a specialty retailer of quality apparel, accessories, footwear, lifestyle and girlcare products for fashion-aware, trend-setting tween girls. Limited Too customers are active, creative and image-conscious girls. They enjoy shopping and describe themselves as “fun” and “cool.” We believe they want a broad assortment of merchandise to compliment their range of dressing occasions, including school, leisure activities and special functions. As such, we continually update our merchandise assortment, which includes non-apparel merchandise, such as candy, jewelry, toiletries, cosmetics, electronic toys and games and lifestyle furnishings for her room. Limited Too also offers a product assortment similar to the one carried at our stores through its website (www.limitedtoo.com) and its catazine (our catalog within a magazine format).
Justice, which opened its first stores in 2004, is our latest specialty retail brand offering fashionable apparel, accessories, footwear and lifestyle items and hosts in-store parties for tween girls. Our Justice stores are located primarily in power centers, off-mall retail locations that draw customers intent on apparel shopping. We believe our Justice customers are value conscious but still want the latest in fashion and accessories and we strive to provide this balance to them. Justice stores are fun, interactive places to shop. Store exteriors display the logo “Justice... Just for Girls” and the interiors are bright, colorful inviting spaces with unique fixtures highlighting the merchandise assortment.
Performance Overview
Tween Brands, Inc. had poor sales and earnings for the second quarter, which ultimately led to a disappointing spring season. Although we increased net sales by 15% for the second quarter and spring season, we were unable to capitalize on the increase, finishing behind the comparable 2006 periods in both operating income and net income.
Net sales for the quarter reached $213.7 million, up 15% over second quarter 2006 net sales of $185.8 million. The sales increase, however, was driven by increases in store count since the end of the second quarter 2006. As such, comparable store sales growth for the total company decreased 2% as compared to the 10% comparable store sales growth reported for last year’s second quarter. Both brands posted comparable store sales results below our expectations at the outset of the second quarter 2007, with a 4% decrease at Limited Too and a 13% increase at Justice for the 115 stores that were open at least one year during the quarter. Our operating income for the quarter decreased 71%, and declined 290 basis points as a percentage of net sales (“bps”), over the second quarter of 2006 due to lower internal gross margin rates (gross margin less buying and occupancy expenses), increased buying and occupancy expenses and increased store operating, general and administrative expenses. A more detailed discussion of these factors begins on page 17. Earnings per diluted share decreased 61% from $0.18 in second quarter 2006 to $0.07 per share this quarter.
We attribute our results in the second quarter and spring season of 2007 to two components. First, a large number of school districts pushed their back-to-school start dates later into the year, causing sales to decline in the second quarter and spring season. Along with this shift, several states, including Texas and Florida, where 18% of our stores are located, moved their sales tax holiday periods to coincide with their later school start dates. Second, a macro-economic decline in mall and off-mall traffic caused a reduction in transactions, which could not be overcome by our increased marketing spending. Together these two factors were largely responsible for the 2% decline in comparable store sales. Due to our reduced sales, we took extra markdowns to clear merchandise from our stores and better position our inventory levels for the back-to-school shopping season. We were successful in this endeavor and our combined in-store inventory was down 6% at cost on a per square foot basis from the end of the second quarter 2006.
Despite the factors mentioned above, we believe Limited Too and Justice still have the hottest, wear now fashions for back-to-school, including babydoll and fun-printed tops, plaid Bermuda shorts, ballet flats and backpacks. We believe we are well positioned for the second half of the year, and have the right assortment of apparel, accessories

