Core Insights - The article emphasizes the importance of agricultural e-commerce supply chain management as a crucial link between producers, e-commerce platforms, and consumers, enhancing product circulation speed, ensuring quality, and reducing costs [1] Supply Chain Composition - The agricultural e-commerce supply chain consists of producers, suppliers, e-commerce platforms, logistics providers, and consumers, with each component being interdependent [2] - For instance, in the fruit industry, farmers grow fruits, suppliers handle acquisition and packaging, and logistics ensure timely delivery to consumers [2] Quality Control - Quality control is fundamental in the agricultural e-commerce supply chain, starting from strict standards in planting and breeding, to careful selection of fertilizers and pesticides [3] - During storage, maintaining appropriate temperature and humidity is critical to prevent spoilage, especially for perishable items like berries [5] - Continuous quality checks during transportation and sales are essential to ensure high-quality products reach consumers, enhancing satisfaction and loyalty [5] Logistics and Distribution - Efficient logistics and distribution directly impact consumer shopping experiences, with cold chain logistics being vital for perishable goods [6] - Optimizing delivery routes and utilizing data analytics can significantly reduce delivery times and costs, while pre-positioning goods in warehouses near consumers can enhance delivery speed [6] Information Management - Effective information management is crucial for transparency and information sharing across the supply chain, allowing producers to adjust strategies based on market demand [9] - E-commerce platforms can leverage detailed sales data for market predictions and marketing strategies, while logistics providers can optimize delivery processes based on real-time information [9] - Implementing blockchain technology can enhance data security and authenticity throughout the supply chain [9] Cost Control - Reducing costs is essential for enhancing profitability in the agricultural e-commerce supply chain, which includes establishing long-term relationships with reliable suppliers [10] - Utilizing advanced agricultural techniques can improve yield and reduce per-unit costs, while efficient inventory management can minimize excess and waste [12] Risk Management - The agricultural e-commerce supply chain faces various risks, including natural disasters, market demand fluctuations, and regulatory changes [13] - Establishing a risk warning system and collaborating with insurance companies can mitigate potential losses from unforeseen events [13]

Group 1 - The company has implemented the oxygen-enriched side-blowing process in its Indonesia Zhongqing project, marking the first industrial application of this technology for laterite nickel ore smelting, creating a new technical route for this process [2] - The Zhongqing project is expected to complete its main construction in Q2 of this year, with all six production lines operational, leading to rapid production debugging and capacity ramp-up, which will enhance industrial synergy and reduce overall production costs [2] - The company anticipates a 50% year-on-year increase in total lithium iron phosphate production, reaching 2.38 million tons in 2024, while maintaining its leading position in nickel and cobalt materials [2] Group 2 - The company emphasizes the environmental and cost advantages of the pyrometallurgical process, with the oxygen-enriched side-blowing process having lower carbon emissions compared to traditional RKEF technology, and the ability to utilize waste heat for energy generation [3] - The company has established and is constructing smelting capacity of 195,000 metal tons in Indonesia, with an expected actual capacity of 155,000 tons by the end of 2024, and an annual nickel production of nearly 100,000 tons [3] - The company plans to further expand its lithium resources in South America to enhance its global raw material supply chain [3]

Core Viewpoint - Solventum reported strong financial performance in Q1 2025, with a revenue of $2.1 billion, a year-over-year growth of 2.7%, and an adjusted EPS of $1.34, exceeding market expectations, leading to a 5% increase in stock price [1][5]. Financial Performance and Future Outlook - In Q1 2025, Solventum's revenue breakdown by business segments showed strong performance: - MedSurg generated $1.281 billion (approximately 61% of total sales), with a 3.4% year-over-year increase driven by demand for V.A.C. negative pressure wound therapy systems and Tegaderm transparent dressings [3]. - Dental Solutions achieved $336 million (approximately 16% of total sales), with a 0.4% year-over-year increase, supported by the partnership with SprintRay for 3D-printed dental crowns [4]. - Health Information Systems reported $273 million (approximately 13% of total sales), with a 3.6% year-over-year increase, benefiting from hospital digital transformation and new AI-driven coding tools [4]. - Purification and Filtration generated $210 million (approximately 10% of total sales), with plans to divest