Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue for the third quarter was $2.3 billion, reflecting a 10.5% increase on a reported basis and an 8% increase on a like-for-like basis, indicating strong underlying growth across segments [13][14] - Net income decreased due to a $10 million loss in discontinued operations and an $8 million non-cash fair value charge, partially offset by $10 million in insurance proceeds and higher earnings from equity method investments [13][14] - Adjusted EBITDA decreased by $1.3 million, primarily due to declines in the fresh fruit segment, while adjusted net income decreased by $3 million [13][14] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Fresh fruit revenue increased by 11%, driven by higher volumes and pricing of bananas, pineapples, and plantains, but faced higher sourcing costs impacting Adjusted EBITDA [15][16] - Diversified EMA segment reported an 11% revenue increase, with Adjusted EBITDA rising by $10 million or 34%, supported by strong performances in Scandinavia, Spain, and the Netherlands [16] - Diversified Americas segment saw an 8% revenue increase, with Adjusted EBITDA up by $4 million or 46%, driven by strong performance in the southern hemisphere export business and North American market [16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Demand for bananas remains robust in North American and European markets, contributing to tight supply and cost pressures [10] - The company is experiencing strong underlying growth in key markets, particularly in Spain and the Netherlands, with positive momentum continuing into the third quarter [10][11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company completed the sale of its non-core fresh vegetable division, enhancing capital allocation flexibility and focusing on core operations [5][6] - A $100 million share repurchase program was announced to enhance shareholder value, indicating a strategic approach to capital allocation [6][20] - The launch of the new Dole Collada Royale Pineapple represents a significant innovation, aimed at enhancing the tropical product portfolio and community support [7][8] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged macroeconomic volatility and industry-specific factors affecting results, particularly in the banana supply chain [20] - The company expects full-year Adjusted EBITDA to be at the upper end of the targeted range of $380-$390 million, reflecting confidence in business momentum despite challenges [20] - Management remains optimistic about the long-term growth potential and strategic positioning within the sector [20][21] Other Important Information - Cash capital expenditure for the quarter was $20.9 million, with a reduction in full-year routine capital expenditure expectations to approximately $85 million [17][18] - The company declared an $8.50 dividend for the third quarter, to be paid in January [19] Q&A Session Summary Question: Outlook for the fourth quarter and cost pressures - Management highlighted challenges in forecasting due to macroeconomic volatility and specific headwinds in sourcing costs, particularly for bananas, impacting guidance for Q4 [24][25] Question: Updates on tariff exclusions for agricultural products - No new updates were provided regarding tariff exclusions, but management expressed confidence in the long-term resolution of tariff issues affecting tropical produce [27][28] Question: Insights on capital allocation and buyback program - The buyback program is part of a broader capital allocation strategy, allowing for flexibility in pursuing growth opportunities while maintaining a progressive dividend policy [37][39] Question: Status of annual contracting negotiations - Management indicated that negotiations are ongoing, with awareness of supply conditions among customers, and expressed optimism about future discussions [51][53] Question: Performance in diversified fresh produce - Management noted strong market positions in Europe and North America, with ongoing investments enhancing operational efficiency and customer offerings [55][57]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue for Q3 2025 was $2.3 billion, representing a 10.5% increase on a reported basis and an 8% increase on a like-for-like basis, reflecting strong underlying growth across segments [13][19] - Net income decreased due to a $10 million loss in discontinued operations and an $8 million non-cash fair value charge, partially offset by $10 million in insurance proceeds and higher earnings in equity method investments [13][19] - Adjusted EBITDA decreased by $1.3 million, primarily due to declines in the fresh fruit segment, while adjusted net income decreased by $3 million [14][19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Fresh fruit revenue increased by 11%, driven by higher volumes and pricing of bananas, pineapples, and plantains, but faced higher sourcing costs leading to decreased adjusted EBITDA [15][16] - Diversified EMA segment reported an 11% revenue increase, with adjusted EBITDA rising by $10 million or 34%, driven by strong performance in Scandinavia, Spain, and the Netherlands [16][10] - Diversified Americas segment saw an 8% revenue increase, with adjusted EBITDA up by $4 million or 46%, attributed to strong performance in the southern hemisphere export business and North American market [16][11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Demand