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and lifestyle items for our tweens. We are especially excited about our lifestyle items, highlighted by Webkinz and High School Musical II licensed items, as well as text messengers, digital cameras, hand-held games and licensed items from Hannah Montana. We believe our Limited Too and Justice brands are every bit as popular with our tween girl and her mom as they have always been and continue to provide cutting edge styles for the current season.
Limited Too
At Limited Too we continue to employ our sophisticated marketing and database analytics to design campaigns and promotional initiatives to drive store traffic and build transaction values. In the second quarter of 2007, we continued dual distribution of our Too Bucks and Bonus Cards as well as circulated our regular summer and back-to-school catazines. As announced in the first quarter, we launched a June transitional mini-catazine which together with our new back-to-school private sale brought in $11.0 million of sales for the quarter. We continue to believe our catazines are the best vehicles to reach our tween customer and generate interest in our product, and we mailed 29% more catazines in the second quarter of 2007 than in the second quarter of 2006. Also in the second quarter of 2007, we focused our direct mail efforts on the new back-to-school private sale and used a voicemail reminder to drive customers to our summer sale event. Overall, total customer marketing contacts were up 54% over the second quarter of 2006, mainly driven by the mini-catazine, back-to-school private sale, direct mail piece and summer sale voicemail. We found we were successful in driving core customers to our stores when utilizing direct mail and catazine marketing. During non-marketing periods, however, we felt the impact of the lower mall traffic more severely.
From a merchandising standpoint, the best performing categories during the quarter for Limited Too were casual tops, active bottoms, accessories and lifestyles. Strong performing departments within those categories included cut and sew casual tops, sweaters, casual shorts, sweatshirts, graphic bottoms and dresses. Other notable contributors to our fashion hits were from the non-apparel category and included girlcare and lifestyles items. Both categories displayed solid increases despite tough comparisons against 2006 results. Categories where results were below our expectation included our casual bottoms and intimate apparel.
Justice
At our Justice brand, we continued to distribute our Fun Card, which has historically helped to drive transactions, and in addition, also introduced three new catazines during the second quarter of 2007: two back-to-school editions and a Memorial Day mini-catazine. With a total circulation of nearly 1.9 million books during the quarter, the Justice catazine contributed $10.0 million of sales to the second quarter and demonstrated it can be a reliable and effective marketing tool for this brand. These catazines, along with other marketing programs, including our back-to-school preview, birthday party bounce-back and birthday mailer, proved positive for Justice’s sales during the second quarter 2007
All of the merchandise categories did well at Justice with the exception of casual bottoms, which is comprised of pants, denim jeanswear and skirts. Sizeable average store sales increases were posted in all other categories, with greater than fifty percent increases in shirts, sweaters, sweatshirts, active shorts and dresses. The non-apparel categories also performed favorably, with the largest gains seen in the hair accessories, footwear, party, and lifestyle departments. Late in the second quarter of 2007, we launched our intimate apparel category, bras, underwear and sleepwear. We felt the addition was a good opportunity to further satisfy our girl’s needs and we look forward to positive results from the intimate category in the future.
Finally, we are continuing our work on a Justice large format store. These stores are expected to be 15% to 25% larger than the average Justice store today, allowing for the expansion of existing merchandise categories, the addition of new and exciting categories and additional space to expand our successful party business.

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Sales Analysis
The following summarized sales data compares the thirteen and twenty-six week periods ended August 4, 2007 and August 5, 2006:
                                                 
    Thirteen Weeks Ended   Twenty-Six Weeks Ended
    August 4,   August 5,   %   August 4,   August 5,   %
    2007   2006 (1)   Change   2007   2006 (1)   Change
Limited Too and Justice:
                                               
 
                                               
Average dollar value of unit sold at retail (“AUR”) (2)
    11.68       12.19       -4 %   $ 12.41       12.96       -4 %
Average number of units per transaction (“UPT”)
    4.33       4.07       6 %     4.35       4.08       7 %
Average dollar sales value per transaction (“ADS”) (3)
  $ 50.52     $ 49.57       2 %   $ 54.03     $ 52.85       2 %
Number of transactions per average store (4)
    5,367       5,712       -6 %     10,475       10,839       -3 %
Sales from transactions over $50 (% of total sales)
    73.4 %     74.0 %             77.7 %     77.5 %        
Transactions over $50 (% of total transactions)
    35.8 %     34.7 %             39.5 %     38.7 %        
 
(1)   The above metrics for 2006 have been adjusted from the reported values in previous filings due to the extra week in fiscal year 2006. The second quarter of 2006 as reported began on April 30, 2006 and ended July 29, 2006; the above numbers are from the 13 week period beginning on May 7, 2006 and ending on August 5, 2006. The spring season of 2006 as reported began on January 29, 2006 and ended July 29, 2006; the above numbers are from the 26 week period beginning on February 5, 2006 and ending on August 5, 2006.
 
(2)   Average dollar value of unit sold at retail is the result of dividing gross store sales dollars for the period by the number of units sold during the period.
 
