When deciding whether to buy, sell, or hold a stock, investors often rely on analyst recommendations. Media reports about rating changes by these brokerage-firm-employed (or sell-side) analysts often influence a stock's price, but are they really important?Before we discuss the reliability of brokerage recommendations and how to use them to your advantage, let's see what these Wall Street heavyweights think about AZZ (AZZ) .AZZ currently has an average brokerage recommendation (ABR) of 1.50, on a scale of 1 ...

Company Performance - AZZ closed at $89.61, reflecting a -0.76% change from the previous day, underperforming the S&P 500's daily loss of 0.04% [1] - Over the past month, AZZ shares gained 10.62%, which is lower than the Industrial Products sector's gain of 15.49% and the S&P 500's gain of 13.42% [1] Upcoming Earnings - The upcoming earnings per share (EPS) for AZZ is projected at $1.56, indicating a 6.85% increase compared to the same quarter last year [2] - Revenue for the upcoming quarter is estimated at $440.52 million, reflecting a 6.61% rise from the equivalent quarter last year [2] Fiscal Year Estimates - For the entire fiscal year, earnings are predicted to be $5.71 per share, with a revenue forecast of $1.69 billion, representing changes of +9.81% and +7.26% respectively from the previous year [3] - Recent modifications to analyst estimates indicate a positive outlook for AZZ's business and profitability [3] Zacks Rank and Valuation - AZZ currently holds a Zacks Rank of 3 (Hold), with the Zacks Consensus EPS estimate moving 2.02% lower over the past month [5] - The Forward P/E ratio for AZZ is 15.81, which is a discount compared to the industry average Forward P/E of 21.73 [6] Industry Context - The Manufacturing - Electronics industry, part of the Industrial Products sector, has a Zacks Industry Rank of 60, placing it in the top 25% of over 250 industries [6] - The Zacks Industry Rank measures the strength of individual industry groups, with the top 50% rated industries outperforming the bottom half by a factor of 2 to 1 [7]

Summary of AZZ FY Conference Call Company Overview - AZZ is the leading independent galvanizing firm in the US, recently expanded by acquiring Precoat Metals, a major player in metal coating and precoating steel and aluminum [1][3][4] Financial Performance - AZZ has shown strong financial results over the past two to three years, with expectations for continued improvement [2] - Sales for the metal coatings segment reached $665 million, while Precoat Metals generated $912 million in sales [10] - The company has a consistent adjusted EBITDA margin of 27% to 32% for metal coatings and a slightly lower margin for Precoat Metals due to higher paint costs [13] Strategic Focus - The company aims to grow faster than GDP and is investing in a new aluminum coil coating line in Washington, Missouri, with a $125 million investment [5][14] - AZZ is committed to reducing debt, having reduced it by $110 million in the past two years, with a target of at least $165 million reduction this year [6][19] - The company is back in the M&A pipeline, looking for both small and larger acquisition opportunities, particularly in the Precoat Metals segment [6][25] Market Dynamics - AZZ operates in various end markets, including construction, industrial, transportation, consumer goods, and electrical sectors, benefiting from funding through the AIIJA [9] - The company has no exposure to steel or aluminum price fluctuations as it operates on a toll processing model [11] Technology and Innovation - AZZ has invested in proprietary technology, including a digital galvanizing system and Coil Zone, enhancing customer efficiency and visibility [12][16][17] - The company has been recognized for its sustainability efforts, being named one of America's most responsible companies for three consecutive years [18] Economic Resilience - AZZ's metal coatings segment demonstrated resilience during economic downturns, with EBITDA growth during the last cycle [20] - The company is focused on strategic capital allocation, including M&A, managing leverage, and returning capital to shareholders [21] Guidance - For the fiscal year, AZZ projects sales between $1.625 billion and $1.725 billion, adjusted EBITDA of $360 million to $400 million, and EPS in the range of $5.50 to $6.10 [21]

