Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported net revenues of $818 million for Q1 2025, with retail revenues of $767 million, reflecting a decrease of $28 million compared to Q1 2024 due to retailer destocking and declines in the foam category [13][14] - Adjusted EBITDA was $117 million, down from $122 million in the prior year, primarily driven by lower retail sales [14] - Adjusted earnings per share (EPS) remained unchanged at $0.23 compared to Q1 2024 [14] - The company expects 2025 net revenues to decline low single digits compared to 2024 and adjusted EBITDA in the range of $650 million to $670 million [14][15] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company outperformed its categories by two points at retail, capturing share in household foil, waste bags, food bags, and non-foam disposable tableware [7] - Non-retail revenues increased by $12 million [14] - The company introduced new products, including hefty compostable cutlery and Reynolds Kitchen air fryer cups, to drive innovation and connect with younger consumers [7][12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Retail volumes are expected to be down 2% to 5% in Q2 2025 compared to Q2 2024, driven by lower volumes and partially offset by pricing [17] - The company anticipates more pressure on its categories, with lower consumer confidence and retailers managing inventory levels contributing to the challenges [15][31] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on driving growth at or above its categories, expanding margins, and investing in a more stable earnings growth model [6][7] - Strategic initiatives include targeted distribution gains, prioritizing larger scale innovation, and reallocating promotional spend to higher return opportunities [11][12] - The company is adapting to a dynamic macro environment by investing in high return programs and leveraging competitive advantages [19][20] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that retailer destocking is expected to be a permanent change rather than a temporary adjustment [23][24] - The company is not altering its strategic direction despite recent tariff announcements and a challenging retail environment, emphasizing the need to control its own destiny through innovation and distribution gains [12] - Management expressed confidence in the innovation pipeline, highlighting new product launches and the potential for growth [62] Other Important Information - The company successfully refinanced its term loan facility, enhancing financial flexibility [19] - The updated segment reporting now reflects the international business based on product category alignment [18] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you discuss the retailer destocking piece? - Management indicated that retailer destocking is expected to be a permanent change and will flow through the balance of the year [23][24] Question: Can you clarify the strategic expenses related to revenue growth management? - Management explained that strategic investments focus on evaluating revenue growth management, cost out work, and supply chain efficiency [25][26] Question: What is the guidance for category growth? - The guidance now contemplates a greater quantum of pricing due to lower expectations of retail volumes, with retailer destocking being a significant factor [30][31] Question: Can you elaborate on the tariff pressure? - Management noted that direct tariff exposure is a single-digit percentage of overall COGS, with significant indirect impacts from commodities like aluminum [38][39] Question: How has consumption performed exiting the quarter? - Management reported that retail business performed as expected, with destocking impacting the P&L, but March showed better performance than January and February [49][50] Question: How is the innovation pipeline looking for this year? - Management expressed confidence in the innovation pipeline, highlighting new product launches and the potential for growth [62]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported net revenues of $818 million for Q1 2025, with retail revenues of $767 million, reflecting a decrease of $28 million compared to Q1 2024, primarily due to retailer destocking and declines in the foam category [13][14] - Adjusted EBITDA for the quarter was $117 million, down from $122 million in the prior year, driven by lower retail sales [14] - Adjusted earnings per share (EPS) remained unchanged at $0.23 compared to Q1 2024 [14] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company outperformed its categories by two points at retail, capturing market share in household foil, waste bags, food bags, and non-foam disposable tableware [7][8] - Non-retail revenues increased by $12 million, indicating growth in segments outside traditional retail channels [14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company anticipates net revenues for 2025 to decline by low single digits compared to 2024, with adjusted EBITDA expected in the range of $650 million to $670 million [15][16] - The impact of tariffs is estimated to create cost headwinds of $100 million to $200 million annually, with pricing strategies expected to offset these costs [16][38] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on