Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Third quarter consolidated net sales revenue decreased by 3.3% [19] - Underlying pre-tax income fell by 11.9% [19] - Underlying earnings per share declined by 7.2% [19] - A non-cash partial goodwill impairment charge of $3.6 billion was recorded [21] - Non-cash intangible asset impairment charges amounted to $274 million [21] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - U.S. beer industry volume was down by 4.7% based on internal estimates [19] - U.S. volume share decreased by 40 basis points [19] - Contract brewing negatively impacted Americas financial volume by 450,000 hectoliters, equating to a 3 percentage point headwind [19] - EMEA and APAC volumes continued to be pressured due to soft market demand [19] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The macro environment has pressured demand across regions, particularly affecting lower-income and Hispanic consumers in the U.S. [8][9] - The company anticipates lower year-end U.S. distributor inventory levels compared to year-end 2024 [23] - The Midwest premium pricing has remained elevated, with costs expected to exceed the prior year by $40-$55 million [25] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to focus on building strong and scalable brands in both beer and beyond beer [10] - There is a commitment to premiumization, particularly in the above-premium segment, where the company is underindexed in the U.S. [12] - The company plans to implement structural changes to enhance agility and decision-making at the local level [16] - A corporate restructuring plan is in place to create a leaner organization, reducing salaried headcount by approximately 400 positions [17] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management believes the current industry softness is cyclical rather than structural, with expectations for recovery as macro issues subside [9][44] - The company is committed to returning to growth, supported by a healthy balance sheet and strong free cash flow [9] - Future results are expected to take time, but there is confidence in the brand portfolio and strategic plans [18] Other Important Information - The company remains committed to its dividend and share repurchase program, viewing its stock as a compelling investment [18] - The guidance for 2025 has been reaffirmed, with expectations to come in at the low end of prior ranges for key metrics [22] Q&A Session Summary Question: What are the biggest opportunities and challenges ahead for the new CEO? - The new CEO highlighted the need to strengthen core brands and address share losses in the economy and flavor categories, while also focusing on premiumization opportunities [30] Question: Can you provide insights on the fourth quarter's top-line guidance? - The CFO indicated expectations for better performance in EMEA, APAC, and Canada, along with softer comps from contract brewing in the U.S. [32] Question: What are the pressures facing the beer category, and why is it considered cyclical? - Management noted that while there are structural issues, current pressures are largely due to macroeconomic factors, and they expect recovery as these issues are resolved [44] Question: How does the company plan to balance investments between beer and beyond beer? - The CEO emphasized the importance of supporting core beer brands while also seeking growth in the beyond beer segment, indicating a balanced approach to capital allocation [78] Question: What is the expected impact of the restructuring on the organization? - The restructuring aims to enhance agility and speed in decision-making, allowing for a more localized approach to market execution [76]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the first nine months of 2025, total volumes decreased by 7%, revenue decreased by 6.6%, while revenue per hectoliter increased by 0.4% [6] - Normalized EBITDA decreased by 7.7%, and the normalized EBITDA margin contracted by 37 basis points [6] - In the third quarter, total volumes and revenue decreased by 8.6% and 8.4%, respectively, with normalized EBITDA decreasing by 6.9% but the normalized EBITDA margin expanding by 46 basis points [6][10] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In APAC West, volumes and revenue decreased by 7.9% and 8.7%, respectively, while normalized EBITDA decreased by 9.7% [7] - In China, volumes in the third quarter decreased by 11.4%, and revenue decreased by 15.1%, with a normalized EBITDA decrease of 17.4% [7] - In APAC East, volumes decreased by 0.5%, while revenue and revenue per hectoliter increased by 1.8% and 2.3%, respectively [11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - In India, the company delivered double-digit revenue growth in the third quarter, with the Budweiser brand growing ahead of the industry [10] - In South Korea, volumes were flattish, with revenue and revenue per hectoliter growing by mid-single digits [11] - The contribution of the in-home channel to total volumes and revenue has continued to