Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For the third quarter, total revenue was $57 million, an increase of 15.9% or $7.8 million compared to the prior year, primarily driven by revenue from company-owned salons due to the Align acquisition [25][24] - Adjusted EBITDA grew 33% year-over-year to $7.1 million, while operating income increased by 23% to $5 million [5][28] - Cash from operations improved by $14 million year-to-date, generating $6.2 million in the third quarter, marking positive cash flow for the second consecutive quarter [6][32] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Align Salon Group acquisition contributed positively to results, although its impact was modest in the quarter as the focus was on integration and planning [7][25] - Same store sales for the consolidated company saw a decline of 1.1%, with Supercuts reporting a 1.1% increase, while SmartStyle experienced a 7.4% decline [9][11] - The company-owned salons segment's adjusted EBITDA improved by $1.6 million year-over-year to $843,000, primarily due to the Align acquisition [31] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The timing of Easter negatively impacted sales by an estimated 1.1%, but April showed stronger same store sales with Supercuts increasing by 4.5% [10][11] - The company reported 49 net closures of underperforming stores, with a performance gap of approximately $350,000 between closed stores and top-performing locations [27] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on a comprehensive transformation aimed at building a sustainable business model that prioritizes operational stability and profitability [3][4] - Key strategic priorities include optimizing the company-owned salon portfolio and executing a holistic transformation agenda for the Supercuts brand [16][18] - The company aims to enhance brand perception, unlock omnichannel growth, and scale operational excellence as part of its strategic roadmap [22][20] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the long-term value of the strategic initiatives and the positive momentum observed in early results [9][24] - The company acknowledged the need to increase traffic to salons and improve franchisee profitability to achieve growth [12][18] - Management highlighted the importance of disciplined cost management and capital allocation in navigating current challenges [12][36] Other Important Information - The company expects fiscal year 2025 to be the last year of significant closures, with a shift of approximately 300 locations from franchise to corporate salon counts due to the Align acquisition [27][28] - The company reported a decrease in general and administrative expenses as a percentage of revenue, from 22.8% to 19.6% [28] Q&A Session Summary Question: Understanding the accounting for Align - Management confirmed that while royalty fees in the franchise segment decreased, EBITDA in the company-owned segment increased [39] Question: Updates on store closings for this year - Management indicated that the anticipated closures are occurring as expected and that future closures will be at a significantly lower rate [46][48] Question: Impact of remodeled stores on same store sales - Management noted that remodeled stores have seen a modest lift of about 5% in sales, with some locations achieving over 20% sustained price increases [53][55] Question: Plans for cash allocation - Management stated that the priority is to pay down debt, maintain liquidity, and evaluate opportunities for capital deployment based on business needs [56][60]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Sales for the second quarter were $177.1 million, down from $188.7 million in the prior year, reflecting a decline of 6% year over year [24] - Gross profit decreased to $43.9 million from $54.3 million, with gross margin dropping to 24.8% from 28.8% [24][25] - Adjusted EBITDA was reported at a loss of $36 million, aligning with guidance despite top-line softness [9][10] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Pro Pool sales were down 2%, while Residential Pool sales declined by 9%. Hot tub sales, however, increased by 4% year over year [8] - The conversion rate improved by 174 basis points year over year, with significant increases observed after water tests using proprietary technology [9][50] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company experienced weaker foot traffic in February due to colder temperatures, impacting overall sales performance [8] - The introduction of Local Fulfillment Centers (LFCs) has begun to positively impact customer service and inventory management [10][11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on a transformation journey centered around customer centricity, convenience, and asset utilization, with a new pillar of cost optimization introduced [7][30] - Strategic initiatives include optimizing inventory, enhancing the Pro customer experience, and improving DIY omnichannel capabilities [10][14][15] - The launch of a new loyalty program, Pool Perks, aims to reward loyal customers and enhance engagement [17][18] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged the challenges posed by weather conditions but expressed confidence in the team's ability to meet guidance for the remainder of the year [28][80] - The company is committed to reducing debt and improving working capital through inventory optimization and cost management strategies [26][30] Other Important Information - The company reduced inventory by 