This story was originally published on Supply Chain Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily Supply Chain Dive newsletter. Dive Brief: WD-40 Company is evaluating the locations of its distribution centers as it seeks to cut costs by reducing the delivery miles for its products, company executives said. The initiative will involve structural changes to its distribution centers, but it won't have a major impact on capital expenses because the centers are outsourced to 3PLs, ...

Core Insights - Stolt-Nielsen Limited reported solid financial results for Q4 2025, demonstrating resilience in a challenging market environment, with a net profit of $59.6 million and revenue of $680.6 million, compared to a net profit of $91.4 million and revenue of $709.4 million in Q4 2024 [1][2] - The company's full-year net profit for 2025 was $350.2 million on revenue of $2,769.0 million, down from a net profit of $394.8 million and revenue of $2,890.6 million in 2024 [1] Financial Performance - EBITDA for Q4 2025 was $186.0 million, down from $212.7 million in Q4 2024, while the full-year EBITDA was $775.5 million, at the upper end of the company's guidance [2][5] - Earnings per share in Q4 2025 decreased to $1.12 from $1.71 in Q4 2024 [5] - Stolt Tankers reported an operating profit of $54.8 million, down from $83.4 million, with average TCE revenue dropping 19% to $24,518 per day from $30,185 [4][5] Strategic Initiatives - The company is focused on enhancing its position in liquid logistics, optimizing supply chains, and creating long-term value through strategic investments [3] - In November 2025, Stolt-Nielsen acquired 100% of Suttons, adding 11,000 tanks to its fleet and expanding service offerings [3] - Discussions are ongoing regarding the potential sale of a portion of equity in Avenir LNG to support its growth in small-scale LNG bunkering [3] Market Conditions - The logistics marketplace remains complex due to unpredictable macro-economic and geopolitical developments, along with trade tariff instability [4] - Stolt Tankers experienced increased volumes from spot demand, but weaker freight rates led to a decline in TCE earnings [4] - Stolthaven Terminals maintained steady utilization despite a sluggish chemical market, although higher costs resulted in a profit decline [4]

This story was originally published on Supply Chain Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily Supply Chain Dive newsletter. Jason Bell was promoted to EVP, chief supply chain officer at Nordstrom, effective immediately, according to a Jan. 23 press release. In his new role, Bell will also oversee transportation alongside his existing responsibilities, per the release. A headshot of a man with brown hair Bell joined Nordstrom in 2021 as SVP of supply chain operations, leading ...

DuPont (NYSE: DD) is a global innovation leader, providing advanced solutions that help transform industries and improve everyday life across our key markets of healthcare, water, construction, and transportation. More information about the company, its businesses, and solutions can be found at www.dupont.com. Investors can access information included on the Investor Relations section of the website at investors.dupont.com. SM® Prior to joining Grainger in 2008, Mr. Macpherson was a Partner and Managing Dir ...

Core Insights - The company is reducing its product development timeline to better align with rapidly changing consumer demand [1] Company Strategy - The maker of Sally Hansen nail polishes and Marc Jacobs perfumes is adapting its strategy to respond to market trends more effectively [1]

The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited and the Securities and Futures Commission take no responsibility for the contents of this Application Proof, make no representation as to its accuracy or completeness and expressly disclaim any liability whatsoever for any loss howsoever arising from or in reliance upon the whole or any part of the contents of this Application Proof. Application Proof of Consumer Solutions Worldwide (CSW), (Cayman) Limited 環球園藝有限公司* (Incorporated in the Cayman Islands with limited lia ...