(3)   Average dollar sales value per transaction is the result of dividing gross store sales dollars for the period by the number of store transactions.
 
(4)   Number of transactions per average store is the result of dividing the total number of transactions for the fiscal period by the average store count, which reflects the impact of opening and closing stores throughout the period.
While our UPT was up 6% on a quarterly basis and 7% on a seasonal basis, our AUR was down, which led to a smaller, but still positive 2% increase in our ADS for both the quarter and the season. For the second quarter of 2007 this positive growth in our ADS was overcome by the decrease in our average store transactions, resulting in our 2% decline in comparable store sales. For the spring season, our decrease in average store transactions was less acute, resulting in a 1% increase in comparable store sales.
The following table compares components of the consolidated statements of operations as a percentage of net sales at the end of each period:
                                 
    Thirteen Weeks     Twenty-Six Weeks  
    Ended     Ended  
    August 4,     July 29,     August 4,     July 29,  
    2007     2006     2007     2006  
Net sales
    100.0 %     100.0 %     100.0 %     100.0 %
Cost of goods sold, including buying and occupancy costs
    67.9 %     66.2 %     65.0 %     64.1 %
 
                       
Gross income
    32.1 %     33.8 %     35.0 %     35.9 %
Store operating, general and administrative expenses
    31.1 %     29.9 %     30.4 %     29.4 %
 
                       
Operating income
    1.0 %     3.9 %     4.6 %     6.5 %
Interest income, net
    0.3 %     0.7 %     0.4 %     0.7 %
 
                       
Earnings before income taxes
    1.3 %     4.6 %     5.0 %     7.2 %
Provision for income taxes
    0.3 %     1.4 %     1.7 %     2.6 %
 
                       
Net income
    1.0 %     3.2 %     3.3 %     4.6 %
 
                       

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Operational Summary
Summarized operational data for the thirteen and twenty-six week periods ended August 4, 2007 and July 29, 2006 is presented below:
                                                 
    Thirteen Weeks Ended     Twenty-Six Weeks Ended  
    August 4,     July 29,     %     August 4,     July 29,     %  
    2007     2006     Change     2007     2006     Change  
Limited Too and Justice:
                                               
Net sales (millions) (1)
  $ 213.7     $ 185.8       15 %   $ 436.9     $ 380.9       15 %
 
                                               
Comparable store sales (2)
    -2 %     10 %             1 %     10 %        
Net store sales per average square foot (3)
  $ 64.8     $ 64.3       1 %   $ 135.3     $ 133.0       2 %
Sales per average store (thousands) (4)
  $ 291.3     $ 269.6       8 %   $ 595.7     $ 552.7       8 %
 
                                               
Average store size at period end (gross square feet)
    4,164       4,184       0 %     4,164       4,184       0 %
Total gross square feet at period end (thousands)
    3,273       2,849       15 %     3,273       2,849       15 %
Store inventory per gross square foot at period end (5)
  $ 31.53     $ 33.50       -6 %   $ 31.54     $ 33.50       -6 %
Store inventory per store at period end (5)
  $ 131,331     $ 140,137       -6 %   $ 131,331     $ 140,137       -6 %
 
                                               
Number of stores:
                                               
Beginning of period
    754       667               722       666          
Opened
    33       14               68       27          
Closed
    (1 )                   (4 )     (12 )        
 
                                   
End of period
    786       681               786       681          
 
                                   
Limited Too stores remodeled
    16       14               22       24          
 
                                               
Number of Limited Too stores
    573       566               573       566          
Number of Justice stores
    213       115               213       115          
 
(1)   Total net sales includes: store sales, net of associate discounts; direct sales; shipping revenue; international revenue and partner advertising revenue.
 
(2)   A store is included in our comparable store sales calculation once it has completed 52 weeks of operation. Further, stores that have changed more than 20% in gross square feet are treated as new stores for purposes of this calculation.
 
(3)   Net store sales per average square foot is the result of dividing net store sales for the fiscal period by the monthly average gross square feet, which reflects the impact of opening and closing stores throughout the period.
 
(4)   Sales per average store is the result of dividing gross store sales for the fiscal period by average store count, which reflects the impact of opening and closing stores throughout the period.
 
