ZACKS·2026-02-17 17:46Core Viewpoint - Crown Crafts, Inc. reported a mixed performance for the third quarter of fiscal 2026, with significant declines in net sales and gross profit, but a notable increase in net income and earnings per share, driven by nonrecurring insurance proceeds [2][5]. Financial Performance - Net sales decreased by 11.3% year over year to $20.7 million from $23.4 million [2] - Gross profit fell by 20.3% to $4.9 million from $6.1 million, with gross margin compressing to 23.5% from 26.1% [2] - Net income increased by 69.1% to $1.5 million from $0.9 million, while diluted earnings per share rose by 55.6% to $0.14 from $0.09 [2] Product Category Performance - Sales of bedding and diaper bags dropped by 29.8% to $7.8 million from $11.2 million [3] - Sales of bibs, toys, and disposable products increased by 5.8% to $12.9 million from $12.2 million, indicating a divergence in product performance [3] Operating Metrics - Operating income swung to a loss of $0.1 million from income of $1.7 million a year earlier [4] - Marketing and administrative expenses increased by 12.9% year over year to $4.9 million from $4.4 million, rising to 24% of sales from 18.8% [4] Other Income and Expenses - Other income rose sharply to $2.5 million from a $33,000 expense in the prior-year period, primarily due to insurance proceeds [5] - The net impact of these proceeds added $2.1 million to income before taxes [5] Balance Sheet Overview - Inventories stood at $31.2 million at quarter-end, up from $27.8 million at fiscal year-end [6] - Total debt was approximately $16.4 million, including $11.3 million under the revolving line of credit [6] - Net cash provided by operating activities for the nine-month period was $7.1 million, slightly above the prior year's $6.9 million [6] Management Commentary - Management noted a challenging demand backdrop and elevated tariffs affecting products sourced from China, contributing to gross margin contraction [7] - Uneven consumer spending and retailer program changes were cited as headwinds, particularly in bedding and diaper bags [7] Strategic Focus - Management emphasized ongoing pricing actions, cost controls, and operational consolidation to drive profitability in a difficult macro environment [8] - The company did not provide formal financial guidance but expressed confidence in meeting liquidity needs through operational cash flow and available credit [12] Recent Developments - Crown Crafts announced the relaunch of the "Groovy Girls" line of soft fashion dolls by Manhattan Toy, available starting May 2026, reflecting a focus on internal product development [13]