for bananas remained robust in North American and European markets, contributing to tight supply and cost pressures [10][9] - The company is experiencing strong underlying growth in key markets, particularly in Spain and the Netherlands, with positive momentum continuing into Q4 [10][11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company completed the sale of its non-core fresh vegetable division, enhancing capital allocation flexibility and allowing for a $100 million share repurchase program [5][6] - The launch of the new Dole Collada Royale Pineapple aims to provide a competitive edge and stimulate excitement in the tropical category, reinforcing the company's commitment to community support [8][9] - The company is focused on integrating operations and streamlining its business model to enhance efficiency and attractiveness to key customers [57][56] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving full-year adjusted EBITDA at the upper end of the targeted range of $380-$390 million despite macroeconomic volatility and industry-specific challenges [20][19] - The company is optimistic about the future, with ongoing negotiations for annual contracts and a strong consumer demand for affordable and healthy products [59][53] Other Important Information - Cash capital expenditure for the quarter was $20.9 million, with a reduction in full-year routine capital expenditure expectations to approximately $85 million [17][18] - The company declared an $8.50 dividend for Q3, to be paid on January 6th [19][18] Q&A Session Summary Question: Outlook for Q4 and 2026 - Management acknowledged the challenges in forecasting due to macroeconomic volatility and highlighted specific headwinds impacting procurement costs, particularly in the banana segment [25][26] Question: Tariffs and Exclusions - Management stated there is no new information regarding tariff exclusions for tropical produce, but expressed confidence in future positive changes [28][29] Question: Capital Allocation and Buyback Program - The $100 million buyback program is part of a broader capital allocation strategy, allowing for flexibility in pursuing growth opportunities while maintaining a progressive dividend policy [39][38] Question: Annual Contracting Negotiations - Management indicated that negotiations are ongoing and that customers are aware of supply challenges, expressing optimism about the outcomes [53][52] Question: Strength in Diversified Fresh Produce - Management highlighted the strong market position in Europe and North America, emphasizing the benefits of integrating operations and investments in distribution capabilities [56][57]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue for Q3 2025 was $2.3 billion, representing a 10.5% increase on a reported basis and an 8% increase on a like-for-like basis, reflecting strong underlying growth across segments [13] - Net income decreased due to a $10 million loss in discontinued operations and an $8 million non-cash fair value charge, partially offset by $10 million in insurance proceeds and higher earnings in equity method investments [13] - Adjusted EBITDA decreased by $1.3 million, primarily due to declines in fresh fruit, while adjusted net income decreased by $3 million [13][14] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Fresh fruit revenue increased by 11%, driven by higher volumes and pricing of bananas, pineapples, and plantains, but faced higher sourcing costs impacting adjusted EBITDA [14] - Diversified EMA segment reported an 11% revenue increase, with adjusted EBITDA rising by 34%, driven by strong performances in Scandinavia, Spain, and the Netherlands [15] - Diversified Americas segment saw an 8% revenue increase, with adjusted EBITDA up by 46%, attributed to strong performance in the southern hemisphere export business and North American market [15] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Demand for bananas remained robust in North America and Europe, contributing to tight supply and cost pressures [10] - The diversified EMA segment continued to show positive momentum, particularly in Spain and the Netherlands, benefiting from increased investments in distribution and logistics [10][11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company completed the sale of its non-core fresh vegetable division, enhancing capital allocation flexibility and allowing for a $100 million share repurchase program [5][6] - The launch of the new Dole Collada Royale Pineapple represents a strategic investment in product innovation, aimed at enhancing the tropical portfolio and community support [7] - The company is focused on integrating operations and streamlining its business model to enhance efficiency and customer attractiveness [11][52] Management Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving full-year adjusted EBITDA at the upper end of the targeted range of $380-$390 million, despite macroeconomic volatility and industry-specific challenges [19] - The company is optimistic about the long-term growth potential within the sector, emphasizing the importance of a diversified business model [19][62] Other Important Information - Cash capital expenditure for the quarter was $20.9 million, with a reduction in full-year routine capital expenditure expectations to approximately $85 million [16][17] - The company declared an $8.50 dividend