(5)   Inventory value includes store inventory net of estimated shrink.
Gross Income
Our gross income increased $5.7 million, but declined 170 bps, in the second quarter of 2007 from the second quarter of 2006. Our gross income excluding buying and occupancy costs (“internal gross income”) increased $13.8 million, but was down 130 bps from the 2006 quarter due to lower merchandise margins, driven by increased markdowns, which were slightly offset by improved direct sourcing income. Buying and occupancy costs increased $8.1 million, or 40 bps, from the second quarter of 2006 due to higher store occupancy expenses related to increased store count and rent increases resulting from lease renewals, as well as incremental Limited Too catazine costs.
Our gross income increased $16.5 million, but declined 90 bps, in the year-to-date period of 2007 from the year-to-date period of 2006. Our internal gross income increased $31.0 million, but was down 90 bps to the 2006 period due primarily to increased markdowns. Buying and occupancy costs increased $14.5 million, but were flat in bps, from the year-to-date period of 2006 due to higher store occupancy expenses related to increased store count and rent increases resulting from lease renewals, as well as incremental Limited Too catazine costs.
Our gross income may not be comparable to that of other retailers since all significant costs related to our distribution network, with the exception of freight costs, are included in store operating, general and administrative expenses (see “Store Operating, General and Administrative Expenses”).

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Store Operating, General and Administrative Expenses
Store operating, general and administrative expenses increased $10.8 million, or 120 bps, from the second quarter 2006. The increase is outlined in the table below (in thousands, except basis point amounts):
                 
    Q2 2007 vs. Q2 2006  
    increase/(decrease)  
    in dollars     in bps  
Changes in:
               
Store payroll and operating expenses
  $ 5,615       10  
Home office
    1,560       (30 )
Marketing
    2,203       90  
Distribution Center
    (93 )     (20 )
Other
    1,495       70  
 
           
Total change
  $ 10,780       120  
 
           
Store payroll and operating expenses for the quarter increased nearly 16% in dollars from the second quarter of 2006, driven by the net addition of 105 stores. Home office expenses for the quarter also increased in dollars, primarily due to higher hardware, software and consulting expenses related to our multi-year information technology initiative, as well as an increase in payroll expenses to support our continued growth. Marketing expenses for the second quarter of 2007 were higher than the second quarter of 2006 due primarily to the production and mailing costs of three incremental Justice catazines and increased direct marketing spending. Other SG&A expenses increased 70 bps driven principally by increased severance expense and higher direct to consumer fulfillment expenses.
Store operating, general and administrative expenses increased $21.0 million, or 100 bps, from the 2006 year-to-date period. The increase is outlined in the table below (in thousands, except basis point amounts):
                 
    YTD 2007 vs. YTD 2006  
    increase/(decrease)  
    in dollars     in bps  
Changes in:
               
Store payroll and operating expenses
  $ 11,393       30  
Home office
    4,725       10  
Marketing
    4,615       90  
Distribution Center
    (32 )     (10 )
Other
    312       (20 )
 
           
Total change
  $ 21,013       100  
 
           
Store payroll and operating expenses for the 2007 year-to-date period increased over 16% in dollars from the year-to-date period of 2006, driven by the net addition of 105 stores. Home office expenses for the season also increased in dollars, due principally to higher hardware, software and consulting expenses related to our multi-year information technology initiative, as well as an increase in payroll expenses to support our continued growth. Marketing expenses for the year-to-date period of 2007 were higher than the year-to-date period of 2006 due primarily to the production and mailing costs of three incremental Justice catazines and increased direct marketing spending. Other SG&A expenses decreased 20 bps driven principally by increased severance expense and higher direct to consumer fulfillment expenses, which were more than offset by lower benefit expenses.
Income Taxes
The effective tax rate for the second quarter of 2007 decreased to 22.9%, down from the second quarter of 2006 effective tax rate of 30.2%. The decrease was primarily the result of favorable state tax settlements and higher than expected tax credits.
The effective tax rate for the year-to-date period of 2007 decreased to 33.1%, down from the year-to-date period of 2006 effective tax rate of 35.4%. The decrease was primarily the result of favorable state tax settlements and higher than expected tax credits.

