How did FND's Q4 earnings surprise impact its annual performance?

Floor & Decor's (FND) Q4 earnings surprise had a positive impact on its annual performance, despite some challenges.

1. **Q4 Earnings Surprise**:
- FND reported an EPS of $0.48 for Q3, which exceeded market expectations of $0.44.
- Revenue for Q3 came in at $1.12 billion, slightly below expectations of $1.14 billion but up 0.9% year-over-year.
2. **Annual Performance Impact**:
- Despite the Q4 beat, the full-year EPS was $1.90, which included a $0.05 benefit from a litigation settlement.
- The company faced challenges with a decline in comparable store sales by 6.4% for the quarter, reflecting ongoing issues in the home improvement and flooring market.
- However, FND opened 11 new warehouse-format stores in Q3, expanding its footprint and meeting its goal of 30 new store openings for the fiscal year.
3. **Stock Reaction and Future Outlook**:
- Following the earnings release, FND's stock surged by 10.94% in aftermarket trading, indicating strong investor confidence.
- For the fiscal year ending December 26, 2024, FND projects net sales between $4,400 million and $4,430 million, with comparable store sales expected to decline.
4. **Strategic Initiatives**:
- FND continues to focus on expanding market share while managing profitability and maintaining a strong balance sheet.
- The company plans to open 25 new stores in fiscal 2025, aiming to operate 500 warehouse-format stores across the U.S..

In conclusion, while FND faced headwinds in its core business, the Q4 earnings surprise, strategic store openings, and legal settlement benefits contributed positively to its annual performance, reflected in the stock price surge and optimistic future outlook.