increase, with premium and super premium segments outpacing traditional channels [35] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on improving top-line performance by enhancing route-to-market strategies, increasing investments in mega brands, and leading innovation in packaging and product offerings [8][10] - There is a clear priority to reignite growth and rebuild market share momentum, particularly in China [4][5] - The company aims to expand its footprint through targeted geographic expansion and restore excellence in execution [8] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged challenges in China due to a soft economic cycle but emphasized opportunities for improvement in inventory management and resource allocation [4][29] - The company remains optimistic about growth in India and South Korea, with a focus on premiumization and innovation to capture market share [10][12] - Management highlighted the importance of maintaining investments in both on-trade and off-trade channels to support brand building and consumer engagement [46][68] Other Important Information - The company is actively managing inventory levels, with current inventories lower than the previous year, and is focused on optimizing its route-to-market [29] - The company is committed to upholding compliance standards amid ongoing customs disputes in South Korea and Taiwan [72][74] Q&A Session Summary Question: Brand performance in China and mega brands' trends - Management discussed the impact of in-home consumption trends and innovations in product offerings, particularly for Budweiser and Corona [16][17] Question: Demand trends in South Korea - Management noted that while the industry remains soft, there are pockets of growth in non-alcoholic and flavored beers, with a strong performance from the core portfolio [21][24] Question: Outlook for the China market - Management confirmed proactive inventory management and expressed cautious optimism for a rebound in selling performance [28][30] Question: In-home channel penetration and expansion plans - Management indicated that the in-home channel currently accounts for about 60% of the industry, with plans to increase penetration closer to industry averages [31][32] Question: Strategies for low alcohol beer market - Management highlighted ongoing innovations in non-alcoholic and low-alcohol products, particularly in South Korea, where consumer interest is growing [52][55] Question: Update on Korean customs tax dispute and Taiwan anti-dumping duties - Management provided updates on ongoing customs disputes and adjustments in tariff rates in Taiwan, emphasizing the importance of market access [72][74]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the first nine months of 2025, total volumes decreased by 7%, revenue decreased by 6.6%, while revenue per hectoliter increased by 0.4% [7] - Normalized EBITDA decreased by 7.7%, and the normalized EBITDA margin contracted by 37 basis points [7] - In the third quarter, total volumes and revenue decreased by 8.6% and 8.4%, respectively, with normalized EBITDA decreasing by 6.9% but the normalized EBITDA margin expanding by 46 basis points [7] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In APAC West, volumes and revenue decreased by 7.9% and 8.7%, respectively, with normalized EBITDA decreasing by 9.7% [8] - In China, volumes in the third quarter decreased by 11.4%, revenue decreased by 15.1%, and revenue per hectoliter decreased by 4.1% [8] - In APAC East, volumes decreased by 0.5%, while revenue and revenue per hectoliter increased by 1.8% and 2.3%, respectively [12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - In India, the company delivered double-digit revenue growth in the third quarter, translating into strong EBITDA performance [11] - In South Korea, volumes were flattish, with revenue and revenue per hectoliter both growing by mid-single digits [12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on improving top-line performance by enhancing route-to-market strategies, increasing investment in mega brands, and leading innovation within the industry [9] - The strategy includes expanding the in-home channel and premiumizing the product offerings to capture growth opportunities [9][10] - The company aims to restore excellence in execution and improve market share momentum [4][5] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged challenges in China due to a soft economic cycle but emphasized a clear view of improvement opportunities [4] - The company remains committed to operational excellence and is optimistic about long-term growth despite current market conditions [5][11] Other Important Information - The company continues to leverage technology to enhance commercial capabilities and optimize route-to-market strategies [11] - The performance in South Korea and India has been solid, with ongoing investments in marketing and product innovation [11][12] Q&A Session Summary Question: Insights on brand performance in China - Management highlighted the