STERIS (STE) Q4 2025 Earnings Call May 15, 2025 09:00 AM ET Company Participants Julie Winter - Vice President of Investor Relations & Corporate CommunicationsMichael Tokich - Senior VP & CFODaniel Carestio - President, CEO & DirectorPatrick Wood - Managing DirectorMac Etoch - Senior Research Associate Conference Call Participants David Turkaly - Research AnalystMike Matson - Senior Equity Research AnalystMichael Polark - Senior Equity Research AnalystJason Bednar - Senior Research AnalystBrett Fishbin - Vi ...

Core Viewpoint - Solus Advanced Materials is considering the sale of its OLED materials division to restructure its business and focus on its core battery foil operations [1][2]. Group 1: Business Overview - Solus Advanced Materials operates in three main segments: battery foil, copper foil, and OLED materials. In the previous year, the company achieved total sales of 570.9 billion KRW (approximately 2.955 billion RMB), with battery foil accounting for 43.51% of sales (248.4 billion KRW or 1.286 billion RMB), copper foil for 34.38% (196.3 billion KRW or 1.016 billion RMB), and OLED materials for 20.53% (117.2 billion KRW or 607 million RMB) [2]. Group 2: Strategic Moves - The company has separated its OLED business from the advanced materials division, establishing it as an independent entity and reporting its sales separately. This move is seen as a preparation for a potential sale, aimed at clarifying the business's value [2][3]. - Analysts suggest that the potential sale of the OLED division may be driven by the company's desire to concentrate its resources on the high-growth battery foil sector, which is primarily used in electric vehicles [3].

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Sales decreased by 6% year over year, with metal cutting sales declining 4% organically and infrastructure declining 2% organically [9][25] - Adjusted EPS increased to $0.47 compared to $0.30 in the prior year quarter, driven by restructuring benefits and an advanced manufacturing tax credit [12][28] - Adjusted EBITDA and operating margins were 17.9% and 10.3% respectively, compared to 14.2% and 8.1% in the prior year quarter [27] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Metal cutting sales were down 7% year over year, with a 4% organic decline and unfavorable foreign currency exchange of 3% [29] - Infrastructure sales declined 4% year over year, with an organic decline of 2% and unfavorable foreign currency exchange of 2% [32] - Aerospace and defense sales increased by 28%, while energy declined by 3% mainly in The Americas [33] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - EMEA remained the slowest market, down 4% on a constant currency basis, while The Americas and Asia Pacific both declined by 1% [9][30] - General engineering and transportation were largely impacted by market conditions in EMEA and The Americas [11][30] - Aerospace and defense showed slight improvement as supply chain constraints eased [49] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on executing growth initiatives in aerospace and defense, despite overall market weakness [8][10] - A restructuring action was announced to lower structural costs by reducing employment costs and consolidating manufacturing operations [7][10] - The company aims to fully mitigate the impact of tariffs through various actions, including optimizing product flow and evaluating alternative supply options [20][21] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that while there are short-term pressures across end markets, long-term trends for industrial production remain positive [11][12] - The company expects to achieve a $15 million annualized run rate savings from restructuring actions by June 30 [40] - Management remains committed to executing value creation initiatives to deliver a strong finish to fiscal 2025 [43] Other Important Information - The company returned $40 million to shareholders through share repurchase and dividend programs [36] - The estimated annual impact of tariffs is approximately $80 million, with ongoing mitigation actions in place [20][21] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you discuss the outlook for the fourth quarter and demand trends? - Management indicated steady improvement in demand trends, with general engineering and transportation remaining flat, while aerospace and defense showed slight improvement [48][50] Question: Can you provide more details on tariff mitigation actions? - Management confirmed that they are confident in fully mitigating the direct impact of tariffs and have already begun implementing several actions [54][56] Question: What were the biggest surprises in the quarter relative to previous guidance? - The advanced manufacturing tax credit was a significant driver of performance, with tungsten prices expected to impact costs moving forward [66][68] Question: How is the competitive landscape affected by tariffs? - Management noted that they are performing better than peers and are well-positioned to utilize their global footprint to mitigate tariff impacts [73][74] Question: Are there any opportunities for M&A or portfolio optimization due to the changing trade situation? - Management acknowledged ongoing discussions regarding strategic priorities and potential portfolio actions in light of the tariff