Organization and principal accounting policies (Policies)

3 Months Ended

Apr. 29, 2017

Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]

Basis of preparation

Basis of preparation

The condensed consolidated financial statements of Signet are prepared, without audit, pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with US generally accepted accounting principles (“US GAAP”) have been condensed or omitted from this report, as is permitted by such rules and regulations. In the opinion of management, the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements reflect all adjustments, which are of a normal recurring nature, necessary for a fair presentation of the results for the interim periods. It is suggested that these condensed consolidated financial statements be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes included in Signet’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 28, 2017 filed with the SEC on March 16, 2017.

Use of estimates

Use of estimates

The preparation of these condensed consolidated financial statements, in conformity with US GAAP and SEC regulations for interim reporting, requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the condensed consolidated financial statements and reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Estimates and assumptions are primarily made in relation to the valuation of accounts receivables, inventories, deferred revenue, derivatives, employee benefits, income taxes, contingencies, asset impairments, indefinite-lived intangible assets, as well as depreciation and amortization of long-lived assets.

Foreign currency transactions

Foreign currency translation

The financial position and operating results of certain foreign operations, including the UK Jewelry division and the Canadian operations of the Zale Jewelry segment, are consolidated using the local currency as the functional currency. Assets and liabilities are translated at the rates of exchange on the balance sheet date, and revenues and expenses are translated at the monthly average rates of exchange during the period. Resulting translation gains or losses are included in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of equity as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (“AOCI”). Gains or losses resulting from foreign currency transactions are included within the condensed consolidated income statements.