GONZALES, La., Jan. 06, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Crown Crafts, Inc. (NASDAQ-CM: CRWS) (the “Company”) today announced that Olivia Elliott, President, Chief Executive Officer, and Claire Spencer, Chief Financial Officer, will be attending the ICR Conference in Orlando, Florida on Monday and Tuesday, January 12-13 and will present on Tuesday, January 13 at 1:00 p.m. Eastern Time. The live webcast and replay will be available on the presentations page of the Company's investor relations website at https://www. ...

Core Insights - The article highlights recent research reports on several major stocks, including Procter & Gamble, Lam Research, Texas Instruments, SandRidge Energy, and Crown Crafts, emphasizing their performance and outlook in the market [2][5][14]. Procter & Gamble (PG) - Procter & Gamble's shares have declined by 14.5% over the past year, slightly better than the Zacks Consumer Products - Staples industry's decline of 14.7% [5]. - The company expects all-in sales growth of 1-5% and flat to up 4% organic sales gains in fiscal 2026, supported by cost savings [6]. - Robust cash flow is anticipated to fund $15 billion in shareholder returns in fiscal 2026, including dividends and share buybacks [6][7]. Lam Research (LRCX) - Lam Research's shares have outperformed the Zacks Electronics - Semiconductors industry, increasing by 101% compared to the industry's 70.1% [8]. - The company is benefiting from strength in 3D DRAM and advanced packaging technologies, with a rebound in the System business due to improving memory spending [9]. - Total revenues are expected to grow at a CAGR of 8.5% from fiscal 2026 to 2028, although global spending on mature nodes may remain soft in the near term [10]. Texas Instruments (TXN) - Texas Instruments' shares have underperformed the Zacks Semiconductor - General industry, declining by 6.8% compared to the industry's 24.8% [11]. - The company is experiencing cautious spending from customers amid macroeconomic uncertainties, impacting overall growth [11]. - Revenue is projected to grow at a CAGR of 8.7% from 2025 to 2027, supported by solid data center demand and a focus on expanding its product portfolio [13]. SandRidge Energy (SD) - SandRidge Energy's shares have outperformed the Zacks Oil and Gas - Integrated - United States industry, increasing by 34.5% compared to the industry's decline of 9.3% [14]. - The company has a market capitalization of $527.34 million and is benefiting from strong early well results in the Cherokee shale [14]. - Cash generation supports a steady capital return program, with rising quarterly dividends and continued buybacks [15][16]. Crown Crafts (CRWS) - Crown Crafts' shares have underperformed the Zacks Textile - Home Furnishing industry, declining by 33.2% compared to the industry's decline of 11% [17]. - The company faces risks such as tariff-related margin pressure and high inventory, but the Baby Boom acquisition is expected to drive long-term growth [18]. - Cost synergies and internal consolidation are anticipated to streamline operations through fiscal 2027, enhancing overall performance [19].

Core Insights - Crown Crafts, Inc. (CRWS) has been upgraded to "Outperform" from "Neutral" as it navigates a challenging cost environment and integrates post-Baby Boom operations, focusing on margin and cash-flow improvements [1] - The company is implementing a cost restructuring strategy aimed at achieving structural savings, transitioning from one-time integration benefits to a more sustainable cost-reduction program [2] Financial Performance - In Q2 fiscal 2026, CRWS experienced a 3.1% decline in net sales year over year, while net income increased by 34.5% to $1.2 million from $0.9 million, indicating effective cost management despite revenue challenges [5] - Marketing and administrative expenses decreased by 13.6% year over year, falling to 19.9% of sales from 22.3%, reflecting successful integration and synergy capture [2] Operational Restructuring - Management is consolidating internal operations by merging NoJo and Sassy's back-office functions to eliminate duplicate roles and contracts, with savings expected to accumulate progressively through fiscal 2026 and into fiscal 2027 [3] - The company is shifting diaper bag sourcing away from China to mitigate tariff impacts, indicating a direct reset in cost of goods for a significant product category [4] Valuation and Dividend - CRWS's valuation remains compressed due to ongoing tariff impacts and an incomplete restructuring process, but the balance sheet is positioned to support a valuation floor with total debt reduced to approximately $16.3 million [6] - The company offers a high dividend yield of 11.64% with an annual payout of $0.32 per share, although the payout ratio of 533% appears overstretched due to a temporarily depressed profit base [7] Strategic Positioning - Crown Crafts is moving beyond the Baby Boom integration phase, achieving a more balanced portfolio with growth in bibs, toys, and disposables to offset declines in bedding and diaper bags [10] - Management is focusing on international distribution and selective brand reinvestment to reduce dependence on U.S. big-box retailers, aiming for a steadier earnings base and improved margin durability [11]