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Financial Condition
Our balance sheet remains strong, as we were able to finance all capital expenditures with existing working capital and cash generated from operations, while still ending the quarter with $60.6 million in cash and short-term investments. In assessing the financial condition of the business, we consider factors such as cash flow from operations, capital expenditures and investment activities to be key indicators of financial health.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Cash generated from operations remains the primary source to support ongoing operations, projected business growth, seasonal working capital requirements, and capital expenditures. In an effort to increase shareholder value, we have and may continue to repurchase our common stock. At the end of the second quarter of 2007, our working capital (defined as current assets less restricted assets and current liabilities) was $118.6 million, down from $172.8 million on February 3, 2007. The decrease was primarily due to the $60.9 million of cash used since the beginning of the year to repurchase common stock. The table below summarizes our working capital position and capitalization (in thousands):
                 
    August 4,     February 3,  
    2007     2007  
Working Capital
  $ 118,648     $ 172,758  
 
           
 
               
Capitalization:
               
Long-term debt
           
Shareholders’ equity
    331,887       371,326  
 
           
Total capitalization
  $ 331,887     $ 371,326  
 
           
 
               
Amounts available under the credit facility
  $ 98,096     $ 99,446  
Restricted assets
  $ 1,257     $ 1,235  
Our working capital decreased, which caused our overall liquidity to dip slightly under the industry average as shown below:
                                 
    Tween Brands, Inc.   Apparel    
    August 4, 2007   February 3, 2007   Industry **   S&P 500
Current Ratio
    2.0       2.6       2.4       1.3  
Debt/Equity Ratio
    *     *     0.4       1.7  
 
*   Tween Brands, Inc. currently has no debt
 
**   Information reflects the latest ‘apparel stores’ industry financial ratios found on MSN©Money
While we expect to maintain significant overall liquidity, we recognize the specialty retail industry can be highly volatile and fashion missteps can quickly impact the ability to generate operating cash. We continually evaluate and strive to maximize our capital structure and may from time to time make changes to our capital structure without prior notice, unless specifically required by applicable regulations. These changes may include, but are not limited to, modifying our ongoing share repurchase program, offering stock or debt securities, borrowing under or amending our revolving credit facility, or taking on long-term fixed or variable rate debt. A further description of our share repurchase program is below, see Stock Repurchase Program on page 20.

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Net Change in Cash and Equivalents
The table below summarizes our net (decrease)/increase in cash and equivalents for the twenty-six weeks ended August 4, 2007 and July 29, 2006 (in thousands):
                 
    Twenty-Six Weeks Ended  
    August 4,     July 29,  
    2007     2006  
Net cash provided by(used for) operating activities
  $ 13,637     $ (6,863 )
Net cash provided by investing activities
    33,461       56,790  
Net cash used for financing activities
    (49,828 )     (31,574 )
 
           
Net (decrease)/increase in cash and equivalents
  $ (2,730 )   $ 18,353  
 
           
Cash Flows from Operating Activities
Net cash provided by operating activities amounted to $13.6 million for the year-to-date period ended August 4, 2007, up $20.5 million when compared to net cash used for operating activities of $6.9 million for the same period of 2006. The table below outlines the changes in cash flow from operating activities during the twenty-six week period (in thousands):
         
    YTD 2007 vs YTD 2006  
    increase/(decrease)  
Changes in:
       
Net income, net of non-cash expenses
  $ (800 )
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
    16,403  
Income taxes
    (7,541 )
Inventory
    5,904  
Other
    6,534  
 
     
Total change in cash flows from operating activities
  $ 20,500  
 
     
Net income, net of non-cash expenses, was down 2% over year to date 2006 due primarily to lower total company net income. Cash used for accounts payable and accrued expenses decreased due to the timing of inventory payments near the end of the quarter. The increase in the use of cash for income taxes for year-to-date 2007 over the same period in 2006 is due primarily to the amount of our 2006 extension payment and our 2007 first and second quarter estimated tax payments exceeding those made for the corresponding periods in 2006. Additionally, our fiscal 2007 year-to-date provision is less than that recorded for the same period in 2006. Cash used to purchase inventory was lower in the year-to-date period of 2007 versus the same period of 2006 mainly due to our continued efforts to achieve a cleaner and better-managed inventory position.
Cash Flows from Investing Activities
Net cash provided by investing activities amounted to $33.5 million for the year-to-date period ended August 4, 2007, down $23.3 million from the $56.8 million provided during the same period of 2006. The table below outlines the changes in cash flow from investing activities during the twenty-six week period (in thousands):
         
    YTD 2007 vs YTD 2006  
    increase/(decrease)  
Changes in:
       
Investments
  $ 3,155  
Capital expenditures
    (29,639 )
Non-qualified benefit plan funding
    3,166  
Other
    (11 )
 
     
Total change in cash flows from investing activities
  $ (23,329 )
 
     
We generated $89.7 million in the year-to-date period ended August 4, 2007, by liquidating our marketable securities, an increase of $3.2 million when compared to the $86.5 million generated in the same period of 2006.

