Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q2 2025, Graphic Packaging reported sales of $2.2 billion, adjusted EBITDA of $336 million, and an adjusted EBITDA margin of 15.3% [6][25][26] - Adjusted EPS for the quarter was $0.42, with overall volume up approximately 1% [25][26] - Packaging prices were approximately 1% lower, reflecting third-party price recognition from 2024 [25] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Volumes in The Americas were modestly better than expected, driven by increased beverage promotions and targeted promotional activity in food and foodservice [6][12] - Innovation sales growth reached $61 million in Q2, on track to meet the 2% of sales growth target for the year [13] - Food results remained uneven, with snacks under pressure while pasta, sauces, and prepared foods saw gains [15] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - International results remained positive, but growth slowed modestly, indicating stretched consumer conditions [12] - Private label and store brands gained traction in select food categories, with trademarking activity accelerating [13] - Beverage season in 2025 started strong, with carbonated soft drinks showing good growth due to higher promotional activity [16][17] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The last major investment in the Vision 2025 program is nearing completion, with expectations to generate excess cash starting in 2026 [6][8] - The company is focusing on recycled paperboard, which has a lower environmental footprint and cost advantages over bleached paperboard [9][10] - Graphic Packaging aims to grow its presence in household products and health and beauty sectors, leveraging recycled paperboard [14] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that consumers are stretched, impacting spending habits, with a focus on volume growth and market share protection expected in the coming quarters [5][11] - The company anticipates improved adjusted EBITDA margins in the second half of 2025 due to inventory management and reduced maintenance [30] - There is caution among CPG and QSR customers regarding near-term volume outlooks, reflecting broader economic uncertainties [30][56] Other Important Information - Capital expenditures for 2025 are estimated at $850 million, with a decline to 5% of sales in 2026 [8][31] - The company has repurchased 1.6% of its outstanding shares in Q2 at an average price of $22.26 per share [28] - The Waco investment is expected to provide significant economic and quality advantages, with an anticipated EBITDA contribution of $80 million in 2026 [52][63] Q&A Session Summary Question: Clarification on capital spending increase and its impact on free cash flow - Management explained that the increase in capital expenditures for 2025 will not change free cash flow expectations due to offsetting factors like reduced working capital and lower cash taxes [34][35] Question: Inquiry about higher permitting and labor costs for Waco - Management indicated that labor costs, particularly for electricians, have been higher than expected due to market conditions, and some project elements required rework, contributing to cost overruns [38][40] Question: Discussion on margin expectations for the second half of the year - Management provided confidence in achieving improved margins due to reduced planned maintenance and inventory management efforts [46][48] Question: Inquiry about competitive dynamics in the packaging market - Management noted that there is a need for price discipline in the current competitive environment, with ongoing changes in customer strategies to stimulate growth [103]