Core Insights - Companies heavily reliant on China for product sourcing are experiencing significant gross margin degradation due to tariffs, with micro-cap stocks seeing declines of 50-700 basis points [1] - Despite challenges, two micro-cap companies have successfully adjusted to tariffs through cost restructuring and sourcing diversification, making them appear attractively valued [2] Company Summaries Crown Crafts, Inc. (CRWS) - Crown Crafts specializes in infant, toddler, and juvenile products, with Walmart and Amazon as key customers, contributing 47% and 19% of fiscal 2025 gross sales respectively [3] - In the latest quarter, Crown Crafts faced a 3.1% decline in sales and a 70 basis point erosion in gross margin due to tariffs, yet managed to increase EPS year-over-year from $0.08 to $0.11 [4] - Administrative and marketing costs decreased by 13.6% year-over-year, with further cost savings expected from management's consolidation plan by fiscal 2027 [5] - The stock is trading at 3.2X trailing 12-month EV/EBITDA, significantly lower than industry averages, with a current dividend yield of 11.72% [6] Hamilton Beach Brands Holding Company (HBB) - Hamilton Beach operates in two segments: Home and Commercial Products (74% of total revenues) and Health (26% of total revenues), with Walmart and Amazon accounting for approximately 29% and 24% of revenues respectively [7][9] - The company experienced a one-time 690 basis point hit to gross margin from tariffs but has implemented pricing actions and diversified manufacturing to mitigate future risks [10] - The Health segment's operating profit turned positive, and the premiumization strategy through the Lotus brand has shown strong sell-through performance [11] - A 15.2% year-over-year drop in revenue was attributed to trade paralysis among major retail customers, but there are signs of recovery as trade conditions stabilize [12] - The stock is currently trading at 6.26X trailing 12-month EV/EBITDA, with support around a tangible book value of $11.48/share [13] Market Context - Both companies have significant exposure to consumer spending, particularly through Walmart, which is managing macroeconomic challenges effectively [14]

Core Viewpoint - Crown Crafts, Inc. reported mixed results for the second quarter of fiscal 2026, with a decline in net sales but a significant increase in net income, highlighting the impact of cost control measures and ongoing challenges from tariffs and supply chain issues [2][3][4]. Financial Performance - Net sales decreased by 3.1% to $23.7 million from $24.5 million year-over-year, primarily due to a 13.2% drop in bedding and diaper bag sales, partially offset by a 6.6% increase in bibs, toys, and disposable products [2]. - Net income rose by 34.5% to $1.2 million, or $0.11 per share, compared to $0.9 million, or $0.08 per share, driven by a 13.6% reduction in marketing and administrative expenses [3]. - Gross margin decreased to 27.7% from 28.4% due to higher tariff costs on goods sourced from China [3]. Operational Insights - Management noted that elevated tariffs and supply chain volatility continued to pressure margins, with CEO Olivia Elliott emphasizing the ongoing impact of the tariff environment [4]. - Inventory at the end of the quarter was $32.6 million, slightly above fiscal year-end levels, while cash increased to $0.8 million from $0.5 million [4]. - Total indebtedness stood at $16.3 million, with $13.7 million available on the credit line [4]. Segment Performance - Bedding and diaper bags were identified as weak spots due to fewer items in a major retailer's program and continued margin strain from tariffs [5]. - Strong performance was noted in toys and bibs, particularly benefiting from international demand, especially in Europe [5][9]. Management Commentary - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to expand earnings despite challenges, attributing improved bottom line results to lower marketing and administrative costs [6]. - The redesigned Stella doll and the ring stacker toy were highlighted as successful products, with the latter being the top-selling SKU worldwide [7]. Strategic Initiatives - The company is actively seeking suppliers outside of China to mitigate tariff impacts on diaper bags [8]. - Higher advertising spending is viewed as a strategic decision to strengthen long-term sales momentum, particularly for the Manhattan Toy brand [9]. Future Outlook - Crown Crafts did not provide formal quantitative guidance for fiscal 2026 but acknowledged macroeconomic uncertainties related to tariffs and supply chain conditions [11]. - Management expressed optimism about long-term growth opportunities and potential for improved profitability as cost-reduction measures are implemented [11]. Recent Developments - The company began consolidating operations across its subsidiaries, NoJo and Sassy, to eliminate redundant costs, with expected savings to be refined during fiscal 2027 budget planning [12]. - Crown Crafts declared a quarterly dividend of $0.08 per share, continuing its policy of returning capital to shareholders [13].

