Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total revenue for Q1 2026 was $6.4 million, essentially flat compared to the prior period [23] - Product sales decreased to $4.7 million from $5.3 million year-over-year, while franchise and royalty fees increased to $1.7 million from $1.1 million [23] - Total product and retail gross profit improved to $300,000 from a negative $300,000, driven by pricing adjustments and operational efficiencies [24] - Costs and expenses decreased to $6.5 million from $8 million year-over-year, primarily due to lower general and administrative costs [24] - Net loss was $300,000 or negative $0.04 per share, compared to a net loss of $1.7 million or negative $0.26 per share [24] - EBITDA for the quarter was $2 million, compared to a negative $1.4 million last year [24] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company waived all freight charges for franchisees to drive volume and improve product freshness [8] - A flat monthly fee program for freight delivery was implemented to encourage more frequent store orders [8] - The adoption of the new POS system accelerated, enhancing visibility into operations and decision-making [11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company opened a new store in Charleston, South Carolina, featuring a refreshed brand identity [13] - Construction is expected to begin shortly on a new location in Downtown Chicago, targeting an opening ahead of the holiday season [13] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on stabilizing the business and transitioning from a rebuilding mode to an execution mode [5][6] - A new consumer packaging and e-commerce platform are set to launch, aimed at enhancing brand presentation and online conversions [18] - The company is actively building a development pipeline for new units while seeking capable franchise operators [14] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the progress made and the discipline applied across the business [7] - The first quarter demonstrated foundational investments and operational improvements beginning to produce desired results, with expectations for continued growth throughout the year [22] - The company believes it is in a better position to execute its strategy than in many years, aiming for sustainable growth and long-term value creation [22] Other Important Information - The company hired a new VP of operations with significant experience in manufacturing and logistics [12] - The refreshed website will include a section for new franchisees, making it more intuitive for potential operators [21] Q&A Session Summary Question: What early indicators are being watched to evaluate the impact of the flat freight charge? - The company is monitoring order frequency, which has improved since waiving the fee, encouraging franchisees to order more frequently [28] Question: What processes or decisions are expected to change with the ERP data stabilization? - The ERP data provides insights into manufacturing efficiencies and profitability, which will inform decision-making across departments [29] Question: How does the online strategy differ with the e-commerce relaunch? - The new website features a contemporary user interface and is positioned as a core brand experience, with results expected to be reported in the future [30][31] Question: What operational levers are expected to drive continued EBITDA expansion? - Continued improvements in pricing, SG&A discipline, and factory efficiencies are anticipated to drive EBITDA growth [32] Question: What are the capital needs for expansion? - Currently, the company is not planning to raise capital but is in ongoing discussions with the board regarding future needs [39][40] Question: How is the growth strategy for new franchisees being developed? - The company is focusing on existing franchisees for expansion and employing business consultants to improve store performance [46][47]