Williams-Sonoma's Pricing Integrity Helps Defend Operating Margin Performance In Weak Housing Market

Williams-Sonoma has carved out a modest position in the $750 billion global home category and the $80 billion U.S. business-to-business industry, according to the firm. It has historically launched most of its brands organically in underserved segments, which has supported some brand awareness, facilitating top- and bottom-line growth. Its ability to drive business relies on customer loyalty and smart marketing and merchandising and the firm has access to a lengthy history of customer analytics stemming from its catalog days. This should help Williams-Sonoma maintain its market share, as it attempts to enter adjacent categories.