situation [81] Question: What is the pricing outlook for the final quarter of the year? - Management confirmed that the pricing outlook remains at approximately 2%, excluding tariff impacts [107]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Adjusted EBITDA for Q2 was $233 million, up 3% year-on-year, with EBITDA margins expanding by 40 basis points to 6.5% [30][31] - Consolidated sales decreased to approximately $3.6 billion, a decline of $139 million compared to Q2 fiscal year 2024, primarily due to lower customer volumes and foreign exchange impacts [32][33] - Free cash flow for Q2 was an outflow of $90 million, consistent with internal expectations reflecting normal seasonality [39] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the Americas, sales increased due to favorable comparisons with the previous year, driven by key customer programs reaching full run rates [33][34] - EMEA experienced lower production volumes but began to see improvements from restructuring efforts, with a recorded non-cash goodwill impairment of $333 million due to market value declines [22][30] - Asia's performance was flat year-on-year, with expectations for growth driven by new business with local OEMs [23][34] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Americas outperformed industry volumes, while EMEA faced headwinds from weaker market demand [33][34] - In Asia, sales in China underperformed due to lower volumes from traditional luxury OEM customers, but new customer launches outside China are expected to drive growth [33][34] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on mitigating tariff impacts through resourcefulness and leveraging its global footprint to create value for customers [13][17] - Adient aims to capitalize on growth opportunities by focusing on more profitable business and investing in innovation and efficiency measures [10][17] - The company is committed to maintaining operational excellence and solid execution to navigate macroeconomic volatility [9][28] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to manage tariff exposure and emphasized the importance of USMCA compliance [15][17] - The outlook for the second half of fiscal year 2025 remains positive, with expectations for continued strong business performance despite potential volume headwinds from tariffs [45][46] - Management highlighted the resilience of the operating model and the ability to mitigate external pressures [30][31] Other Important Information - Adient received multiple awards for supplier excellence, including recognition from GM and Toyota for quality and performance [11][12] - The company has a strong cash balance of $754 million and total liquidity of $1.6 billion, with no near-term debt maturities [41][42] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you clarify the progress on tariffs and the roadmap for recovery? - Management indicated that the roadmap includes ongoing price negotiations and cost offsets, with 75% of the gross position already resolved [57][58] Question: How is the EMEA region performing relative to expectations? - Management noted that while EMEA showed positive business performance, it is still subject to variability and should not be seen as a trend [60][62] Question: What is the outlook for margins and cost efficiency actions? - Management expects significant opportunities for margin improvement, particularly in the Americas, while cautioning that EMEA may not see inflection until 2026 [71][74] Question: How are FX assumptions impacting guidance? - Management maintained previous FX assumptions due to volatility, indicating potential translational upside if rates hold [77][78] Question: What is the current mindset on capital allocation? - Management reiterated a measured approach to capital allocation, focusing on investments in the business and potential share repurchases based on cash generation and market clarity [80][82]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Consolidated revenue for Q1 2025 was $169.8 million, down from $194.6 million in the prior year, primarily due to softening in global construction and agriculture end markets as well as North American Class eight truck demand [12] - Adjusted EBITDA for the first quarter was $5.8 million, compared to $9.7 million in the prior year, with adjusted EBITDA margins at 3.4%, down 160 basis points from 5% in Q1 2024 [12][13] - The company reported a net loss of $3.1 million or a loss of $0.09 per diluted share, compared to a net income of $1.4 million or $0.05 per diluted share in the prior year [13] - Free cash flow from continuing operations was $11.2 million, a significant improvement from negative $6.5 million in the prior year [14] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Global Seating segment revenues decreased by 9% to $73.4 million, with adjusted operating income of $2.7 million, a decrease of $0.1 million compared to the previous year [15] - Global Electrical segment revenues fell 14% to $50.5 million, with adjusted operating income of $200,000, down $1.3 million from the prior year [17] - Trim Systems and Components revenues decreased by 17% to $45.9 million, with adjusted operating income of $1.6 million, a decrease of $3.1 million compared to the prior year [19] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Class eight heavy