Company Overview - Hayward Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:HAYW) is a leading global pool equipment manufacturer, primarily serving the residential pool market, with North America accounting for 85% of sales and over 90% of profits [3] - The company offers a range of products including Pumps, Automation and Sanitization, Heaters, Filters, Lighting and Water Features, and Cleaners [3] - Approximately 80% of total sales come from the existing installed base of pools, with 50% attributed to repair and replacement, making the business relatively resilient to economic cycles [3] Financial Performance - Hayward Holdings, Inc. has demonstrated strong margins and cash-generation potential, leading the fund to view the stock as undervalued relative to mid-cycle earnings [2] - The stock's one-month return was approximately 5.51%, and it gained about 11.59% over the last 12 months, closing at approximately $16.85 per share on January 16, 2026, with a market capitalization of about $3.65 billion [2] Market Dynamics - The pool industry experienced supercharged growth during the early stages of COVID-19, followed by a period of weak end-market demand exacerbated by destocking in the distribution channel [3] - Although the industry has stabilized, there is still lackluster demand for newly built and remodeled pools, but it is expected that the discretionary sides of the business will recover over time [3] - Hayward is positioned to continue raising prices and growing volumes within the installed base of pools due to strong pricing power, as purchase decisions are typically made by pool service professionals who are less sensitive to price [3]

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Core Insights - Hayward Holdings experienced a significant increase in stock price following the announcement of strong fiscal third-quarter results, with shares rising over 10% [1] Financial Performance - Sales increased by 7% year over year to $244 million for the quarter ending September 27, driven by price increases to counteract tariffs [3] - Gross profit rose by 11% to $125 million, with gross margin improving by 1.5 percentage points to 51.2% [3] - Adjusted net income surged by 26% to $32 million, while adjusted earnings per share increased by 27% to $0.14, supported by lower interest expenses and stock buybacks [4] Future Outlook - Management raised the full-year profit outlook, projecting adjusted EBITDA to rise by 5% to 7%, estimating between $292 million and $297 million for 2025, up from a previous forecast of $280 million to $290 million [5] - The company noted a growing installed base of pools, which presents opportunities for automation upgrades and accessory sales, indicating a focus on profitable growth and long-term shareholder value [6]

Core Viewpoint - Hayward Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:HAYW) is recognized as a promising investment opportunity within the clean energy sector, particularly due to its significant upside potential and strong financial metrics [1][3]. Group 1: Financial Performance - Stifel has reiterated a 'Buy' rating on Hayward Holdings, setting a price target of $18, reflecting confidence in the company's management and performance [2]. - The company has demonstrated resilience by recovering margins despite weak volumes in the post-COVID period, achieving a gross profit margin of 51% [3]. - Hayward maintains a healthy current ratio of 2.84, indicating strong liquidity and financial stability [3]. - Fiscal 2025 revenue and EBITDA estimates are at the high end of guidance, suggesting continued strong performance [3]. - Projections for fiscal 2026 indicate mid-single-digit revenue growth, even in a slower recovery environment for the category [3]. Group 2: Business Overview - Hayward Holdings, Inc. specializes in pool equipment and automation systems, serving markets across North America, Europe, and internationally [4]. - The company is recognized as one of the best clean energy stocks, highlighting its position within the industry [4].

