Koppers (KOP) Conference Summary - June 12, 2025 Company Overview - Koppers is a leading supplier in critical infrastructure products, particularly in the railroad and utility sectors, with significant market shares in North America and Australia [12][13] Key Points and Arguments Strategic Focus - Koppers has been implementing a strategy over the past five years aimed at improving profitability through internal projects, resulting in lower expected capital spending in the near term, which is anticipated to enhance cash flow [6][7] Market Leadership - The company holds a number one or two position in critical end markets, including railroad products and utility poles, supplying major utilities and railroads in North America [12][13] Product Portfolio - Koppers' product offerings include: - Railroad crossties, with a significant market share among Class 1 railroads in North America - Utility poles, supplying eight of the ten largest utilities in the U.S. - Performance chemicals for wood treatment, serving the top ten lumber treating companies in the U.S. [12][13][14] Financial Performance - In the first quarter, Koppers reported a decrease in top-line revenue by approximately $40 million, primarily due to reduced performance in the chemicals business, but managed to increase adjusted EBITDA by around $44 million [29][30] - The adjusted EBITDA margin improved to 12%, with a long-term goal of reaching mid-teens [31] Capital Expenditures and Debt Management - Capital expenditures are projected to be around $65 million for the year, down from over $100 million in previous years due to the completion of major projects [32] - The company is focused on debt reduction, with current debt around $909 million and a long-term leverage target of 2-3 times [33][55] Share Repurchase and Dividends - Koppers has a share repurchase program, having repurchased $15 million in stock in the first quarter, with plans for opportunistic buying [34][51] - The company has steadily increased its dividend, currently at 8 cents per quarter [35] Growth Drivers - The performance chemicals business is driven by repair and remodeling spending, which has remained strong despite inflation [36] - The carbon materials and chemicals segment is linked to the aluminum industry, with demand driven by overall economic strength [37] Market Dynamics - The railroad sector is experiencing increased volume driven by maintenance and repair needs, with a cyclical nature to spending [42][44] - Pricing dynamics in contracts with railroads and utility providers can limit price increases, but there is more flexibility in utility contracts [46][48] Market Perception - Koppers' diversified business model allows for steady earnings streams, which may not be fully recognized by the market [50] Additional Important Insights - The company has reduced its carbon materials and chemicals business from 11 plants to 3 core plants over the past decade due to changing market conditions [26] - The utility pole business has a significant replacement demand, with 2-3 million poles needing replacement annually [21] This summary encapsulates the key insights from the Koppers conference, highlighting the company's strategic direction, market position, financial performance, and growth opportunities.

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company has increased its revenue from over $1.2 billion to over $2.1 billion, with EBITDA margins improving from 14% to closer to 18% [3][4] - The company aims for consistent growth of 7% plus, with a strong start in Q1 showing high single-digit growth [54][55] - The company expects to see a structural mix benefit in gross margins over time, projecting an annual improvement of 50 basis points [59] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The reconstructive business has grown from approximately $300 million to over $1 billion, with significant acquisitions enhancing its market position [8][10] - The Prevention and Recovery (P&R) segment is generating reliable growth, with a focus on mid-single-digit growth and strong cash generation capabilities [41][43] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company has a market share of high single to low double digits in the foot and ankle business, and is ranked number three in shoulder globally [10][12] - The company is seeing a shift towards outpatient settings, which may come with price pressure but is expected to be offset by positive price momentum in revisions and enabling technologies [36][37] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is transitioning from a build mode to an enhanced mode, focusing on integrating recent acquisitions and driving down debt leverage [12][16] - The strategy includes diversifying growth across different geographies and anatomical areas, with a strong emphasis on innovation and product differentiation [28][29] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management is cautiously optimistic about the future, noting a solid start to the year and a focus on building a portfolio capable of consistent growth [54][55] - The company is addressing tariff impacts and expects improvements in the current environment, with a focus on maintaining strong cash flow and margin expansion [56][58] Other Important Information - The company has made significant investments in software integration for P&R, enhancing clinic efficiency and patient management [45][46] - The integration of Lima is expected to yield $40 million in synergies over three years, with $15 million