Company Overview - Planet Fitness is a leading franchisor and operator of fitness centers in the United States, with approximately 20.6 million members and 2,741 clubs as of March 31, 2025 [11] - The company operates in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Canada, Panama, Mexico, Australia, and Spain, with about 90% of franchise stores owned and operated by franchisee groups [11] Investment Ratings - Planet Fitness holds a Zacks Rank of 3 (Hold) and has a VGM Score of B, indicating a solid position in the market [12] - The company is considered a top pick for growth investors, with a Growth Style Score of A, forecasting year-over-year earnings growth of 12.4% for the current fiscal year [12] Earnings Estimates - In the last 60 days, two analysts revised their earnings estimates upwards, with the Zacks Consensus Estimate increasing by $0.01 to $2.91 per share [12] - Planet Fitness has an average earnings surprise of 6.9%, suggesting a positive trend in earnings performance [12] Conclusion - With a strong Zacks Rank and top-tier Growth and VGM Style Scores, Planet Fitness is recommended for investors' consideration [13]

Core Insights - The redevelopment plans for the Annapolis Mall, including the conversion of JCPenney and the opening of a charter school, have faced significant delays and challenges [1][7][13]. Group 1: JCPenney Developments - JCPenney has delayed its closure and is now negotiating a long-term lease at the Annapolis Mall, extending its operation through at least August 31 [3][10]. - The original plan to close JCPenney by May 16 has been halted, and the retailer is optimistic about reaching an agreement with the landlord [11][12]. - The mall's redevelopment proposal included converting JCPenney into multiple storefronts and a gym, but this plan is now on hold [8][9]. Group 2: Charter School Cancellation - The New Village Academy charter school has canceled its planned opening due to increased construction costs and federal funding cuts, which had already been delayed from an initial launch in August 2024 [7][13]. - A $5.8 million construction loan was required for the school, but construction costs rose by $900,000 due to tariffs and economic instability [14][15]. Group 3: Mall Ownership and Future Plans - The Annapolis Mall is under new ownership by Dallas-based Centennial, which is focusing on experiential businesses and luxury retailers [6]. - There are considerations for building housing outside the mall as part of its redevelopment strategy [6].

Core Insights - The S&P 500 index has generated a total return of 13% over the past 12 months, with significant volatility due to trade policy and economic uncertainty [1] - Planet Fitness has outperformed the broader index, with a 61% increase in stock price over the past year [1] Financial Performance - Planet Fitness reported Q1 2025 revenue of $277 million, an increase of 11.5% driven by the opening of 19 new locations, totaling 2,741 [3] - Same-store sales (SSS) grew by 6.1%, indicating increased productivity from existing locations [4] - Management expects SSS to rise between 5% and 6% in 2025, with revenue projected to increase by 10% [4] Membership Growth - Planet Fitness added 900,000 new members in Q1, bringing the total membership to 20.6 million [6] - The company believes it can expand to 5,000 fitness clubs in the U.S., significantly increasing revenue and earnings [7] Business Model - The franchise model allows Planet Fitness to operate with only 10% of locations owned directly, reducing capital requirements and fueling growth [8] - The company has maintained an average operating margin of 26% over the past decade, indicating strong profitability [9] Valuation and Investment Considerations - Shares of Planet Fitness have performed well, but the forward price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio is 35.6, which may be considered expensive [10][11] - Consensus forecasts suggest earnings per share will rise at an annualized pace of about 15% from 2024 to 2027 [11] - While the stock may not be a straightforward buy due to valuation concerns, it could be a viable option for exposure to the fitness industry [12]