12% year over year, ending the quarter at $335.1 million [26] - A partnership with Uber for same-day delivery services is expected to enhance customer convenience and operational efficiency [22][75] Q&A Session Summary Question: Competitive landscape and comp sales performance - Management noted that weather impacted sales but expressed confidence in gaining market share, particularly in the Pro segment [35][39] Question: Pricing strategy related to tariffs - The company plans to implement pricing adjustments primarily to offset tariff impacts, which are estimated to be less than 1% of total sales [42][43] Question: Comp weakness and underlying fundamentals - Management indicated that weather was a significant factor in comp weakness, but improvements in conversion rates were encouraging [46][50] Question: Inventory purchases and defensive strategies - The company is focused on optimizing inventory while preparing for potential market challenges in the second half of 2025 [51][52] Question: Cost optimization and expense ratio - Management highlighted ongoing efforts to identify cost savings, particularly in indirect spend, while maintaining a focus on growth [56][58] Question: E-commerce and digitally initiated sales - The partnership with Uber was driven by customer demand for faster service, benefiting both Pro and DIY customers [72][74] Question: Top-line guidance and revenue seasonality - Management reiterated confidence in full-year sales outlook, emphasizing that a significant portion of sales is still expected in the upcoming months [79][81]

Company Overview - Metallus Inc reported net sales of $1.1 billion in 2024 [9] - The company has an annual melt capacity of approximately 1.2 million tons and a ship capacity of approximately 0.9 million tons [9] - In 2024, Automotive accounted for 45% of the company's shipment mix and 42% of net sales [23] - In 2024, Industrial accounted for 40% of the company's shipment mix and 36% of net sales [23] - In 2024, Aerospace & Defense accounted for 8% of the company's shipment mix and 12% of net sales [23] - In 2024, Energy accounted for 7% of the company's shipment mix and 8% of net sales [23] Financial Performance and Outlook - In Q1 2025, Metallus' net sales were $280.5 million, a 17% increase compared to Q4 2024 [29] - The company's cash and cash equivalents balance was $180.3 million, with total liquidity of $432 million as of March 31, 2025 [29] - The company expects Q2 2025 adjusted EBITDA to be higher than Q1 2025 [29] Capital Allocation and Investment - Planned capital expenditures are approximately $125 million for the full year 2025, inclusive of approximately $90 million of capital expenditures funded by the U S government [29] - From 2022 through Q1 2025, the company repurchased 7.1 million shares for $127.8 million [85]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Adjusted EBITDA for Q1 2025 improved to $65 million, up $20 million year-over-year, driven by restructuring actions, improved business mix, and a polycarbonate licensing agreement [6][12][18] - Free cash flow was negative $119 million in Q1, with expectations for breakeven in Q2 and positive cash flow in the second half of 2025 [12][13][18] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Volume in recycled content products grew by 33% year-over-year, and consumer electronics applications saw a 43% increase [8][9] - PMMA resin volumes in Asia more than doubled, while case volumes grew by 3% in a flat demand environment [8] - Latex Binders adjusted EBITDA remained similar to the prior year despite lower volumes, primarily due to improved sales mix and cost savings initiatives [11] - Polymer Solutions adjusted EBITDA was above the prior year, aided by $26 million in polycarbonate licensing income, despite a 15% decline in segment volumes [12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - In China, specialized products delivered 50% volume growth year-over-year, driven by sustainable solutions for consumer electronics [9] - The North American benzene price drop impacted Amsty's performance, leading to a $10 million negative impact in Q1 due to timing issues and low volumes [29][30] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on geographic expansion, material replacement, process change, and sustainability to drive growth in specialized technologies [7][18] - The strategic partnership with Deepak Chemtech is viewed as mutually beneficial, with projects on track to deliver expected results [8] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in navigating uncertain business conditions and highlighted the positive impact of restructuring actions [18][19] - The company withdrew its full-year guidance due to increased economic and geopolitical uncertainty, providing only Q2 adjusted EBITDA guidance of $55 million to $70 million [17][18] Other Important Information - Over 95% of product sales are produced within the region they are sold, minimizing direct tariff impacts [14] - The company is exploring additional licensing deals related to recycling technologies, indicating potential future growth avenues [40] Q&A Session Summary Question: Volume patterns and sustainability - Management noted no pre-buying ahead of tariffs and indicated that Q1 demand has continued into Q2 [22] Question: Free cash flow guidance for Q2 - Management expressed confidence in achieving breakeven free cash flow, citing working capital management and collected licensing income [23][24] Question: Impact of styrene closures - Management