Hayward (HAYW) FY Conference Summary Company Overview - Hayward is a leading pool equipment OEM specializing in pumps, filters, heaters, and control systems, with approximately 75% of sales tied to the aftermarket [2][4] - The company generates about 95% of its net sales from the pool industry, primarily residential, with 5% from commercial and industrial flow control [4] - North America accounts for about 85% of revenue, while Europe and the rest of the world contribute 15% [5] Financial Performance - Hayward's revenue is just over $1 billion, with a five-year CAGR of 7.5% [5][6] - Gross margins exceeded 50% last year, with an adjusted EBITDA CAGR of 10% over the same period [6] - The company has seen a shift towards 85% of net sales derived from existing pools due to a decline in new construction [7] Market Dynamics - The pool market is characterized by a large installed base, with 5.5 million in-ground pools in the U.S. and nearly 25 million globally, which continues to grow annually [10][11] - The average age of pools is approximately 23 years, indicating a strong aftermarket opportunity for upgrades and modernization [11] - Hayward has pricing power, as equipment costs represent only 10-15% of overall construction costs, allowing for annual price increases to offset inflation [12][13] Strategic Focus - The company emphasizes organic growth, margin expansion, and disciplined capital deployment as key strategic themes [15] - Gross margins have expanded by 600 basis points over the last five years, reaching 50.5% by the end of 2024 [16] - Hayward's strategy includes investing in innovation and technology, with a focus on smart connected products and automation [9][15] Product Innovation - Hayward is focusing on digital conversion, chemical conversion, and energy conversion as pivotal areas for growth [27] - The company has launched several new products, including a heat pump with cooling capabilities, an automation app for consumers, and a new lighting platform [32][33] - The OmniX system allows for retrofitting existing equipment with automation controls, creating a significant revenue opportunity [35] Distribution and Market Strategy - Approximately 75% of Hayward's products are sold through distribution channels, with the remaining 25% through direct sales [37] - The company has initiated "Hayward hubs" in high-volume markets to provide training and support for trade professionals [38] Competitive Advantages - Hayward's competitive advantages include strong brand recognition, a large installed base, and a commitment to sustainability with energy-efficient products [41] - The company has a proven ability to maintain gross margins over 50% due to innovative products and effective supply chain management [42][44] Conclusion - Hayward is well-positioned in the pool equipment industry, leveraging its strong aftermarket model, pricing power, and innovative product offerings to drive growth and shareholder value [41]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net sales increased by 8% to $229 million, driven by a 3% increase in both price and organic volume, along with a 3% contribution from the Core King acquisition [8][19] - Gross profit margins rose to 49.5%, an increase of 30 basis points year-over-year, marking the ninth consecutive quarter of gross margin expansion [6][10] - Adjusted EBITDA increased by 9% to $49 million, with adjusted EBITDA margins also increasing by 30 basis points to 21.5% [10][19] - Adjusted diluted EPS increased by 25% to $0.10 [11][19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - North American net sales increased by 8% to $187 million, driven by 3% net price realization and 2% higher volume [20] - In Europe and Rest of World, net sales increased by 7% to $42 million, benefiting from 1% favorable net pricing and 8% higher volume [22] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Sales growth was consistent across both segments, with North America seeing an 8% increase and Europe and Rest of World experiencing a 7% increase [8][19] - The commercial pool business continues to grow organically, benefiting from the integration of the Core King acquisition [9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on mitigating the impact of tariffs and supporting margins while positioning for continued growth [7][12] - The recent launch of the Omni X automation platform aims to unlock the addressable aftermarket of millions of non-automated pools [6][15] - The company confirmed its guidance for full-year 2025, expecting net sales to increase approximately 1% to 5% and adjusted EBITDA of $280 million to $290 million [8][27] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in navigating the current economic uncertainty, highlighting the resilience of the business model with over 80% of sales aligned with aftermarket needs [7][29] - The company anticipates pressure on discretionary elements of the market, such as new construction and remodels, due to economic conditions and higher interest rates [9][28] - Management remains optimistic about the long-term growth outlook for the pool industry, particularly in the aftermarket segment [29] Other Important Information - The company is strategically reinvesting in sales and marketing, customer service, and engineering to drive future growth [20] - Total liquidity at the end of the first quarter was $398 million, with no near-term debt maturities [23][24] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you clarify the impact of tariffs and mitigation actions? - Management indicated an annualized tariff impact of approximately $85 million, primarily from China-based products, and discussed proactive measures to mitigate this impact [33][34][37] Question: How is channel inventory managed? - Management expressed confidence in current inventory levels, stating that they are appropriate for the season and have been recalibrated in prior periods [48][50] Question: What are the trends in consumer behavior post price increases? - Management noted that while there may be some deferral in discretionary spending, the maintenance side of the business remains resilient [70][71] Question: How will increased manufacturing in the U.S. affect margins? - Management stated that bringing more manufacturing to the U.S. will increase utilization rates and potentially enhance margins through automation and variable cost structures [78][81]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net sales increased by 8% to $229 million, driven by a 3% increase in both price and organic volume, along with a 3% contribution from the Core King acquisition [7][19] - Gross profit margins rose to 49.5%, an increase of 30 basis points, marking the ninth consecutive quarter of year-over-year gross margin expansion [5][10] - Adjusted EBITDA increased by 9% to $49 