importance of aligning brand performance with channel strategies, particularly focusing on in-home consumption and innovations [18][20] Question: Demand trends in Korea - Management noted that while the overall industry remains soft, there are pockets of growth in non-alcoholic and flavored beers, and the company is well-positioned to capture these opportunities [25][27] Question: Outlook for the China market - Management confirmed proactive inventory management and a focus on maintaining healthy route-to-market strategies, with expectations for gradual improvements [30][31] Question: In-home channel penetration - Management indicated that the in-home channel currently accounts for over 50% of their mix, with plans to increase this closer to the industry average [32][34] Question: Branding strategy for Harbin - Management expressed confidence in the Harbin brand's ability to compete nationally, particularly in Guangdong, and emphasized the need for a diverse portfolio to meet local consumer needs [39][42] Question: Commercial investment allocation - Management stated that investments are being sustained in both on-trade and off-trade channels, with a shift towards in-home channels as consumer preferences evolve [66][68] Question: Updates on Korean customs tax dispute - Management confirmed that the dispute is ongoing, with non-underlying charges recorded, but emphasized that the potential penalty exposure is not expected to be material [72][74]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the first nine months of 2025, total volumes decreased by 7%, revenue decreased by 6.6%, while revenue per hectoliter increased by 0.4% [8] - Normalized EBITDA decreased by 7.7%, and the normalized EBITDA margin contracted by 37 basis points [8] - In Q3 2025, total volumes and revenue decreased by 8.6% and 8.4%, respectively, with normalized EBITDA decreasing by 6.9% but the normalized EBITDA margin expanding by 46 basis points [8][9] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In APAC West, volumes and revenue decreased by 7.9% and 8.7%, respectively, with normalized EBITDA decreasing by 9.7% [10] - In China, volumes in Q3 decreased by 11.4%, revenue decreased by 15.1%, and revenue per hectoliter decreased by 4.1% [10] - In APAC East, volumes decreased by 0.5%, while revenue and revenue per hectoliter increased by 1.8% and 2.3%, respectively [14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - In India, the company delivered double-digit revenue growth in Q3, with the Budweiser brand growing ahead of the industry [13] - In South Korea, volumes were flattish, with revenue and revenue per hectoliter growing by mid-single digits [14] - The contribution of the in-home channel to total volume and revenue has continued to increase, with premium and super premium segments outpacing contributions from Chinese restaurants [42] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on improving top-line performance through strengthening route-to-market, increasing investment in mega brands, leading innovation, and expanding geographic footprint [11] - The strategy includes enhancing the in-home channel and premiumizing the product offerings to capture growth opportunities [11][12] - The company is committed to leveraging technology to enhance commercial capabilities and optimize route-to-market [13] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged challenges in China due to a soft economic cycle but emphasized a clear view of improvement opportunities [6] - The company remains optimistic about growth in India and South Korea, with a focus on premiumization and innovation [13][30] - Management highlighted the importance of maintaining investments in both on-trade and off-trade channels despite current pressures [56] Other Important Information - The company is actively managing inventory levels, with current inventories lower than the previous year [35] - There are ongoing customs tax disputes in South Korea, with non-underlying charges related to these claims amounting to $84 million [82] - In Taiwan, a provisional tariff was slightly adjusted down to 31.3% [84] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you provide more details on brand performance in China, particularly for mega brands? - Management discussed the impact of the in-home channel and innovations like larger packaging formats to improve brand performance [21][22] Question: What is the outlook for the South Korean market given the weak industry demand? - Management noted that while the industry remains soft, there are pockets of growth in non-alcoholic and flavored beers, and the company continues to gain market share [30][31] Question: What is the current penetration level of the in-home channel in China? - Management indicated that the in-home channel accounts for about 60% of the industry but only over 50% of the company's channel mix, highlighting significant growth opportunities [38] Question: How does the company allocate resources between on-trade and off-trade channels? - Management stated that while investments in on-trade channels are maintained for brand building, a larger proportion of spending is directed towards in-home channels [77] Question: What are the strategies for low alcohol beer products? - Management emphasized ongoing innovation in non-alcoholic and low-alcohol beers, with a focus on consumer needs and market maturity [64][66] Question: Can you provide updates on the Korean customs tax dispute and Taiwan's anti-dumping duties? - Management confirmed the ongoing customs tax dispute and the slight adjustment in Taiwan's tariff rate, emphasizing the importance of maintaining market access [82][84]