stated no significant negative impact on business due to styrene closures, as they are no longer a styrene producer in Europe [25] Question: Amsty performance and sale process - Management confirmed ongoing commitment to market Amsty and maximize asset value, with expectations for improved performance in Q2 [28][31] Question: Battery binders opportunity - Management highlighted investments in anode binders for lithium-ion batteries, indicating growth potential in both grid storage and automotive applications [32][35] Question: Full-year cash flow outlook - Management provided insights on cash outflows and the need for $370 million EBITDA to achieve breakeven cash flow for the year [38] Question: Future licensing opportunities - Management acknowledged interest in recycling technologies and potential for future licensing deals [40]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net sales for the first quarter were $1.27 billion, down 2% on a constant currency basis [23] - Adjusted EBITDA was $276 million, up 2% on a constant currency basis [23] - Adjusted earnings per share increased by 4% as reported and 9% on a constant currency basis, reaching $0.81 [24] - Adjusted EBITDA margin improved to 21.7%, up 80 basis points [25] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Food segment net sales were $852 million, up 1% on an organic basis, driven by pricing actions and marginal volume growth [26] - Protective segment net sales were $420 million, down 8% organically, primarily due to volume declines [27] - Food adjusted EBITDA was $203 million, up 7% as reported and 10% in constant currency, with an adjusted EBITDA margin of 23.8% [26][28] - Protective adjusted EBITDA was $74 million, down 18% as reported, with an adjusted EBITDA margin of 17.6%, down 180 basis points [28] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The industrial food processing markets were relatively flat compared to the previous year, with some regions showing growth while others faced declines [15][17] - In the Protective segment, box shipments in the U.S. were down low single digits, reflecting declining consumer confidence [19] - EMEA showed signs of stabilization, with volumes down just 1%, marking the best quarter since 2021 [28] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on transforming its operations by reorganizing into two market-focused businesses: Food and Protective [6][7] - There is an emphasis on enhancing leadership and aligning commercial, innovation, and supply chain teams to better serve customers [8] - The company is actively reviewing its supply chain and optimizing production to mitigate potential tariff impacts and inflation [10][12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted a cautious outlook due to potential softness in market demand and ongoing trade policy uncertainties [11][13] - The company is reaffirming its full-year guidance while anticipating better visibility into trade policies and market demand in the second half of the year [30][31] - Management expressed confidence in the food business's resilience and long-term potential despite current market volatility [17][18] Other Important Information - The company reported a cash flow use of $12 million in the first quarter, compared to a source of $78 million in the same period last year [29] - Total liquidity at the end of the quarter was $1.3 billion, with a net debt leverage ratio of 3.7 times [29] Q&A Session Summary Question: Comments on protective volumes and progress - Management indicated that protective volumes were down approximately 6% in Q1, but churn from large customers has been minimized, leading to expected sequential improvement in Q2 [35][36] Question: Measuring customer improvement - Management confirmed they are using customer feedback mechanisms and have seen improvements in customer satisfaction, although there is still work to be done [42][45] Question: Price changes and competitive landscape - Management noted that net price realization remains relatively unchanged, with competitive pressures particularly affecting the protective segment [53][55] Question: Gross margins despite sales decline - Management attributed margin expansion to ongoing productivity initiatives and cost takeout efforts, which have improved cost positions [61][62] Question: Timing for protective turnaround - Management indicated that the protective turnaround is ongoing, with expectations for improvements over the next 90 days to six months [72][75] Question: Volume assumptions for the second half - Management stated that they expect a modest decline in protective volumes of about 1% in the second half, with ongoing monitoring of market conditions [82][86]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net sales for Q1 2025 were $1.27 billion, down 2% on a constant currency basis [22] - Adjusted EBITDA was $276 million, up 2% on a constant currency basis [22] - Adjusted earnings per share increased by 4% as reported and 9% on a constant currency basis, reaching $0.81 [22][24] - Adjusted EBITDA margin improved to 21.7%, up 80 basis points from the previous year [24] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Food segment net sales were $852 million, up 1% on an organic basis, driven by pricing actions and marginal volume growth [25] - Protective segment net sales were $420 million, down 8% organically, primarily due to volume declines of 6% [26] - Food adjusted EBITDA was $203 million, up 7% as reported and 10% in constant currency, with an adjusted