million, with adjusted EBITDA margins also increasing by 30 basis points to 21.5% [10][19] - Adjusted diluted EPS increased by 25% to $0.10 [11] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - North American net sales increased by 8% to $187 million, driven by 3% net price realization and 2% higher volume [20] - In Europe and Rest of World, net sales increased by 7% to $42 million, benefiting from 1% favorable net pricing and 8% higher volume [22] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Sales growth was consistent across both segments, with North America net sales increasing by 8% and Europe and Rest of World by 7% [8] - Trends improved in March, aligning with normal seasonal demand as the peak pool season approached [9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on mitigating tariff impacts while supporting margins and positioning for growth, with over 80% of sales aligned with aftermarket needs [6] - The recent launch of the Omni X platform aims to provide wireless IoT connectivity and control for non-automated pools, representing a significant growth opportunity [5][16] - The company confirmed its guidance for 2025, expecting net sales to increase approximately 1% to 5% and adjusted EBITDA of $280 million to $290 million [7][27] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged the increasing economic uncertainty but expressed confidence in the resilience of the business model, particularly in the aftermarket segment [9][28] - The company anticipates pressure on discretionary elements of the market, such as new construction and remodels, due to economic conditions and higher interest rates [9][28] - Management remains optimistic about long-term growth in the pool industry, especially in the aftermarket segment [29] Other Important Information - The company is taking proactive measures to reduce reliance on China for sourcing, aiming to decrease direct sourcing from approximately 10% to 3% by year-end [12][13] - Total liquidity at the end of the first quarter was $398 million, with no near-term debt maturities [23] Q&A Session Summary Question: Clarification on tariffs and mitigation actions - Management discussed the estimated annualized tariff impact of approximately $85 million, primarily from China, and outlined steps to increase domestic manufacturing to mitigate this impact [34][35] Question: Channel inventory levels and demand impact - Management expressed confidence in current channel inventory levels, stating they are appropriate for the season and have been recalibrated in prior periods [49][51] Question: Trends in consumer behavior and pricing actions - Management noted that while there has been some deferral in discretionary spending, the maintenance side of the business remains resilient [53][72] Question: Insights on OmniX sales and automation adoption - Early trends with OmniX have been encouraging, and the platform is expected to provide a cost-effective solution for homeowners looking to automate their pools [75][76] Question: Manufacturing utilization and cost levers - Management indicated that bringing more manufacturing to the U.S. will increase utilization rates and provide opportunities for margin improvement through automation [80][83]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net sales increased 17% in Q4 2024 to $327 million, driven by a 12% increase in volume and 4% positive net price realization [9][28] - Full-year net sales for 2024 increased 6% to $1.52 billion, with adjusted EBITDA rising 12% to $277 million [15][30] - Gross profit margins expanded to a record 51.4% in Q4, with adjusted diluted EPS increasing 35% to $0.27 [14][29] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - North America net sales increased 20% in Q4 to $286 million, driven by 13% higher volume and 5% net price realization [33] - Europe and the rest of the world saw net sales increase 2% to $41 million, benefiting from 2% higher volume [34] - For the full year, North America net sales increased 9% to $896 million, while Europe and the rest of the world net sales decreased 8% to $156 million [36][38] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Strong in-quarter demand and early buy orders contributed to robust sales growth in North America [56] - The company noted that over 80% of revenue is derived from the nondiscretionary aftermarket, which remains resilient despite pressures in new construction [84] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to drive growth through innovation, focusing on energy-efficient and automated solutions for pool ownership [22] - The acquisition of ClorKing is seen as a strategic move to enhance the commercial pool product category and create cross-selling opportunities [24] - The company maintains a disciplined approach to capital allocation, emphasizing organic growth and strategic acquisitions [43] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the long-term growth prospects for the pool industry, particularly in the aftermarket segment [48] - For 2025, the company expects net sales to increase approximately 1% to 5%, reflecting modest volume growth and positive price contributions [45] - Management acknowledged macroeconomic challenges but highlighted strong cash flow generation and margin expansion as key achievements [10][20] Other Important Information - The company celebrated its 100-year anniversary, reflecting on its journey and commitment to customer service and innovation [6][8] - The company reduced net leverage to a targeted range of 2x to 3x while completing early debt repayment and strategic acquisitions [10][21] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you dissect the strength in the early buy from the in-quarter demand? - Management noted that early buy orders were up year-over-year, but they shipped proportionately less in 2024 than in 2023, leading to a stronger backlog for 2025 [56][58] Question: What is the impact of tariffs on the company's operations? - Approximately 85% of North American net sales are produced locally, with only about 15% sourced from China or Europe, minimizing tariff impacts [68][70] Question: How does the company view gross margin performance for 2025? - Management indicated a pragmatic approach for 2025, expecting stable margins while focusing on long-term growth and operational improvements [78][80] Question: What are the expectations for North America versus international markets in 2025? - The company anticipates a 1% carryover from the ClorKing acquisition and expects stable channel inventory levels without significant changes [146] Question: How is the SKU rationalization process impacting the business? - The SKU rationalization is aimed at improving earnings quality and inventory management, with no expected negative implications for top-line growth [138][140]