Core Insights - Anheuser-Busch InBev is expected to report third-quarter 2025 earnings on October 30, with anticipated year-over-year revenue growth [1][10] Revenue and Earnings Estimates - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for AB InBev's quarterly revenues is $15.4 billion, reflecting a 2% increase from the previous year [2] - The consensus estimate for earnings per share is 97 cents, indicating a 1% decline from the prior year [2] - The earnings estimate has decreased by 4% over the past 30 days [2] Recent Performance - In the last reported quarter, AB InBev's earnings per share exceeded the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 4.3%, with an average earnings surprise of 10.1% over the last four quarters [3] Factors Influencing Q3 Results - The company's results are expected to benefit from strategic measures such as pricing actions, premiumization, and revenue management initiatives [4] - Strong consumer demand for AB InBev's brand portfolio is likely to have contributed positively to sales performance [4] - The focus on premium beer offerings aligns with consumer preferences, and the expansion of the Beyond Beer portfolio is expected to support performance [5] Challenges Facing the Company - AB InBev faces significant pressure from soft volumes in key markets like China and Brazil, indicating that revenue growth is primarily driven by price/mix rather than consumption [6] - The company is experiencing volume pressures due to shifting consumer preferences and competition from non-alcoholic alternatives [6] - Elevated costs from commodity inflation and supply chain issues, along with a challenging macroeconomic environment, are anticipated to negatively impact quarterly performance [7] Valuation and Stock Performance - The stock has a forward 12-month price-to-earnings ratio of 15.05X, compared to a five-year high of 23.71X and the industry average of 14.02X [9] - Year-to-date, AB InBev shares have increased by 22.4%, contrasting with a 4.6% decline in the industry [12]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Unilever reported underlying sales growth of 3.9% in Q3 2025, with underlying price growth at 2.4% and volume contributing 1.5% [5][6][18] - Turnover for Q3 was EUR 14.7 billion, down 3.5% year-on-year, primarily due to a negative currency impact of 6.1% [18][19] - The company expects an adverse currency impact on full-year turnover of around 6% and a 30 basis points impact on the underlying operating margin [19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Beauty and Wellbeing and Personal Care were major growth engines, with underlying sales growth of 5.1% and 4.1% respectively [22][10] - Power brands, which represent over 75% of turnover, grew by 4.4% in Q3, with volumes up 1.7% for the total group [6][7] - Home Care underlying sales grew 3.1%, driven by strong performances from CIF and Domestos [15] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - North America saw underlying sales growth of 5.5%, driven by Personal Care and Wellbeing brands [7][8] - Emerging markets grew by 4.1%, led by a return to growth in Indonesia and China, despite challenges in India and Latin America [3][9] - Latin America experienced a decline in underlying sales by 2.5%, with a 7.3% decline in volume [9][10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on premium segments and fast-growing channels, with a significant shift towards digital commerce [22][60] - Unilever is preparing for the demerger of its ice cream business, expected to be completed in 2025 [3][17] - The strategic priority is to strengthen the portfolio with more beauty, wellbeing, and personal care products, aiming for a higher market share in key categories [22][47] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in meeting full-year outlook despite some market softness, particularly in Latin America [21][22] - The company anticipates volume growth in Q4 to be at least in line with Q3, with an expected improvement in underlying operating margin for the full year [21][68] - Management highlighted the importance of learning from challenges in Latin America to avoid similar issues in other regions [32][75] Other Important Information - The company has made significant investments in premium innovations and brand execution, which are expected to drive future growth [22][23] - The acquisition of Dr. Squatch is