Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue for Q3 2025 was $153 million, representing a 7% increase year over year, with EPS of $0.33, up 22% year over year, and cash from operations at $29 million, all exceeding the midpoint of the guidance range [4][12][10] - Gross margins for the MedTech and specialty audio segment were 53%, flat compared to the previous year, while Precision Devices segment gross margins improved to 41.5%, up 150 basis points year over year [12][13] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - MedTech and specialty audio revenue was $65 million, up 2% year over year, driven by increased demand in the specialty audio market [12][5] - Precision Devices segment revenue was $88 million, up 12% year over year, with growth across all end markets including MedTech, defense, industrial, and EV and energy [5][13] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The defense market showed particularly strong growth, with design wins outpacing other end markets, driven by increased defense spending and demand for electronic warfare solutions [6][7] - Channel inventories are now at normalized levels, matching orders to end market demand, indicating a healthy market environment [8] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on leveraging unique technologies to design custom-engineered solutions and deliver them at scale, positioning itself well for growth in 2025 and beyond [10][11] - The strategy includes expanding specialty film production and pursuing synergistic acquisitions while maintaining a strong balance sheet [10][16] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in organic growth rates at the high end of the stated range of 4% to 6% for the total company, supported by strong secular growth trends and a healthy backlog of orders [9][10] - The company anticipates strong revenue and EPS growth in the second half of 2025, driven by new design wins and increased order activity [9][18] Other Important Information - The company purchased $20 million in shares and reduced outstanding bank borrowings by $15 million, maintaining a strong balance sheet with cash of $93 million and $176 million in debt [10][15] - The company expects to generate operating cash flow of 16% to 20% of revenues for the full year 2025 [15] Q&A Session Summary Question: Update on specialty film capacity and demand outlook - Management indicated that the specialty film line is expected to generate $55 to $60 million in revenue next year, with a backlog of $25 to $30 million [20][22] Question: Design activity and growth expectations for segments - Management expects MedTech and specialty audio growth in the range of 2% to 4%, while Precision Devices may exceed the high end of the 6% to 8% growth range due to strong design win activity [24][25] Question: M&A environment and focus - The company remains focused on acquisitions but is being selective, ensuring any acquisition makes strategic sense [35][36] Question: Impact of palladium prices on gross margins - Management noted that current palladium prices are not expected to negatively impact gross margins due to pre-buys and monitoring of market conditions [40][41] Question: Specialty film gross margin improvements - Management anticipates sequential improvement in specialty film gross margins, with significant improvements expected by mid to late Q2 2026 as production ramps up [46][47]

Core Insights - Mersen reported Q3 '25 sales of EUR 285 million, reflecting an organic growth decline of 4.3%, consistent with the first half of the year [1] - Year-to-date revenue for the first nine months reached EUR 895 million, with an organic growth decline of 4.1%, aligning with the 4% decline reported at the end of June [1] Market Trends - The company observed contrasting market trends in Q3, with double-digit growth in rail, wind, and power electronics markets, alongside a recovery in the silicon semiconductor market [2] - The SiC semiconductor market remained at a low level compared to the previous year, and the anticipated positive turnaround in the solar market did not materialize during this quarter [2] Financial Adjustments - Mersen has adjusted its targets for '25 to the lower end for organic growth and EBITDA margin, while also revising investment plans downwards [3] - The company is maintaining its current operating margin target despite these adjustments [3]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total revenues increased by 4% year-over-year to $1,450,000,000, driven by tuck-under acquisitions, while organic growth was flat overall [5][16] - EBITDA rose by 3% to $165,000,000, with a consolidated margin of 11.4%, slightly down from 11.5% in the previous year [5][16] - Earnings per share increased by 8% to $1.76 [5][16] - Year-to-date revenues reached $4,100,000,000, up 7% from $3,850,000,000 in the prior year, with adjusted EBITDA at $425,000,000, reflecting a 13% increase [17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - **FirstService Residential**: Revenues increased by 8% to $675,000,000, with organic growth at 5% [5][18] - **FirstService Brands**: Revenues were up 1% to $842,000,000, but organic growth declined by 4% [6][19] - **Restoration Brands**: Revenues were down 7% year-over-year, impacted by lower