Core Insights - Bigben Interactive's earnings for the financial year 2024/25 were impacted by delays in new releases, but strong growth is anticipated in 2025/26, particularly in the first half [2][14]. Financial Performance - Total sales for the year 2024/25 were €288.0 million, a slight decrease from €292.0 million in 2023/24 [3]. - Gross profit increased to €147.4 million, with a gross margin of 51.2%, up 2.4 percentage points year-on-year due to an improved product mix [3][4]. - EBITDA before non-recurring items remained stable at €62.1 million, while total EBITDA decreased to €61.1 million from €78.0 million in the previous year [3][4]. - The company reported a net loss of €0.3 million for the period, compared to a net income of €21.0 million in 2023/24 [3]. Business Segment Analysis - NACON's sales were stable at €167.9 million, with a gross margin improvement to 64.4% [6][7]. - Bigben AudioVideo/Telco generated sales of €120.0 million, down from €124.3 million, but gross margin increased to 32.7% due to better procurement control [9][10]. Future Outlook - The 2025/26 financial year is expected to see strong growth, with a busy release schedule for NACON, including major titles like "Robocop: Rogue City" and "Hell is Us" [14][15]. - NACON has secured a new agreement for the World Rally Championship (WRC) license, enhancing its gaming portfolio [17]. - Bigben is focusing on diversifying its product offerings and optimizing its supply chain to improve performance in the mobile accessories market [18][21]. Strategic Initiatives - The company is expanding its distribution channels and launching new products under various brands, including the Force® and Cosy ranges [21][22]. - Bigben is committed to reducing carbon emissions through its supply chain optimization efforts [18]. Shareholder Information - The Board of Directors decided not to propose a dividend for the 2024/25 financial year [13]. - Upcoming events include the Shareholders' General Meeting on 25 July 2025 and the release of first-quarter sales on 28 July 2025 [24].

Core Insights - Big Lots declared bankruptcy in September 2022 after 57 years in business, closing all 1,392 stores due to high prices and a failure to meet customer needs [1][4][12] - Variety Wholesalers acquired Big Lots in January 2023 and is implementing a turnaround strategy focused on creating a more appealing shopping experience [2][3][17] Company Strategy - The previous management's high-low pricing strategy and focus on furniture negatively impacted customer interest, leading to a decline in sales [6][7] - Variety Wholesalers is repositioning the stores by placing apparel from well-known brands at the front and reducing the emphasis on furniture [8][13] - The new merchandise is offered at "everyday low prices" without promotional sales, aiming to attract budget-conscious customers [10][16] Operational Changes - Variety Wholesalers has reopened approximately 60 stores in the southeastern states, with plans to gradually restock and introduce seasonal goods [14][15][17] - Currently, the reopened stores are only 70% stocked, with limited offerings for garden and summer supplies due to prior ordering constraints [13][14][15]

Company Overview - Big Lots is set to reopen 132 stores that were closed last year due to bankruptcy, with the reopening scheduled for May [1][3] - The stores are located in 14 states, primarily in the southern region of the United States, including Alabama, Kentucky, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia [1][3] Acquisition and Ownership - The company filed for bankruptcy in September and subsequently closed approximately 1,000 stores before being acquired by Gordon Brothers Retail Partners [3][5] - Variety Wholesalers, which operates around 400 stores and brands, including Big Lots, has taken over more than 200 Big Lots locations this year [3][5] Store Reopening Details - The reopening of the stores will occur in phases, with some locations already reopened this month [4] - The customer response to the new inventory and deals has been positive, indicating a potential recovery in consumer interest [4] Market Challenges - Big Lots has faced challenges due to high inflation and interest rates, which have negatively impacted consumer spending on home and seasonal products [5][9] - The company operates in a highly competitive market, where other value retailers are perceived to offer better pricing and deals [6][5] Store Locations - The reopening includes stores in various states such as Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Mississippi, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia [6][8]