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Our capital expenditures increased over the twenty-six week period ended August 4, 2007 as compared to the same period in 2006, due primarily to new store openings as well as our home office building expansion. Our non-qualified plan funding is down despite increased payroll expenses due primarily to a large contribution made in the first half of 2006 not repeated in the first half of 2007.
Cash Flows from Financing Activities
Net cash used for financing activities amounted to $49.8 million for the year-to-date period ended August 4, 2007, an increase in use of $18.2 million from $31.6 million used during the same period of 2006. The table below outlines the changes in cash flow from financing activities during the twenty-six week period (in thousands):
         
    YTD 2007 vs YTD 2006  
    increase/(decrease)  
Changes in:
       
Purchases of treasury stock
  $ 20,883  
Change in cash overdraft position
    (4,750 )
Stock options and other equity changes
    2,121  
 
     
Total change in cash flows from financing activities
  $ 18,254  
 
     
We purchased 1.7 million shares for an aggregate purchase price of $60.9 million during the first half of 2007. For the same period of 2006, we purchased 1.1 million shares for an aggregate purchase price of $40.0 million. Although our share repurchase program remains in place, no shares have been repurchased thus far in the third quarter of 2007. Refer to Item 2 of PART II of this Form 10-Q for further information.
Credit Facility
In October 2005, we entered into an unsecured credit facility providing us with a $100 million revolving line of credit, which can be increased up to $150 million at management’s option, under certain circumstances. Refer to Note 6 to our Consolidated Financial Statements for further detail.
Stock Repurchase Program
As of fiscal year end 2006, $105.0 million was remaining under the stock repurchase program. In the first quarter of 2007, we used $59.2 million under our August 2006 Board authorized stock repurchase program. In May 2007, our Board of Directors reauthorized the stock repurchase program and increased the amount available to $150 million. Subsequent to this reauthorization in the second quarter of 2007, we repurchased 40,000 shares under the re-authorization. Purchases may occur from time to time, subject to market conditions, in open market or in privately negotiated transactions, and in accordance with Securities and Exchange Commission requirements. There can be no assurance that we will repurchase any additional shares under the amended share repurchase program.
Capital Expenditures
We expect 2007 total capital expenditures to be between $100 to $110 million, primarily for new store construction, the remodeling or expansion of existing stores, our continuing information technology initiative and the addition of a second building at our New Albany, Ohio headquarters. We expect cash on hand, the liquidation of short-term investments and cash generated from operating activities to fund substantially all capital expenditures for 2007.
For a more complete discussion of our future capital expenditures refer to our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended February 3, 2007, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 3, 2007 (the “Fiscal 2006 Form 10-K”).
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
Our critical accounting policies and estimates can be found in the “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operation” section of our Fiscal 2006 Form 10-K.

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Safe Harbor Statement Under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995
We desire to take advantage of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (the “PSLRA”). This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q contains various “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the PSLRA and other applicable securities laws. Such statements can be identified by the use of the forward-looking words “anticipate,” “estimate,” “project,” “target,” “predict,” “believe,” “intend,” “plan,” “expect,” “hope,” “risk,” “could,” “pro forma,” “potential,” “prospect,” “outlook,” or similar words. These statements discuss future expectations, contain projections regarding future developments, operations or financial conditions, or state other forward-looking information. These forward-looking statements involve various important risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause our actual results for 2007 and beyond to differ materially from those expressed. The following factors, among others, could affect our future financial performance and cause actual future results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in any forward-looking statements included in this Form 10-Q:
    Changes in consumer spending patterns, consumer preferences and overall economic conditions;
 
    Decline in the demand for our merchandise;
 
    The impact of competition and pricing;
 
    Effectiveness of our brand awareness and marketing programs;
 
    A significant change in the regulatory environment applicable to our business;
 
