4.   Commitments and contingencies

Leases – The Company leases retail stores, distribution centers, corporate offices, and certain equipment under operating leases with various expiration dates through 2032. Original non-cancelable lease terms range from three to ten years, and store leases generally contain renewal options for additional years. Total rent expense under operating leases was $241,559,  $202,942, and $181,487 in fiscal 2017,  2016, and 2015, respectively. Future minimum lease payments under operating leases as of February 3, 2018, are as follows:

Included in the operating lease schedule above is $279,574 of minimum lease payments for stores that are expected to open in future periods.

Contractual obligations – As of February 3, 2018, the Company had obligations of $6,397 related to commitments made to a third party for products and services for a new distribution center opening in fiscal 2018. Payments under this commitment were $24,502 and $11,528 in fiscal 2017 and 2016, respectively. In addition, the Company has entered into various non-cancelable advertising and other goods and service contracts. These agreements expire over one year and the obligations under these agreements were $12,605 as of February 3, 2018.

General litigation – The Company is involved in various legal proceedings that are incidental to the conduct of the business. In the opinion of management, the amount of any liability with respect to these proceedings, either individually or in the aggregate, will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.