Core Insights - Latham Group, Inc. reported first quarter 2025 net sales of $111.4 million, reflecting a slight increase of 0.7% compared to the same period last year, driven by strong performance in fiberglass pools and autocovers [4][7][29] - The company experienced a net loss of $6.0 million, an improvement from a net loss of $7.9 million in the prior year, indicating a narrowing net loss margin from 7.1% to 5.4% [9][10] - Latham maintains its full-year guidance for 2025, projecting an 8% growth in sales and a 19% increase in adjusted EBITDA at the midpoints, supported by strategic initiatives and market share gains [12][13] Financial Performance - Net sales for the first quarter of 2025 were $111.4 million, up from $110.6 million in the prior year's first quarter [4][29] - Gross profit increased to $32.9 million, a rise of 7.5% from $30.6 million year-over-year, with a gross margin expansion of 190 basis points to 29.5% [4][10] - Adjusted EBITDA for the first quarter was $11.1 million, down 9.4% from $12.3 million in the previous year, with an adjusted EBITDA margin of 10.0% [10][38] Product Line Performance - In-ground swimming pools generated $57.7 million in sales, down from $59.8 million in the prior year [6][29] - Covers sales increased to $31.6 million from $26.9 million, while liners sales decreased to $22.1 million from $23.9 million [6][29] Strategic Initiatives - The company is executing a Sand State expansion strategy aimed at increasing market share in Florida, Texas, Arizona, and California, which are key regions for new pool installations [3][7] - Latham's "GOOTSA" advertising campaign is active in targeted states to enhance consumer awareness and drive sales [3][7] Cost Management - Selling, general, and administrative expenses rose to $30.6 million, an increase of 16.6% from the previous year, primarily due to investments in sales and marketing [8][10] - Lean manufacturing and value engineering initiatives contributed to a 190-basis point increase in gross margin, helping to offset rising SG&A costs [4][10] Balance Sheet and Cash Flow - As of the end of the first quarter, Latham had cash of $24.0 million and total debt of $306.9 million, resulting in a net debt leverage ratio of 3.6 [11][42] - Net cash used in operating activities was $46.9 million, consistent with seasonal working capital requirements [11][35]