already realized in the first year [16][17] Q&A Session Summary Question: How do you see the shoulder replacement market unfolding with robotics? - The company believes that robotics will evolve over time, focusing on planning and navigation to enhance precision in shoulder procedures [49][50] Question: Can you provide an update on financial guidance and tariff impacts? - The company has seen improvements in tariff impacts and expects less than $20 million of impact as they move into 2026, with a focus on maintaining a conservative outlook [56][58] Question: What is the strategy for growth in the ASC setting? - The company aims to win in the ASC setting by offering modernized implant systems and efficient solutions tailored for outpatient procedures [39][40]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reduced net debt by $135 million, supported by higher than expected adjusted free cash flow and a non-core asset sale that generated $20.5 million [6][12] - Lease operating expenses (LOE) were reduced from $121 million in Q4 2024 to an anticipated $115 million per quarter for the remainder of 2025, while general and administrative (G&A) expenses are projected to be below $22 million per quarter [7][8] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - First quarter production volumes were driven by 23 turn-in-line wells, with 21 located in the Southern Delaware, showcasing good well performance and early production from several development packages [6][9] - The company expects significant production ramp-up in the second half of the year, particularly in Q3, with low breakeven costs of about $45 per barrel WTI [9][10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company hedged 90% of its oil at $70.61 per barrel WTI for the remainder of the year, which is expected to ensure returns and reduce risk [12] - The company anticipates generating approximately $265 million in adjusted free cash flow and reducing net debt by $300 million, including non-core asset sales [12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company shifted focus from acquisitions to optimizing its asset base, successfully reducing costs and enhancing efficiencies [7][10] - The strategy includes prioritizing capital allocation to the lowest breakeven packages and leveraging high-quality wells to maximize cash flow and debt repayment [9][12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the full-year outlook, citing high returns from upcoming packages and recent cost reductions [8][10] - The company is prepared to adjust activity levels in response to market conditions, with no rig or completion contracts extending beyond early 2026 [13][14] Other Important Information - The company has seen little impact from tariff-related price increases, which have been offset by price concessions in a softening services environment [10] - The company is conducting a full review of its cost structure to continue reducing costs and enhancing margins [14] Q&A Session Summary Question: Maintenance capital outlook with recent efficiencies - Management plans to maintain flat production year over year and aims to remain free cash flow positive, with potential savings of nearly $90 million from reduced service costs [21][22] Question: Cost initiatives and LOE self-help - LOE is expected to be in the range of $110 million to $115 million per quarter for 2025, driven by reduced failure rates and fixed operating costs [23][26] Question: Hedging strategy for future years - The company raised hedges for the rest of the year to lock in free cash flow generation and will continue to monitor the environment for future hedging [30][31] Question: Production and CapEx trajectory into 2026 - The 2026 program is estimated to be flat year over year for both volume and capital, with flexibility to adapt based on market conditions [32][34] Question: Non-cash impairments and inventory impact - Non-cash impairments are expected to continue if oil prices remain stable, with a projected impairment of a couple hundred million dollars next quarter [39][40] Question: Breakeven analysis and asset sales opportunities - The corporate breakeven is projected to be around $53 per barrel, with potential for further reductions through cost efficiencies [43][44] - The company is continuously looking for opportunities for additional asset sales, although the current price environment may make this challenging [46][47]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - First quarter revenue was $124 million, reflecting a 5% organic growth, which was in line with internal expectations despite a 4% decline due to the divestiture of the Advanced Rehabilitation business [7][16] - Adjusted earnings per share increased by 33% to $0.08, supported by a strong gross margin and lower interest expenses [8][20] - Adjusted EBITDA was over $19 million, a decrease of $3 million from the prior year, primarily due to the divestiture and a foreign currency loss [17][19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Surgical solutions revenue grew by 7%, driven by double-digit growth in ultrasonics, with capital sales in the US up by more than 50% compared to the prior year [9][17] - Pain treatments revenue increased by 4%, impacted by lower distributor purchases following higher orders in the previous quarter [18] - Restorative therapies experienced a 35% decline in revenue due to the divestiture, but organic growth was 4% [18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - International segment