for Q3, to be paid on January 6th [18] Q&A Session Summary Question: Outlook for Q4 and 2026 - Management acknowledged the challenges in forecasting due to macroeconomic volatility and highlighted specific headwinds in sourcing costs, particularly for bananas, impacting Q4 guidance [22][24] Question: Tariffs and Exclusions - Management stated there were no new updates on tariff exclusions for tropical produce but expressed confidence in the long-term positive changes for the industry [26][27] Question: Capital Allocation and Buyback Program - The buyback program was introduced to provide flexibility in capital allocation, with management emphasizing the importance of balancing dividends, buybacks, and investment opportunities [34][36] Question: Annual Contracting Negotiations - Management indicated that negotiations with customers are ongoing, with awareness of supply conditions impacting discussions [46][48] Question: Strength in Diversified Fresh Produce - Management highlighted strong consumer demand and the company's robust position in the diversified segment across various European markets [50][52]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Q4 revenue reached $5.9 billion, an increase of 7% and 3.9% organic growth, while full-year revenue was a record $21.8 billion, up 7.7% and 2.9% organic [4][5] - Adjusted diluted EPS for Q4 was $3.96, with a full-year record of $14.40, representing a 9.6% growth, including a two-point impact from tariffs [5][18] - Adjusted gross margin for Q4 was 54.2%, and adjusted operating margin was 25.8%, with a year-over-year increase of 140 and 80 basis points respectively [17][18] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - BD Interventional experienced high single-digit growth, driven by double-digit growth in PureWick and advanced tissue regeneration [7][15] - Pharma systems saw high single-digit growth in biologics, but lower demand for vaccine products impacted overall performance [16] - The biosciences and diagnostic solutions segments returned to positive growth, with a significant improvement in BD BACTEC utilization [16][17] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Research funding in the biosciences business remained subdued, but sales in the U.S. and EMEA improved sequentially [7][16] - The China market is expected to decline in the mid-teens due to government policies, impacting growth by about 100 basis points [23][50] - Vaccines, which account for approximately 20% of pharma systems revenue, are projected to decline by about 25%, impacting growth by approximately 50 basis points [23] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on creating a more agile, vertical organization to enhance commercial excellence and drive growth [10][76] - A two-year $200 million cost-out program has been initiated to address stranded corporate costs, with approximately half expected this year [12] - The company aims to deliver consistent mid-single digit revenue growth over the long term, supported by a strong innovation pipeline and BD Excellence initiatives [21][24] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the long-term mid-single digit growth profile despite transitory market dynamics [9][24] - The company is taking a prudent approach to guidance, incorporating updated views on the operating environment and specific portfolio areas [30][31] - The upcoming combination with Waters is seen as a significant strategic opportunity to unlock value for investors [19][28] Other Important Information - The company returned $2.2 billion to shareholders, including a $1 billion share buyback, and announced its 54th consecutive year of dividend increases [5][18] - The adjusted effective tax rate is expected to be between 14% and 15% [25] Q&A Session Summary Question: How does the guidance for new BD reflect conservatism? - Management emphasized a prudent approach to guidance, incorporating macro dynamics and specific portfolio areas, while maintaining confidence in growth [30][31] Question: What are the implications of the Q1 guide versus the full year? - The Q1 guide reflects full-year headwinds, with expectations for growth to step up in Q2 and Q3 [34][35] Question: Why not be more aggressive in returning capital to shareholders? - The focus remains on cash generation and disciplined capital allocation, with plans for significant share buybacks post-Waters transaction [39][40] Question: What is the expectation for China market performance? - The company anticipates a mid-teens decline in China, with a prudent approach to future guidance [50] Question: Can new BD grow EPS double digits? - Management is confident in the potential for double-digit EPS growth driven by strong cash generation and margin expansion [52][56]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue for Q3 2025 grew 11.1% to $125.4 million, marking a record quarter for the company [4] - Net income for the quarter decreased 11.8% to $13.1 million, reflecting a 10.5% net income margin [25] - EBITDA declined 8.1% to $19.9 million, with an EBITDA margin of 15.9% [25] - Year-to-date revenue grew 13.1%, while year-to-date net income increased 3.7% [25] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total window film product line grew 22.2% in the quarter, serving as a significant growth driver [23] - Total insulation revenue increased over 21%, including product and service for dealership