Core Insights - Planet Fitness has launched its annual High School Summer Pass™ program, allowing teens aged 14-19 to work out for free at over 2,700 locations in the U.S. and Canada from June 1 to August 31 [1][2] - The program, now in its fifth year, aims to promote youth health and wellness, having invested over $300 million in waived membership dues since its inception in 2019 [2][5] - A Canadian study conducted by Planet Fitness highlights the mental health concerns among teens, with 68% of parents worried about their children's mental health [9] Company Overview - Founded in 1992, Planet Fitness is one of the largest fitness center franchisors and operators globally, with approximately 20.6 million members and 2,741 clubs as of March 31, 2025 [5] - The company's mission is to enhance lives by providing a high-quality fitness experience in a welcoming environment known as the Judgement Free Zone® [5] Program Details - The High School Summer Pass program has seen participation from 10 million teens since its launch, providing free access to fitness facilities and resources [7] - Participants will have access to a range of fitness equipment, free training from certified trainers, and a dedicated app featuring on-demand exercises [9] Mental Health Insights - The study indicates that 93% of teens who prioritize exercise report feeling happy, and 88% feel confident, with parents observing positive changes in their teens' mood and stress levels [9] - Despite recognizing the benefits of exercise, only 45% of teens turn to physical activity during challenging times, highlighting a knowledge-action gap [9]