expected to enhance Unilever's presence in the premium male grooming segment [14] Q&A Session Summary Question: Clarification on volume growth expectations into 2026 - Management confirmed expectations of 2% volume growth into 2026, reflecting confidence in long-term market performance [25][28] Question: Growth of Wellbeing and Prestige in North America - Management noted strong double-digit growth in Liquid I.V. and Nutrafol, with improvements in prestige beauty brands like Hourglass and K18 [28][29] Question: Challenges in Latin America - Management acknowledged self-inflicted issues in Brazil, particularly in laundry and deodorants, and outlined corrective actions being taken [30][31] Question: Pricing outlook in light of commodity costs - Management indicated that while commodity costs are relatively benign, wage inflation and currency devaluation are factors to consider for future pricing strategies [38][39] Question: Performance in China and Indonesia - Management reported positive growth in both markets, with significant improvements in Indonesia attributed to a reset in business fundamentals [71][72]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Unilever reported underlying sales growth of 3.9% in Q3 2025, with underlying price growth at 2.4% and volume contributing 1.5% [5][18] - Turnover for Q3 was €14.7 billion, down 3.5% year-on-year, primarily due to a negative currency impact of 6.1% [17][18] - The company expects an adverse currency impact on full-year turnover of around 6% and a 30 basis points impact on the underlying operating margin [18] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Beauty and Wellbeing and Personal Care were major growth engines, with underlying sales growth of 5.1% and 4.1% respectively [20][11] - Power brands, which represent over 75% of turnover, grew by 4.4% in Q3, with volumes up 1.7% [5][6] - Home Care underlying sales grew 3.1%, driven by strong performances from CIF and Domestos [12][14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - North America saw underlying sales growth of 5.5%, driven by strong performance in Personal Care and Wellbeing [6][19] - Emerging markets grew by 4.1%, led by a return to growth in Indonesia and China, despite challenges in India and Latin America [3][8] - Latin America experienced a decline in underlying sales by 2.5%, with a 7.3% decline in volume [8][9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on premium segments and fast-growing channels, with a significant shift towards digital commerce [2][20] - Unilever is preparing for the demerger of its ice cream business, expected to be completed in 2025 [3][16] - The strategic priority is to strengthen the portfolio with more beauty, wellbeing, and personal care products [20][21] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to outperform markets despite some softness in certain regions, particularly Latin America [19][21] - The outlook for the remainder of the year remains unchanged, with expectations for underlying sales growth within the 3% to 5% range [19][21] - Management highlighted the importance of premium innovations and digital commerce in driving future growth [20][21] Other Important Information - The company has seen significant improvements in its operational execution and brand performance, particularly in developed markets [2][6] - The acquisition of Dr. Squatch has expanded Unilever's presence in the premium male grooming segment [12][18] Q&A Session Summary Question: Clarification on volume growth into 2026 - Management confirmed a 2% volume growth expectation into 2026, highlighting strong performance in North America and challenges in Latin America [24][26] Question: Growth of wellbeing and prestige brands in North America - Management noted double-digit growth in Liquid I.V. and Nutrafol, with improvements in prestige beauty brands like Hourglass and K18 [27][28] Question: Actions taken in Latin America regarding pricing - Management acknowledged that pricing strategies in Brazil were too aggressive, leading to corrective actions and expected improvements in competitiveness [30][31] Question: Pricing outlook in light of commodity costs - Management indicated that while commodity costs are relatively benign, there are inflationary pressures in certain categories, and pricing adjustments will be made sensibly [33][36] Question: Performance in Mexico - Management reported soft market conditions in Mexico due to external factors but emphasized strong competitiveness in their portfolio [64][66] Question: Performance in Indonesia and China - Management expressed satisfaction with the growth in Indonesia and noted improvements in China due to strategic changes in the business model [70][72]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Unilever reported a 4% underlying sales growth in Q3 2025, with a volume growth acceleration to 1.7% excluding ice cream, despite subdued markets [2][4] - The underlying sales growth was 3.9% with underlying price growth at 2.4% and volume contributing 