this segment to optimize business structure [4]. - The company has raised its full-year organic sales growth forecast to 1.5% to 2.5% and expects adjusted EPS to reach $5.45 to $5.65 [6]. Strategic Progress and Transformation - Since its spin-off, Solventum has made significant strategic progress: - The company took on $8.3 billion in debt during its spin-off from 3M and secured $600 million in cash and equivalents to support independent operations [7]. - Solventum acquired MediWound, an Israeli wound care company, enhancing its market share in the MedSurg sector [8]. - The company announced the sale of its Purification and Filtration business for $4.1 billion to Thermo Fisher Scientific, aiming to optimize its business portfolio and focus on high-growth areas [8]. - Solventum plans to use proceeds from the sale for strategic acquisitions, targeting small medical technology companies with annual revenues between $50 million and $200 million [9]. Challenges and Risks - Solventum faces several challenges: - Tariffs and macroeconomic factors are expected to impact earnings by $80 million to $100 million in 2025, with foreign exchange fluctuations negatively affecting Q1 sales growth by 1.5 percentage points [10]. - The company carries a significant debt burden of $8.3 billion, which remains a financial challenge despite debt management efforts [11]. - Intense competition in the global medical market, particularly in the MedSurg and Health Information Systems sectors, necessitates ongoing innovation and enhancement of product and service competitiveness [12]. About Solventum - Solventum originated from 3M's healthcare business and became an independent medical technology company after its spin-off in 2024, inheriting over 20,000 employees and 6,500 patents, with a customer base in over 90 countries [13]. - The company's business composition includes: - MedSurg: 61% of total sales, focusing on wound care, infection prevention, and surgical supplies [13]. - Dental Solutions: 16%, offering dental restoration materials and digital dental technology [13]. - Health Information Systems: 13%, providing information management software and data analytics tools for hospitals [13]. - Purification and Filtration: 10%, specializing in water and air purification technologies [13].

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Gold revenue for Q1 2025 was $56 million, up 46% compared to the same quarter last year, driven by strong production and a higher average realized gold price of just under $2,900 per ounce, which was up 42% [16][29] - Gross profit reached a record $26.9 million, representing a 95% increase year-over-year [18][29] - Net cash from operating activities more than doubled to $13.3 million compared to $4.9 million in the comparative quarter [28][29] - The net cash position improved to negative $4.6 million at the end of the quarter, compared to negative $14.2 million in the same period last year [29] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Production increased to 19,000 ounces of gold, up from 17,500 ounces in the comparable quarter, reflecting a strong operational performance [5][16] - Production costs rose to $22.6 million, up 19% year-over-year, primarily due to higher labor, power, and consumables costs [18][29] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company realized an average gold price of just under $2,900 per ounce, which significantly contributed to revenue growth [16][18] - Higher royalty payments were noted, increasing by 47% due to the rise in gold prices [16] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on disciplined growth, maintaining production levels, and exploring new opportunities to extend the life of the Blanket mine [87][88] - There is an emphasis on optimizing project economics and minimizing equity dilution for the Billbows project, with ongoing feasibility studies to identify cost-saving opportunities [56][61] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the operational performance and the potential for continued growth, citing a strong cash position following the sale of the solar plant [31] - The management team highlighted the importance of cost control initiatives and the positive impact of recent strategic decisions on production and safety [44][51] Other Important Information - The company has made significant changes to its board and management team to strengthen its leadership [6][7] - Safety initiatives have been prioritized, resulting in a reduction of incidents and a commitment to a proactive safety culture [51][53] Q&A Session Summary Question: Long-term aspects of mine development - The management was asked about the longer-term aspects of mine development, including declines and other work being done [92][94]

