Core Insights - Coca-Cola Consolidated has announced a $90 million investment in a new 400,000-square-foot distribution and warehouse facility in Columbus, Ohio, which includes additional buildings for equipment repair and fleet maintenance [1][2] - The new facility is designed to enhance service capabilities for customers and the local community through innovative sustainability processes and technology [1][2] Investment and Economic Impact - The Columbus warehouse will manage over 16 million cases of products annually, averaging about 75,000 cases per day [2] - The investment has led to the creation of 35 new jobs, increasing total employment at the facility to 360 [3] Facility Features - The new campus includes a sales center, on-site wellness clinic, and an experiential learning center for employee training and skill development [4] - The facility incorporates advanced sustainability measures such as LED lighting, EV charging infrastructure, and recycling partnerships [5] Community Engagement - Coca-Cola Consolidated employs over 2,210 individuals across 15 facilities in Ohio, serving more than 21,000 businesses [6] - The company actively supports local non-profits, including Ronald McDonald House and Nationwide Children's Hospital [6] Company Overview - Coca-Cola Consolidated is the largest Coca-Cola bottler in the U.S., distributing over 300 brands and flavors across 14 states and the District of Columbia [7] - The company has a long-standing commitment to its consumers and communities, emphasizing excellence and profitable growth [8]

Core Viewpoint - Stock splits, while often receiving excessive attention from investors, do not fundamentally change a company's business performance. However, they can draw attention to stocks that may otherwise be overlooked, especially in uncertain market conditions [1][2]. Company Summaries Coca-Cola Consolidated - Coca-Cola Consolidated is the largest Coca-Cola bottler in the U.S., serving 14 states and the District of Columbia [3]. - The company announced a 10-for-1 stock split, pending shareholder approval on May 13, 2025, with trading on a split-adjusted basis expected to begin on May 27, 2025 [4]. - Following a 1% year-over-year decline in net sales and a 12% drop in operating income in Q1, the stock price fell, but this sell-off may present a buying opportunity amid market uncertainty [5][6]. - The decline in sales was attributed to two fewer selling days and the timing of the Easter holiday, with expectations that demand for its products will remain stable even in a struggling economy [7]. Fastenal - Fastenal is primarily known for distributing threaded fasteners but has diversified, with non-fastener products now accounting for nearly 70% of total sales [9]. - A two-for-one stock split was approved by the board, scheduled for May 21, 2025, for shares owned as of May 5, 2025 [9]. - Despite major market indexes being down year-to-date, Fastenal's share price has increased significantly, and management anticipates continued strong cash flow generation [10]. - Concerns exist regarding the stock's premium valuation, with a forward price-to-earnings ratio of 38, and indications that customers are becoming more cautious due to trade policy uncertainties [11]. O'Reilly Automotive - O'Reilly Automotive is a leading specialty retailer in the U.S. for automotive aftermarket parts, tools, and supplies [12]. - The company has seen its share price rise amid market volatility, although it trades at a high valuation of 32 times forward earnings [13]. - The anticipated 15-for-1 stock split on June 9, 2025, could attract new investors, pending shareholder approval on May 15, 2025 [14]. - Historical performance shows an average annual gain of 21% since the last stock split in 2005, suggesting potential for future growth despite economic challenges [15].

Core Viewpoint - Coca-Cola Consolidated's stock experienced a significant decline following disappointing Q1 earnings, with a 12% drop in share price despite a positive market backdrop [1][2]. Financial Performance - The company reported earnings per share of $11.87 on revenue of $1.58 billion for the quarter, with revenue down 0.7% year over year [3]. - The decline in revenue was attributed to two fewer sales days compared to the previous year, affecting overall sales performance [3]. - Gross profit margin decreased from 40.2% to 39.7%, and gross profit fell by 2% year over year [3]. - Operating income for the quarter was $190 million, reflecting a 12% year-over-year decline [3]. Volume and Pricing Dynamics - Unit volume fell by 6.6% year over year, necessitating pricing increases to maintain revenue levels [4]. - Adjusting for the two fewer sales days, the volume decline would have been 4.5% year over year [4]. - While pricing increases stabilized revenue, they were insufficient to prevent a decline in gross margin [5]. Future Outlook - Continued declines in unit volume could negatively impact future earnings, despite the potential for moderate pricing increases [5].