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Second quarter net sales were $23.7 million, down from $24.5 million in the same quarter of fiscal year 2025, primarily due to a $1.6 million decline in bedding and diaper bag sales, partially offset by an $800,000 increase in sales of bibs, toys, and disposable products [5][6] - Gross profit was $6.6 million, reflecting a margin of 27.7%, compared to 28.4% in the prior year, mainly due to increased tariff costs on products imported from China [5][6] - GAAP net income for the second quarter was $1.2 million, or $0.11 per diluted share, up from $0.08 in the year-ago quarter, driven by reduced marketing and administrative expenses [6][8] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Sales of bedding and diaper bags decreased significantly, attributed to a reduction in the number of items included in a major retailer's program [5] - Increased sales in bibs, toys, and disposable products were noted across various distribution channels, contributing positively to overall sales [5][13] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is experiencing challenges due to the ongoing tariff landscape, particularly on goods sourced from China, which is affecting costs and margins [3][4] - The company is encouraged by recent trade talks between the U.S. and China, which may provide opportunities for growth [3] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is consolidating some internal operations to reduce payroll expenses and eliminate redundant costs, which is expected to enhance operational efficiency [4][29] - The management is focused on renewing licensing agreements and is optimistic about future product launches [4] - The company is adapting its strategies to offset the impact of tariffs and is positioning itself to capitalize on growth opportunities as market conditions evolve [9] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged the macro challenges, particularly the elevated tariff environment, but expressed confidence in the company's ability to navigate these issues and achieve slight increases in net income [9] - The company is actively seeking new sources for diaper bags to mitigate tariff impacts and is optimistic about the potential for international sales growth, particularly in Europe [42][49] Other Important Information - Cash and cash equivalents totaled $810,000, up from $521,000 at the end of fiscal 2025, while inventory remained stable at $32.6 million [7][8] - The company declared a $0.08 per share cash quarterly dividend, continuing its tradition of returning value to shareholders [8] Q&A Session Summary Question: Increase in sales of bibs, toys, and disposable products - Management noted that the increase was across various product lines and retailers, indicating broad-based growth [13] Question: Commentary on inventory levels - Management expressed comfort with current inventory levels, despite shifts in retailer program resets [14][15] Question: Feedback on the Manhattan Toy website - Positive feedback was received regarding the website's design and user experience [17][18] Question: Sales performance at Legoland - Sales at Legoland were reported as good, although the park opened later than planned [19][20] Question: Advertising budget and results - Management indicated that while sales growth was slower than expected, investing in advertising is crucial for driving future sales [21][22] Question: Diaper bag business outlook - Management acknowledged struggles due to tariffs but emphasized ongoing efforts to find new production sources [42][43] Question: International sales performance - International sales, particularly in Europe, were highlighted as a bright spot, with new distributor agreements being signed [49][52]

Financial Performance - Net sales for Q2 FY2026 were $23.7 million, a decrease of 3.2% from $24.5 million in Q2 FY2025[6] - Gross profit margin decreased to 27.7% from 28.4% in the prior year, primarily due to increased tariff costs[8] - Net income increased to $1.2 million or $0.11 per share, up from $0.9 million or $0.08 per share in the prior year quarter, representing a 33.3% increase in net income[7] Expenses and Cost Management - Marketing and administrative expenses improved to 19.9% of net sales, down from 22.3% in the prior year, reflecting a reduction of $0.7 million[9] - The company is consolidating internal operations to eliminate redundant costs and achieve additional savings[5] - The company continues to seek opportunities to reduce costs while focusing on increasing sales and market share[5] Sales Performance - Sales of bedding and diaper bags decreased by $1.6 million, while sales of bibs, toys, and disposable products increased by $0.8 million[6] Assets and Liabilities - Total current assets decreased to $54.1 million from $55.3 million as of March 30, 2025[18] - Total liabilities decreased to $39.1 million from $41.5 million as of March 30, 2025[18] Dividends - The company declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.08 per share, payable on January 2, 2026[10]