Summary of Conference Call Notes Company Overview - Company: Anjii Food - Industry: Frozen Food Industry Key Financial Metrics - In 2024, Anjii Food achieved revenue of 15.1 billion, a year-on-year increase of 7.17% [1] - Net profit attributable to shareholders was 1.485 billion, up 0.46% [1] - Net cash flow from operating activities reached 2.104 billion, a growth of 7.85% [1] - For Q1 2025, revenue was 3.6 billion, a decline of approximately 4% year-on-year, with net profit of 395 million, down 10% [1] - Despite short-term fluctuations, the company demonstrated resilience through cost structure optimization and product strategy adjustments [1] Business Segment Performance Prepared Foods - Revenue for the prepared foods segment in 2024 was 7.839 billion, with a growth of 15.4 billion, representing a growth rate of 18%-19% [2] - The "Fresh Lock" series became a core growth driver, generating over 1.5 billion in revenue, increasing its share from 9% in 2022 to 10.5% in 2024 [2] - The upcoming launch of "Fresh Lock 6.0" in H2 2025 is expected to strengthen the company's competitive advantage in the consumer market [2] Frozen Dishes - The frozen dishes segment generated revenue of 4.35 billion in 2024, a year-on-year increase of 4.7% [3] - Key products like "Small Crispy Meat" achieved revenue of 300 million, up 50% [3] - Shrimp products maintained stable growth, while some items faced price fluctuations, with certain products seeing a price drop of over 6% despite increased sales [3] Frozen Noodles and Rice - Revenue for the frozen noodles and rice segment was nearly 2.5 billion, a decline of 3.14% year-on-year due to intensified industry competition and price drops [4] - The company plans to focus on major product strategies to enhance brand influence and customer loyalty [4] - Overall gross margin for 2024 was 23.3%, a slight increase of 0.09 percentage points [4] Strategic Adjustments and Market Positioning - In 2025, the company will adjust its product strategy: - For B-end, focus on cost-effective products and introduce high-quality mid-priced items [5] - For C-end, emphasize product upgrades and series of popular items [5] - Revenue from distributor channels reached 12.3 billion, a growth of 9% [5] - Direct sales channels saw a decline of 4%, while e-commerce channels also experienced a slight drop of 2% due to reduced sales of certain products and the closure of unprofitable e-commerce operations [5] Future Outlook - The company aims to strengthen its market share through a focus on high-end, youthful product lines and customized products for major supermarkets [6] - The competitive pressure in the industry peaked in Q4 2024, but is expected to ease in Q1 2025 as the consumer market gradually recovers [6] - Raw material costs are projected to rise, but the company is implementing measures to control cost increases effectively [7] - The dividend payout ratio increased from 30% to 70%, with a cash dividend ratio of 65%, reflecting strong profitability and financial stability [7] - The company submitted an A1 application to the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, with plans to complete the listing process by the end of June 2025 [7]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Q1 2025 revenue was $154 million, a 7% sequential decline and 12% lower than Q1 2024 [12] - Consolidated adjusted EBITDA was $13.8 million with a 9% margin, down from 13.7% in Q4 2024 but up from 7% in Q1 2024 [12] - Adjusted EBITDA margin increased by 208 basis points year-over-year despite a 125% decline in revenue and rig count [6] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Southwest segment revenue was $65.2 million, with adjusted EBITDA at its highest level since Q3 2023, reflecting a shift towards higher-margin product service lines [15][16] - Rockies segment revenue was $47.8 million, with adjusted EBITDA higher by 524% year-over-year despite a 13% decline in rig count [14] - Northeast Mid Con segment revenue was $41 million, with a sequential decrease of 18% primarily due to operational issues [16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Southwest represented 42% of Q1 revenue, up from 37% in Q4, while the Northeast Mid Con was 27%, down from 30% [9] - Drilling, completion, and production intervention services contributed approximately 20%, 51%, and 29% of Q1 revenue, respectively [9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on maintaining financial flexibility and navigating market volatility through operational discipline and improved balance sheet flexibility [21] - There is an emphasis on strategic M&A opportunities that align with growth and deleveraging goals, particularly in fragmented markets [24][52] - The company is optimistic about the US natural gas market and its implications for service providers, anticipating increased activity in gas-focused basins [23] Management Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that Q1 is typically the toughest quarter, but they delivered improved adjusted EBITDA and margin despite a lower rig count [5] - The macro environment remains volatile, influenced by OPEC+ production increases and US tariff policies, but there are signs of recovery in certain areas [6][21] - The company expects modest sequential revenue growth in Q2, driven by a recovery in the Rockies and the Northeast Mid Con [21][22] Other Important Information - The company ended Q1 with $58.1 million in liquidity, including $14.6 million in cash and $43.5 million available on its revolving credit facility [17] - CapEx