[Q1 2025 Performance Overview](index=1&type=section&id=Q1%202025%20Performance%20Overview) [Key Financial Highlights](index=1&type=section&id=Key%20Results) Coca-Cola Consolidated's Q1 2025 saw declines in net sales, gross profit, and operating income, largely due to fewer selling days Q1 2025 vs. Q1 2024 Key Results | (in millions) | 2025 | 2024 | Change | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Volume | 76.7 | 82.1 | (6.6)% | | Net sales | $1,580.0 | $1,591.6 | (0.7)% | | Gross profit | $627.1 | $640.6 | (2.1)% | | Income from operations | $189.8 | $215.4 | (11.9)% | - The first quarter of 2025 had **two fewer selling days** compared to the first quarter of 2024, which negatively impacted results[4](index=4&type=chunk) Q1 2025 Beverage Sales Breakdown | (in millions) | 2025 | 2024 | Change | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Sparkling bottle/can | $933.8 | $952.0 | (1.9)% | | Still bottle/can | $509.2 | $511.6 | (0.5)% | [Detailed Operational Review](index=2&type=section&id=First%20Quarter%202025%20Review) Q1 2025 performance was significantly affected by calendar effects and a Dasani distribution change, impacting volume and net sales - Volume declined **6.6%** in Q1 2025. **Two fewer selling days** accounted for **2.1%** of the decline, and a change in Dasani water distribution to a non-DSD method accounted for another **1.3%**[6](index=6&type=chunk) - Net sales were negatively impacted by approximately **$40 million** (**2.5%** of net sales change) due to **two fewer selling days**, which was partially offset by 2025 pricing actions[6](index=6&type=chunk) - Excluding Dasani, net sales in the Still category grew **1.8%**, driven by sports drinks, protein, and enhanced water products. The company also began distributing Topo Chico mineral water in the quarter[7](index=7&type=chunk)[9](index=9&type=chunk) - Selling, delivery and administrative (SD&A) expenses rose **2.9%**, primarily due to increased labor costs from annual wage adjustments and general inflation[9](index=9&type=chunk) - Net income was **$103.6 million** (GAAP) and **$136.3 million** (Adjusted). The GAAP figure was adversely impacted by a non-cash fair value adjustment to an acquisition-related contingent consideration liability[11](index=11&type=chunk) - Cash flow from operations was **$198.2 million**. The company invested **$98 million** in capital expenditures and expects total 2025 capex to be approximately **$300 million**[12](index=12&type=chunk) [Financial Statements](index=6&type=section&id=FINANCIAL%20STATEMENTS) [Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations](index=6&type=section&id=CONDENSED%20CONSOLIDATED%20STATEMENTS%20OF%20OPERATIONS) For Q1 2025, the company reported decreased net sales, gross profit, and income from operations, with a notable decline in net income and diluted earnings per share Q1 2025 Statement of Operations Summary (in thousands) | | Q1 2025 | Q1 2024 | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Net sales | $1,579,977 | $1,591,626 | | Gross profit | $627,104 | $640,559 | | Income from operations | $189,820 | $215,406 | | Net income | $103,611 | $165,741 | | Diluted net income per share (Common) | $11.87 | $17.66 | [Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets](index=7&type=section&id=CONDENSED%20CONSOLIDATED%20BALANCE%20SHEETS) As of March 28, 2025, total assets slightly increased, cash and cash equivalents rose, total liabilities remained stable, and stockholders' equity grew from year-end 2024 Balance Sheet Summary (in thousands) | | March 28, 2025 | December 31, 2024 | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Cash and cash equivalents | $1,151,805 | $1,135,824 | | Total current assets | $2,613,434 | $2,547,302 | | Total assets | $5,403,738 | $5,313,139 | | Total current liabilities | $1,290,191 | $1,313,169 | | Total liabilities | $3,904,324 | $3,895,528 | | Stockholders' equity | $1,499,414 | $1,417,611 | [Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows](index=8&type=section&id=CONDENSED%20CONSOLIDATED%20STATEMENTS%20OF%20CASH%20FLOWS) In Q1 2025, the company generated strong net cash from operating activities, while utilizing cash for investing and financing activities, resulting in a net increase in cash for the period Q1 Cash Flow Summary (in thousands) | | Q1 2025 | Q1 2024 | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Net cash provided by operating