Core Points - AZZ Inc. is participating in the Oppenheimer 20th Annual Industrial Conference, with David Nark representing the company [1][2] - The conference will be held virtually from May 5-8, 2025, and AZZ's presentation is scheduled for May 6, 2025, at 10:30 AM Eastern [2] - AZZ Inc. is recognized as the leading independent provider of hot-dip galvanizing and coil coating solutions in North America, serving a wide range of end-markets [3] Company Overview - AZZ Inc. specializes in sustainable metal coating solutions that enhance the longevity and appearance of buildings, products, and infrastructure [3] - The company operates in various segments that collectively provide unmatched metal coating solutions essential for everyday life [3] Investor Relations - Investors can access a webcast of the presentation on the company's investor relations page, with a replay available for 30 days [2] - Interested investors can request one-on-one meetings with the company during the conference [2][5]

Core Viewpoint - AZZ Inc. has resumed its stock repurchase program, utilizing a $100 million Share Repurchase Program and a 10b5-1 plan to facilitate share buybacks while ensuring compliance with insider trading laws [1][2][3]. Group 1: Stock Repurchase Program - The company has purchased approximately $46.8 million worth of shares to date, leaving a remaining balance of $53.2 million available for future repurchases under the program [1]. - The 10b5-1 plan allows AZZ to repurchase shares during periods when it might otherwise be restricted, thus supporting its disciplined capital allocation strategy [2][3]. - A third-party broker will execute the repurchases under the 10b5-1 plan, adhering to predetermined parameters regarding timing, price, and volume [3]. Group 2: Management's Commitment - The President and CEO of AZZ Inc. emphasized the company's commitment to returning value to shareholders while maintaining flexibility and compliance with regulatory requirements [3]. - The resumption of stock purchases is seen as a strategic move to opportunistically repurchase shares while still funding growth initiatives and deploying capital to enhance shareholder value [3]. Group 3: Company Overview - AZZ Inc. is recognized as a leading independent provider of hot-dip galvanizing and coil coating solutions, serving a broad range of end-markets [5]. - The company's business segments offer sustainable metal coating solutions that improve the longevity and appearance of essential infrastructure and products [5].

Usually, when a company reports financial performance that fall short of analysts’ expectations , a decline in share price is in the cards. But this is not always the case. A good example of this can be seenCrude Value Insights offers you an investing service and community focused on oil and natural gas. We focus on cash flow and the companies that generate it, leading to value and growth prospects with real potential.Subscribers get to use a 50+ stock model account, in-depth cash flow analyses of E&P firms ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For fiscal year 2025, the company reported sales of $1.578 billion, an increase of 2.6% from the prior year [21] - Net income before preferred stock dividend was $128.8 million, a 26.8% increase compared to the prior year [22] - Gross margins for the year improved to 24.3%, an increase of 70 basis points from the previous year [22] - In the fourth quarter, sales were $351.9 million, down 4% from the same quarter in fiscal year 2024 [23] - Adjusted net income for Q4 was $29.6 million, a 7.9% increase from the prior year [27] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Metal coatings generated sales of $665 million, while pre-coat metals generated $912 million for fiscal year 2025 [11] - Metal coatings delivered an EBITDA margin of 30.9%, while pre-coat metals had an EBITDA margin of 19.6%, both showing strength from increased volume and improved operational performance [13][14] - The galvanizing segment within metal coatings increased by 2.6% [21] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The construction sector, particularly bridge and highway construction, drove significant sales growth due to infrastructure investments [12] - The company experienced over 200 days of lost production in Q4 due to adverse weather conditions, impacting construction activity [12][13] - Organic top-line growth for the full year was 2.6% over the prior year [37] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company plans to focus on debt reduction while also prioritizing capital allocation strategies, including paying dividends and investing in enterprise-wide technologies [16] - The strategy includes pursuing both organic market share growth