revenue declined by 12%, with organic growth at 1% [18] - The company noted that the macroeconomic environment has become more dynamic, but does not foresee a material impact from tariffs at this time [13][22] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to drive above-market revenue growth, expand profitability, and accelerate free cash flow generation [9][12] - A new platelet-rich plasma (PRP) system was added to the pain treatments portfolio, expected to enhance competitive advantage [10][11] - The company is focused on maintaining a strong clinical value proposition and leveraging its dedicated sales force to drive growth [26][33] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in sustaining growth despite macroeconomic uncertainties, with a strong focus on disciplined execution [8][14] - The company expects to nearly double cash from operations in 2025 compared to 2024, with a significant acceleration in cash flow anticipated starting in the second quarter [13][21] - Full-year 2025 guidance includes organic revenue growth of 6% to 8%, adjusted EBITDA of $112 million to $116 million, and EPS of $0.64 to $0.68 [22] Other Important Information - The company has enhanced its financial liquidity and cash flow generation, positioning itself as a market leader in large growing markets [14] - The management team is focused on reducing leverage to below 2.5 times by the end of 2025 [44] Q&A Session Summary Question: Update on the pain market and competition - Management noted a shift from multi-injection to single-injection treatments, with Duralane showing strong growth and profitability [26][27] Question: Tougher Q2 comparisons for pain treatments - Management indicated that unfavorable comparisons from the previous year would ease in the second half, supporting growth acceleration [30][42] Question: Confidence in organic growth and EBITDA acceleration - Management expressed confidence in revenue and EBITDA growth in the second half, driven by recent account wins and improved sales execution [39][42] Question: Plans for M&A opportunities - The company is focused on reducing leverage and pursuing synergistic opportunities that align with its growth strategy [47][49] Question: Initiatives from the new OUS business manager - The new manager is expected to drive a focused growth strategy in international markets, prioritizing specific countries and products [51][52]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - First quarter revenue was $124 million, reflecting a 4% decline due to the divestiture of the Advanced Rehabilitation business, but organic growth was 5% [16][18] - Adjusted earnings per share increased by 33% to $0.08, supported by strong gross margins and lower interest expenses [7][20] - Adjusted EBITDA was over $19 million, down $3 million from the prior year, primarily due to the divestiture and a foreign currency loss [17][20] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Surgical solutions revenue grew by 7%, driven by double-digit growth in ultrasonics, with capital sales in the US up over 50% compared to the prior year [17][18] - Pain treatments revenue increased by 4%, impacted by lower distributor purchases following higher orders at the end of the previous year [18] - Restorative therapies revenue declined by 35% due to the divestiture, but organic growth was 4% [18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - International segment revenue declined by 12%, with organic growth at 1% [18] - The company noted a significant opportunity in the PRP market, which is expected to synergize with existing sales channels [11][12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to drive above-market revenue growth, expand profitability, and accelerate free cash flow generation [8][12] - A focus on enhancing the pain treatments portfolio with the addition of a PRP system is part of the growth strategy [10][11] - The company is committed to maintaining a strong cash flow and reducing leverage, targeting below 2.5 times by the end of 2025 [21][44] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in sustaining growth despite macroeconomic uncertainties, with no material impact from tariffs anticipated at this time [13][22] - The company expects a significant acceleration in cash flow starting in the second quarter, with a projected doubling of cash from operations compared to 2024 [21][22] - Management highlighted the importance of agility and resilience in navigating challenges and emphasized the potential for distinguishing the company from competitors [14][15] Other Important Information - The company reaffirmed its 2025 financial guidance, including organic revenue growth of 6% to 8% and adjusted EBITDA of $112 million to $116 million [22] - The company has established a solid foundation for growth, with a diverse portfolio of short, mid, and long-term growth drivers [14] Q&A Session Summary Question: Update on the pain market and competition - Management noted a shift from multi-injection to single-injection treatments, with strong clinical value propositions supporting growth [24][25] Question: Tougher Q2 comparisons for pain treatments - Management explained that last year's competitor supply challenges led to additional volume, which will not be present this year [28][29] Question: Exposure to pharmaceutical tariffs - Management stated that current pharmaceutical products are excluded from tariffs and emphasized vigilance in monitoring the situation [32] Question: Confidence in organic growth