EBITDA margin of 23.8%, up 200 basis points [25][26] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The industrial food processing markets were relatively flat compared to the previous year, with the South American cattle cycle remaining strong [14] - In North America, the beef market performed slightly better than expected, while pork and turkey markets were weaker [14] - Box shipments in the U.S. were down low single digits in Q1, reflecting declining consumer confidence [19] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on transforming its operations by reorganizing into two market-focused businesses: Food and Protective [5][6] - There is an emphasis on enhancing leadership and aligning commercial, innovation, and supply chain teams to better serve customers [6] - The company is actively reviewing its supply chain to mitigate potential tariff impacts and minimize inflation [7][8] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted a cautious approach due to a potentially weakening demand environment and ongoing trade policy uncertainties [10][11] - The company expects to gain more visibility into trade policies and market demand as the year progresses [12] - Management reaffirmed full-year guidance, anticipating modest volume softness but offset by improved foreign exchange outlook [30] Other Important Information - The company is targeting to drive net debt to adjusted EBITDA to approximately 3.0 times by the end of 2026 [28] - Cash flow was a use of $12 million in Q1, compared to a source of $78 million in the same period last year [28] Q&A Session Summary Question: What specific progress is being seen in the Protective segment? - Management indicated that volumes were down 6% in Q1 but noted that large customer churn has minimized since Q1 2024, leading to expected sequential improvement [35][36] Question: How is customer satisfaction being measured? - Management confirmed that customer satisfaction is being tracked through feedback and direct engagement with distribution partners, showing improvement but still needing work [44][46] Question: What is the outlook for pricing in the Protective segment? - Management noted that net price realization remains relatively unchanged, with competitive pressures affecting pricing dynamics in the Protective segment [54][56] Question: What are the volume assumptions for the second half of the year? - Management stated that they expect a modest volume decline of about 1% in the Protective segment for the second half [82] Question: How much of the equipment materials are sourced domestically? - Management indicated that most equipment materials are sourced domestically, with limited exposure to tariffs impacting equipment sales [86]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported earnings of $7.7 billion in the first quarter, a decrease of approximately $500 million compared to the same quarter last year, primarily due to market forces across its businesses [27] - Cash flow from operations reached $13 billion, the highest among all integrated oil companies, with a five-year compound annual growth rate of cash flow from operations being double that of the next highest IOC [22][24] - The net debt to capital ratio was 7%, leading all other integrated oil companies, and the company distributed $9.1 billion to shareholders, including $4.8 billion in share buybacks [14][24] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the upstream segment, over 60% of production volume is expected to come from advantaged assets in the Permian, Guyana, and LNG by 2030, contributing to an increase in upstream profitability from $10 to $13 per barrel [15] - The company's advantaged projects delivered $2.1 billion of earnings in 2024, with expectations of roughly $4 billion per year more from these projects by the end of the decade [16] - The company produced approximately 3.5 million tons of performance chemicals, lubricants, and lower emission fuels in the first quarter, showing growth compared to the same period last year [16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Crude prices remained roughly flat, while natural gas prices improved due to stronger global demand driven by LNG exports and colder weather in the U.S. and Europe [25] - Global industry refining margins were lower, particularly in Asia Pacific, but the company's energy products business generated higher sequential margins due to its majority weighting in the North American market [26] - Chemical margins stayed below the ten-year range, but the company's chemicals business performed well due to a focus on high-value chemical products and cost reductions [26] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company maintains a disciplined approach to capital allocation, focusing on long-term growth by investing in advantaged opportunities across its portfolio [5][6] - The company is executing on 10 key project startups in 2025, including the China Chemical Complex and an advanced recycling unit in Baytown, which are expected to deliver significant earnings [11][19] - The company aims to achieve $18 billion in structural savings by 2030, having already realized $12.7 billion in savings since 2019 [18][23] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged the economic uncertainty due to tariffs and market volatility but emphasized the company's flexibility and strong position to thrive through market cycles [3][4] - The company is built to excel in any market environment, with a focus on proven strategy, superior