Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company achieved 4% net sales growth, with 3% organic daily sales growth and 11% growth in adjusted EBITDA compared to the prior year period [4][12]. - Adjusted EBITDA for the quarter increased 11% to $127.5 million, and adjusted EBITDA margin improved 60 basis points to 10.1% due to higher net sales, improved gross margin, and increased SG&A leverage [16][29]. - Net income attributable to the company increased 33% to $59 million due to net sales growth, improved gross margin, and SG&A leverage [28]. Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Organic sales volume grew 2% during the third quarter, with agronomic products and landscaping products both achieving 3% organic daily sales growth [13][26]. - Pricing for landscaping products was up 1%, while agronomic products were flat, reflecting a recovery from previous deflation [66]. - Acquisition sales contributed approximately $13 million or 1% to net sales growth [27]. Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company estimates it holds about an 18% share of the $25 billion wholesale landscape products distribution market, indicating significant growth potential [6]. - The residential new construction end market was down during the quarter, particularly in Texas, Florida, Arizona, and California, while the repair and upgrade market showed signs of stabilization [13][55]. - Seven out of nine regions achieved positive organic daily sales growth in the third quarter, despite weaker sales in the Sun Belt states [26]. Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to leverage its scale and resources to deliver superior value to customers and suppliers, focusing on organic growth and acquisitions to fill product lines [7][9]. - The acquisition strategy remains a key focus, with four companies added in 2025, contributing approximately $40 million in trailing 12-month sales [21][38]. - Plans to consolidate or close 15 to 20 branches in 2026 are in place to optimize operations and reduce costs [21][58]. Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the ability to drive continued performance and growth despite softer end markets heading into 2026 [5][55]. - The outlook for the fourth quarter includes expectations for low single-digit organic daily sales growth, driven by positive pricing and commercial initiatives [57]. - Management noted that while the repair and upgrade market has been down, it appears to be stabilizing, providing a foundation for future growth [56]. Other Important Information - The effective tax rate for the third quarter was 20.4%, a decrease from 26.2% in the prior year period, primarily due to increased excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation [28]. - The company has repurchased approximately 656,000 shares for a total of approximately $78 million at an average price of approximately $118 per share year to date [29][31]. - The company plans to maintain financial strength and flexibility to execute its growth strategy in all market environments [31]. Q&A Session Summary Question: Why is the charge not excluded from adjusted EBITDA guidance? - The company maintains strict guidelines regarding adjusted EBITDA, which primarily reflect acquisitions and adjustments within the first year [65]. Question: What is the pricing outlook for agronomic versus landscape products? - Pricing for landscape products was up 1%, while agronomic products were flat. The expectation for the fourth quarter is a price increase between 1% and 2% [66]. Question: Are there signs of stabilization in the repair and upgrade market? - Management noted that discussions with customers indicate stabilization in the repair and upgrade market, with a more optimistic outlook than three months ago [72]. Question: How does the company plan to manage SG&A in the fourth quarter? - The company expects to achieve good SG&A leverage in the fourth quarter, with continued focus on productivity improvements [74]. Question: What is the company's approach to acquisitions moving forward? - The company expects to see a higher number of acquisitions in 2026 compared to 2025, focusing on well-run companies rather than turnaround opportunities [92].