activities | $198,171 | $194,273 | | Net cash used in investing activities | $(139,695) | $(263,262) | | Net cash used in financing activities | $(42,495) | $(165,020) | | Net increase (decrease) in cash | $15,981 | $(234,009) | | Cash at end of period | $1,151,805 | $401,260 | [Non-GAAP Financial Measures](index=9&type=section&id=COMPARABLE%20AND%20NON-GAAP%20FINANCIAL%20MEASURES) [Reconciliation of GAAP to Non-GAAP Results](index=9&type=section&id=Reconciliation%20of%20GAAP%20to%20Non-GAAP%20Results) The company provides adjusted non-GAAP results to offer a clearer view of ongoing performance by excluding fair value adjustments and other items - On a comparable basis, which adjusts for the **two fewer selling days** in Q1 2025, volume declined **4.5%** year-over-year[24](index=24&type=chunk) Q1 2025 GAAP to Non-GAAP Reconciliation (in thousands) | | Net income | Basic net income per share | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | **Reported results (GAAP)** | **$103,611** | **$11.88** | | Fair value adjustment of acquisition related contingent consideration | $32,174 | $3.69 | | Fair value adjustments for commodity derivative instruments | $477 | $0.05 | | **Adjusted results (non-GAAP)** | **$136,262** | **$15.62** | [Other Information](index=4&type=section&id=Other%20Information) [About Coca-Cola Consolidated, Inc.](index=4&type=section&id=About%20Coca-Cola%20Consolidated%2C%20Inc.) Coca-Cola Consolidated, Inc. is the largest Coca-Cola bottler in the United States, serving approximately 60 million consumers across 14 states and D.C. - Coca-Cola Consolidated is the **largest Coca-Cola bottler** in the United States[14](index=14&type=chunk) - The company serves approximately **60 million consumers** across **14 states** and the District of Columbia[14](index=14&type=chunk) [Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements](index=5&type=section&id=Cautionary%20Note%20Regarding%20Forward-Looking%20Statements) This news release contains forward-looking statements subject to risks and uncertainties, including inflation, supply chain issues, and changes in consumer preferences - The report contains forward-looking statements that are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to risks and uncertainties[16](index=16&type=chunk) - Identified risk factors include inflation, supply chain shortages, changes in consumer perception, government regulation, cybersecurity attacks, and economic downturns[16](index=16&type=chunk)

Core Insights - Coca-Cola Consolidated, Inc. reported a decline in key financial metrics for the first quarter of 2025, including net sales and income from operations, attributed to fewer selling days and changes in distribution methods [3][5][10]. Financial Performance - Volume decreased by 6.6% in Q1 2025 compared to Q1 2024, with two fewer selling days accounting for approximately 2.1% of this decline [4][5]. - Net sales fell by 0.7% to $1.58 billion, negatively impacted by the two fewer selling days, which accounted for about $40 million or 2.5% of the change [5][7]. - Gross profit decreased by 2.1% to $627.1 million, with a gross margin of 39.7%, down 50 basis points from the previous year [7][8]. - Income from operations was $189.8 million, a decrease of 11.9% from $215.4 million in Q1 2024, with the two fewer selling days contributing approximately $10 million to this decline [10][11]. Beverage Sales - Sparkling beverage sales decreased by 1.9%, while still beverage sales saw a smaller decline of 0.5% compared to the previous year [6]. - The decline in Sparkling category sales was partially due to softness in the Coca-Cola Original Taste brand, although other core products showed solid growth [6][9]. - Excluding Dasani, net sales in the Still category increased by 1.8%, driven by growth in sports drinks and enhanced water products [6]. Operating Expenses - Selling, delivery, and administrative (SD&A) expenses increased by 2.9% to $437.3 million, with SD&A as a percentage of net sales rising to 27.7% [9][10]. - The increase in SD&A expenses was primarily due to higher labor costs and inflationary pressures [9]. Cash Flow and Investments - Cash flows from operations for Q1 2025 were $198.2 million, compared to $194.3 million in Q1 2024 [12]. - The company invested approximately $98 million in capital expenditures during the quarter, with expectations of around $300 million for the fiscal year 2025 [12].