truck build forecast for 2025 indicates a 23% decline in year-over-year volumes, with a projected 19% increase in 2026 [20] - The construction market is expected to decline by approximately 5% to 15%, while the agriculture market is anticipated to decline in the same range due to higher interest rates and lower commodity prices [21] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company has shifted to a new segment structure to enhance clarity and focus within each business unit, aiming to better align with customers and end markets [5] - Strategic actions taken in 2024 are expected to lower costs and improve operational efficiency, with a focus on reducing working capital and capital expenditures [22][23] - The company is actively pursuing new business opportunities while managing costs and improving cash generation [8][22] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged the current macroeconomic challenges and the impact on customer demand, emphasizing the importance of operational efficiency and cost management [7][20] - The company remains optimistic about long-term recovery in construction and agriculture markets despite current softness [21] - Management expects to generate at least $20 million of free cash flow in 2025, which will be used to pay down debt [26] Other Important Information - The company has decided to discontinue reporting new business wins due to the current macroeconomic environment and customer challenges in predicting future program ramps [7] - The company is focused on mitigating the impact of tariffs and broader macroeconomic headwinds through strategic portfolio actions and improved cash generation [22][23] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the potential for gross margin improvement in a normalized environment? - Management indicated that they see potential for gross margins to reach around 15% in a normalized environment, with a focus on operational improvements [29][31] Question: How does the current market outlook compare to previous downturns? - Management acknowledged the current extended downturn but emphasized their preparedness and actions taken to stabilize operations and improve margins [36][38] Question: What percentage of COGS is impacted by tariffs? - Management noted that the largest exposure is related to tariffs from Mexico and Canada, with a smaller percentage from China, estimated to be less than 10% of the cost structure [48][49] Question: What are the covenant levels for the company's net leverage ratio? - The net leverage ratio is currently at five times, with covenant levels around four times, gradually stepping down throughout the year [54][55]

Leggett & Platt (LEG) Q1 2025 Earnings Call April 29, 2025 01:27 PM ET Speaker0 Greetings, and welcome to the Leggett and Platt First Quarter twenty twenty five Webcast and Earnings Conference Call. At this time, all participants are in a listen only mode. A brief question and answer session will follow the formal presentation. As a reminder, this conference is being recorded. It is now my pleasure to introduce your host, Kathy Branscombe, VP of Investor Relations. Thank you, Ms. Branscombe. You may begin. ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - First quarter sales were $1 billion, down 7% compared to the first quarter of 2024, attributed to weak demand in residential markets and automotive [20][21] - First quarter EBIT was $63 million, with adjusted EBIT at $67 million, up $3 million from the previous year due to restructuring benefits and operational efficiency [22][23] - First quarter earnings per share (EPS) was $0.22, with adjusted EPS at $0.24, a 4% increase from the previous year [22][23] - Total debt at the end of the first quarter was $1.9 billion, with total liquidity of $817 million [24] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Sales in the bedding products segment decreased by 13%, while specialized products declined by 5% and furniture, flooring, and textile products were down 1% [20] - U.S. mattress production was down low double digits, with total mattress consumption down high single to low double digits [21] - The geo components business experienced better-than-expected growth in the civil construction sector [22] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Approximately 60% of trade revenues are produced and consumed in the U.S., with another 8% produced abroad and consumed in the U.S. [9] - The company expects the mattress market to decline mid-single digits in 2025, with domestic production down mid to high single digits [21] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on strengthening its balance sheet, improving profitability, and operational efficiency while navigating a complex tariff environment [18][19] - A strategic business review is ongoing, with plans to divest non-core businesses, including the aerospace segment, expected to close this year [8][18] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to navigate macroeconomic uncertainties and demand volatility, emphasizing the importance of restructuring benefits [19][31] - Concerns were raised about tariffs potentially driving inflation and impacting consumer confidence and demand [10][18] Other Important Information - The company is targeting a long-term leverage ratio of two times and plans to use cash from