execution, and cost discipline [36][37] - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to navigate market cycles and seize opportunities despite ongoing uncertainties [36][37] Other Important Information - The company has signed six large carbon capture and storage contracts, bringing its total CO2 under contract for CCS with third-party customers to 8.7 million tons per annum [13][14] - The company is committed to maintaining industry-leading financial strength while delivering robust returns to shareholders [14][24] Q&A Session Summary Question: What are the expectations for the second quarter? - The company expects scheduled maintenance in Qatar and Canada to decrease volumes by about 100,000 oil equivalent barrels per day compared to the first quarter [34] - There will be lower scheduled maintenance in Product Solutions, with production ramping up at the China Chemical Complex throughout the year [35] - Seasonal tax payments of $2.5 to $3 billion are expected in the second quarter, leading to a working capital outflow [36]

Financial Performance - Net sales for Q1 were $393 million, a decrease of 16% compared to the prior year [9] - Gross profit margin expanded to 61.2%, up 250 basis points from last year, driven by operational efficiencies and product mix [9] - Adjusted EBITDA for the quarter was $22 million, a decrease of $15 million from the prior year, with an adjusted EBITDA margin of 5.6%, down 230 basis points [11] - Operating expenses excluding restructuring costs totaled $237 million, a $23 million or 9% improvement over last year [10] Business Lines and Market Data - Positive consumer response to the Climate Series beds helped expand Average Revenue per Unit (ARU) by approximately 4% versus last year [9] - The company is closely monitoring tariffs and estimates an unmitigated impact of approximately $30 million for 2025, with $17 million potentially offset through supplier partnerships [12][13] Company Strategy and Industry Competition - The company is focused on stabilizing the business and enhancing shareholder returns through operational efficiencies and cost reductions [5][18] - A new executive leadership structure has been implemented to streamline decision-making and improve organizational efficiency [22][24] - The company plans to reduce annualized costs by $80 million to $100 million compared to the 2025 cost structure [14][29] Management Commentary on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledges challenges in the current consumer environment but is committed to creating a stable business that can perform under various market conditions [8][41] - The company is not providing full guidance due to the rapidly evolving macroeconomic environment, including consumer sentiment [14] - Management emphasizes a customer-centric approach, leveraging data to better understand customer needs and improve product offerings [20][21] Other Important Information - The company is evaluating its supply chain, distribution strategy, and product selection to create a flexible cost structure for future growth [30] - A focus on marketing efficiency is emphasized, with plans to lower marketing spend as a percentage of revenue while increasing productivity [25][37] Q&A Session Summary Question: What are the low hanging fruit for improvement? - Management identified opportunities in marketing efficiency, organizational structure changes, and leveraging past innovations to meet current customer needs [34][36] Question: Can you provide any color on quarter to date demand? - Management noted a challenging environment with declining consumer confidence impacting spending, but emphasized efforts to rightsizing the organization [40][41] Question: What are the biggest opportunities to strengthen the brand? - Management sees opportunities in leveraging new technologies for effective marketing and optimizing existing partnerships to maximize benefits [49][50] Question: Is there an increased appetite to explore wholesale distribution? - Management stated that everything is on the table and they are open to exploring various strategic options [54] Question: How do you think about the level of promotion necessary in the short and long term? - Management indicated a well-oiled promotional machine and a focus on balancing pricing strategies while managing tariff impacts [78][80] Question: How are you thinking about store openings versus closures? - Management confirmed maintaining the current strategy of store openings and closures while reviewing the overall strategy and operations [81]

Financial Performance - Net sales for Q1 2025 were $393 million, a decrease of 16% compared to the prior year [8] - Gross profit margin expanded to 61.2%, up 250 basis points from last year, driven by operational efficiencies and product mix [8][9] - Adjusted EBITDA for the quarter was $22 million, a decrease of $15 million from the prior year, with an adjusted EBITDA margin of 5.6%, down 230 basis points [10] - Operating expenses, excluding restructuring and one-time costs, totaled $237 million, a $23 million or 9% improvement over last year [9] Business Lines and Market Performance - Positive consumer response to the Climate Series beds helped expand Average Revenue per Unit (ARU) by approximately 4% versus last year [8] - The company is focusing on marketing efficiency to drive sustainable returns [8] - The impact of tariffs is estimated to be approximately $30 million for 2025, with $17 million potentially offset through supplier partnerships [11] Company