for Q1 was $15 million gross, with expectations to reduce full-year CapEx estimates to $40 million to $50 million [19] - The company has implemented cost structure changes that are expected to continue benefiting operations throughout 2025 [13] Q&A Session Summary Question: About the Q2 guidance and recovery in the Rockies - Management acknowledged the uncertainty in providing a full-year guide and indicated that Q2 revenue is expected to increase low to mid single digits [28] Question: Impact of lower oil prices on operations - Management noted that smaller operators are more exposed to commodity price fluctuations and may delay projects, impacting revenue [32] Question: Flexibility of the PIK option and capital allocation - Management explained that the PIK option provides flexibility to manage cash flow, especially during uncertain market conditions [36][38] Question: Positioning for potential gas market improvements - Management confirmed that they are monitoring gas market trends and are well-positioned to relocate assets if necessary [44] Question: M&A opportunities and geographic strategy - Management stated that they are being opportunistic regarding M&A, focusing on deleveraging transactions rather than specific geographic areas [52]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Q1 2025 revenue was $154 million, a 7% sequential decline and 12% lower than Q1 2024 [12] - Consolidated adjusted EBITDA was $13.8 million with a 9% margin, down from 13.7% in Q4 2024 but up from 7% in Q1 2024 [12] - Adjusted EBITDA margin increased by 208 basis points year-over-year despite a 125% decline in revenue and rig count [6] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Southwest segment revenue was $65.2 million, with adjusted EBITDA at its highest level since Q3 2023, reflecting a 6% sequential increase [14][16] - Rockies segment revenue was $47.8 million, with adjusted EBITDA up 524% year-over-year despite a 13% decline in rig count [14] - Northeast Mid Con segment revenue was $41 million, with a sequential decrease of 18% primarily due to operational issues [16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Southwest represented 42% of Q1 revenue, up from 37% in Q4, while the Northeast Mid Con was 27%, down from 30% [9] - Drilling, completion, and production services contributed approximately 20%, 51%, and 29% of Q1 revenue, respectively [9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on cost controls and has implemented changes to its cost structure, expecting lower SG&A levels to continue [13] - KLX is developing a second-generation version of its Oracle SRT tool, which is gaining market acceptance [7] - The company is exploring strategic M&A opportunities to align with growth and deleveraging goals, despite market challenges [24] Management Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted the macro environment remains volatile due to OPEC+ production increases and tariff policies impacting commodity prices [6] - For Q2 2025, the company anticipates modest revenue growth and margin expansion, particularly in the Southwest segment [21] - The company remains optimistic about the US natural gas market and its implications for service providers [22] Other Important Information - The company ended Q1 with $58.1 million in liquidity, including $14.6 million in cash and $43.5 million available on its revolving credit facility [17] - CapEx for Q1 was $15 million gross, with expectations to reduce full-year CapEx estimates to $40 million to $50 million [19] Q&A Session Summary Question: About the Q2 guidance and recovery in the Rockies - Management indicated that while the guidance may seem conservative, it is based on current forecasts and the unpredictable nature of the market [28] Question: Impact of lower oil prices on rig count - Management noted that smaller operators are more sensitive to commodity prices and may delay projects, impacting overall activity [32] Question: Flexibility of the PIK option and capital allocation - Management explained that the PIK option provides flexibility to manage cash flow, especially during uncertain market conditions [36] Question: Positioning for gas plays and asset relocation - Management confirmed that they are well-positioned for gas plays and can relocate assets if necessary [42] Question: M&A opportunities and geographic strategy - Management stated that they are being opportunistic regarding M&A and are not geographically focused, but rather looking for deleveraging opportunities [52]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported first quarter net revenue of $35.7 million, down from $47.9 million in the prior year, reflecting the impact of 19 fewer retail locations [14][15] - Gross profit margin improved to 27.2%, up from 25.8% year over year, indicating a stronger product mix and improved procurement execution [10][16] - The net loss for the first quarter was $9.4 million, or negative $0.16 per share, compared to a net loss of $8.8 million, or negative $0.14 per share, in the same period last year [18] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net sales in the cultivation and gardening segment