    Risks associated with our sourcing and logistics functions;
 
    The impact of modifying and implementing new information technology systems;
 
    Changes in existing or potential trade restrictions, duties, tariffs or quotas;
 
    Currency and exchange risks;
 
    Availability of suitable store locations at appropriate terms;
 
    Ability to develop new merchandise;
 
    Risk associated with legal or regulatory proceedings;
 
    Ability to hire and train associates;
 
    The potential impact of health concerns relating to severe infectious diseases, particularly on manufacturing operations of our vendors in Asia and elsewhere;
 
    The security of our computer network;
 
    Acts of terrorism in the U.S. or worldwide; and
 
    Other risks as described in other reports and filings we make with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Future economic and industry trends that could potentially impact revenue and profitability are difficult to predict. Therefore, there can be no assurance that the forward-looking statements included herein will prove to be accurate. The inclusion of forward-looking statements should not be regarded as a representation by us, or any other person, that our objectives will be achieved. The forward-looking statements made herein are based on information presently available to us, as the management of the Tween Brands, Inc. We assume no obligation to publicly update or revise our forward-looking statements even if experience or future changes make it clear that any projected results expressed or implied therein will not be realized.

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Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.
To the extent we borrow under our credit facility or otherwise, we will be exposed to market risk related to changes in interest rates. At August 4, 2007, no direct borrowings were outstanding under the new credit facility. Additionally, we purchase investments with original maturities of 90 days or less and also hold investments with original maturities of at least 91 days but less than five years. These financial instruments bear interest at fixed rates and are subject to potential interest rate risk should interest rates fluctuate. We do not enter into financial instruments for trading purposes.

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Item 4. Controls and Procedures.
Disclosure Controls and Procedures
We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”)) designed to provide reasonable assurance the information required to be reported in our Exchange Act filings is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified and pursuant to Securities and Exchange Commission rules and forms, including controls and procedures designed to ensure that this information is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Principal Financial and Accounting Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
As of the end of the period covered by this report, our management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Principal Financial and Accounting Officer, carried out an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and our Principal Financial and Accounting Officer concluded our disclosure controls and procedures were (1) designed to ensure that material information relating to our Company is accumulated and made known to our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Principal Financial and Accounting Officer, in a timely manner, particularly during the period in which this report was being prepared and (2) effective, in that they provide reasonable assurance that information we are required to disclose in the reports filed or submitted under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms.
Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
Our management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Principal Financial and Accounting Officer, also conducted an evaluation of our internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) of the Exchange Act) to determine whether any changes occurred during the period covered by this report have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting. Based on our evaluation, there has been no such change during the thirteen weeks ended August 4, 2007. During the second fiscal quarter of 2007, we installed a new general ledger and accounts payable system. We have evaluated the controls potentially impacted by the implementation of this new system and do not believe there have been any material changes to those controls or to our overall financial reporting control environment related to this installation.
Inherent Limitations
It should be noted that our management, including the Chief Executive Officer and the Principal Financial and Accounting Officer, does not expect our disclosure controls and procedures or internal controls will prevent all error and all fraud. A control system, no matter how well conceived or operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives of the control system are met. Further, the design of a control system must reflect resource constraints, and the benefits of controls must be considered relative to their costs. Because of the inherent limitations in all control systems, no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that all control issues and instances of fraud, if any, within our Company have been detected. These inherent limitations include the realities that judgments in decision-making can be faulty, and breakdowns can occur because of simple error or mistake. Additionally, controls can be circumvented by the individual acts of some persons, by collusion of two or more people or by management override of the controls. The design of any system of controls is based in part upon certain assumptions about the likelihood of future events, and there can be no assurance any design will succeed in achieving its stated goals under all potential future conditions; over time, controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate. Because of the inherent limitations in a cost-effective control system, misstatements due to error or fraud may occur and not be detected.