and inorganic acquisition growth [19] - The company is evaluating M&A opportunities in the U.S. market, focusing on synergistic targets that enhance long-term shareholder value [17][18] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about a strong start in Q1 2026, particularly in metal coatings, recovering from the previous quarter's weather impacts [48][49] - The company anticipates continued infrastructure spending related to the AIIJA program and expects public and private investment to remain resilient [37] - Management reiterated guidance for fiscal year 2026, projecting sales between $1.625 billion and $1.725 billion, with adjusted EBITDA of $360 to $400 million [41] Other Important Information - The company generated cash flows from operations of $249.9 million in fiscal year 2025, allowing for significant debt repayment and funding of a new facility [28] - The company announced a definitive agreement to sell its Electric Products Group for approximately $975 million, expected to close in the first half of calendar year 2025 [32][33] - The new aluminum coil coating facility in Washington, Missouri, has started commercial production and is expected to ramp up volumes throughout the fiscal year [29][30] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the outlook for recovery from bad winter weather? - Management indicated that April showed recovery from Q4 shortfalls, with strong performance expected in metal coatings [48] Question: What is included in the guidance for the Avail joint venture? - Guidance reflects minimal impact from the Avail JV, with a nominal level of income expected post-sale [55] Question: How is the order book momentum affected by the macroeconomic environment? - Management reported positive short-term outlooks, with projects moving forward and customer confirmations [60] Question: What are the debt reduction goals following the JV transaction? - Management confirmed that reducing debt by approximately $300 million is realistic, with plans to utilize proceeds from the JV sale for this purpose [70][76] Question: What is the expected impact of weather on Q4 results? - Management estimated lost revenue of $8 to $12 million due to weather, most of which has been recovered in subsequent months [88] Question: Are there any materials impacted by tariffs? - Management confirmed that while some secondary supply items have been impacted, key inputs like zinc and paint remain unaffected [125][128] Question: What is the potential for acquisitions moving forward? - The acquisition pipeline looks strong, with several active deals being evaluated, particularly in galvanizing and pre-coat segments [101]

AZZ (AZZ) came out with quarterly earnings of $0.98 per share, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $0.95 per share. This compares to earnings of $0.93 per share a year ago. These figures are adjusted for non-recurring items.This quarterly report represents an earnings surprise of 3.16%. A quarter ago, it was expected that this electrical equipment maker would post earnings of $1.29 per share when it actually produced earnings of $1.39, delivering a surprise of 7.75%.Over the last four quarters, the comp ...

[Financial Highlights](index=1&type=section&id=Financial%20Highlights) AZZ Inc. reported record full-year sales and profitability for fiscal year 2025, with total sales reaching **$1.58 billion**, a **2.6%** increase year-over-year, and adjusted diluted EPS grew **14.8%** to **$5.20**, while the fourth quarter was impacted by inclement weather, leading to a **4.0%** sales decline to **$351.9 million**, though net income still rose significantly [Fiscal Year 2025 Full Year Highlights](index=1&type=section&id=Fiscal%20Year%202025%20Full%20Year%20Highlights) For the full fiscal year 2025, AZZ achieved a **2.6%** increase in total sales to **$1,577.7 million**, driven by growth in both the Metal Coatings and Precoat Metals segments, with adjusted net income rising by **18.1%** to **$156.8 million**, and adjusted diluted EPS increasing by **14.8%** to **$5.20**, while the company also successfully reduced debt by **$110.0 million**, bringing net leverage below **2.5x** | Financial Metric | FY 2025 | Change vs. FY 2024 | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Total Sales | $1,577.7 million | ▲ 2.6% | | Metal Coatings Sales | $665.1 million | ▲ 1.4% | | Precoat Metals Sales | $912.6 million | ▲ 3.5% | | Net Income | $128.8 million | ▲ 26.8% | | Adjusted Net Income | $156.8 million | ▲ 18.1% | | GAAP Diluted EPS | $1.79 | ▼ 48.3% (due