services [23] - Corporate-owned stores and OEM business performed solidly despite some challenges in the OEM sector [23] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The U.S. region revenue grew 11.1% to a record $71.7 million, while the EU region saw a 28.8% increase to $16.5 million [4] - Canada revenue declined from the prior year, continuing a trend of a slow market [6] - Latin America remained flat due to weakness in Mexico, with a shift to a direct model in Brazil impacting performance [7] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to increase gross margin by approximately 10 percentage points to around 52%-54% by the end of 2028 [15] - Focus on investing in core business and manufacturing, with plans for potential service business acquisitions within the dealership services sector [17] - The company is prioritizing investments in existing markets rather than pursuing new lines of business [14] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted a mixed sentiment in the aftermarket and dealer channels, with challenges in the retail automotive business impacting consumer affordability [44][48] - The company remains optimistic about long-term growth despite current market challenges, emphasizing the importance of strategic investments [12][49] - Management expressed confidence in the integration of the recent acquisition in China and its potential to enhance direct distribution capabilities [21] Other Important Information - The acquisition of the Chinese distributor was completed for just under $53 million, with a new entity formed to manage the assets [26] - The company added approximately $22 million in inventory as part of the acquisition, which will impact cash flow positively as it is sold through [10][28] - SG&A expenses grew 20.8% in the quarter, reflecting increased costs associated with the acquisition and other operational expenses [24] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you elaborate on the out-of-line price increases and how they were mitigated? - Management indicated that price increases impacted gross margin by about 170 basis points, but they have robust supplier options to mitigate these effects [33] Question: What is the early dealer response to the rollout of colored films? - The rollout has been well received, with expectations of market growth and increased engagement from dealerships and OEMs [37] Question: What are the revenue assumptions underpinning the expected operating margin expansion by 2028? - Management expects low double-digit organic revenue growth to continue, supporting the margin expansion goal [42] Question: Can you provide an update on sentiment across the aftermarket and dealer channel? - Sentiment is mixed, with some challenges in the retail automotive sector, but opportunities for the company to provide value in tougher conditions [44][48] Question: What is the expected impact on gross margin in Q4 and the following quarters? - A drag on gross margin is expected in Q4 due to higher-priced inventory from China, but record gross margins are anticipated in Q1 and Q2 of 2026 [50][52]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a record high EBITDA of $152 million for Q3 2025, which is a 45% increase compared to the previous quarter and nearly double compared to Q3 2024 [6][20] - Net revenues reached $248 million in Q3 2025, bringing the last 12 months total to $772 million [20] - The net income for the quarter was reported at $6 million, impacted by non-cash losses related to outstanding gold derivatives [21][24] - Cash position improved to over $350 million, with net debt dropping to $64 million, resulting in a net debt to adjusted EBITDA ratio of 0.15 times [22] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Gold production increased to 74,000 ounces in Q3 2025, up from 60,000 ounces in Q3 2024 [6][12] - The company achieved record high production levels, with Borborema ramping up towards full production [5][11] - The all-in sustaining cash cost was reported at $1,396 per ounce, reflecting a gradual decrease despite higher gold prices [8][14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The average gold price for Q3 2025 was approximately $3,473 per ounce, with current prices hovering around $4,000 [7][20] - The company noted that gold prices have significantly impacted their financials, with a $75 million negative mark-to-market impact on net income due to outstanding gold collars [9][21] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to continue growing through greenfield projects and exploration while maintaining a focus on M&A opportunities [32][34] - The strategic goal is to reach close to 1 million ounces of production, with ongoing projects like Era Dorada and Matupa being prioritized [32][52] - The company is also focused on maintaining a strong dividend yield while managing low net debt levels [10][34] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's growth trajectory, citing stable production and controlled costs as key factors [5][11] - The management highlighted the importance of maintaining a balance between dividends and capital allocation for future projects [34][72] - There is optimism regarding the potential for increased production and cash flows in the coming quarters, especially with Borborema reaching full production [90] Other Important Information - The company declared dividends of $0.48 per share, translating to a yield of 77.4% for shareholders [10] - The company has maintained a strong focus on safety, achieving over 1,000 days without a lost time incident at Borborema [12] Q&A Session Summary Question: Update on capital allocation strategy and M&A opportunities - Management indicated a focus on growing through greenfield projects and exploring M&A opportunities, with a plan to monitor potential acquisitions [29][32] Question: Priorities regarding resources to reserves conversion - Management highlighted ongoing exploration programs and the potential for resource expansion in various projects, including Borborema [30][34] Question: Ideal level of dividends and future expectations - Management stated that dividends are based on cash flow evolution and capital allocation needs, with potential for increases in future quarters [38][41] Question: Update on MSG deal and turnaround plans - Management confirmed that the MSG deal is expected to close soon, with plans for a detailed turnaround strategy ready to be implemented immediately after closing [62][64] Question: Thoughts on gold hedges and future approach - Management indicated a shift away from zero-cost collars due to strong cash flows, focusing instead on using puts to protect equity and debt payback [59][60] Question: Impact of high gold prices on M&A environment - Management acknowledged that higher gold prices have led to increased competition and pricing for acquisitions, but they remain cautious and strategic in their approach [76][77]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Adjusted EBITDA increased by 5% year-over-year, reaching $83 million, with adjusted earnings per share up 10% to $2.08 [4][15][20] - Net sales for the third quarter were $494 million, a 7% increase from the prior year, driven by a 3% increase in organic volumes and a 5% contribution from acquisitions [15][20] - Gross margins were reported at 36.8%, slightly down from 37.3% in the same quarter last year, but improved sequentially from the second quarter of 2025 [15][16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Asia-Pacific segment showed strong performance with an 18% year-over-year increase in sales, driven by a 3% organic growth and contributions from the Dipsol acquisition [17][18] - The Americas segment saw a 1% increase in net sales year-over-year, but organic volumes were flat due to softer end market activity [18][19] - The AMEA segment experienced a 2% organic sales growth, with double-digit growth in advanced solutions [18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - End market activity declined by a low single-digit percentage compared to the prior year, with production levels across major markets down similarly [6][12] - The company outperformed its underlying end markets, achieving a 7% year-over-year increase in sales despite market softness [6][14] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on operational discipline and strategic execution, aiming for sustainable long-term growth through innovation and customer service [4][10] - There is a strong emphasis on capital allocation, with a reduction in net leverage to 2.4 times and a commitment to returning cash to shareholders [5][12] - The company is positioning itself to capitalize on growth opportunities in emerging markets, particularly in Asia, with new facilities and R&D capabilities [10][21] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the ability to deliver growth despite a challenging macroeconomic environment, with expectations for continued momentum driven by share gains and cost actions [12][14] - There is an anticipation of a return to normal seasonal trends in the fourth quarter, with ongoing uncertainty from tariffs and global trade impacting customer operating rates [12][22] - The outlook for 2026 is cautiously optimistic, with expectations for market stabilization and continued share gains [14][41] Other Important Information - The company generated $51 million in operating cash flow during the third quarter, with capital expenditures of approximately $13 million [20][21] - The integration of the Dipsol acquisition is progressing well, contributing positively to the company's performance [7][34] Q&A Session Summary Question: Details on Asia-Pacific business and margin performance - Management highlighted strong growth in Asia-Pacific, with ongoing new business wins and some margin pressures due to raw material costs [27][31] Question: Opportunities in advanced solutions and market share - The company is excited about growth in advanced solutions, particularly with the Dipsol acquisition, and is well-positioned to capture market share [32][34] Question: Q4 outlook and organic growth expectations - Management expressed confidence in Q4 performance, expecting revenue and earnings growth year-over-year, despite normal seasonal impacts [35][38] Question: Customer investment trends and market dynamics - The outlook for 2026 is based on stability in end markets, with expectations for continued share gains rather than significant market growth [41][42] Question: Pricing strategy and share gain sustainability - The company aims to maintain a long-term share gain range of 2% to 4%, with strategic pricing decisions to support this goal [51][52] Question: Exposure to EVs and related market dynamics - The company is growing its presence in the EV market and