ScottsMiracle-Gro Reaffirms Fiscal 2025 Guidance, Reports Strong Consumer Engagement in Peak Lawn and Garden Season

Core Viewpoint - The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company reaffirms its fiscal year 2025 guidance, indicating confidence in its performance during the peak lawn and garden season and projecting significant growth in earnings and reduced interest expenses [1][4][5]. Financial Performance - The company reported year-to-date increases in point-of-sale (POS) units and dollars, consistent with trends from the first half of the fiscal year [2]. - Interest expense is projected to be approximately $30 million lower than the previous year, an improvement from earlier estimates of a $15 million to $20 million decrease [3]. - The diluted share count is expected to increase by approximately 1 million, down from a previous estimate of 2 million [3]. - Non-GAAP adjusted earnings per diluted share are projected to be at least $3.50, representing a 53% increase compared to the prior year [3]. Strategic Outlook - The company aims to improve shareholder returns and achieve multi-year objectives, with a focus on delivering adjusted EBITDA and free cash flow targets [4]. - The goal is to exit 2025 with a significantly improved debt position, targeting a leverage ratio below 3.5 by the end of fiscal 2027 [4]. Market Position - Scotts Miracle-Gro is the world's largest marketer of branded consumer products for lawn and garden care, with approximately $3.6 billion in sales [6]. - The company's brands, including Scotts®, Miracle-Gro®, and Ortho®, are market leaders in their respective categories [6].