Core Insights - Planet Fitness, Inc. (PLNT) reported lower-than-expected first-quarter 2025 results, with adjusted earnings and revenues missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate, although both metrics increased year-over-year [1][4] - The company is facing macroeconomic volatility, increased costs, and expenses, particularly in SG&A and club operations [1][2] Financial Performance - Adjusted earnings per share (EPS) for Q1 2025 were 59 cents, missing the consensus estimate of 62 cents by 4.8%, while the prior-year quarter reported adjusted EPS of 53 cents [4] - Quarterly revenues were $276.7 million, lagging the consensus mark of $282 million by 1.7%, but rose 11.5% year-over-year due to new club openings and membership growth [4] - Adjusted EBITDA was $117 million, up 10% from $106.3 million reported in the year-ago quarter [5] Segment Performance - Franchise segment revenues rose 10.7% year-over-year to $115.2 million, with adjusted EBITDA of $84.9 million, up from $76.1 million [6] - Corporate-owned clubs generated revenues of $133.7 million, up 9.2% year-over-year, with adjusted EBITDA totaling $45.8 million, an increase from $42.4 million [7] - Equipment segment revenues totaled $27.8 million, up 28.7% year-over-year, with adjusted EBITDA rising to $7.4 million from $4.8 million [8] Cash and Debt Position - As of March 31, 2025, Planet Fitness had cash and cash equivalents of $343.9 million, up from $293.2 million at the end of 2024, while long-term debt decreased slightly to $2.14 billion [9] 2025 Outlook - For 2025, the company expects approximately 130-140 new equipment placements and 160-170 new club openings, with same-club sales growth projected in the 5-6% range [10] - Revenues are anticipated to increase approximately 10% from 2024 levels, with adjusted EBITDA and net income expected to grow around 10% and 8-9%, respectively [11] - Capital expenditures are now projected to increase approximately 20%, a revision from the previously expected 25% increase [12]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company ended Q1 2025 with 20.6 million members, an increase of approximately 900,000 from the end of 2024 [5] - System-wide same club sales grew by 6.1%, with franchisee same club sales increasing by 6.2% and corporate same club sales increasing by 5.1% [20] - Revenue for Q1 was $276.7 million, an increase of 11.5% from $248 million in the previous year [21] - Adjusted EBITDA was $117 million, reflecting a 10.1% year-over-year increase, with an adjusted EBITDA margin of 42.3% [25] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Franchise segment revenue increased by 10.7%, driven by higher royalty revenue from increased same club sales and new clubs [21] - Corporate-owned club segment revenue increased by 9.2%, primarily due to increased same club sales and sales from new clubs [22] - Equipment segment revenue increased by 28.7%, driven by higher revenue from replacement equipment sales [23] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Black Card penetration reached approximately 65%, a nearly 300 basis point increase from the previous year [9][21] - Members visited clubs an average of 6.7 times per month, the highest utilization in five years [10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on four strategic imperatives: redefining brand promise, enhancing member experience, refining product offerings, and accelerating new club growth [7] - The company plans to open between 160 and 170 new clubs in 2025, with a focus on unit economics and franchisee sentiment [27] - The company is exploring new markets for international expansion, with positive performance noted in Spain and Australia [108] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's resilience and ability to navigate macroeconomic volatility, citing historical performance during economic downturns [6][41] - The company reiterated its growth targets for 2025, expecting continued strong performance despite potential tariff impacts [16][27] Other Important Information - The company is rolling out a "click to cancel" feature to enhance member experience, with over 50% of clubs already enabled [19] - The company is testing various promotional strategies, including a successful Black Card first month free promotion [9][33] Q&A Session Summary Question: Regarding Black Card penetration and pricing impact - Management noted that the increase in Black Card penetration is a result of a narrowed price gap and successful promotions [33][34] Question: Impact of macroeconomic conditions on business - Management indicated that the business remains resilient, with strong member growth and revenue despite macroeconomic challenges [41][45] Question: Future pricing strategies for Black Card - Management stated that pricing decisions for the Black Card will be evaluated after the Classic Card price increase anniversary [48][112] Question: Churn rates and click to cancel impact - Management confirmed that churn rates are in line with expectations and that the click to cancel feature may improve join conversions [82][56] Question: International development and franchisee sentiment - Management highlighted strong performance in international markets and positive franchisee sentiment regarding new openings [108][64]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company ended Q1 2025 with 20.6 million members, an increase of approximately 900,000 from the end of 2024 [4] - Revenue for Q1 was $276.7 million, compared to $248 million in the same quarter last year, marking an increase of 11.5% [22] - Adjusted EBITDA was $117 million, an increase of 10.1% year over year, with an adjusted EBITDA margin of 42.3% [25] - Net income was $42.1 million, with adjusted net income at $50 million, reflecting strong financial performance [25] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - System-wide same club sales grew by 6.1% in Q1, with franchisee same club sales increasing by 6.2% and corporate same club sales increasing by 5.1% [21] - Black Card penetration reached approximately 65%, a nearly 300 basis point increase from the previous year [9][22] - Equipment segment revenue increased by 28.7%, driven by higher revenue from replacement equipment sales [23] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company opened 19 new clubs globally, bringing the total club count to 2,741 [4] - Member activity increased, with members visiting clubs an average of 6.7 times per month, the highest utilization in five years [10] - Gen Z continues to lead membership growth, being the fastest-growing demographic since 2021 [10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on four strategic imperatives: redefining brand promise, enhancing member experience, refining product offerings, and accelerating new club growth [6] - The brand is positioned as a leader in the high-value, low-price fitness category, aiming to provide a judgment-free environment [5] - The company plans to continue testing various promotional strategies to drive membership growth [8] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's resilience and ability to navigate macroeconomic challenges, citing historical performance during economic downturns [5][42] - The company reiterated its growth targets for 2025, expecting to open between 160 and 170 new clubs [28] - Management acknowledged potential tariff impacts but indicated that current levels do not materially affect 2025 targets [15][27] Other Important Information - The company is implementing a click-to-cancel feature to enhance member experience, with over 50% of US clubs already enabled [20] - The company is exploring new equipment offerings and amenities for Black Card members, including red light therapy and spray tanning [88] Q&A Session Summary Question: Regarding Black Card penetration and pricing strategy - Management noted that the increase in Black Card penetration is a result of a successful promotion and the narrowing price gap between Classic and Black Card memberships [34][35] Question: Impact of macroeconomic conditions on business - Management indicated that the business remains resilient, with strong member growth and revenue despite macroeconomic volatility [42][45] Question: Future of franchise ownership and international development - Management highlighted positive franchisee sentiment and strong performance in international markets, particularly in Spain and Australia [106][108] Question: Churn rates and pricing impacts - Churn rates are in line with expectations, and management is monitoring the effects of price increases on member retention [82] Question: Development pipeline and big box availability - Management discussed varying availability of big box spaces across geographies and expressed confidence in the development pipeline despite macro concerns [94][96]

