Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Inghams Group reported a total revenue decline of 1.5% to $3.15 billion, with EBITDA on an as-reported basis down 15.3% to $392 million, largely due to a significant reduction in AASB 16 charges and lower feed pricing [10][12][14] - Underlying EBITDA pre AASB 16 was $100,000 higher than FY 2024, indicating resilience despite volume headwinds [10][12] - Net debt increased by $82.5 million, influenced by the acquisition of Bostock Brothers and capital investments [13][16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Core poultry volumes decreased by 1.4%, driven by a 2.5% decline in Australian volumes, while New Zealand experienced a strong growth of 5.2% [6][21] - Australian revenue fell by 2.6% to $2.64 billion, primarily due to the transition to a new Woolworths supply agreement [21] - New Zealand's revenue rose by 4% to CAD 512.3 million, supported by the Bostock Brothers acquisition, which contributed significantly to volume growth [22][23] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Group core poultry net selling prices (NSP) increased by 0.55% to $6.31, but declined sequentially in the second half by 96 basis points [7][10] - Australian NSP saw a slight increase across FY '25 but faced a 2.3% decline in the second half due to pricing pressures [7][22] - New Zealand NSP improved by 2.9%, with retail pricing increasing by 7.7%, although this was partially offset by declines in wholesale and foodservice channels [23] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on operational discipline and strategic positioning to navigate challenging market conditions, with a disciplined approach to cost management and customer service [5][34] - A multi-year investment program of around $120 million is planned to enhance automation and processing capabilities, aimed at improving efficiency and supporting value growth [25][28] - The company aims to match supply with demand, optimize costs, and maintain strong customer relationships to drive long-term value creation [34][36] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged the significant challenges faced in Q4 due to the transition to the new Woolworths contract and a softening retail market, but expressed confidence in the medium-term outlook [6][32] - The company expects underlying EBITDA pre AASB 16 for FY '26 to be between $215 million and $230 million, with earnings weighted towards the second half [35][36] - Management noted that while feed costs are expected to provide a modest benefit, operating costs are anticipated to rise modestly due to inflation [36][37] Other Important Information - The company achieved significant sustainability milestones, including moving to 100% renewable energy in New Zealand and achieving carbon neutral certification for its Marion Bay brand [30] - The safety performance improved, with a decline in the total recordable injury frequency rate [30] Q&A Session Summary Question: What drove the material deterioration in Q4? - Management identified three main drivers: the transition of Woolworths volumes, competitors not reducing processing volumes as expected, and a softening retail market [42][43] Question: Why is there no expected feed benefit in FY '26? - Management clarified that while some feed benefits were shared with customers, the timing of benefits from feed price reductions may differ from historical patterns [45][66] Question: Is the market deterioration due to competition or other factors? - Management indicated that while poultry remains a long-term growth proposition, Q4 saw a decline in consumer confidence and cost of living pressures impacting demand [48][49] Question: Are the pressures seen in Q4 transitory or fundamental? - Management views the pressures as transitory, linked to inventory buildup and production adjustments rather than fundamental market changes [53][54] Question: What is the outlook for pricing in FY '26? - Management expects a slight decline in pricing, with improvements anticipated as the year progresses, despite current excess supply [70][80]