industry-wide claim activity and weather-related damage [6][7] - **Roofing Segment**: Revenues increased by mid-single digits due to acquisitions, but organic revenues declined by 8% [9][10] - **Century Fire**: Revenues grew over 10% year-over-year, supported by strong repair, service, and inspection revenues [14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Industry-wide claim activity and weather-related damage were modest across North America, leading to lower revenues from named storms compared to the previous year [7][8] - The company anticipates a 20% decline in revenues for Q4 compared to the prior year due to minimal storm-related revenues [8][9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company remains focused on long-term growth opportunities in restoration and roofing despite current macroeconomic challenges [40] - Recent acquisitions in roofing are aimed at expanding presence in key markets [12] - The company is committed to maintaining a strong balance sheet and generating consistent free cash flows [21] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that the current environment is impacting new commercial construction and causing delays in reroof and maintenance decisions [12][40] - The outlook for Q4 indicates modest growth in roofing revenues due to acquisitions, but continued organic weakness is expected [13][22] - Management expressed confidence in the long-term demand drivers for roofing and restoration services [40] Other Important Information - Cash flow from operations for Q3 was over $125,000,000, with year-to-date cash flow at $330,000,000, a 65% increase year-over-year [20] - The company has a net debt of $985,000,000, resulting in a leverage ratio of 1.7 times net debt to trailing twelve months EBITDA [21] Q&A Session Summary Question: Divergence in performance between Century Fire and roofing business - Management explained that Century Fire's business is more resilient due to its focus on service repair and inspection, which is less affected by new construction delays [26][27] Question: Margins in the brands division - Management highlighted that home improvement initiatives have led to strong profitability despite weak restoration and roofing results [29][30] Question: Market share gains in restoration - Management noted that efforts to solidify relationships with national accounts have resulted in increased market share despite a weak backdrop [33][34] Question: Outlook for roofing and restoration - Management indicated that macroeconomic stability is needed for improvement in commercial construction and roofing activity [39][40] Question: Competition for tuck-under deals - Management acknowledged that competition remains high for acquisitions, particularly in fire protection and residential property management [43][44] Question: Pricing and cost relationship - Management stated that pricing power is currently stable, but there may be cost pressures in roofing due to labor availability [66][70] Question: Backlog status in restoration - Management reported that the backlog is stable but slightly down from last year due to strong prior year performance [60] Question: Florida's performance in FirstService Residential - Management confirmed that Florida's performance is in line with expectations, with some budgetary pressures alleviated [62]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Graco reported third quarter sales of $543 million, a 5% increase from the same quarter last year, with acquisitions contributing 6% growth and currency translation adding another 1%, while organic sales declined by 2% [4][10] - Net earnings increased by 13% to $138 million or $0.82 per diluted share, with adjusted non-GAAP net earnings at $0.73 per diluted share, a 3% increase [5][6] - Gross margin rate remained flat compared to the same quarter last year, affected by tariffs that added $5 million in costs, resulting in a 100 basis point decline in the gross margin rate [5][6] - Cash provided by operations totaled $487 million for the year, an increase of 12% [7] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Contractor segment saw an 8% sales increase, with acquisitions contributing 11%, offsetting a 3% decline in organic sales [10][13] - The Industrial segment delivered a 1% sales increase, supported by acquisitions and favorable exchange rates, despite a 2% organic revenue decline [10][14] - Expansion markets experienced a 3% sales increase, driven by strong activity in semiconductor products [16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - North America faced headwinds from subdued construction activity and cautious consumer sentiment, impacting the Contractor segment [10][13] - The Americas saw a 3% organic growth in the Industrial segment, driven by demand in vehicle service and automotive OEM projects [14] - China showed resilience, particularly in the mining industry, which helped offset declines in solar and EV investments [15][25] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Graco is focused on maintaining low single-digit organic growth guidance for the full year, with expectations of improved order rates and pricing actions [17] - The company is implementing targeted price increases to offset tariff impacts, with expectations that these