Core Insights - Cardinal Health, Inc. is a significant player in the healthcare services and products sector, with a market capitalization of $47.04 billion, focusing on the distribution of pharmaceuticals and medical supplies [1] Stock Performance - Cardinal Health's shares reached a 52-week high of $214.93 on November 26 but have since declined by 7.9% from that peak [2] - The stock has experienced a 31.2% increase over the past three months, outperforming the Nasdaq Composite index, which gained 7.8% during the same period [2] - Over the past 52 weeks, Cardinal Health's stock has gained 62.9%, and 28.9% over the past six months, while the Nasdaq Composite gained 19.5% and 20.3%, respectively [3] Financial Performance - For the first quarter of fiscal 2026, Cardinal Health reported revenues of $64.01 billion, a 22% year-over-year increase, surpassing Wall Street's expectation of $59.05 billion [4] - The company's non-GAAP EPS rose by 36% year-over-year to $2.55, exceeding the analysts' estimate of $2.21 [4] - Cardinal Health raised its fiscal 2026 non-GAAP EPS outlook from a range of $9.30-$9.50 to $9.65-$9.85, indicating projected growth of 17%-20% [5] Strategic Developments - The stock rose 15.4% intraday on October 30 following the strong quarterly results and updated outlook [5] - Cardinal Health completed the acquisition of urology MSO Solaris Health, adding over 750 providers to its multi-specialty MSO platform [5] Competitive Positioning - Compared to Cencora, Inc., which gained 40.2% over the past 52 weeks and 18.8% over the past six months, Cardinal Health has demonstrated superior performance [6]

Summary of Shake Shack Conference Call Company Overview - Shake Shack is in a growth mode, focusing on strategic investments in marketing and restaurant openings to drive revenue and traffic [4][5][6] - The company plans to open 45 to 50 new restaurants this year, the highest number in a single year, with a target of 60 openings next year [5][6] Financial Performance - Shake Shack reported $173 million in EBITDA last year and is guiding for $213 million this year, reflecting a $40 million increase [11] - The company has maintained a disciplined pricing strategy, taking significantly less price increase compared to competitors [11][12] Operational Improvements - Shake Shack has improved operational efficiency by redeploying labor to high-volume periods, resulting in a reduction of service times by over a minute [12] - Team member retention has improved, with average turnover increasing from 90 days to 180 days [12] Marketing Strategy - The company is investing 2.5% to 2.7% of revenue in marketing, which is lower than many competitors, but is focused on targeted, digital marketing strategies in top markets [8][20] - App traffic has increased by 50%, and app downloads have doubled, which will support the upcoming loyalty platform [26] Menu Innovation - Shake Shack emphasizes high-quality ingredients and is committed to menu innovation while maintaining operational efficiency [16][17] - The company is exploring new culinary experiences and has introduced limited-time offers (LTOs) to drive excitement [18] Value Proposition - Shake Shack's pricing strategy remains below industry averages, with single-digit discounts compared to over 40% in the QSR industry [24] - The company aims to attract a broader customer base while maintaining its premium positioning [25] Regional Performance - Strong performance is noted in regions like Florida, Texas, and the Midwest, with new marketing strategies driving growth [30][31] - Shake Shack is evolving its development strategy to focus on high-growth areas outside of New York [31] Supply Chain and Equipment Innovations - The company is working on supply chain improvements and has initiated competitive sourcing to enhance quality and reduce risks [34] - New kitchen equipment is being tested to improve efficiency and service quality [36] International Expansion - Shake Shack is selective in its international partnerships, focusing on quality and customization to fit local markets [41][42] - The introduction of smaller format units is aimed at improving scalability in restrictive real estate markets [43] Conclusion - Shake Shack is strategically positioned for growth with a focus on operational efficiency, targeted marketing, and menu innovation while maintaining a strong value proposition in a competitive landscape [4][5][11][12][20][24][25]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q1 2026, the company reported net sales of $7.8 billion, roughly flat compared to the previous year, with adjusted EBITDA of $167 million, up nearly 25% year over year [14][16][20] - The adjusted EPS for Q1 was $0.56, compared to $0.16 in the prior year, driven by higher profitability and lower net interest and depreciation expenses [17][20] - Free cash flow improved by over $100 million compared to last year's first quarter, resulting in a use of $54 million [17][18] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The natural product segment grew by 11%, driven by strong unit growth and new business projects, while the conventional product segment saw a decline of about 12% due to the transition out of the Allentown distribution center [14][15] - Gross margin rate increased to 13.4%, up 20 basis points year over year, reflecting improved execution and supplier programs [16][20] - Operating expense rate improved to 12.7% of net sales from 12.9% last year, benefiting from efficiency initiatives [16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company operates in a $90 billion target market, focusing on improving service levels and long-term profitability [5][12] - Retail sales in the conventional segment fell by 5%, partly due to store closures, while same-store sales declined by 3% [15][20] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on enhancing its merchandising capabilities and private brands portfolio to help retailers differentiate themselves in a competitive environment [8][12] - Continued investment in supply chain technologies and lean management practices is aimed at improving operational efficiency and customer service [10][19] - The company aims to reduce net leverage to below 2.5 times by the end of the fiscal year, with a long-term goal of achieving sustainable value creation [22][90] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving the full-year outlook, emphasizing the importance of customer service and operational excellence [6][22] - The competitive environment remains challenging, particularly for traditional grocers, but there are opportunities for innovation and differentiation [36][41] - The company anticipates continued growth in the natural segment, projecting it to be a mid-single digit grower in the long term [41][55] Other Important Information - The company has ramped operations at a new automated natural product distribution center in Sarasota, Florida, to address strong demand [12] - The management team is preparing to share more insights on capabilities and strategies at the upcoming Investor Day [12][68] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you talk about drop size or new account distribution versus existing growth? - Management noted that growth has been positive, largely driven by larger customers giving more business, which enhances efficiency [25] Question: How sustainable is the gross margin strength in the quarter? - Management indicated that gross margin improvements were driven by strong natural growth and supplier programs, but some procurement gains are viewed as temporary [33] Question: What is the competitive environment at retail for both conventional and natural? - Management highlighted that the retail environment is very competitive, with many retailers innovating to differentiate themselves [36] Question: How has the Allentown transition impacted conventional sales? - The transition was a significant factor in the decline of conventional sales, but management remains optimistic about future performance [40] Question: What is the company's capital allocation strategy going forward? - The focus remains on deleveraging and reducing debt, with plans to reach a net leverage ratio of 2.5 times or lower [90]