Core Viewpoint - Planet Fitness is expected to report quarterly earnings of $0.62 per share, a 17% increase year-over-year, with revenues projected at $280.69 million, reflecting a 13.2% year-over-year growth [1]. Earnings Estimates - The consensus EPS estimate has been revised down by 0.4% in the last 30 days, indicating a reassessment by analysts [2]. - Revisions to earnings estimates are significant indicators for predicting investor actions regarding the stock [3]. Revenue Projections - Analysts estimate 'Revenue- National advertising fund' to be $21.55 million, an 8.9% increase year-over-year [5]. - 'Revenue- Franchise' is expected to reach $93.64 million, indicating an 11.2% year-over-year change [5]. - The 'Revenue- Equipment segment' is projected at $26.26 million, reflecting a 21.5% increase from the previous year [5]. - 'Revenue- Corporate-owned stores segment' is anticipated to be $135.97 million, showing an 11.1% year-over-year change [6]. Same-store Sales and Store Metrics - The average prediction for 'Same-store sales' is 5.4%, down from 6.2% reported in the same quarter last year [6]. - The consensus for 'Total Stores - End of period' is 2,747, up from 2,599 a year ago [6]. - 'EOP Franchise Stores' are projected to reach 2,467, compared to 2,341 reported in the same quarter last year [7]. - 'EOP Corporate Stores' is expected to be 281, up from 258 year-over-year [7]. - 'Corporate-owned same store sales' is estimated at 5.0%, down from 6.2% in the previous year [7]. New Store Openings - Analysts forecast 'Total Stores - New stores opened' to be 23, down from 25 reported in the same quarter last year [8]. - 'Franchisee-owned same store sales' is expected to be 5.4%, compared to 6.3% in the same quarter last year [8]. - 'Total Stores - Beginning of period' is projected to be 2,722, up from 2,575 year-over-year [8]. Stock Performance - Planet Fitness shares have increased by 6.6% in the past month, compared to an 11.5% increase in the Zacks S&P 500 composite [9].

Following my coverage on Planet Fitness ( PLNT ) in Dec '24, which I upgraded to a buy rating due to my expectation that revenue growth should accelerate to mid-teens, this post is to provide an update on I take a fundamentals-based approach to value investing.I disagree with the common misconception held by many investors that low multiple stocks must be cheap. I look for companies that offer the best long-term durability at the most affordable prices. Consequently, I have a propensity to be drawn to compa ...

Core Insights - ADP announced the winners of the 2025 HCM Distinction Awards, recognizing five companies for their excellence in human capital management and workplace innovation [1][2] Group 1: Award Winners - RSG Group (Gold's Gym) won the Agility at Work Award for enhancing efficiencies and streamlining HR functions across 50 locations with approximately 1,700 employees [4] - BrightPath Early Learning and Child Care received the Culture at Work Award for fostering a dynamic workplace culture with over 7,000 employees across 236 centers in North America [5] - Stanley Black & Decker was honored with the Global Solutions at Work Award for centralizing payroll and HR processes to deliver a consistent global employee experience for approximately 48,500 employees [6] - Tillys earned the Innovation at Work Award for automating HR solutions and adapting to fluctuating staffing needs across 248 store locations in 33 states [7][8] - Academy Bank was recognized with the Talent at Work Award for unifying HR processes and enhancing recruitment and onboarding experiences [9] Group 2: Industry Trends - The awards highlight the importance of leveraging HCM technology to drive organizational agility, build people-centric cultures, and enhance employee experiences [2][3] - Companies are increasingly focusing on automating HR functions and utilizing data insights to improve efficiency and employee engagement [4][5][6][9]