Sales Performance - Net sales for the three months ended September 28, 2025, were $23.7 million, a decrease of $765 thousand or 3.1% compared to $24.5 million for the same period in 2024[59] - For the six months ended September 28, 2025, net sales were $39.2 million, a decrease of $1.5 million or 3.7% compared to $40.7 million for the same period in 2024[60] - Sales of bedding and diaper bags decreased by $1.6 million, while sales of bibs, toys, and disposable products increased by $0.8 million during the three-month period[59] Profitability and Margins - Gross profit margin for the three-month period ended September 28, 2025, was 27.7%, down from 28.4% in the prior year, primarily due to increased tariff costs on imports from China[61] - Marketing and administrative expenses decreased to 19.9% of net sales for the three-month period ended September 28, 2025, from 22.3% in the prior year[63] Cash Flow and Liquidity - Net cash provided by operating activities decreased from $7.0 million for the six-month period ended September 29, 2024, to $4.4 million for the same period in 2025[67] - The Company believes its cash flow from operations and available funds under the revolving line of credit will be sufficient to meet liquidity needs[74] Debt and Credit - As of September 28, 2025, the balance on the revolving line of credit was $10.7 million, with $13.7 million available based on eligible accounts receivable and inventory[70] - As of September 28, 2025, the Company had $16.3 million of indebtedness at a variable interest rate, with a potential annual net income decrease of approximately $122 thousand for each 1% increase in interest rates[76] - The Company must maintain Excess Availability of at least $4.0 million or the sum of the term loan balance plus $1.0 million until the term loan is paid in full[73] - The fixed charge coverage ratio has been reinstated but will not be tested if the Company complies with the Availability Covenant in the preceding fiscal quarter[73] - The Company has complied with the Excess Availability requirements as of September 28, 2025[73] External Factors and Risks - The company is evaluating the potential impact of increased tariffs on imports from China, which have affected product costs and shipments[57] - The Company sources products primarily from foreign manufacturers, with significant exposure to commodity price risks related to cotton, oil, and labor in China[77] - The Company is exposed to risks from fluctuations in the Chinese currency, which could increase the cost of finished goods despite payments being made in U.S. dollars[77] - The Company's financial performance is influenced by various external factors, including economic and regulatory conditions[74] Customer Concentration - Approximately 66% of the Company's gross sales in fiscal year 2025 were generated from its top two customers[78] - 50% of the Company's gross sales in fiscal year 2025 consisted of licensed products, with 21% of those sales linked to agreements with affiliated companies of the Walt Disney Company[78]

Core Viewpoint - Crown Crafts, Inc. reported a net income growth despite a slight decline in overall sales, indicating resilience in navigating industry challenges, particularly due to tariff pressures on margins [2][4]. Financial Performance - Net sales for the second quarter of fiscal 2026 were $23.7 million, down from $24.5 million in the same quarter of the previous year [4][10]. - Gross profit margin decreased to 27.7% from 28.4% year-over-year, primarily due to increased tariff costs on imported products [5][10]. - Net income increased to $1.2 million, or $0.11 per share, compared to $0.9 million, or $0.08 per share, in the prior year quarter [10]. Cost Management - The company successfully reduced marketing and administrative expenses by $0.7 million, representing 19.9% of net sales, down from 22.3% in the previous year [6][10]. - Ongoing efforts to consolidate internal operations aim to eliminate redundant costs and achieve further savings [3][4]. Dividend Declaration - The Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.08 per share, payable on January 2, 2026, to stockholders of record as of December 12, 2025 [7][10]. Strategic Focus - The company is focused on leveraging prior acquisitions, expanding product lines, and utilizing pricing strategies to enhance long-term shareholder value as consumer demand stabilizes [4][10].

Core Viewpoint - Crown Crafts, Inc. is set to release its second quarter fiscal 2026 operational results on November 12, 2025, before market opening, with a teleconference scheduled for discussion [1] Company Overview - Crown Crafts, Inc. designs, markets, and distributes a range of infant, toddler, and juvenile consumer products, and is one of the largest producers in the U.S. for items such as infant bedding, diaper bags, and toys [4] - The company operates through subsidiaries NoJo Baby & Kids, Inc. and Sassy Baby, Inc., offering products under various trademarks and private label programs [4] - Sales channels include mass merchants, chain stores, specialty stores, and direct-to-consumer through its websites [4] Teleconference Details - The teleconference will be hosted by Olivia W. Elliott, President and CEO, and Claire K. Spencer, Vice President and CFO, at 8:00 a.m. Central Standard Time [1] - Interested participants can join by calling (844) 861-5504 or listen online via the company's website [2] - A replay of the teleconference will be available for one hour after the call until 4:00 p.m. Central Standard Time on February 10, 2026 [3]