to preferred stock redemption) | | Adjusted Diluted EPS | $5.20 | ▲ 14.8% | | Adjusted EBITDA | $347.9 million | ▲ 4.3% | | Debt Reduction | $110.0 million | N/A | - The significant drop in GAAP diluted EPS to **$1.79** was primarily due to a **$75.2 million** redemption premium payment on the Series A Preferred Stock[7](index=7&type=chunk) [Fourth Quarter 2025 Highlights](index=1&type=section&id=Fourth%20Quarter%202025%20Highlights) In the fourth quarter of fiscal 2025, total sales decreased by **4.0%** to **$351.9 million**, primarily attributed to unfavorable weather conditions affecting both business segments, despite the sales decline, GAAP net income increased by **41.7%** to **$20.2 million**, and adjusted net income grew by **7.9%** to **$29.6 million**, with adjusted EBITDA margin remaining stable at **20.2%** | Financial Metric | Q4 2025 | Change vs. Q4 2024 | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Total Sales | $351.9 million | ▼ 4.0% | | Metal Coatings Sales | $148.4 million | ▼ 3.9% | | Precoat Metals Sales | $203.5 million | ▼ 4.1% | | Net Income | $20.2 million | ▲ 41.7% | | Adjusted Net Income | $29.6 million | ▲ 7.9% | | GAAP Diluted EPS | $0.67 | ▲ 19.6% | | Adjusted Diluted EPS | $0.98 | ▲ 5.4% | | Adjusted EBITDA | $71.2 million | ▼ 3.6% | - The decline in quarterly sales was primarily due to inclement weather impacting operations[7](index=7&type=chunk) [Management Commentary](index=1&type=section&id=Management%20Commentary) CEO Tom Ferguson highlighted fiscal year 2025 as a success, with record full-year results and significant progress on growth initiatives, including the substantial completion of the Washington, Missouri greenfield project, significant debt reduction, and the full redemption of Series A Preferred Stock, expressing confidence in the company's ability to generate strong cash flow and drive long-term value, capitalizing on strong market positions - Fiscal 2025 marked the company's **38th consecutive year of profitability** from continuing operations[9](index=9&type=chunk) - The company substantially completed its greenfield project in Washington, Missouri, while also significantly paying down debt[6](index=6&type=chunk) - AZZ fully redeemed its Series A Preferred Stock and successfully completed a secondary public offering of common stock[6](index=6&type=chunk) - The company plans to accelerate debt paydown with over **$200 million** in expected proceeds from the AVAIL transaction, anticipated to close in Q1 of fiscal 2026[8](index=8&type=chunk)[15](index=15&type=chunk) [Segment Performance](index=2&type=section&id=Segment%20Performance) For the full fiscal year 2025, both the Metal Coatings and Precoat Metals segments reported sales growth, driven by increased volume, with Metal Coatings benefiting from strength in renewables and utility markets, achieving a high EBITDA margin of **30.9%**, and Precoat Metals also seeing higher volume drive its growth, though in the fourth quarter, both segments experienced sales declines due to unfavorable weather conditions [Full Year 2025 Segment Results](index=2&type=section&id=Full%20Year%202025%20Segment%20Results) In fiscal 2025, the Metal Coatings segment's sales grew **1.4%** to **$665.1 million**, with an EBITDA margin of **30.9%**, driven by strong demand in renewables, utility, and construction markets, while the Precoat Metals segment's sales increased **3.5%** to **$912.6 million**, with EBITDA up **6.9%** to **$179.0 million**, both attributed to higher volume | Segment | FY 2025 Sales | YoY Change | FY 2025 EBITDA | EBITDA Margin | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Metal Coatings | $665.1 M | ▲ 1.4% | $205.4 M | 30.9% | | Precoat Metals | $912.6 M | ▲ 3.5% | $179.0 M | 19.6% | - Metal Coatings' sales growth was driven by increased hot-dip galvanizing volume from strength in renewables, utility, and construction markets[10](index=10&type=chunk) [Fourth Quarter 2025 Segment Results](index=2&type=section&id=Fourth%20Quarter%202025%20Segment%20Results) During the fourth quarter, the Metal Coatings segment's sales fell **3.9%** to **$148.4 million** due to weather-related volume decreases, though its EBITDA margin improved to **29.2%** from cost efficiencies, while the Precoat Metals segment's sales declined **4.1%** to **$203.5 million**, impacted by weather and lower demand in the transportation market, with its EBITDA margin remaining flat at **17.8%** | Segment | Q4 2025 Sales | YoY Change | Q4 2025 EBITDA | EBITDA Margin | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Metal