driving growth above category levels, expanding margins, and investing in a stable earnings growth model [6][7] - Strategic initiatives include targeted distribution gains, prioritizing larger-scale innovations, and optimizing supply chain efficiencies [11][12] - The company has updated its segment reporting to better align international business with product categories, reflecting a shift in strategy to enhance growth [18][40] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that retailer destocking is expected to persist throughout the year, impacting revenue expectations [23][24] - The company remains committed to innovation and distribution gains, despite challenges from tariffs and a dynamic retail environment [12][20] - Management expressed confidence in the underlying health of the business and the ability to recover gross profit through pricing and productivity measures [9][10] Other Important Information - The company successfully refinanced its term loan facility, enhancing financial flexibility and supporting strategic priorities [19] - Capital spending is expected to increase by $20 million to $40 million in 2025 to drive growth and margin expansion [19] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you discuss the retailer destocking impact? - Management indicated that retailer destocking is expected to be a permanent adjustment rather than a temporary phenomenon, affecting the full year outlook [23][24] Question: What is the guidance for category growth? - The guidance reflects lower expectations for retail volumes due to destocking and consumer pressure, with pricing adjustments factored in [30][31] Question: Can you elaborate on tariff pressures? - Direct tariff exposure is a single-digit percentage of overall COGS, with significant indirect impacts from commodities like aluminum [36][38] Question: How is the innovation pipeline looking? - The company is optimistic about its innovation pipeline, with new product launches such as hefty compostable cutlery and additional scents in existing product lines [63][64] Question: What are the pricing mechanics and impact of destocking? - Pricing adjustments typically take two to six months to reflect in retail, and destocking has altered the usual timeline for pricing realization [67][71]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - First quarter revenue was $632 million, down 4% sequentially and 6% year over year [10][11] - Non GAAP earnings per share was $0.52, above the midpoint of guidance [6][10] - Non GAAP gross margin was 10.1%, a 30 basis point decrease quarter over quarter but a 10 basis point increase year over year [10][13] - Non GAAP operating margin was 4.6%, down 50 basis points sequentially and 30 basis points year over year [10][11] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Semi cap revenue grew 18% year over year but decreased 2% quarter over quarter [11][19] - A and D sector revenue was up 15% year over year and 4% quarter over quarter [11][22] - Industrial revenue was down 2% quarter over quarter due to demand softness [11][21] - Medical revenue decreased 12% quarter over quarter, reflecting ongoing demand softness [12][22] - AC and C revenue decreased 12% quarter over quarter due to timing-related weaknesses [12][22] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company has a significant U.S. manufacturing footprint at 36% and over 55% in North America [8][25] - Demand in the semi cap sector is expected to continue growing despite tariff uncertainties [19][20] - Medical sector recovery is anticipated in the second half of 2025 as inventory levels normalize [22][64] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on optimizing supply chains for customers amid tariff-related uncertainties [5][27] - Continued investment in strategic growth areas, including a new facility in Penang, Malaysia [20][96] - The company is evaluating M&A opportunities that align with strategic plans while maintaining a focus on organic growth [28][102] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that while there are short-term risks due to global macroeconomic uncertainties, there are also mid to long-term opportunities [25][27] - The company expects to deliver sequential growth throughout the year, barring a recession caused by tariffs [27][28] - Management expressed confidence in returning to year-over-year growth in the second half of 2025 [16][40] Other Important Information - The company generated $27 million in free cash flow in the quarter, marking the eighth consecutive quarter of positive free cash flow [6][14] - Cash balance as of March 31 was $355 million, a year-over-year increase of $59 million [14] - The company paid cash dividends of $6.1 million and repurchased $8 million of outstanding shares during the quarter [14] Q&A Session Summary Question: Are customer pauses and pull-ins creating a net headwind? - Management indicated that the situation is balancing out, with some customers pausing and others pulling in orders, leading to uncertainty but not a significant bias in either direction [31][32] Question: What is the impact of supply chain optimization on existing customers? - Management noted that some bids are taking longer due to customers evaluating their supply chains, elongating the cycle