will fully cover costs by year-end [12][35] - The "One Graco" initiative aims to enhance operational efficiency and improve margins through consolidation and better resource management [56][78] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed cautious optimism about the North American market, hoping for stabilization as interest rates trend downwards [23][30] - The company noted that while the environment is not robust, there are still opportunities for growth, particularly in the vehicle service market [22][71] - Management highlighted strong cash flow and profitability, indicating readiness for future volume growth when market conditions improve [27][76] Other Important Information - Significant year-to-date cash uses included share repurchases totaling $361 million and dividends of $138 million [8] - The company is actively pursuing M&A opportunities, with a focus on technology-based businesses that can add value [61] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you provide insights on end markets and regions? - Management noted that demand is not robust but there are targeted opportunities in vehicle service and process pump segments, with North America showing more caution due to tariffs [22][23] Question: What is the outlook for the fourth quarter? - The company expects to be on the low end of guidance, with stable order rates and an easier comparison in the Contractor segment [40][41] Question: When will price-cost dynamics normalize? - Management anticipates improvements in Q4 as pricing actions take effect, with gross margins expected to recover [44] Question: How is the vehicle service market performing? - The vehicle service segment is performing well due to a focus on fluid management systems, which are in demand among larger fleets and auto dealerships [71][72] Question: What is the outlook for free cash flow? - Management emphasized a focus on cash flow and operational efficiency, with expectations for continued strong conversion rates [74][76] Question: Can you elaborate on backlog disclosures? - The company provided backlog information to signal stability, with current backlog levels around $225 million, indicating a return to a more normal business model [87][88]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported record results with earnings per share (EPS) and adjusted EPS of $2.60, an increase of over 40% year-over-year [5][36] - Revenue for the third quarter was $956.2 million, a 3.3% increase compared to the prior year quarter [36] - Net income rose to $82.8 million, reflecting a 25% increase year-over-year [36] - Adjusted EBITDA for the third quarter was $130.6 million, or 13.7% of revenue, compared to $102.9 million, or 11.1% of revenue in the prior year quarter [36][37] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - **Corporate Finance (Corp Fin)**: Revenue increased by 18.6% to $404.9 million, with double-digit growth across all core businesses [38][39] - **Forensic and Litigation Consulting (FLC)**: Revenue rose by 15.4% to $194.7 million, driven by higher demand for risk and investigation services [41] - **Economic Consulting**: Revenue decreased by 22% to $173.1 million, primarily due to lower demand for antitrust services [43] - **Technology**: Revenue decreased by 14.8% to $94.1 million, attributed to lower demand for M&A-related services [46] - **Strategic Communications (Stratcom)**: Revenue increased by 7.4% to $89.4 million, supported by higher demand for corporate reputation services [48] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company experienced strong demand in the U.S., U.K., Germany, Spain, France, and Australia for restructuring services [40] - The EMEA region showed particularly strong growth in risk and investigation services [41] - The economic consulting segment faced significant headwinds, particularly in EMEA, affecting revenue from antitrust services [46] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company emphasizes organic growth and investment in high-value areas where it believes it has a competitive advantage [8][9] - There is a commitment to enhancing team capabilities and attracting top talent, even during challenging market conditions [11][32] - The leadership team is focused on expanding service offerings and maintaining a strong brand position in the market [41][54] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's resilience and potential for future growth despite current headwinds in certain segments [33][54] - The company anticipates a gradual return to revenue growth in the economic consulting segment, although the timing remains uncertain [52] - There is a belief that the investments made in talent and capabilities will yield positive results in the medium to long term [30][31] Other Important Information - The company repurchased 1.426 million shares at an average price of $164.18, with an additional $500 million authorized for share repurchases [50][51] - Cash and cash equivalents decreased to $146 million compared to $386.3 million a year ago, primarily due to share repurchases [51] Q&A Session Summary Question: How much of the revenue decline in economic consulting is market-driven versus talent dynamics? - Management estimates that approximately two-thirds of the revenue decline is