ZACKSยท2025-08-19 19:00Core Viewpoint - Crown Crafts, Inc. reported a decline in revenue and earnings for the first quarter of fiscal 2026, primarily due to tariff pressures and inventory management challenges, while the stock has shown a modest gain since the earnings report [1][2][4]. Revenue and Earnings Performance - Crown Crafts posted net sales of $15.5 million, down 4.5% from $16.2 million in the prior-year period [2] - Gross profit decreased by 11.3% to $3.5 million, representing 22.7% of sales compared to 24.5% a year ago [2] - The company reported a net loss of $1.1 million, or $0.10 per share, compared to a net loss of $0.3 million, or $0.03 per share, in the same quarter last year [2] Segment Results - Sales of bedding and diaper bags increased by 8.6% year over year to $6.8 million, while sales of bibs, toys, and disposable products declined by 12.8% to $8.7 million [3] Key Business Metrics - Gross margin slipped by 180 basis points year over year due to higher costs of imported goods from China [4] - Marketing and administrative expenses rose by 10.6% to $4.7 million, increasing to 30.5% of sales from 26.3% a year earlier [4] - Interest expense surged by 180.2% to $0.3 million from $0.1 million in the prior-year period [4] Balance Sheet Overview - Inventories stood at $31.6 million as of June 29, 2025, up from $27.8 million at fiscal year-end [5] - Cash and equivalents declined to $0.2 million from $0.5 million at fiscal year-end [5] - Long-term debt fell to $11.9 million from $16.5 million at fiscal year-end [5] - Shareholders' equity slipped to $37.9 million from $39.6 million at fiscal year-end [5] Management Commentary - Management highlighted tariffs as a key challenge, with CEO Olivia Elliott noting consumer uncertainty and supplier disruption [6] - The Baby Boom acquisition contributed $2.1 million in sales during the quarter [6] - Price increases are being implemented to offset tariff impacts, with full effects expected by the end of September [6] Future Outlook - Management expressed cautious optimism regarding July sales trends and the renewal and expansion of the Disney licensing agreement [7] - CFO Claire Spencer emphasized the company's financial flexibility, with $12.2 million available under its revolving line of credit [7] - Management indicated that restocking by retailers should aid demand in upcoming quarters [11] Other Developments - Crown Crafts declared a quarterly dividend of $0.08 per share, payable on October 3, 2025 [12] - The company announced the extension of its Disney licensing agreement, expanding product categories and geographic reach [12] - Progress has been made in stabilizing the Manhattan Toy brand, with new product lines gaining traction at major retailers [12]