1.5% [7][8] - Turnover for Q3 was EUR 14.7 billion, down 3.5% year on year, with a negative currency impact of 6.1% [27][28] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Beauty and Well-being saw a 5.1% underlying sales growth, driven by strong volume growth [15] - Personal Care achieved a 4.1% underlying sales growth, with volume growth of 1% and price growth of 3.1% [17] - Home Care underlying sales grew 3.1%, with volume growth of 2.5% and price growth of 0.6% [20] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - North America grew underlying sales by 5.5%, with volume growth of 5.4%, driven by Personal Care and Well-being brands [9][10] - Europe experienced a 1.1% underlying sales growth, with a 0.6% decline in volume and 1.7% growth from price [10][11] - Emerging markets grew by 4.1%, led by a return to growth in Indonesia and China [4][12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on premium segments and fast-growing channels, with a significant shift towards digital commerce [2][32] - Unilever is preparing for the demerger of its ice cream business, expected to be completed in 2025 [5][26] - The strategic priority is to strengthen the portfolio with more beauty, well-being, and personal care products [32][34] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management remains confident in achieving full-year outlook despite some softness in certain markets, particularly Latin America [30][31] - The company expects underlying sales growth to remain within the 3% to 5% multiyear range, with volume growth in Q4 expected to be at least in line with Q3 [30][31] - Management highlighted the importance of premium innovations and brand investments to drive future growth [34][36] Other Important Information - The company is experiencing a significant shift in consumer behavior towards premium products and digital channels [32][34] - The macroeconomic environment in India is favorable, with recent tax reforms expected to boost consumption [12][14] - The company is committed to maintaining competitive pricing while managing inflationary pressures [57][58] Q&A Session Summary Question: Clarification on volume growth expectations into 2026 - Management confirmed a 2% volume growth expectation into 2026, reflecting confidence in long-term market performance [37][50] Question: Growth of well-being and prestige brands in North America - Management reported strong double-digit growth in well-being brands like Liquid IV and Nutrafol, with a recovery in prestige beauty brands [41][42] Question: Actions taken in Latin America due to macroeconomic pressures - Management acknowledged challenges in Brazil and highlighted corrective actions taken in pricing and product formats to regain competitiveness [45][49] Question: Pricing outlook in a benign commodity cost environment - Management indicated that while commodity costs are benign, pricing adjustments will be necessary to manage inflationary pressures [53][58] Question: Performance of hair care brands in the U.S. - Management noted that TRESemmé has returned to growth in Q3, while some brands were consciously delisted to focus on sustainable growth [64][66] Question: Update on Liquid IV's global rollout - Management confirmed that Liquid IV is performing well in the U.S. and has been rolled out to eight markets, with plans for further expansion [66][67] Question: Performance in Mexico and expectations for hard currency earnings - Management reported soft market conditions in Mexico but expressed confidence in achieving positive hard currency earnings for the year [92][96] Question: Performance in Indonesia and China - Management expressed satisfaction with the growth in Indonesia and noted improvements in China, with all business groups returning to growth [99][101]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Consolidated net sales for Q4 were $163 million and $620 million for the full fiscal year, reflecting approximately 5% growth year-over-year [5][26] - Gross margin improved to 55.1% for the full fiscal year, with Q4 gross margin at 54.7%, marking a 730 basis point improvement from Q4 FY2021 [6][7][47] - Operating income for Q4 was $28 million, a 17% increase over the prior period, while net income improved to $21.2 million, a 27% increase [37] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Maintenance products accounted for approximately 95% of total net sales, with Q4 sales reaching $156 million, a 6% year-over-year increase [6][5] - Home care and cleaning product sales declined by $600,000 in Q4, reflecting a strategic shift towards higher margin maintenance products [8][11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Sales in the Americas decreased by 2% to $77 million in Q4, primarily due to lower sales in Latin America [7][8] - IMEA sales grew by 7% to $63 million in Q4, with maintenance product sales increasing by 8% [9][10] - Asia-Pacific sales grew by 28% to $23 million in Q4, driven by a 30% increase in maintenance product sales [11][12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on