Core Insights - Bigben Interactive reported consolidated sales of €288.0 million for the 2024/25 financial year, reflecting a slight decrease of 1.4% compared to €292.0 million in 2023/24 [1][10][17] - The company anticipates a sharp increase in business levels starting in the first half of the 2025/26 financial year, driven by a more robust release schedule in the gaming segment [1][11][16] Sales Performance - Sales in the first quarter of 2024/25 were €57.9 million, down 8.9% from €63.5 million in the previous year [2] - The second quarter saw an increase of 20.8%, with sales reaching €78.0 million compared to €64.5 million [2] - Third quarter sales decreased by 6.8% to €87.7 million, while the fourth quarter sales were €64.5 million, down 7.7% from €69.8 million [2][3] Segment Analysis - NACON Gaming generated €38.0 million in sales during the fourth quarter, with overall gaming sales totaling €26.0 million, a decrease of 1.6% [3][5] - Catalogue sales for new games in the fourth quarter amounted to €9.9 million, down 35.8%, due to a limited release schedule [4] - Back Catalogue sales increased by 46.5% to €16.1 million in the fourth quarter, and for the full year, they rose by 31.2% to €58.6 million [5] Accessories and Audio/Video Business - Sales in the Accessories business totaled €11.0 million, impacted by postponed launches [5] - The mobile accessories market shrank by 10% in the first quarter of 2025, but Bigben's sales fell only by 7.7% to €21.6 million, outperforming the market [6][8] - Audio/Video sales in the fourth quarter were €4.7 million, down from €5.4 million in the previous year, with full-year sales at €26.9 million [9] Future Outlook - The gaming segment is expected to benefit from a busy release schedule in 2025/26, with over 10 games planned [11][12] - The Accessories business is projected to see firm growth, particularly in the first half of the financial year [12][16] - A new production site in Lauwin-Planque, France, is expected to be operational in the second half of 2025/26, focusing on controller production [13] Strategic Initiatives - Bigben aims to enhance its market share through the strong performance of its Force® brand and by diversifying its product range [19] - The company plans to launch several new products, including the Xbox Revolution X Unlimited controller and premium racing accessories [14][15]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Q4 net sales were $340.4 million, down from $370.4 million in the prior year, with a decline of 0.9% when adjusted for the 53rd week [34][35] - Q4 adjusted EBITDA increased to $14.6 million from $5.3 million in the previous year, representing a nearly 300% increase in profitability [43] - Gross margin improved to 30.4% from 26.8% in the prior year, a 360 basis point increase [39] - Net loss for Q4 was $8.7 million, unchanged from the previous year, but adjusted net income improved to $1.6 million from an adjusted net loss of $7.5 million [41][42] - Full year 2024 sales were approximately $1.2 billion, with adjusted EPS of negative 53 cents per diluted share [44] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Fishing department sales increased by 10.3% in Q4, while camping sales rose by 5.2% [36] - Firearms unit sales increased mid-single digits, despite a 1.7% decline in the hunting and shooting sports department [38] - E-commerce sales were up double digits in Q4, contributing to over 17% of overall business [16][101] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Adjusted NICS data showed a 4.5% decline, but the company outperformed this with mid-single digit growth in firearm unit sales [13] - The company noted a trade down to lower-priced firearms, impacting sales dollars but maintaining average order value [39][74] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on a transformation strategy aimed at improving omnichannel retail fundamentals and inventory efficiency [7][10] - Plans for 2025 include returning to same-store sales growth, improving gross margins, and paying down debt [17][49] - Four strategic initiatives for 2025 include focusing on core hunting and fishing products, leveraging local connections, enhancing personal protection offerings, and strengthening brand awareness [20][29] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the turnaround strategy, noting steady improvement in sales trends and inventory management [12][33] - The company anticipates challenges in Q1 due to calendar shifts but expects significant opportunities in Q2 and Q3 [61][62] - Management highlighted the importance of being prepared for seasonal demands and improving inventory flow [66][67] Other Important Information - The company ended the year with liquidity of $131 million, an increase of $40 million compared to the previous year [12][48] - Capital expenditures for 2024 were approximately $14.6 million, primarily for store maintenance and technology investments [48] Q&A Session Summary Question: Trends in sales for February and March - Management noted positive sales trends in February, with a shift in holiday timing affecting March sales [56][62] Question: Trade down environment and market share - Management indicated that the trade down in firearms could present an opportunity for market share gains, as they focus on stocking the right products [72][74] Question: Impact of tariffs on consumer behavior - Management stated that there has been no significant change in consumer behavior due to tariffs, attributing any sales shifts to timing of advertising [81][82] Question: Free cash flow conversion from EBITDA - Management expressed confidence in generating positive free cash flow through improved inventory efficiency and sales growth [63][116] Question: Store openings and portfolio optimization - Management confirmed plans for one new store opening and mentioned ongoing evaluations of underperforming stores [110][112]