for new bookings [33][34] Question: Where is the traction seen in the industrial sector? - Management highlighted a balance of new and existing customers, with strong follow-on business and new growth in automation solutions [36] Question: Is the expected rebound in medical driven by channel replenishment or new program launches? - Management indicated that both factors are contributing, with customers working through inventory and new competitive takeaways expected to drive growth [56][57] Question: What is the expected tax rate for the second half of the year? - Management projected a slight drop in the tax rate, estimating around 24% for the year [60] Question: How quickly can the company pivot or launch new programs? - Management stated that moving a customer to an existing facility is challenging, but new programs can ramp significantly in about six months if leveraging existing manufacturing knowledge [82] Question: Are there opportunities to acquire a customer's manufacturing facility? - Management expressed openness to discussions about taking over facilities if they align with existing operations but emphasized a preference against acquiring facilities at a premium [88][90]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported sales of $964 million in Q1 2025, a decrease of 2% year-over-year, and earnings of $0.95 per share, down 5% compared to the prior period [11][12] - North America segment sales were $749 million, also a 2% decrease, with segment earnings of $185 million, down 7% year-over-year [11][12] - The overall segment margin was 24.7%, a decrease of 120 basis points year-over-year, primarily due to lower water heater volumes and continued strategic investments [11][12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - North America water heater sales declined by 4% in Q1 2025, driven by lower volumes, while boiler sales increased by 10% compared to Q1 2024 [7][9] - North America water treatment sales saw slight growth, offsetting retail declines as the company shifted focus away from that channel [9] - Rest of the world segment sales were essentially flat at $227 million, with earnings increasing by 15% due to expense management [12][13] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - In China, third-party sales decreased by 4% in local currency, reflecting ongoing economic weakness and soft consumer demand [7][10] - The company anticipates a 5% to 8% decrease in sales in China for 2025, with a focus on maintaining premium brand positioning despite market challenges [24][25] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on managing costs and optimizing production schedules to ensure efficiency, particularly in response to tariff-related cost increases [8][21] - A significant initiative for 2025 includes leveling production across the year to enhance plant efficiencies [8] - The company is actively pursuing acquisitions and has a robust pipeline, with a planned share repurchase of $400 million for the full year [14][15] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in navigating the volatile macro environment, emphasizing the stability provided by core water heater and boiler businesses [30][31] - The company is cautious about the near-term market outlook, particularly in China, where consumer confidence remains low [25][71] - The guidance for 2025 EPS remains unchanged at $3.60 to $3.90 per share, despite uncertainties related to tariffs and input costs [15][16] Other Important Information - The company repurchased approximately $121 million worth of shares in Q1 2025, front-loading part of its annual repurchase outlook [14] - The company opened a new commercial R&D testing lab in Lebanon, Tennessee, aimed at enhancing product development and engineering capabilities [29] - A. O. Smith was recognized as one of the world's most ethical companies for the second consecutive year, highlighting its commitment to ethical business practices [30] Q&A Session Summary Question: Demand destruction around pricing actions - Management indicated that pricing actions are expected to cover costs, with a stable replacement business providing some insulation against demand destruction [35][36] Question: Clarification on tariff exposure - The 6% to 8% tariff exposure includes costs related to imports, particularly from China, and is expected to impact the cost of goods sold [38][40] Question: Sequential demand expectations - Management expects a relatively normal seasonal demand pattern, with no significant changes anticipated in order rates [45][46] Question: Pricing actions and market dynamics - Pricing actions have been communicated to customers, and the company is working closely with them to manage the implications of tariffs and pricing changes [92][93] Question: China market outlook - The company is cautious about the Chinese market, focusing on consumer confidence as a key driver for recovery, rather than solely on the housing market [71][77]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Consolidated revenue decreased by 7% year-over-year to $967 million, with non-GAAP operating income from continuing operations at $17 million compared to $43 million in the prior year [22] - Adjusted earnings per share were $0.51, down from $1.34 in Q1 2024 [22] - The Asset