due to talent transition and one-third to market conditions [61] Question: Can you elaborate on the strength of the transactions practice? - The strength is largely attributed to the quality of the team and their leadership, which has built credibility and allowed for the introduction of additional services [66] Question: Regarding FLC, can the price realization continue into next year? - Management believes that the price increases may be specific to 2025, but they are optimistic about maintaining strong performance in the segment [67]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported record results with earnings per share (EPS) and adjusted EPS of $2.60, an increase of over 40% year-over-year [5][36] - Revenue for Q3 2025 was $956.2 million, a 3.3% increase compared to the prior year quarter [36] - Net income rose to $82.8 million, reflecting a 25% increase year-over-year [36] - Adjusted EBITDA for Q3 was $130.6 million, or 13.7% of revenue, compared to $102.9 million, or 11.1% of revenue in the prior year quarter [36][37] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - **Corporate Finance & Restructuring**: Revenue increased by 18.6% to $404.9 million, driven by higher demand for restructuring and transaction services [38] - **Forensic & Litigation Consulting**: Revenue rose 15.4% to $194.7 million, attributed to higher realized bill rates and increased demand for risk and investigation services [41] - **Economic Consulting**: Revenue decreased by 22% to $173.1 million, primarily due to lower demand for antitrust services [42] - **Technology**: Revenue fell 14.8% to $94.1 million, mainly due to reduced demand for M&A-related services [46] - **Strategic Communications**: Revenue increased by 7.4% to $89.4 million, driven by higher demand for corporate reputation services [48] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company experienced double-digit organic revenue growth across Corporate Finance & Restructuring, Forensic & Litigation Consulting, and Strategic Communications, which offset declines in Economic Consulting and Technology [35][36] - The restructuring revenue is up 11% year-to-date, with significant mandates won in key geographies [40] - The transactions revenue increased by 16% year-to-date, despite a slight decline in global transaction volumes [40] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company emphasizes organic growth and investment in high-value areas, focusing on enhancing team capabilities and attracting top talent [9][11] - There is a commitment to maintaining leadership in key markets and expanding service offerings, particularly in restructuring and forensic consulting [40][41] - The management highlighted the importance of resilience and adaptability in navigating market challenges and pursuing long-term growth [33][54] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged headwinds in Economic Consulting and Technology but expressed confidence in the overall resilience and potential for growth across other segments [33][54] - The company expects to continue delivering adjusted EPS growth for the 11th consecutive year, despite anticipated seasonal slowdowns in Q4 [33][51] - There is cautious optimism regarding the stabilization of the Economic Consulting business and gradual revenue growth in the coming quarters [52] Other Important Information - The company repurchased 1.426 million shares at an average price of $164.18, with an additional $500 million authorized for share repurchases [49][50] - Cash and cash equivalents decreased to $146 million from $386.3 million a year ago, while total debt net of cash increased to $364 million [50] Q&A Session Summary Question: Economic Consulting performance and market impact - Management estimated that about two-thirds of the revenue decline in Economic Consulting was due to talent transition, with the remainder attributed to market conditions [57][59] - There is uncertainty regarding whether EBITDA has bottomed out, with a cautious outlook on the timing of revenue recovery [60] Question: Strength in transactions practice - The strength in the transactions practice is largely attributed to the team's leadership and credibility built over the years, rather than solely market-driven factors [62][63] Question: Price realization in Forensic & Litigation Consulting - Management indicated that the price realization improvements could continue into the next year, but specifics on the sustainability of rate increases were not confirmed [66]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported record results with earnings per share (EPS) and adjusted EPS of $2.6, representing an increase of over 40% year-over-year [5][40] - Revenue for Q3 2025 was $956.2 million, a 3.3% increase compared to the prior year quarter [40] - Net income increased by 25% to $82.8 million compared to the prior year quarter [40] - Adjusted EBITDA for Q3 2025 was $130.6 million, or 13.7% of revenue, compared to $102.9 million, or 11.1% of revenue in the prior year quarter [40][42] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - **Corporate Finance (Corp Fin)**: Revenue increased by 18.6% to $404.9 million, driven by higher demand for restructuring and transaction services [43] - **Forensic and Litigation Consulting (FLC)**: Revenue rose by 15.4% to $194.7 million, primarily due to higher realized bill rates and increased demand for risk and investigation services [46] - **Economic Consulting (Econ)**: Revenue decreased by 22% to $173.1 million, attributed to lower demand for non-M&A related antitrust services [49] - **Technology (Tech)**: Revenue decreased by 14.8% to $94.1 million, mainly due to lower demand for M&A related services [53] - **Strategic Communications (Stratcom)**: Revenue increased by 7.4% to $89.4 million, driven by higher demand for corporate reputation services [54] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company experienced double-digit organic revenue growth across Corp Fin, FLC, Tech, and Stratcom, which offset declines in Econ and Tech [39] - The restructuring segment represented 46% of Corp Fin's revenue, with significant growth in key geographies including the U.S., UK, Germany, Spain, France, and Australia [45] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company emphasizes organic growth and investment in high-value areas where it believes it has a competitive advantage [8][9] - There is a focus on enhancing team capabilities and attracting top talent, even during challenging market conditions [35][61] - The leadership is committed to maintaining a diverse and resilient business model, with a strong emphasis on client service and expertise [10][60] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's resilience and potential for future growth, despite facing headwinds in certain segments [37][60] - The company anticipates a gradual return to revenue growth in the Econ segment, although the timing remains uncertain [59] - There is a belief that the company is closer to the beginning of its growth journey than to the end, indicating optimism for long-term prospects [38] Other Important Information - The company repurchased 1.426 million shares at an average price of $164.18, with an additional $500 million authorized for share repurchases [57][58] - Cash and cash equivalents decreased to $146 million from $386.3 million a year ago, while total debt net of cash increased to $364 million [58] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you unpack how much of the top line performance in the quarter was market-driven versus talent dynamics? - Management estimated that approximately two-thirds of the revenue decline was due to talent transition and one-third due to market conditions [69] Question: What is the outlook for the U.S. Government shutdown's impact? - Management noted that there has not been a significant effect from the government shutdown so far, but an extended shutdown could impact business [70] Question: Can you elaborate on the strength of the transactions practice? - The strength is largely attributed to the quality of the team and their credibility in the market, which has allowed for the introduction of additional services [75][76] Question: Regarding price realization, can this continue into future years? - Management indicated that there is potential for rate increases across all segments, but the significant catch-up seen this year may not be repeated annually [80]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q3 2025, the company reported revenues of €398 million, representing a 4% organic growth, with nine months' revenues totaling €1.3 billion [4][5] - The DTC channel showed a sequential acceleration, growing by 9% in the quarter, contributing significantly to the overall revenue growth [4][8] - The company confirmed a mid-teens decline in wholesale performance for Zegna by year-end, reflecting a strategic shift towards retail [10][12] Performance by Business Line - Zegna brand revenues reached €249 million in Q3, up 6%, driven by strong DTC performance in EMEA and the Americas [4][5] - Thom Browne reported revenues of €48 million in Q3, showing slight negative growth but with sequential improvement [4][5] - Tom Ford Fashion achieved €66 million in revenues, up 4% organic, supported by the successful reception of the fall-winter 2025 collection [5][12] - Textile revenues remained flat, while other revenues related to finished products grew by 12% [5] Performance by Market - EMEA accounted for 36% of total revenue in the first nine months, with a 3% growth in Q3, primarily from DTC channels [6][7] - The Americas, contributing 29% of nine months' revenue, recorded a 13% growth in Q3, led by strong DTC performance [7][8] - Greater China, which represented 23% of total revenues, saw a 7% decline in Q3, although there were signs of sequential improvement [7][8] - The rest of APAC accounted for 12% of revenues, showing a 3% growth in the quarter, particularly in Singapore and Korea [8] Company Strategy and Industry Competition - The company is focusing on increasing control over the distribution of iconic products and converting wholesale points of sale into retail concessions [10][12] - There is a clear strategy to enhance the DTC channel, which accounted for 82% of revenues in the first nine months [8] - The company is cautiously optimistic about future growth, emphasizing the importance of maintaining focus on key priorities for each brand [20] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that currency fluctuations continue to pose