Core Viewpoint - Ollie's Bargain Outlet Holdings, Inc. has announced the acquisition of 40 former Big Lots store leases, bringing the total to 63, pending bankruptcy court approval [1][2]. Company Strategy - The acquisition aligns with the company's growth strategy, as the new locations are appropriately sized, have favorable lease terms, and are situated in existing trade areas [2]. - The company plans to prioritize the opening of these acquired stores, adjusting its new store openings to optimize operational and financial outcomes [2]. Growth Projections - The acquisition is expected to enable Ollie's to accelerate new store openings in 2025, targeting approximately 75 units, exceeding the previous annual growth target of 10% [2]. Company Overview - Ollie's is the largest retailer of closeout merchandise in the U.S., operating 568 stores across 31 states, offering a variety of brand name products at discounted prices [3].

Company Overview - Bigben Interactive HK Ltd. has entered a licensing agreement with BBC Studios for the animated series Bluey, which has gained significant popularity in Europe, particularly in France [1][2] - The company is known for its innovative products in the digital entertainment industry, focusing on mobile and audio sectors, and has a strong presence in gaming through its NACON brand [5] Product Launch - Bigben is set to launch an interactive luminous alarm clock and nightlight inspired by Bluey in the second half of 2025, designed to be user-friendly and appealing to children [3][4] - The product aims to enhance the daily routines of children while staying true to the essence of the Bluey series, which is characterized by fun and engagement [4] Market Performance - Bluey was the number one program for the 4-10 age group in France in 2024, achieving a peak audience share of 49% on December 5th, and was also the top program on France TV/Okoo digital platforms [1] - The series has become a significant player in the toy market, ranking as the third best-selling license in the PS Figures/Playsets & Accessories category in France for 2024 [2] Brand and Audience Engagement - The collaboration with BBC Studios aims to deepen fan engagement and extend the Bluey brand through innovative product offerings [11] - Bluey has a global reach, being broadcasted in various countries, including Australia and the U.S., through partnerships with major networks like Disney [8]

