Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q4 2025, total revenue grew by 8% to $2.67 billion, with an organic growth rate of 9% [6][9] - For the full year, fiscal 2025 revenue reached a record $10.34 billion, an increase of 7.7%, with organic growth at 8% [9] - Gross margin for Q4 increased from 49.2% to 49.7%, while operating income as a percentage of revenue rose by 9.1% [8] - Diluted EPS for Q4 increased by 9% to $1.09, and for the full year, diluted EPS grew by 16.1% to $4.40 [9] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Organic growth rates for business segments in Q4 were 7.2% for Uniform Rental and Facility Services, 18.5% for First Aid and Safety Services, and 12.1% for Fire Protection Services [7][14] - Uniform Direct sales grew by 9% in Q4, reflecting strong demand across all products and services [14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported strong retention rates and consistent pricing levels, indicating stability in customer relationships despite market uncertainties [31][32] - The customer base is diversified, with 70% in services and 30% in goods production, showing resilience across sectors [43] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company emphasizes balanced capital allocation, investing in technology, infrastructure, and acquisitions to support growth [10][24] - Strategic investments include technology enhancements and management training to improve operational efficiency and customer service [8][10] - The company aims to maintain a growth trajectory with revenue expectations for fiscal 2026 in the range of $11 billion to $11.15 billion, reflecting a growth rate of 6.4% to 7.8% [10][11] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in navigating uncertainties in the marketplace, citing a strong value proposition that resonates across economic cycles [31][32] - The outlook for fiscal 2026 includes expectations for diluted EPS growth of 7% to 10.2%, indicating continued operational strength [11][42] Other Important Information - The company was recognized in the Fortune 500 for the ninth consecutive year, highlighting its status among successful companies [12] - Significant capital was returned to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases, with a commitment to increasing dividends for 41 consecutive years [24] Q&A Session Summary Question: Overall selling environment and client sentiment - Management noted no significant changes in customer behavior, with strong new business and retention rates despite market uncertainties [30][31] Question: Factors affecting operating margin expansion - Management indicated that while Q4 was strong, comparisons to the previous year were tougher, but they remain confident in their margin targets [34][36] Question: Cadence of 2026 outlook - The revenue guidance for fiscal 2026 reflects a growth rate similar to fiscal 2025, with expectations for continued margin expansion [40][42] Question: Cost trajectory and tariffs impact - Management highlighted their ability to navigate cost challenges through efficient operations and strategic sourcing, with no significant impact expected from tariffs [73][75] Question: M&A prospects and pipeline - The company remains active in pursuing M&A opportunities, focusing on acquiring quality businesses that enhance their service offerings [82][84] Question: End market exposure and performance - Management reported no significant weaknesses in their broad customer base, with services sectors performing well [115][116] Question: First Aid business performance - The First Aid segment is experiencing strong growth, particularly in recurring revenue products, with expectations for continued success [102][109]