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PART II – OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1. Legal Proceedings.
On August 24, 2007, a proposed class action complaint was filed by a purported purchaser of Tween Brands securities naming Tween Brands, Inc. and our Chief Executive Officer as defendants. The complaint, captioned June Gruhn v. Tween Brands, Inc., et al. (07 CV 852), was filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Ohio and asserts a single cause of action under Section 10(b) of the Securities Exchange Act and Rule 10b-5 promulgated thereunder (the “Gruhn action”). The Gruhn action purports to be brought on behalf of all purchasers of Tween Brands common stock from June 8, 2007 through August 21, 2007. At this stage, it is impossible to predict the outcome of this proceeding or its impact on Tween Brands. However, we currently do not believe the impact of this litigation will have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, cash flows or financial position. We believe the allegations made in the complaint are without merit and intend to vigorously defend the action.
From time-to-time we also may become involved in various litigation and regulatory matters incidental to operations of our business. It is our opinion the ultimate resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, cash flows or financial position.
Item 1A. Risk Factors.
There have been no material changes to our Risk Factors as disclosed in our Fiscal 2006 Form 10-K.
Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds.
The following table illustrates our purchases of equity securities during the second quarter 2007 and the maximum dollar value of shares that may yet be purchased under the Board authorized share repurchase program:
                                 
    Total Number             Total Number of     Maximum Dollar Value  
    of     Average     Shares Purchased as     of Shares that May  
    Shares     Price Paid     Part of Publicly Announced     Yet be Purchased Under  
Period   Purchased     per Share     Plans or Programs     the Plans or Programs  
May (May 6, 2007
through June 2, 2007)
                    $ 150,000,000  
June (June 3, 2007
through July 7, 2007)
    40,300     $ 41.30       40,300     $ 148,335,541  
July (July 8, 2007
through August 4, 2007)
                    $ 148,335,541  
 
                       
Total
    40,300     $ 41.30       40,300     $ 148,335,541  
 
                       
In August 2006, our Board of Directors amended our share repurchase program to restore the amount available to repurchase shares to $125 million over a two year period beginning August 21, 2006. In May 2007, our Board of Directors reauthorized the stock repurchase program and increased the amount available to $150 million over a two year period beginning May 29, 2007. The share repurchase program was originally authorized by the Board of Directors in November 2004 as a means of enhancing shareholder value and was previously amended in November 2005. The purchases may occur from time to time, subject to market conditions, in open market or in privately negotiated transactions, and in accordance with SEC requirements. There can be no assurance we will repurchase any additional shares under the amended share repurchase program.

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Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders.
(a) On May 24, 2007, we held our Annual Meeting of Stockholders.
(b) See paragraph (c) below.
(c) At the Annual Meeting, our stockholders elected three Class C Directors to the Board of Directors by the following vote:
                 
Director Nominees   Shares Voted For   Shares Withheld
David A. Krinsky
    28,121,165       271,329  
Kenneth T. Stevens
    27,636,868       755,626  
Kenneth J. Strottman
    27,654,459       738,035  
The term of office of our Directors, Elizabeth M. Eveillard, Nancy J. Kramer, Philip E. Mallott, Fredric M. Roberts and Michael W. Rayden continued after the annual meeting.
At the annual meeting, our stockholders were also asked to ratify the selection of Deloitte & Touche LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm for the 2007 fiscal year. Of the 30,678,032 shares present in person or represented by proxy at the meeting, 28,196,451 shares were voted for the ratification of Deloitte & Touche LLP, 10,401 shares were voted against the plan, and 185,641 shares were abstained from voting with respect to the ratification of Deloitte & Touch LLP.
Item 6. Exhibits.
Exhibits
         
10.1
  *   Second Amendment to Credit Agreement, dated May 21, 2007, by and among Tween Brands, Inc., each of Tween Brands, Inc.’s domestic subsidiaries, as Guarantors, National City Bank, as Lead Arranger and Administrative Agent, Fifth Third Bank, as Syndication Agent, Bank of America, as Documentation Agent, LaSalle Bank National Association, as Managing Agent, and Citicorp USA, Inc. as Lender.
 
       
31.1
  *   Certification of Periodic Report by the Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
 
       
31.2
  *   Certification of Periodic Report by the Principal Financial and Accounting Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
 
       
32.1
  +   Certification of Periodic Report by the Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
 
       
32.2
  +   Certification of Periodic Report by the Principal Financial and Accounting Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
 
*   Filed with this Report.
 
+   Furnished with this Report.
SIGNATURE
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
         
  TWEEN BRANDS, INC.
(Registrant)
 
 
  By:   /s/ Paul C. Carbone    
  Paul C. Carbone   
  Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) 
 
 
Date: September 5, 2007

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