Core Viewpoint - Coca-Cola Consolidated, Inc. will announce its operating results for the first quarter ended March 28, 2025, after market close on April 30, 2025 [1] Company Overview - Coca-Cola Consolidated, Inc. is the largest Coca-Cola bottler in the United States, headquartered in Charlotte, N.C. [3] - The company produces, sells, and distributes beverages from The Coca-Cola Company and other partner companies, offering over 300 brands and flavors across 14 states and the District of Columbia [3] - Coca-Cola Consolidated serves approximately 60 million consumers and has been committed to its consumers, customers, and communities for over 123 years [3] - The company's purpose includes honoring God, serving others, pursuing excellence, and growing profitably [3]

Core Insights - The article emphasizes the investment philosophy focused on small cap companies, highlighting the importance of identifying mispriced securities through understanding financial drivers and utilizing DCF model valuation [1] Investment Philosophy - The investment approach is not confined to traditional categories such as value, dividend, or growth investing, but rather considers all prospects of a stock to assess risk-to-reward [1]

Core Points - Coca-Cola Consolidated, Inc. announced a 10-for-1 stock split for its Common Stock and Class B Common Stock, pending stockholder approval [1][2] - The stockholder approval for the amendment to the Company's Restated Certificate of Incorporation will be sought at the Annual Meeting on May 13, 2025 [2] - If approved, stockholders of record as of May 16, 2025, will receive 9 additional shares for each share held, with distribution expected around May 23, 2025 [3] - The shares are anticipated to begin trading on a split-adjusted basis on or about May 27, 2025 [3] - The Chairman and CEO expressed that the stock split aims to enhance accessibility for a broader range of investors, reflecting the company's strong financial performance and increased investor interest [4] Company Overview - Coca-Cola Consolidated, Inc. is the largest Coca-Cola bottler in the United States, serving approximately 60 million consumers across 14 states and the District of Columbia [5] - The company has been operational for over 123 years, focusing on a diverse portfolio of beverages and services [5] - The company's purpose emphasizes honoring God, serving others, pursuing excellence, and achieving profitable growth [5]

Financial Performance - Net sales increased by $245.9 million, or 3.7%, to $6.90 billion in 2024 compared to $6.65 billion in 2023[191] - Gross profit rose by $154.5 million, or 5.9%, with gross margin increasing by 80 basis points to 39.9% in 2024[175] - Income from operations increased by $85.9 million to $920.4 million, while net income rose by $224.8 million to $633.1 million in 2024[177] - Sparkling beverage net sales increased by 5.5% to $4.11 billion, while still beverage net sales rose by 3.6% to $2.23 billion in 2024[192] - Net sales for the Nonalcoholic Beverages segment reached $6.84 billion in 2024, compared to $6.56 billion in 2023, reflecting a growth of approximately 4.3%[214] - Gross profit for the Company was $2.75 billion in 2024, an increase from $2.60 billion in 2023, representing a growth of approximately 6.0%[219] - Basic net income per share increased to $70.10 in 2024 from $43.56 in 2023, reflecting a significant growth in profitability[219] Cash Flow and Investments - Cash flows from operations for 2024 were $876.4 million, up from $810.7 million in 2023[178] - Capital expenditures for 2024 were $371.0 million, focusing on supply chain enhancements and future growth[178] - The company expects to continue significant investments in supply chain optimization during fiscal year 2025[184] - Cash provided by operating activities was $876.4 million, an increase of $65.7 million compared to 2023[239] - Cash used in investing activities during 2024 was $682.2 million, an increase of $386.9 million from 2023, primarily due to higher additions to property, plant, and equipment of $371.0 million[240] - Cash provided by financing activities was $306.4 million in 2024, a change of $384.1 million from cash used in financing