were $30.9 million, down from $43.1 million year over year [15] - Proprietary brand sales accounted for 32% of cultivation and gardening sales, up from 22.6% in the prior year, reflecting increased brand penetration [9][16] - The storage solutions segment remained flat year over year at $4.8 million in revenue, facing some margin pressure [11][16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company experienced softness in durables and consumable demand due to regulatory and tariff concerns, particularly noted in March [6][12] - The company anticipates revenue in excess of $40 million for the second quarter, while withdrawing full-year guidance due to macroeconomic uncertainties [13][19] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is transitioning from a legacy retail model to a more agile fulfillment-centric model, repurposing former stores into regional fulfillment centers [7][10] - The launch of the GrowGen Pro portal aims to migrate commercial transactions from brick-and-mortar stores to a digital platform, enhancing operational efficiencies [9][10] - The focus is on transforming GrowGen into a high-margin product-centric commercial business powered by a digital platform and a simplified physical footprint [14] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted ongoing macroeconomic challenges and tariff-related uncertainties impacting consumer behavior and demand [12][19] - The company remains committed to achieving profitability and is focused on expanding margins, controlling costs, and exploring growth opportunities [20][21] Other Important Information - The company ended the quarter with $52.6 million in total liquidity and no debt, providing flexibility for operations and potential acquisitions [11][19] - The company is actively managing costs and pricing strategies to protect margins in the storage solutions segment while diversifying product offerings [11][12] Q&A Session Summary Question: Insights on tariffs and proprietary products - Less than 10% of proprietary brands come from China, with products sourced from India and Mexico [25][26] Question: Potential for store closures - Store closures will likely be spread out, with half coinciding with lease expirations [30][31] Question: Incremental distribution opportunities for proprietary brands - The company is exploring distribution outside the U.S. and working with large stores for distribution [36][38] Question: Positioning proprietary brands amid cannabis challenges - The company has a strong commercial team conducting extensive trials to encourage product adoption [40][41] Question: Consumer pressures and macro environment impact - There is significant weakness in the cannabis industry, particularly affecting durable goods, while consumables remain strong [50][51] Question: Capital position and acquisitions - The company maintains a strong cash position and is actively looking for acquisitions that are accretive to shareholders [57][58]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a 16.5% increase in adjusted EBITDA despite headwinds, with the first quarter typically being the lightest volume quarter of the year [16][30] - Average visits per clinic per day reached a record high of 31.4, with a strong finish in March at 33.2 visits per clinic per day [6][31] - The net rate for the first quarter was $105.66, an increase of $2.29 per visit compared to the previous year, despite a 2.9% Medicare rate cut [32][34] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Physical therapy revenues increased by 16.4% year-over-year to $156.4 million, driven by higher net rates and acquisitions [35] - The injury prevention (IIP) segment saw a revenue increase of 28.8% year-over-year, with gross profit up 13.1% [38] - The physical therapy margin was reported at 16.3%, down from 17.9% in the previous year, but above 20% in March [37] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Workers' compensation as a percentage of revenue increased from 10% in the first quarter of last year to 10.9% this year, the highest since 2020 [34] - The company lost approximately 26,000 visits due to weather impacts in the first quarter, with significant losses in January and February [31][48] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on increasing reimbursement rates through contract negotiations and expanding its workers' compensation business [33] - There is an emphasis on acquisitions, with the Metro acquisition contributing significantly to revenue growth [35][21] - The company is exploring home care capabilities, which are seen as a growth opportunity due to patient demand and flexibility for clinicians [110][116] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about demand and the potential for recovery following weather-related disruptions [48] - The company is preparing for potential economic downturns, citing past experiences and a strong demand outlook [52][54] - Management is hopeful about updating guidance in the coming months as performance improves [27] Other Important Information - The company has a favorable debt position with $129.4 million in term loan debt at a rate of 4.7% and a $175 