Based segment saw a $27 million decrease in operating income, while the Asset Light segment's non-GAAP operating loss improved by $4 million year-over-year [22] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Asset Based business revenue was $646 million, a daily decrease of 3%, with an operating ratio of 95.9%, an increase of 390 basis points year-over-year [23] - Daily shipments in the Asset Based segment were flat year-over-year, while weight per shipment decreased by 4%, leading to a 4% decrease in tons per day [23] - Asset Light segment revenue was $356 million, a daily decrease of 9%, with shipments per day down 4% [28] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - In April 2025, the Asset Based business achieved a 4% year-over-year increase in daily shipments, despite a 3% decrease in weight per shipment [26] - The pricing environment remains rational, with a 4.9% average increase on contract renewals during the quarter [25][51] - The company anticipates a non-GAAP operating loss for the Asset Light segment of between $1 million and $2 million for Q2 2025 [30] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on driving profitable growth, advancing premium service for customers, and optimizing efficiency [11] - Investments in technology and operational efficiency are expected to enhance service levels and reduce costs [89] - The company is adapting to changes in trade policies and tariffs, aiming to support customers in navigating these challenges [5][32] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to deliver long-term value despite challenges in the freight environment [10] - The leadership team highlighted a disciplined approach to pricing and operational efficiency to outpace rising costs [25][66] - Management noted that customer relationships remain strong, with 80% of revenue coming from long-term customers [67] Other Important Information - The company has a capital expenditure guidance of $225 million to $275 million for 2025, focusing on maintenance and strategic investments [30] - Approximately $350 million in available liquidity is reported, indicating a strong balance sheet [31] Q&A Session Summary Question: Near term setup and profitability outlook - Management expects normal seasonality to drive revenue increases and continues to target cost reductions aligned with business levels [34][36] Question: Tonnage and revenue per hundredweight trends - Management noted a 1% sequential increase in tonnage but a 1% decrease in revenue per hundredweight, attributing this to a mix of easier-to-handle shipments [38][66] Question: Pricing environment and competitive landscape - Management indicated that the pricing environment remains rational, with no significant pressure from competitors to lower prices [51][52] Question: Retail exposure and inbound traffic from China - The company has around 10% exposure to the retail sector, with varying impacts from inbound traffic from China [78] Question: Strategies in a stagflation environment - Management emphasized operational efficiencies and strategic investments to navigate inflationary pressures while maintaining service levels [88][91]

Core Viewpoint - Kimberly-Clark reported better-than-expected adjusted earnings per share of $1.93 for Q1 2025, despite revenue falling short of estimates due to currency impacts and divestitures [2][6]. Financial Performance - Non-GAAP EPS for Q1 2025 was $1.93, exceeding analyst estimates of $1.90, but down 4.0% from $2.01 in Q1 2024 [3][6]. - GAAP revenue was $4.84 billion, missing the projected $4.89 billion, representing a 6.0% decline year-over-year from $5.15 billion [3][7]. - Gross margin (Non-GAAP) slightly decreased to 36.9%, down 20 basis points from the previous year [3][6]. - Net income (GAAP) was $567 million, a decrease of 12.4% from $647 million in Q1 2024 [3]. Business Overview - Kimberly-Clark operates globally with well-known brands such as Huggies, Kleenex, and Kotex, focusing on essential consumer categories [4]. - The company is implementing strategic initiatives centered around supply chain optimization to enhance operational efficiency and cost management [4]. Sustainability and Innovation - The company's sustainability commitment is integral to its strategy, aiming to reduce the environmental impact of its products [5]. - Kimberly-Clark is investing in innovative product development, including acquisitions like Thinx Inc., to support growth in modern product categories [5]. Geographic Performance - North American sales decreased by 3.9%, while International Personal Care saw an 8.9% decline, influenced by unfavorable currency effects [8]. - The company experienced operational improvements despite these declines, attributed to its efficiency-focused transformation initiative [8]. Future Outlook - Kimberly-Clark has adjusted its outlook for 2025, expecting flat to modest improvement in adjusted operating profit and EPS on a constant-currency basis [10]. - The cautious outlook is influenced by ongoing cost challenges, geopolitical considerations, and moderated economic forecasts [10]. - The execution of strategic initiatives, particularly in supply chain optimization and product innovation, will be crucial for the company's financial performance in the coming quarters [11].