activities of $77.7 million in 2023, driven by bond proceeds of $1.20 billion[244] Expenses and Costs - Selling, delivery, and administrative expenses increased by $68.6 million, or 3.9%, representing 26.6% of net sales in 2024[176] - Cost of sales increased by $91.4 million, or 2.3%, to $4.15 billion in 2024 compared to $4.06 billion in 2023, primarily due to higher input costs[200] - Selling, delivery, and administrative (SD&A) expenses rose by $68.6 million, or 3.9%, to $1.83 billion in 2024, with labor costs accounting for approximately $48 million of the increase[203] - The net impact of commodity derivative instruments on the consolidated statements of operations was a decrease in cost of sales of $590, and an increase in SD&A expenses of $2,647 in 2024[256] - Inflation has increased both cost of goods sold and selling, general & administrative (SD&A) expenses for the Company[299] Debt and Financing - Total debt as of December 31, 2024, was $1.79 billion, up from $599.2 million on December 31, 2023[228] - The Company completed the issuance of $700 million in 2029 Senior Bonds and $500 million in 2034 Senior Bonds on May 29, 2024[231] - The Company has a maximum borrowing capacity of $500 million under its Revolving Credit Facility, maturing on June 10, 2029[232] - As of December 31, 2024, the company had outstanding debt of $1.80 billion, with approximately $350 million due in fiscal year 2025[247] Tax and Regulatory - The effective income tax rate decreased to 26.1% in 2024 from 26.7% in 2023, while income tax expense increased by $74.4 million, or 49.9%, to $223.5 million[209] - The Company does not recognize a tax benefit unless it is more likely than not that the benefit will be sustained on audit[276] Assets and Liabilities - Total assets increased by $1.02 billion to $5.31 billion as of December 31, 2024, compared to $4.29 billion on December 31, 2023[220] - Net working capital rose by $620.3 million to $1.23 billion on December 31, 2024[220] - Cash and cash equivalents increased by $500.6 million, primarily due to bond proceeds of $1.20 billion and strong operating performance[222] - The ending balance of the Level 3 liability related to acquisition contingent consideration was $654.2 million as of 2024, down from $669.3 million in 2023[237] Shareholder Returns - The Board of Directors approved an increase in the quarterly cash dividend from $0.50 to $2.50 per share on August 20, 2024[235] - The Company repurchased 14,391.5 shares of Common Stock for an aggregate purchase price of $13.3 million, representing 0.2% of the shares outstanding as of June 18, 2024[225] Market and Economic Conditions - Walmart and Kroger accounted for approximately 29% of total net sales in 2024, maintaining similar percentages from 2023[196] - A 10% increase in key commodity prices would increase costs by approximately $66 million over the next 12 months[294] - The annual rate of inflation in the U.S. was 2.9% in 2024, 3.4% in 2023, and 6.5% in 2022, affecting commodity prices relevant to the Company's business[298] - The Company can offset cost increases by raising selling prices, but consumer buying power may limit this ability[299] - If consumers reduce their purchase volume due to higher prices, selling price increases may not fully cover the Company's cost increases[299] Pension and Benefits - Pension costs for the Bargaining Plan were $3.7 million in both 2024 and 2023[281] - The discount rate for the Bargaining Plan was 5.89% in 2024 and 5.16% in 2023, significantly impacting projected benefit obligations[280] - A 0.25% increase in the discount rate assumption would decrease the projected benefit obligation by $1,842,000, while a decrease would increase it by $1,965,000[282] - The discount rate for the postretirement benefit obligation was 5.68% in 2024 and 5.02% in 2023[285] - The actual return on pension plan assets for the Bargaining Plan was a gain of 3.7% in 2024 and a gain of 13.5% in 2023[280] Impairment and Valuation - The Company did not identify any impairment triggers related to property, plant, and equipment and other intangibles during 2024 and 2023[267] - The Company performed its annual impairment test of goodwill and determined there was no impairment for both 2024 and 2023[270] - The fair value of the acquisition related contingent consideration liability is influenced by the Company's WACC and estimated future payments, with a 10-basis point change in the risk-free interest rate resulting in a $6 million change in liability[273]