Financial Performance - Third quarter 2024/25 sales reached €87.7 million, a decrease of 6.8% compared to the same period in 2023/24 [2][4] - First nine months of 2024/25 sales totaled €223.6 million, a slight increase of 0.6% compared to the previous year [4] - NACON Gaming sales for the third quarter were €52.9 million, down 10.3% year-on-year [4] - Bigben AudioVideo/Telco sales for the third quarter were €34.8 million, almost unchanged from the previous year [4][9] Gaming Segment - Gaming sales in the third quarter amounted to €25.4 million, a decrease of 23.7% [5] - Catalogue sales (new games) were €9.8 million, down 52.9% due to lack of major new releases [5] - Back Catalogue sales increased by 24.5% to €15.6 million, reflecting strong momentum [6] - Accessories sales rose 5.3% to €25.2 million, driven by strong performance of RIG headsets and REVOLUTION 5 PRO controllers [7] Bigben AudioVideo/Telco Segment - Mobile Accessories sales fell only 3.9% to €25.3 million, supported by the premium market position of the Force® brand [10] - Audio/Video sales increased by 8.0% year-on-year to €9.4 million, driven by diversification of sales outlets and product range [11] Strategic Developments - NACON plans to build a new production plant for video gaming accessories in France, operational by late 2025 [8] - The plant aims to improve supply chain control, in-house value retention, and inventory optimization [8] Outlook - NACON expects a slightly busier release schedule in the fourth quarter, including three new games [12][17] - Test Drive Unlimited: Solar Crown has over 500,000 players and continues to sell well [13] - Bigben AudioVideo/Telco anticipates stable sales in the fourth quarter, supported by premium positioning and new product launches [14][15] - Strong growth is expected in the first half of 2025/26, driven by new Gaming and Accessories products, a buoyant Back Catalogue, and the launch of the Nintendo SwitchTM 2 console [15][16][19] Market Position - The Group maintains a premium positioning in Mobile Accessories, with products like Force Play Immersion® headphones and the "Origine France Garantie" label charger gaining consumer recognition [18] - NACON has a full range of accessories compatible with the upcoming Nintendo SwitchTM 2 console [19]

Core Insights - Big Lots, a significant player in the discount retail sector, is navigating an uncertain future following its acquisition by Gordon Brothers Retail Partners, which aims to keep hundreds of stores operational [1][2][3] Company Challenges - The acquisition provides a lifeline for Big Lots after a challenging year characterized by financial difficulties and declining sales, with a previous acquisition attempt by Nexus Capital Management failing [3][4] - Big Lots has struggled to adapt to changing consumer preferences, overly relying on traditional brick-and-mortar retailing and facing stiff competition from discount giants like Walmart and Dollar General, as well as specialized retailers such as TJX and Ross [4][6] - The company's heavy emphasis on furniture sales has been detrimental, especially with housing sales and new housing starts at historic lows, leading to inventory issues [7][11] Real Estate Strategy - Big Lots is perceived as a "tier 2 or tier 3" retailer by many landlords, which has limited its ability to secure prime retail locations, a critical factor for attracting consumers [7][8] - Improving real estate strategy is essential for Big Lots to enhance its market presence and consumer engagement [8] E-commerce and Merchandise Strategy - A strong eCommerce platform alone may not guarantee success for Big Lots, as competitors like Ross and TJX thrive without large online presences due to their clear and defined strategies [9][10] - Big Lots must rethink its merchandise strategy to better align with consumer needs, particularly in light of inflation impacting discretionary spending [11][12] Future Opportunities - Big Lots has the potential to innovate and redefine its identity in the retail landscape with the support of Gordon Brothers, focusing on personalized shopping experiences and integrating digital tools [13][14] - Enhancing customer engagement through community-driven initiatives and marketing campaigns, along with a robust eCommerce strategy, could strengthen Big Lots' appeal to both existing and new customers [14]

Core Viewpoint - Big Lots has reached a new deal that allows it to save up to half of its stores after filing for bankruptcy, with the transaction involving the transfer of its assets to Gordon Brothers Retail Partners [1][5][9]. Group 1: Bankruptcy and Deal Details - Big Lots filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in September, listing assets and liabilities between $1 billion and $10 billion [6]. - The company initially agreed to sell "substantially all" of its stores and operations to Nexus Capital Management for approximately $760 million, but this deal fell through due to creditor backlash [4][5][6]. - A judge approved the sale to Gordon Brothers, which includes repaying Big Lots' Chapter 11 loan and up to $17 million in outstanding rent and other fees related to the bankruptcy [8][9]. Group 2: Store Operations and Future Plans - Under the new agreement, Variety Wholesalers plans to acquire between 200 and 400 Big Lots stores and up to two distribution centers, intending to operate them under the Big Lots brand [2][3]. - Big Lots has commenced going out-of-business sales at its remaining stores and indicated that total liquidation would occur if the sale was not approved [7][11]. - The deal is seen as a significant achievement for Big Lots, aiming to preserve jobs and maximize asset value for creditors [10][11].