Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total revenue for the third quarter was $3.8 billion, flat compared to the prior year, with a 1% organic decline driven by a 5% increase in pricing and a 6% decrease in volume [16][18] - Adjusted gross margin rate was 31.6%, up 110 basis points year-over-year, primarily due to pricing strategies and supply chain efficiencies [17][25] - Adjusted EBITDA margin was 12.3%, reflecting a 150 basis point improvement year-over-year [17] - Adjusted earnings per share was $1.43, including a $0.25 tax benefit [18][31] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Tools and outdoor segment revenue was approximately $3.3 billion, flat year-over-year, with a 2% organic revenue decline due to a 5% pricing benefit offset by a 7% volume decrease [18][20] - DEWALT brand maintained strong momentum with revenue growth across all product lines and regions, reflecting targeted investments in innovation [20] - Engineered fastening segment revenue grew 3% on a reported basis and 5% organically, driven by a 4% volume increase [22][23] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - North America organic revenue declined 2%, consistent with overall segment performance, while Europe remained flat with growth in the U.K. offset by declines in France and Germany [21][22] - The aerospace business achieved over 25% organic growth, supported by strong demand for fasteners and fittings [23] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to achieve a 35% adjusted gross margin while executing three strategic imperatives: activating brands with purpose, driving operational excellence, and accelerating innovation [7][15] - A focus on reducing U.S. supply from China to less than 10% by mid-2026 is part of the strategy to improve supply chain resiliency and achieve gross margin objectives [29][30] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledges a challenging macroeconomic environment but remains confident in achieving long-term financial goals through disciplined execution and strategic initiatives [16][40] - The company expects continued year-over-year expansion of adjusted gross margin, targeting around 33% for the fourth quarter [34][35] Other Important Information - The company has made substantial progress in its global cost reduction transformation program, achieving approximately $120 million in incremental pre-tax run rate cost savings in the third quarter [28] - A non-cash asset impairment charge of $169 million was recorded in the third quarter, primarily affecting three trade names [31] Q&A Session Summary Question: How did volumes perform relative to expectations? - Management indicated that volumes were in line with expectations, starting strong but tapering towards the end of the quarter due to a non-standard promotional window [44][46] Question: What are the main profit levers for the fourth quarter? - Profit expansion is expected from gross margin improvement and SG&A expense reduction, with a target gross margin around 33% [49][51] Question: What is the impact of tariff inflation on pricing? - The second price increase is expected to be in the low single-digit range, with minimal impact from recent tariff reductions [56][58] Question: How does the company view its position in the housing market? - Management believes the company is well-positioned to benefit from potential future housing market improvements, focusing on building relationships and innovation during the current market retrenchment [80][84] Question: What progress has been made on USMCA compliance? - Significant progress has been made, with no structural roadblocks anticipated, aiming to align with industry averages for compliance [86][88]