Coatings | $148.4 M | ▼ 3.9% | $43.2 M | 29.2% | | Precoat Metals | $203.5 M | ▼ 4.1% | $36.2 M | 17.8% | - Metal Coatings' EBITDA margin increased by **60 basis points** YoY due to lower operating and SG&A costs, despite lower sales[13](index=13&type=chunk) [Financial Condition and Capital Allocation](index=2&type=section&id=Financial%20Condition%20and%20Capital%20Allocation) AZZ generated strong operating cash flow of **$249.9 million** in fiscal 2025, enabling a debt paydown of **$110.0 million** and bringing net leverage below **2.5x**, returning **$23.1 million** to shareholders via dividends, with capital expenditures totaling **$115.9 million**, including **$52.8 million** for the new Missouri facility, and for fiscal 2026, capex is projected to be **$60-$80 million**, with cash flow and proceeds from the AVAIL transaction prioritized for further debt reduction - Generated **$249.9 million** in cash from operations for fiscal 2025[15](index=15&type=chunk) - Reduced debt by **$110.0 million**, resulting in a net leverage ratio below **2.5x** trailing twelve months EBITDA[15](index=15&type=chunk) - Capital expenditures were **$115.9 million**, with **$52.8 million** allocated to the greenfield facility in Washington, Missouri[15](index=15&type=chunk) - Fiscal 2026 capital expenditures are guided to be between **$60 million** and **$80 million**[15](index=15&type=chunk) [Fiscal Year 2026 Financial Outlook](index=2&type=section&id=Fiscal%20Year%202026%20Financial%20Outlook) AZZ has reiterated its financial guidance for fiscal year 2026, projecting sales between **$1.625 billion** and **$1.725 billion**, anticipating Adjusted EBITDA to be in the range of **$360 million** to **$400 million**, with Adjusted Diluted EPS forecasted between **$5.50** and **$6.10**, based on an expected effective tax rate of **25%** and specific EBITDA margin ranges for its segments | Metric | FY2026 Guidance | | :--- | :--- | | Sales | $1.625 - $1.725 billion | | Adjusted EBITDA | $360 - $400 million | | Adjusted Diluted EPS | $5.50 - $6.10 | - Guidance assumes an annualized effective tax rate of **25%** and excludes any potential M&A activity[17](index=17&type=chunk) - Assumed EBITDA margin ranges are **27-32%** for the Metal Coatings segment and **17-22%** for the Precoat Metals segment[22](index=22&type=chunk) [Consolidated Financial Statements](index=5&type=section&id=Consolidated%20Financial%20Statements) The consolidated financial statements detail AZZ's performance for the fiscal year and fourth quarter ended February 28, 2025, highlighting a year-over-year increase in full-year sales and operating income, a strengthened balance sheet with reduced long-term debt and increased shareholders' equity, and consistent positive cash flow from operations [Statements of Income](index=5&type=section&id=Statements%20of%20Income) For fiscal year 2025, sales increased to **$1.58 billion** from **$1.54 billion** in the prior year, operating income grew to **$236.4 million**, and net income rose to **$128.8 million**, though a significant one-time redemption premium of **$75.2 million** on Series A Preferred Stock reduced the net income available to common shareholders to **$52.4 million** | (In thousands) | Year Ended Feb 28, 2025 | Year Ended Feb 29, 2024 | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Sales | $1,577,744 | $1,537,589 | | Gross Margin | $382,680 | $363,461 | | Operating Income | $236,364 | $221,600 | | Net Income | $128,833 | $101,607 | | Net Income to Common Shareholders | $52,435 | $87,207 | [Balance Sheets](index=6&type=section&id=Balance%20Sheets) As of February 28, 2025, AZZ's total assets stood at **$2.23 billion**, with long-term debt reduced to **$852.4 million** from **$952.7 million** a year prior, and a notable change was the elimination of **$233.7 million** in Mezzanine equity following the redemption of the Series A Preferred Stock, which contributed to a significant increase in Shareholders' Equity to **$1.05 billion** | (In thousands) | As of Feb 28, 2025 | As of Feb 29, 2024 | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Total Assets | $2,227,101 | $2,195,505 | | Long-term debt, net | $852,365 | $952,742 | | Mezzanine equity | $— | $233,722 | | Shareholders' Equity | $1,045,495 | $700,769 | [Statements of Cash Flows](index=7&type=section&id=Statements%20of%20Cash%20Flows) For the fiscal year ended February 28, 2025, AZZ generated **$249.9 million** in net cash from operating activities, a slight increase from the prior year, with net cash used