real estate sales and divestitures for debt reduction [25][29] - The restructuring plan is expected to yield significant benefits as demand recovers in the markets served [38][39] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you talk about the restructuring benefits expected for this year? - Management indicated that restructuring benefits will continue to roll through the year, with potential upside as demand recovers [38][39] Question: Did you see any pull forward in consumer demand due to tariffs? - Management could not identify significant pull forward in demand, although some customers may have sold products out of inventory in anticipation of tariffs [42][42] Question: What is the outlook for the aerospace segment post-divestiture? - Specific guidance on the aerospace segment will be provided after the sale closes, but first quarter sales were $53 million with EBIT of $7 million [48][50] Question: How are margins expected to change across segments this year? - Margins are expected to improve in bedding and specialized products, while furniture, flooring, and textiles are expected to decline slightly [51] Question: What is the impact of tariffs on the mattress market? - The company noted that tariffs could raise prices in the sub-$500 mattress market, but the impact remains uncertain due to various market dynamics [80][82]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company achieved net sales of $132.5 million for Q3 2025, representing a 22% year-over-year growth [8][15] - Adjusted EBITDA for the quarter was $11.3 million, with adjusted earnings per share of $0.20 [15] - Cash flow generated in the third quarter was $4.7 million, increasing the trailing twelve months cash flow to approximately $35 million [16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Display Solutions segment saw a 70% increase in sales year-over-year, with 15% organic growth [8][17] - Lighting sales lagged year-over-year but experienced a 110 basis point improvement in operating margins [9][19] - The Lighting segment's backlog increased by 18% compared to the previous year, indicating a strong rebound in large project order activity [10][19] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Refueling C store vertical experienced a 60% increase in sales year-over-year, driven by ongoing customer graphics programs [17] - Sales of refrigerated and non-refrigerated display case products to the grocery vertical grew by 20% despite order fulfillment challenges [17] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on onshoring and reshoring manufacturing, currently standing at 70% domestic sourcing and 30% foreign sourcing [11] - The acquisition of Canada's Best Store Fixtures is part of the strategy to enhance capabilities and market presence [7][16] - The company aims to leverage its unique integrated solutions approach to differentiate itself from competitors [49][50] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in regaining margins as customer demand stabilizes and operational efficiencies improve [7][10] - The company anticipates continued favorable order rates, although performance may remain choppy due to the lengthening quote-to-order conversion cycle [19][20] - Management remains optimistic about the market outlook, citing a strong backlog and recovery in lighting orders [46][67] Other Important Information - The company is actively pursuing both incremental and transformational M&A opportunities to enhance growth [55][56] - The product development team continues to release over 30 new products annually, indicating a strong commitment to innovation [58][60] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you provide more details on fluctuating demand levels and customer schedules? - Management noted that fluctuating demand is primarily around grocery, with improvements in stability observed since early April [24][25] Question: What is the margin impact from production inefficiencies? - Management estimated a margin impact of 200 to 250 basis points due to scheduling disruptions, primarily in the grocery vertical [29][31] Question: How is the company managing the tariff environment? - Management indicated that they have established alternative sourcing and are monitoring pricing impacts due to tariffs, ensuring costs are captured appropriately [33][35] Question: Are there opportunities for cross-selling between display and lighting segments? - Management confirmed that there are significant cross-selling opportunities between display solutions and lighting customers, particularly in vertical markets [40][41] Question: What is the company's acquisition strategy moving forward? - Management stated that they remain active in M&A, focusing on both incremental and transformational opportunities to enhance business capabilities [54][56]

BGSF, Inc. (NYSE:BGSF) Q4 2024 Earnings Conference Call March 13, 2025 9:00 AM ET Company Participants Sandy Martin - Managing Director-Three Part Advisors Beth Garvey - Chair, President and Chief Executive Officer Keith Schroeder - Chief Financial Officer Conference Call Participants Howard Halpern - Taglich Partners Jeff Martin - Roth Capital Operator Good day, and welcome to the BGSF, Inc. Fiscal Year Fourth Quarter 2024 Earnings Conference Call. All participants will be in a listen-only mode. We are ope ...