Financial Performance - Fourth quarter 2024 net sales increased by 7.1% to $1,746.5 million compared to the same period in 2023, while fiscal year 2024 net sales rose by 3.7% to $6,899.7 million[5][7] - Gross profit for the fourth quarter of 2024 was $697.9 million, an increase of 8.8% year-over-year, with a gross margin improvement of 70 basis points to 40.0%[9][11] - Income from operations in the fourth quarter of 2024 was $218.7 million, a 22.6% increase from $178.5 million in the fourth quarter of 2023, with fiscal year 2024 income from operations reaching $920.4 million, up 10.3%[11][12] - Net income for the fourth quarter of 2024 was $178.9 million, a significant increase of $103.1 million compared to $75.8 million in the fourth quarter of 2023[12] - Net income for fiscal year 2024 was $633,125, representing a 55% increase compared to $408,375 in fiscal year 2023[23] - Basic net income per share for Q4 2024 was $20.48, compared to $8.09 in Q4 2023, reflecting a 153% increase[19] - Adjusted net income per share for Fiscal Year 2024 is $75.13, up from $65.48 in Fiscal Year 2023, reflecting a 14% increase[25] Sales Performance - Sparkling beverage sales in the fourth quarter of 2024 increased by 7.7% to $1,083.5 million, while still beverage sales rose by 8.7% to $531.3 million compared to the fourth quarter of 2023[2][7] - Comparable volume for the fourth quarter of 2024 was up 1.3%, with a 0.8% increase in Sparkling category volume and a 6.4% decline in Still category volume[8][9] - Comparable volume for Q4 2024 was 87.8 million, a decrease of 0.9% from 88.5 million in Q4 2023[24] Cash Flow and Investments - Cash flows from operations for fiscal year 2024 were $876.4 million, reflecting strong operating performance, with capital expenditures of $371 million during the year[12] - The company plans to invest approximately $300 million in capital expenditures for fiscal year 2025[12] - The company reported a net cash provided by operating activities of $876,357 for fiscal year 2024, compared to $810,690 in fiscal year 2023[23] Assets and Liabilities - Total assets increased to $5,313,139 in December 2024, up from $4,288,942 in December 2023[21] - Cash and cash equivalents rose to $1,135,824 in December 2024, a significant increase from $635,269 in December 2023[21] - Total liabilities increased to $3,895,528 in December 2024, up from $2,853,344 in December 2023[21] Operational Efficiency - Operating margin for fiscal year 2024 improved to 13.3%, an increase of 80 basis points from 12.5% in fiscal year 2023[11] - Gross profit for Fiscal Year 2024 is $2,753,179,000, a 4% increase compared to $2,598,711,000 in Fiscal Year 2023[25] - Total income from operations for Fiscal Year 2024 is $921,625,000, which is a 10.3% increase from $834,451,000 in Fiscal Year 2023[25] - The company experienced a 6% increase in selling, general and administrative expenses, totaling $1,832,829,000 in Fiscal Year 2024[25] Future Outlook - Future outlook includes continued focus on market expansion and new product development, aiming for sustained growth in revenue and profitability[25] - The company emphasizes the importance of non-GAAP financial measures for assessing ongoing performance and making strategic decisions[25] Other Financial Metrics - The company repurchased approximately $626 million of its common stock and increased its annualized regular dividend to $10 per share during 2024[7] - The company issued $1,200,000 in bonds during fiscal year 2024[23] - Adjusted EBITDA for Fiscal Year 2024 is $1,115,416,000, with an EBITDA margin of 16.2%[25] - Income tax expense for Fiscal Year 2024 is $223,529,000, compared to $119,834,000 in Fiscal Year 2023, indicating a significant increase[25] - The company reported a fair value adjustment for commodity derivative instruments of $1,275,000 in Fiscal Year 2024, compared to a loss of $1,220,000 in Fiscal Year 2023[25]