in investing activities at **$115.0 million**, primarily for capital expenditures, and net cash used in financing activities at **$138.7 million**, reflecting debt repayments and shareholder returns | (In thousands) | Year Ended Feb 28, 2025 | Year Ended Feb 29, 2024 | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Net cash provided by operating activities | $249,909 | $244,468 | | Net cash used in investing activities | $(114,997) | $(95,064) | | Net cash used in financing activities | $(138,695) | $(147,888) | [Non-GAAP Financial Measures Reconciliation](index=8&type=section&id=Non-GAAP%20Financial%20Measures%20Reconciliation) This section provides reconciliations of non-GAAP measures such as Adjusted Net Income, Adjusted EPS, and Adjusted EBITDA to their closest GAAP equivalents, which management believes offer greater transparency into the company's core operating performance by excluding items like intangible asset amortization, certain legal costs, and non-recurring events, also detailing the calculation of the net leverage ratio [Adjusted Net Income and Adjusted EPS Reconciliation](index=9&type=section&id=Adjusted%20Net%20Income%20and%20Adjusted%20EPS%20Reconciliation) For fiscal year 2025, GAAP Net Income of **$128.8 million** was adjusted for items including the **$75.2 million** preferred stock redemption premium, **$23.1 million** in intangible asset amortization, and **$9.9 million** in legal settlements, resulting in an Adjusted Net Income of **$156.8 million**, which translated to an Adjusted Diluted EPS of **$5.20**, compared to the GAAP EPS of **$1.79** | (In thousands, except per share) | Year Ended Feb 28, 2025 | | :--- | :--- | | Net income available to common shareholders (GAAP) | $52,435 | | **Total adjustments** | **$103,167** | | *Amortization of intangible assets* | *$23,111* | | *Legal settlement and accrual* | *$9,949* | | *Retirement and other severance expense* | *$3,741* | | *Redemption premium on Series A Preferred Stock* | *$75,198* | | *Tax impact of adjustments* | *($8,832)* | | **Adjusted net income (non-GAAP)** | **$156,802** | | Diluted EPS (GAAP) | $1.79 | | Adjusted diluted EPS (non-GAAP) | $5.20 | [Adjusted EBITDA Reconciliation](index=9&type=section&id=Adjusted%20EBITDA%20Reconciliation) Adjusted EBITDA for fiscal year 2025 was **$347.9 million**, an increase from **$333.6 million** in the prior year, with the calculation starting with GAAP Net Income and adding back interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization, as well as adjustments for legal settlements (**$9.9 million**) and severance expenses (**$3.7 million**) | (In thousands) | Year Ended Feb 28, 2025 | Year Ended Feb 29, 2024 | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Net income (GAAP) | $128,833 | $101,607 | | Interest expense | $81,282 | $107,065 | | Income tax expense | $41,850 | $28,496 | | Depreciation and amortization | $82,205 | $79,423 | | Legal settlement and accrual | $9,949 | $17,043 | | Retirement and other severance expense | $3,741 | $— | | **Adjusted EBITDA (non-GAAP)** | **$347,860** | **$333,634** | [Debt Leverage Ratio Reconciliation](index=12&type=section&id=Debt%20Leverage%20Ratio%20Reconciliation) The company's net leverage ratio improved significantly, decreasing from **2.9x** at the end of fiscal 2024 to **2.5x** at the end of fiscal 2025, achieved through a combination of debt reduction and an increase in Adjusted EBITDA as calculated per the company's credit agreement | (In thousands, except ratio) | As of Feb 28, 2025 | As of Feb 29, 2024 | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Consolidated indebtedness | $894,227 | $989,430 | | Adjusted EBITDA per Credit Agreement | $358,058 | $339,250 | | **Net leverage ratio** | **2.5x** | **2.9x** |

Operations and Workforce - AZZ Precoat Metals segment operates 13 plants in the U.S., with the newest facility in Washington, Missouri, becoming operational in fiscal year 2026[20] - As of February 28, 2025, AZZ employed approximately 3,684 people worldwide, with 83% being hourly employees[31] - Approximately 53.0% of U.S. employees are diverse, as reported to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission[34] - The executive team includes 12.5% female representation, with 16.7% of non-employee Board members being female[35] - As of February 28, 2025, 668 (or 18.1%) of the company's full-time employees were represented by unions under collective bargaining agreements[77] Safety and Development - The company emphasizes a culture of safety, aiming for zero serious