and EBITDA acceleration - Management expressed confidence in the second half of the year, expecting significant growth as unfavorable comparisons are cleared [37][42] Question: Plans for M&A opportunities - Management indicated a focus on reducing leverage while remaining open to synergistic M&A opportunities that align with growth goals [46][48] Question: Initiatives from the new OUS business manager - The new manager is expected to drive a focused growth strategy and improve commercial execution in international markets [52][53]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The total revenue for the first quarter was $6.7 billion, an increase of 3% year over year, and 4% on a same-store basis [16] - Adjusted EPS grew by 4% from the previous year to $4.68, marking the first year-over-year increase in eight quarters [10][20] - Total gross profit, including wholesale, increased by 12% from the first quarter of 2024 [8] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - New vehicle unit sales increased by 7% year over year on a same-store basis, with premium luxury units up 14%, domestic units up 6%, and import units up 2% [7][20] - Used vehicle unit profitability rose by 13% to $16.62, reflecting a focus on margin and inventory management [7][22] - Customer financial services (CFS) profitability per unit increased by 3% year over year, with a finance penetration rate above 70% [24][25] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Same-store gross profit for used vehicles grew by 12%, while aftersales gross profit increased by 4% year over year [17][28] - The light vehicle market is projected to see a decline from over 17 million units to between 31 million units for the year, with expectations of cross-shopping mitigating some declines [14] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to increase store density in existing markets, as evidenced by the acquisition of two stores in Colorado [11][31] - Focus on controlling costs, cash flow, and capital deployment to enhance shareholder returns [15][35] - Continued emphasis on technician workforce development and internal promotions to improve service efficiency [28] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that the impact of tariffs will vary across OEMs and models, with expectations of competitive pricing strategies to maintain market share [53][56] - The company anticipates that the momentum seen in vehicle sales will continue, albeit at a moderating pace [12][34] - Management expressed confidence in the ability to generate cash flow and navigate the evolving market landscape [100] Other Important Information - The company repurchased $225 million of shares at an average price of $165 per share during the quarter, reducing the share count by 4% [10][32] - Adjusted free cash flow for the quarter totaled $237 million, with a cash flow conversion rate of 129% of adjusted net income [29] Q&A Session Summary Question: Impact of AutoNation Finance on PVR - Management acknowledged that the ramp-up of AutoNation Finance had a short-term impact on CFS PVR, estimating it at around $150 for the quarter [40][42] Question: Future Demand and Payback Period - Management indicated that while there may be some pull-forward demand, they do not expect a significant payback in the latter half of the year due to pent-up demand [46][48] Question: OEM Pricing Strategies - Management stated that OEMs will likely absorb some inflation and that the last lever pulled will be net transaction price appreciation [54][96] Question: After Sales Growth Contribution - Management confirmed that aftersales growth was driven by both price and volume increases, with mobile service initiatives contributing at a gross level [104] Question: Used Vehicle Supply and Demand - Management noted strong demand for lower-priced vehicles and emphasized efforts to increase used vehicle inventory [88][90]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In 2024, GAAP net income totaled $15 million or $0.73 per diluted share, compared to $15.7 million or $0.77 per diluted share in 2023 [45][29] - Total GAAP revenues were $137.7 million, down from $139 million in 2023, with wireless revenue at $73.5 million, down from $76 million [45][46] - Software revenue increased to $64.1 million in 2024, driven by a nearly 22% increase in professional services revenue [46][51] - Adjusted EBITDA was $29.2 million in 2024, down from $30.3 million in 2023, reflecting lower consolidated revenue but maintaining a healthy margin of over 21% [56] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Software operations bookings totaled $34.1 million, up more than 13% from the prior year, with significant growth in professional services and maintenance backlog levels exceeding $62 million [30][31] - Professional services revenue reached $17.9 million, up 21.6% from $14.7 million in 2023, indicating improved resource utilization and higher margins [51][52] - Managed services revenue totaled $3.3 million, representing 18.2% of professional services revenue, up from 1.4 million or less than 10% in 2023 [53] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a reduction in net unit churn, with a decline of approximately 5.9% in 2024 compared to a 6.4% decline in 2023 [47] - Wireless revenue performance was primarily driven by an improvement in average revenue per unit (ARPU), which increased by $0.26 year-over-year [46] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The strategic focus remains on growing software revenue, generating