sees opportunities in both ICE and EV segments [63][64]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net revenue grew by 4% year-to-date, driven by a resilient net revenue per hectoliter growth of 7% [5][24] - EBITDA growth of 3% with a margin expansion of 50 basis points in the third quarter [5][24] - Normalized EPS increased by 8% year-over-year [5][24] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Premium and super premium brands grew mid-teens, gaining sellout market share reaching close to 50% [19] - The balanced choice portfolio grew by 36%, with non-alcohol beers expanding above 20% [7][19] - Cash COGS per hectoliter grew below net revenue per hectoliter, indicating effective cost management [6][11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Brazil Beer experienced a decline in volumes, primarily due to weather conditions and consumer purchasing power constraints [12][14] - The CSD industry in Brazil saw a deceleration from low single-digit growth in Q1 to mid-single-digit decline in Q3 [20] - In Argentina, beer volumes declined mid-single digits, underperforming the industry [21] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to lead and grow the beer category by placing customers and consumers at the center of decision-making [6][8] - Digitization and monetization of the ecosystem are key pillars, with a focus on expanding the addressable market and enhancing consumer insights [9][10] - A $1 billion share buyback program was approved to return cash to shareholders, reflecting confidence in long-term value creation [6][29] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management views the current industry headwinds as situational rather than structural, with confidence in long-term fundamentals [14][17] - The upcoming FIFA World Cup is seen as a significant opportunity to boost brand engagement and sales [31][46] - Management remains optimistic about the fourth quarter, expecting improved conditions compared to the previous year [45][46] Other Important Information - The effective tax rate decreased to 6.7% from 23.6% year-over-year, influenced by one-off effects [26] - Cash flow from operating activities totaled BRL 6.9 billion, despite softer volumes and higher cash taxes [29] Q&A Session Summary Question: Insights on COGS performance - Management attributed lower costs to a series of initiatives focused on production efficiency and cost control [35][38] Question: Beer industry environment in Brazil - Management noted that weather and consumer purchasing power were significant factors affecting volume performance, with expectations for improvement in Q4 [42][45] Question: Sustainability of SG&A reduction - Management explained that the reduction was partly due to phasing of marketing expenses and variable compensation adjustments, while also emphasizing ongoing investments in sales and marketing [57][60] Question: Pricing strategy and volume reaction - Management indicated that the price increase had minimal impact on industry performance, with a focus on maintaining prices in line with inflation [65][66] Question: Performance in Argentina and Bolivia - Management highlighted strong results in Bolivia offsetting challenges in Argentina, with confidence in long-term prospects for both markets [77][78]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Consolidated net sales reached $151.1 million, representing growth of 13.4% sequentially and 16% year over year [3][15] - Gross margin expanded by 230 basis points sequentially to 21.3% [3] - EPS grew to $1.38 per share, up 35% versus the prior year period [3][15] - Operating cash flow generated during the quarter exceeded $21 million [3] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Water Transmission Systems (WTS) segment delivered record net sales of $103.9 million, a 20.9% increase year over year [4][15] - Precast segment net sales reached $47.2 million, marking a 6.6% year-over-year increase [6][16] - WTS gross profit reached $22.1 million with a margin of 21.3%, up approximately 190 basis points year over year [8][17] - Precast gross profit totaled $10 million, down modestly from both the second quarter and the third quarter of 2024 [8][17] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - WTS backlog, including confirmed orders, stood at $301 million, reflecting an increase from $282 million a year ago [5] - Bidding activity remained robust, with approximately $200 million worth of work bidding in the fourth quarter [31] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on maintaining a safe and rewarding workplace, margin over volume, strategic acquisitions, cost efficiencies, and returning value to shareholders [11][12] - The capital allocation strategy prioritizes growth, with targeted organic investments and M&A opportunities being evaluated [10][21] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in continued momentum heading into 2026, with expectations for improved demand and accelerated project starts as interest rates ease [8][11] - The competitive landscape is stable, with backlogs across the industry showing an upward trend, which is expected to support better margins moving forward [39][41] Other Important Information - The company published its first third-party verified Environmental Product Declaration for Cement Mortar Lined Welded Steel Pipe, enhancing its sustainability credentials [5] - The