challenges, with expected impacts of 3-4 points in Q3 and 4-5 points in Q4 [19][20] - The consumer demand environment remains volatile, particularly in China, which is expected to stabilize into a new normal [19][20] - Management expressed confidence in the execution of strategic projects and the potential for balanced growth rates in the coming years [20] Other Important Information - The company highlighted the success of recent fashion shows and events, which have positively impacted brand recognition and customer engagement [16][17] - A multi-year partnership with Art Basel was announced, aiming to celebrate art that resonates with the brand's values [14][18] Q&A Session Summary Question: Current trading and expectations for Q4 - Management indicated that current trading trends are in line with Q3, with no substantial changes observed so far [24][25] Question: Performance in mainland China - Management noted that high-end spending is performing well, but there is still volatility in traffic and more affordable spending [25][26] Question: FX impact on margins - Management confirmed that while FX impacts exist, they have hedged well for the current year and into next year [28][29] Question: Consumer environment across regions - Management reported solid growth in the U.S. and Europe, with a slight improvement in Greater China [35][36] Question: Wholesale sector trends - Management stated that rationalization efforts are ongoing, with expectations for a continued decline in wholesale performance [37][38] Question: Performance of Tom Ford Fashion - Management highlighted positive reception of the new collection and ongoing efforts to enhance brand presence [40][41] Question: Price/mix and customer recruitment for Zegna - Management confirmed that price/mix is a major driver of growth, with good traction in recruiting new clients [79][80] Question: Acceleration for Tom Ford into next year - Management expressed optimism for further acceleration, citing the positive impact of new collections and CRM initiatives [81][82] Question: Market debate on fashion trends - Management emphasized the importance of innovation aligned with brand DNA, noting that clients seek meaningful products [87][88]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Full-year revenues for fiscal 2025 reached $2.432 billion, a 2.1% increase compared to fiscal 2024 after adjusting for an additional week of operations in the previous year [5][21] - Consolidated revenues in Q4 2025 were $614.4 million, down from $639.9 million in the prior year, with a revenue growth of approximately 3.4% when excluding the extra week in fiscal 2024 [21][22] - Consolidated operating income for Q4 2025 was $49.6 million, compared to $54 million in the prior year, while net income decreased to $41 million or $2.23 per diluted share from $44.6 million or $2.39 per diluted share [21][22] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Uniform and Facility Service Solutions revenues for Q4 2025 were $560.1 million, a decrease of 4.4% from Q4 2024, with organic growth of approximately 2.9% [23][24] - First Aid and Safety Solutions segment revenues in Q4 2025 increased to $31.1 million, with organic growth of 12.4% driven by the segment's van business [25] - Revenues from the Other segment, which includes nuclear services, were $23.3 million, a decrease of 5.3% from Q4 2024 due to lower activity in North American nuclear operations [26] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company experienced notable improvements in customer retention in fiscal 2025 after two years of elevated lost business, with positive trends in key leading indicators such as NPS scores [7] - The employment environment has impacted parts of the customer base, leading to fluctuations in wear-in numbers and overall growth rates [7][12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to drive organic growth to mid-single digits and improve EBITDA margins into the high teens over the next couple of years [16] - Investments in technology and organizational initiatives are expected to enhance operational efficiency and scalability, particularly through the implementation of the Oracle ERP system [11][31] - The company is focusing on enhancing customer experience and operational excellence through the introduction of the UniFirst Way, a collection of service-focused procedures [8] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the ability to drive meaningful improvements in overall profitability despite expected temporary setbacks in fiscal 2026 [14][16] - The impact of tariffs is anticipated to escalate in fiscal 2026, but the company believes it is well-positioned to navigate the evolving trade situation [12][13] - Management highlighted the importance of patience and thoughtful execution in addressing current sourcing and cost environments [16] Other Important Information - The company made significant investments in capital expenditures totaling $154.3 million in fiscal 2025, focusing on facility additions and system updates [26] - The company plans to continue deploying cash flows for strategic investments, including infrastructure enhancements and share buyback programs [18] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you confirm the drivers for the