Core Insights - Small and mid-sized business owners in the US are cautiously optimistic about the upcoming year, with 74% expecting revenue increases and around 60% planning to expand their businesses [1][2] - Business owners are focusing on growth and innovation, with priorities including expanding customer bases (47%), products and services (39%), and marketing tactics (35%) over the next five years [2] - Labor shortages are impacting 61% of business owners, leading to increased working hours and wage raises to attract talent [3] Business Outlook - 74% of business owners expect revenue increases, and 60% plan to expand their businesses [1] - Confidence is linked to stabilization of tariff policy (53%), cooling inflation (52%), lower interest rates (52%), and stronger supply chains (39%) [1] - 91% of business owners plan to adopt more digital tools, including AI, to modernize and improve efficiency [2] Labor Market Challenges - 61% of business owners are affected by labor shortages, with 50% working more hours and 40% raising wages [3] - Only 1% plan to lay off employees in the next 12 months, while 43% plan to hire more [3] Technology Adoption - 77% of business owners have integrated AI into their operations in the past five years, primarily for marketing (50%), content production (38%), customer service (37%), and inventory management (28%) [3] - Small business payments to tech services, including AI, increased nearly 8% year-over-year as of October [3] Supply Chain and Inflation Management - 75% of business owners report being impacted by supply chain issues, with 52% raising prices and 32% facing sourcing difficulties [3] - 88% are affected by inflation, leading to price increases (64%) and reevaluation of cash flow and spending (39%) [3] Digital Transformation - Business owners are focusing on accepting more digital payments (52%), improving employee workflows (47%), implementing digital-first marketing strategies (45%), and increasing cybersecurity measures (30%) [4] Succession Planning - Among those with a succession plan, 32% plan to transition to a family member, while 38% plan to sell the business [5] - 60% have a succession plan, but 40% have not prepared for the future of their business [2]