company repurchased approximately 186,000 shares at an average price of $42.90, totaling $8 million during the third quarter [10][21] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you elaborate on the stronger than anticipated customer shipping requirements in the Water Transmission Systems segment? - Management indicated that strong production levels and significant shipment volumes were key drivers, with notable shipments from specific plants [28][30] Question: What are the drivers of the expected order acceleration in the fourth quarter? - Management highlighted a strong bidding schedule with approximately $200 million worth of work expected to be bid, which should enhance backlog levels [31][32] Question: How are utilization rates across facilities? - Utilization rates were reported to be in the high 60% to low 70% range, with some facilities operating on a second shift due to high demand [35][36] Question: What is the outlook for margins in the Water Transmission Systems segment? - Management noted that while the current market is competitive, there is potential for margins to exceed historical levels if demand continues to grow [39][41] Question: Can you discuss the pricing power in the precast business? - Management confirmed that pricing increases have been successfully implemented, driven by improvements in the non-residential side of the business [59] Question: How does the company expect to manage SG&A expenses moving forward? - Management indicated a focus on cost management and potential zero-based budgeting to control SG&A expenses while maintaining operational efficiency [50][54]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net sales decreased by 6.9% to $3.9 billion, driven by lower core organic sales and commodity deflation, partially offset by growth from acquisitions [15][16] - Gross profit was $1.2 billion, a decrease of 13.5% compared to the prior year, with a gross margin of 30.4%, down 240 basis points [17] - Adjusted EBITDA was $434 million, down approximately 31%, with an adjusted EBITDA margin of 11%, down 380 basis points from the prior year [18] - Adjusted EPS was $1.88, a decrease of 39% compared to the prior year [18] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Core organic sales decreased by 12% in single-family construction due to lower starts and activity, and a 20% decline in multifamily construction [16] - Repair and remodel sales decreased by 1% [16] - The company generated $11 million in productivity savings in Q3, primarily through targeted supply chain initiatives [6] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Single-family construction remains soft, with builders managing the pace of starts due to affordability concerns and consumer uncertainty [4] - Multifamily market activity is expected to remain muted through year-end, with a lag of 9 to 12 months from multifamily starts to first sales [5] - The company expects single-family starts to decline by 9% for the year and multifamily starts to decline in the mid-teens [20] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on operational excellence, disciplined capital deployment, and expanding value-added solutions [3][5] - In Q3, over $20 million was invested in value-added solutions, including opening a new millwork location and upgrading plants in seven states [5] - The company has made 38 acquisitions since the BMC merger in 2021, representing over $2 billion in annual sales, indicating a strong focus on inorganic growth [9] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that the current market is weak but expressed confidence in the company's ability to outperform competitors as the market recovers [3] - The company is closely monitoring the environment and remains agile to mitigate downside risks while investing strategically for the future [23] - The outlook for 2025 includes net sales guidance in the range of $15.1 to $15.4 billion and adjusted EBITDA of $1.625 to $1.675 billion [20] Other Important Information - The company has no long-term debt maturities until 2030, allowing for operational and financial discipline [19] - The current free cash flow yield is approximately 8%, with a free cash flow generation of $800 million to $1 billion expected for 2025 [20] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you elaborate on the scenarios for FY26 and the margin outlook? - Management indicated that the margin outlook for 2026 reflects a leveling out and stabilization in the market, with expectations of a mid to high 9% EBITDA margin [27][28] Question: What is driving the improvement in Q4 sales guidance? - Management noted a lapping effect from prior year comparisons and acknowledged that Q4 is typically a seasonally lower quarter [35][36] Question: How does multifamily recovery factor into the scenarios for next year? - Multifamily starts are expected to remain flat in 2026 due to the lag in transitioning starts to first sales [43][44] Question: What are the major factors affecting contribution margins moving forward? - Management highlighted that contribution margins depend on market conditions, productivity savings, and inflation on costs [78][79] Question: How does the company plan to maintain market share in a challenging environment? - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to take share, particularly in the value-added space, despite current market challenges [94][97]