guided 2.6% organic growth for Uniform and Facility Service Solutions? - Management indicated that while there is momentum in sales and retention, the economic outlook and fluctuations in employment cycles are contributing factors to the current organic growth outlook [34][35] Question: What are the expected impacts on margins for 2026? - Management noted that tariffs, sales and service investments, and digital transformation costs are expected to impact margins, with operational efficiencies anticipated to provide some offsets [37][38] Question: Will benefits from sales and service investments be realized in 2026? - Management clarified that while some benefits from sales and service investments will begin to materialize in 2026, significant ERP-enabled benefits are expected to emerge in 2027 and beyond [45][46] Question: How do you expect pricing dynamics to evolve in 2026? - Management acknowledged that pricing remains challenging due to inflation and tariffs, but they anticipate working through these dynamics with customers [53][54] Question: What is the expected impact of the nuclear services business in fiscal 2026? - Management expects a wind-down of a large project in the first quarter, with normal seasonality affecting the nuclear business throughout the year [75][76]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Full-year revenues for fiscal 2025 reached $2.432 billion, a 2.1% increase compared to fiscal 2024 after adjusting for an additional week of operations in the previous year [5][21] - Consolidated revenues in Q4 2025 were $614.4 million, down from $639.9 million in the prior year, with a revenue growth of approximately 3.4% when excluding the extra week in fiscal 2024 [21][22] - Consolidated operating income for Q4 2025 was $49.6 million, compared to $54 million in the prior year, while net income decreased to $41 million or $2.23 per diluted share from $44.6 million or $2.39 per diluted share [21][22] - Consolidated adjusted EBITDA for Q4 2025 was $88.1 million, down from $95 million in the prior year [21][22] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Uniform & Facility Service Solutions revenues for Q4 2025 were $560.1 million, a decrease of 4.4% from Q4 2024, with organic growth of approximately 2.9% [23][24] - First Aid & Safety Solutions segment revenues in Q4 2025 increased to $31.1 million, with organic growth of 12.4% driven by the segment's van business [25] - Revenues from the Other segment, which includes nuclear services, were $23.3 million, a decrease of 5.3% from Q4 2024 due to lower activity in North American nuclear operations [26] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company noted improvements in customer retention and key performance metrics, despite a softer employment environment impacting parts of its customer base [7][8] - The First Aid & Safety Solutions segment is expected to achieve double-digit growth in fiscal 2026, reflecting strong market potential [17] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on driving organic growth to mid-single digits and improving EBITDA margins into the high teens [16] - Investments in technology and organizational initiatives are aimed at enhancing customer experience and operational excellence [3][10] - The introduction of the UniFirst Way aims to unify operational approaches and improve service delivery [8][9] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the company's ability to drive meaningful improvements in overall profitability despite anticipated challenges in fiscal 2026 [14][19] - The impact of tariffs is expected to influence short to medium-term profitability, with ongoing efforts to mitigate cost increases [12][13] - Management acknowledged that fiscal 2026 may reflect a temporary step back in profitability due to investments in growth initiatives [16][28] Other Important Information - The company has a robust balance sheet with no long-term debt and cash equivalents totaling $209.2 million [26] - Capital expenditures for fiscal 2025 totaled $154.3 million, with ongoing investments in infrastructure and automation initiatives [26][18] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you confirm the drivers for the guided 2.6% organic growth for Uniform & Facility Services? - Management indicated that improvements in sales and retention are expected, but challenges from the employment environment may impact growth [33][35] Question: What are the factors impacting margins for 2026? - Management highlighted tariffs, sales and service investments, and digital transformation costs as key factors affecting margins [37][38] Question: Will benefits from sales and service investments be seen in 2026? - Management stated that while some benefits may emerge, significant improvements from ERP-related investments are expected in 2027 and beyond [44][45] Question: What is the outlook for pricing in 2026? - Management noted that pricing remains challenging due to inflation and tariffs, but they expect to work through these dynamics with customers [53][55] Question: Can you provide insights on the nuclear services business for fiscal 2026? - Management expects a wind-down of a large project in the first quarter, with normal seasonality affecting performance throughout the year [75][76]