Strategy and Industry Competition - The company is undergoing significant changes to stabilize the business and enhance competitive advantages [4][5] - A new executive and senior leadership structure has been created to streamline operations and improve decision-making [20][21] - The focus is on customer obsession, leveraging data to understand customer needs and improve product offerings [19][30] Management Commentary on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledges challenges in the current consumer environment, with a decline in consumer confidence impacting spending [39] - The company is not providing full guidance due to the rapidly evolving macroeconomic environment [13] - There is an expectation of continued top-line pressure in the near term, but cost management strategies are in place to maintain gross profit margins [14][15] Other Important Information - The company anticipates annualized cost reductions of $80 million to $100 million compared to the 2025 cost structure [13][27] - A focus on optimizing the debt capital structure without diluting current shareholders is underway [12] Q&A Session Summary Question: What are the low-hanging fruit for improvement in 2025? - Management identified opportunities in marketing efficiency, organizational structure changes, and leveraging past innovations to meet current customer needs [33][34][36] Question: Can you provide color on quarter-to-date demand? - Management noted a challenging environment with declining consumer confidence impacting spending, but emphasized a focus on rightsizing the organization [39][40] Question: What are the biggest opportunities to strengthen the brand and messaging? - Management sees opportunities in leveraging new technologies for effective marketing and optimizing existing partnerships for maximum benefit [48][50][52] Question: Is there an increased appetite to explore wholesale distribution? - Management stated that everything is on the table and they are open to exploring various strategic options [53] Question: How does the company view its core value proposition? - Management emphasized the importance of communicating the core benefits of Sleep Number beds, focusing on comfort and quality sleep [58][60] Question: How is the company navigating tariffs and pricing? - Management is evaluating various strategies to manage tariff impacts, including potential pricing adjustments and maintaining core pricing for key products [77][78] Question: What is the strategy regarding store openings and closures? - Management plans to maintain the current strategy of store openings and closures while reviewing the overall distribution strategy [79]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q1 2025, the company reported GAAP diluted EPS of $0.49 and adjusted diluted EPS of $0.50, reflecting a nearly 41% increase in net income compared to Q1 2024 [10][14] - Revenue for Q1 2025 was $167.6 million, a 12% increase from $149.4 million in Q1 2024, primarily due to rate increases in California and Connecticut [15][16] - GAAP net income was $16.6 million, a 41% increase year-over-year, while adjusted net income was $16.7 million, a 43% increase [15][16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company invested $70.8 million in water and wastewater utility infrastructure across four states in Q1 2025, on track to meet its 2025 capital plan [9][12] - The completion of successful general rate cases in California and Connecticut has reduced regulatory risk, with these states generating 90% of the company's water utility services net income in 2024 [11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The new rates for San Jose Water effective January 1, 2025, support $450 million in capital expenditures over three years, with a total revenue increase of 9.4% [22] - In Connecticut, a $1.6 million revenue increase was authorized effective April 1, 2025, with a cumulative surcharge now at 4.9% [24][25] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on a long-term growth strategy that includes a robust $2 billion capital plan and opportunistic acquisitions that benefit customers [12][60] - The company aims to maintain affordability while investing in infrastructure and enhancing operational efficiencies through technology advancements [31][33] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's performance for 2025, expecting to meet guidance of adjusted diluted EPS between $2.9 and $3 [14][45] - The leadership transition is progressing smoothly, with a focus on maintaining a strong culture of safety and service [35][68] Other Important Information - The company raised its credit outlook to stable, indicating a commitment to maintaining a strong credit rating [13] - The company is exploring a Water Quality and Treatment Adjustment mechanism to improve regulatory recovery processes [48][51] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you frame where you're trending relative to guidance for the year? - Management indicated they are trending right on plan for the year and expect to meet the guidance of $2.9 to $3 [42][45] Question: What is the potential impact of the WQTA mechanism? - The WQTA is expected to streamline recovery for environmental improvements, enhancing regulatory capabilities for timely recovery [50][52] Question: Are there specific states in mind for potential acquisitions? - Management highlighted Texas as a prime area for continued acquisition activity, with additional opportunities in California, Connecticut, and Maine [58][60]