million revolving credit facility with only $28 million drawn [40] - The corporate office costs were 8.8% of net revenue, down from 9% in the previous year [38] Q&A Session Summary Question: What was the guiding volume inside the negative mature clinic revenue? - Management indicated that weather had a significant impact on mature clinic revenue, particularly in established markets like Nashville and Texas [47][50] Question: How has the business performed during past economic downturns? - Management noted that during the 2008-2009 recession, the company continued to grow and acquire facilities despite some negative impacts on same-store volume [52][54] Question: What are the drivers of IIP outperformance? - The IIP segment's growth is attributed to effective injury prevention strategies that reduce reported injuries and improve employee satisfaction [62][66] Question: What is the outlook for staffing during a potential recession? - Management stated that staffing availability could improve during a recession, but it is difficult to predict [56][57] Question: Can you provide more details on the commercial rate increases? - Commercial rates increased by over 3%, with workers' compensation rates also showing strong growth [88] Question: What are the expectations for same-store volume growth? - Management expects to see growth in same-store volume for the year, particularly after overcoming weather-related challenges [92] Question: What initiatives are in place to trim excess costs? - The company is actively reviewing its top partnerships to identify areas for improvement and cost control [101]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total revenue for Q3 2025 was $339.9 million, a modest increase of 0.7% compared to $337.7 million in the previous year [16] - Adjusted EBITDA decreased to $117.3 million from $122.8 million, with same store sales declining by 5.6% [16][19] - Same store sales acted as a $19 million headwind to the bottom line, despite improvements in payroll and cost reductions [16][17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Retail business remained steady, league operations experienced low single-digit growth, while the events business faced high single-digit decline [16] - Comparable food sales rose by 1%, with total food sales up 8% year over year, indicating a positive consumer response to food initiatives [13][60] - The league business is described as sticky, high frequency, and loyal, continuing a multi-year growth trajectory [8][12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - California, accounting for 21% of total sales, contributed nearly 50% of the same store sales decline, primarily due to softness in the Los Angeles market and declines in corporate events [17][18] - Early sales of summer season passes were up over 200% year over year, indicating a shift in consumer preference towards local entertainment [10][48] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on adjusting its cost structure to increase operating leverage while investing in growth through acquisitions and new builds [12][18] - A recent acquisition of Shipwreck Island for $30 million is expected to enhance the company's portfolio and long-term potential [18] - The company is committed to a disciplined approach to capital investments, prioritizing high-return remodels and rebranding initiatives [56][60] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about a rebound in corporate events and overall business performance as macroeconomic conditions improve [9][24] - The sentiment among management is positive, with expectations for improved performance starting in the summer as they cycle past tougher comparisons [18][49] - Management highlighted the importance of proactive sales strategies and returning sales personnel to the office to enhance corporate engagement [45][75] Other Important Information - The company has maintained a strong liquidity position with $391 million in total liquidity and no borrowings on its revolver [19] - Capital expenditures year to date are down $40 million compared to last year, reflecting a focus on cost efficiency [19][90] Q&A Session Summary Question: Could you elaborate on walk-in versus corporate trends? - Management noted that corporate events have been significantly impacted by macroeconomic conditions, while other business segments have shown surprising strength [22][26] Question: What caused the negative same store sales? - The corporate business deteriorated in February and March, primarily due to external factors such as the California fires and broader economic uncertainty [39][40] Question: Why was guidance removed? - Management indicated that it was challenging to provide meaningful guidance due to the short-cycle nature of the business and external uncertainties [44][49] Question: How is the rebranding initiative performing? - The rebranding has led to increased foot traffic and consumer excitement, with plans to continue rebranding efforts [56][58] Question: What are the expectations for SG&A costs? - SG&A costs are expected to decrease, with a focus on maintaining flat or reduced costs while growing revenue [96][97]