injuries through investments in safety programs and initiatives[41] - AZZ offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, competitive salaries, and a 401(k) match up to 4%[37] - The company provides ongoing development opportunities, including access to over 4,500 learning modules and tuition assistance for higher education[38] Financial Performance and Risks - The acquisition of Precoat Metals in fiscal year 2023 aimed to strategically transform AZZ into a focused metal coatings solutions company[20] - Quarterly operating results may vary significantly, and past performance may not indicate future results[49] - The company requires skilled labor to maintain productivity and profitability, and labor shortages could impair profit margins[50] - Supply chain disruptions and inflation in raw material prices, particularly zinc and natural gas, could adversely affect operating margins[56] - The company’s acquisition strategy involves risks, including potential difficulties in post-acquisition integration and the need for additional financing[68] - Cybersecurity threats pose risks to operational efficiency and financial results, with potential for significant damage from incidents[61] - Changes in political and economic conditions globally could disrupt operations and impact financial performance[55] - The company’s business is cyclical and sensitive to economic downturns, which could adversely affect sales and cash flows[54] - Legal claims and regulatory changes could negatively impact profitability and liquidity[73] - The company seeks to maintain operating margins by increasing prices in response to rising costs, but this may affect future order volumes[59] Debt and Financial Obligations - The company has a liability of $24.6 million on its consolidated balance sheet related to its underfunded defined benefit pension plan as of February 28, 2025[91] - The company's debt instruments contain covenants that restrict certain actions, which could impact its operational flexibility and financial condition[85] - A significant change in a customer's creditworthiness could lead to substantial accounts receivable write-offs, adversely affecting the company's financial results[92] - The company has $900.3 million of gross debt outstanding, with approximately half of it unhedged against interest rate fluctuations[101] - A hypothetical 10% increase in interest rates would increase interest expense by $2.9 million for fiscal 2025[197] - The weighted average balance of variable interest debt outstanding was $370.6 million as of February 28, 2025[197] - Interest rate swaps are utilized to hedge approximately half of the gross debt outstanding, expiring on September 30, 2025[101] - The company does not enter into derivative instruments for speculative purposes, focusing instead on risk reduction[193] Regulatory and Environmental Risks - The company is subject to annual disclosure and audit requirements regarding conflict minerals, which may incur additional compliance costs[76] - Future quotas, duties, or tariffs could materially adversely affect the company's business, financial condition, and results of operations[75] - The company may face increased operational costs due to changes in labor or employment laws, including minimum wage rules[79] - Climate change poses risks to the company's operations from severe weather events, potentially increasing operational costs and affecting supply chains[80] - Changes in environmental laws and regulations may lead to increased compliance and operational costs, impacting future operating results[81] - Tax legislation and administrative initiatives could adversely affect the company's financial condition and results of operations[99] - The company is substantially self-insured for various liabilities, which may expose it to unexpected financial burdens[98] - The company maintains property and casualty insurance, but coverage may not fully cover all operational risks[100] Market Competition - The company operates in highly competitive markets, facing risks from competitors with lower cost structures that may impact market share[48] - The company has experienced volatility in its stock price, which could increase the risk of impairment of goodwill and intangible assets[93] - The company is exposed to foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations, particularly related to operations in Canada[97] - The company has exposure to commodity price increases, particularly in zinc and natural gas, and employs agreements to mitigate these risks[194]