a four-by-four strategic framework aimed at driving profitable growth and sustainable value creation [14][15] - Key strategic initiatives include geographic expansion, premiumization, growth in WD-40 Specialist products, and acceleration of digital commerce [16][19][20] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management highlighted resilience in navigating global challenges, including geopolitical tensions and economic policy shifts [4] - For FY2026, the company expects net sales growth between 5% and 9%, with gross margin projected between 55.5% and 56.5% [43][44] Other Important Information - The company completed the divestiture of its UK home care and cleaning product businesses, allowing a sharper focus on maintenance products [11][41] - The company maintains a disciplined capital allocation strategy, with a focus on returning capital to shareholders through dividends and buybacks [39][40] Q&A Session Summary Question: Clarification on initial guidance and home care sales - Management confirmed that initial guidance excluded home care sales, while reported results included them [50][51] Question: Mixed headwinds affecting gross margin - Management explained that the mixed headwinds were related to sales mix impacts, including product and market mix [56][60] Question: Potential gross margin headwinds and tailwinds for 2026 - Management indicated stability in cost inputs and successful cost-saving initiatives as potential tailwinds for gross margin in FY2026 [66][68] Question: Growth potential in distributor markets in Asia-Pacific - Management expressed confidence in long-term growth potential in distributor markets, particularly in regions like Indonesia [70]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported consolidated net sales of $163 million for Q4 2025 and $620 million for the full fiscal year, each reflecting approximately 5% growth compared to the prior year, marking a record quarter for the company [7][8] - Gross margin improved to 55.1% for the full fiscal year, surpassing the target of 55%, and was 54.7% for Q4, showing a 730 basis point improvement from 2021 [9][10] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Maintenance products accounted for approximately 95% of total net sales, with Q4 sales reaching $156 million and $591 million for the full year, each reflecting a 6% year-over-year increase [8][9] - Home Care and Cleaning product sales declined by $600,000 compared to last year, reflecting a strategic shift towards higher margin maintenance products [12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Sales in The Americas decreased by 2% to $77 million, primarily due to lower sales in Latin America and macroeconomic challenges [11] - EMEA sales grew by 7% to $63 million, with maintenance product sales increasing by 8% [13][14] - Asia Pacific sales grew by 28% to $23 million, driven by a 30% increase in maintenance product sales [15][16] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on a 4x4 strategic framework aimed at driving profitable growth and sustainable value creation, emphasizing geographic expansion, premiumization, growth in WD-40 Specialist products, and digital commerce [18][24] - The company estimates a global attainable market for WD-40 Multi Use Product of approximately $1.9 billion, having achieved only 25% of this benchmark [20] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management highlighted resilience in navigating global headwinds, including geopolitical tensions and economic policy shifts, while maintaining a focus on strategic progress [6][34] - For fiscal year 2026, the company expects net sales growth between 5% and 9%, with gross margin projected to be between 55% and 56.5% [55][56] Other Important Information - The company completed the divestiture of its UK Home Care and Cleaning product businesses, allowing for a sharper focus on higher growth maintenance products [14][53] - The company reported a return on invested capital of 26.9%, improving from 25.5% the previous year [52] Q&A Session Summary Question: Clarification on initial guidance and Home Care sales - Management confirmed that initial guidance excluded Home Care sales, but reported figures included them on a GAAP basis [63][64] Question: Insights on gross margin headwinds and tailwinds - Management indicated that premiumization is a tailwind, but sales mix and other miscellaneous impacts created headwinds [70][72] Question: Potential for premiumization in the Specialist product line - Management confirmed that premiumization strategies are being applied to both core and Specialist products, enhancing gross margins [74] Question: Thoughts on gross margin expectations for 2026 - Management noted stability in cost inputs and ongoing cost-saving initiatives that could benefit margins in FY 2026 [79][80] Question: Growth potential in distributor markets in Asia Pacific - Management emphasized a long runway for growth in distributor markets, particularly in regions like Indonesia [81][82]