Company Overview - Atkore is a manufacturer of electrical products for construction and renovation markets, as well as safety and infrastructure products for construction and industrial markets [1][4] - The company operates in two segments: electrical and safety & infrastructure, with a total of 42 manufacturing facilities across eight countries [1][4] - The electrical segment focuses on products for electrical power systems, while the safety & infrastructure segment provides solutions for critical infrastructure protection [1][4] Financial Performance - From fiscal year 2019 to 2022, Atkore's revenue increased from $1.9 billion to $3.9 billion, and EBITDA rose from $300 million to $1.3 billion [5] - However, revenue has since declined to $2.9 billion and EBITDA to $462 million due to normalized demand post-COVID and aggressive pricing strategies that invited import competition [5][6] - SG&A expenses have increased despite the revenue decline, and the company's headcount has risen over 40% [6] Strategic Challenges - Atkore's management has been criticized for misallocating capital, focusing on non-core ventures instead of investing in its core electrical business [6][7] - The company is currently facing operational and capital challenges, compounded by the unexpected retirement of CEO Bill Waltz without a successor [6][7] - Atkore's stock price has dropped from around $190 per share in early 2024 to approximately $60 per share [6] Activist Involvement - Irenic Capital Management has taken a 2.5% position in Atkore and is urging the company to consider a potential sales process [3][7] - The board is at a critical juncture, needing to decide whether to remain independent or pursue a sale, while also identifying a new CEO [8][9] - Irenic's experience in strategic activism may influence board composition and decision-making regarding the company's future [13] Strategic Alternatives - Atkore currently trades at approximately 6.5x EBITDA, with potential for private equity takeout at 8 to 10 times EBITDA [9] - A standalone plan would require identifying a new CEO to realign the company's focus, cut costs, and divest non-core assets [10][12] - The company has initiated a strategic review focused on non-core asset sales, including its water conduit business, but this process may be perceived as rushed without a permanent CEO [12]