cash, and returning capital to stockholders, with a commitment to maintaining a disciplined expense management approach [8][24] - The company aims to enhance its product offerings, particularly through the Spok Care Connect suite, and has invested significantly in research and development [15][19] - The company has a strong recurring revenue model, with approximately 80% of revenue coming from recurring sources, including wireless services and software maintenance [96][97] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to execute in 2025, with expectations for revenue and adjusted EBITDA to remain stable or grow slightly [58][59] - The company anticipates continued demand for its wireless services, despite a secular decline in pager units, and is focused on pricing strategies to offset revenue loss [48][49] - Management highlighted the importance of ongoing product development and customer satisfaction as key drivers for future growth [110][125] Other Important Information - The company returned $26.4 million in cash to stockholders in 2024, continuing its legacy of returning capital since becoming public [8][25] - The company has generated over $1 billion in free cash flow since its inception in 2004, supporting its dividend policy and capital allocation strategy [26] Q&A Session Summary Question: Key attributes of software operations bookings growth - Management indicated that growth was driven by a mix of new contracts, renewals from existing customers, and enhancements to the Care Connect suite [67][70] Question: Contributors to EBITDA guidance - The increase in EBITDA is expected to come from a greater mix of software sales and improved efficiency in professional services [76][78] Question: Reason for headquarters relocation - The relocation to Plano was primarily a cost-saving measure, consolidating operations to improve efficiency [87][89] Question: Recurring revenue metrics - Approximately 80% of bookings come from existing customers, with a significant portion of revenue being recurring [93][96] Question: Product roadmap and timelines - Management provided insights into ongoing product updates and enhancements, which are expected to drive future license sales [107][110]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In 2024, GAAP net income totaled $15 million or $0.73 per diluted share, compared to $15.7 million or $0.77 per diluted share in 2023 [29] - Total GAAP revenues were $137.7 million, down from $139 million in 2023, with wireless revenue at $73.5 million, down from $76 million [30] - Software revenue increased to $64.1 million in 2024, driven by a nearly 22% increase in professional services revenue [30][33] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Software operations bookings totaled $34.1 million, up more than 13% from the prior year, with significant growth in professional services and maintenance backlog levels [20][29] - Professional services revenue reached $17.9 million, up 21.6% from $14.7 million in 2023, with managed services revenue totaling $3.3 million, representing 18.2% of professional services revenue [33][34] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a reduction in net unit churn, with a decline of approximately 5.9% in 2024 compared to 6.4% in 2023, indicating improved customer retention [31] - The average revenue per unit (ARPU) saw growth of $0.26 year-over-year, primarily driven by previous pricing actions [30] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The strategic focus remains on growing software revenue, generating cash, and returning capital to stockholders, with a commitment to invest in product development and customer support [6][16] - The company aims to enhance its Care Connect suite and expand its software offerings, with a strong emphasis on maintaining profitability and cash flow generation [39][40] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to execute in 2025, with expectations for revenue and adjusted EBITDA to show growth, particularly in software revenue [31][38] - The company highlighted its strong customer base and long-standing relationships, which are seen as valuable assets for future growth [21][40] Other Important Information - The company returned $26.4 million in cash to stockholders in 2024, continuing its legacy of returning capital since becoming public [6][17] - The company ended 2024 with $29.1 million in cash and cash equivalents, down from $32 million at the end of 2023 [37] Q&A Session Summary Question: Key attributes of software operations bookings growth - Management indicated that growth was driven by a mix of new customer contracts, renewals from existing customers, and incremental sales within existing accounts [44][46] Question: Contributors to EBITDA guidance - The increase in EBITDA is expected to come from a greater mix of software sales and improved efficiency in professional services, leading to higher margins [50][52] Question: Reason for headquarters relocation - The relocation to Plano was primarily a cost-saving measure, consolidating operations to drive efficiency [58][60] Question: Recurring revenue metrics - Approximately 80% of revenue is recurring, with a significant portion coming from wireless services and software maintenance [62][64] Question: Product roadmap and timelines - The company has made significant progress on its product roadmap, including updates to the operator console and Care Connect reporting package, with ongoing enhancements expected to drive future sales [73][75]