Achieved record annual revenue exceeding $6,000,000,000, driven by 15 consecutive quarters of year-over-year adjusted EBITDA margin growth in Environmental Services. Performance was underpinned by disciplined pricing that outpaced inflation, improved workforce productivity, and enhanced network efficiency across disposal and recycling channels. Environmental Services growth of 6% was fueled by high demand for technical services, project volumes, and a significant increase in landfill volumes, which ro ...

For the quarter ended December 2025, Clean Harbors (CLH) reported revenue of $1.5 billion, up 4.8% over the same period last year. EPS came in at $1.62, compared to $1.55 in the year-ago quarter.The reported revenue compares to the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.48 billion, representing a surprise of +1.38%. The company delivered an EPS surprise of +1.76%, with the consensus EPS estimate being $1.59.While investors scrutinize revenue and earnings changes year-over-year and how they compare with Wall Street ...

Core Insights - Clean Harbors (CLH) is expected to report quarterly earnings of $1.61 per share, reflecting a year-over-year increase of 3.9% [1] - Anticipated revenues for the quarter are projected at $1.46 billion, which represents a 1.7% increase compared to the same quarter last year [1] - The consensus EPS estimate has remained unchanged over the last 30 days, indicating stability in analysts' projections [1] Revenue Estimates - The consensus estimate for 'Revenue- Direct Revenues- Safety-Kleen Sustainability Solutions' is $201.28 million, showing a decrease of 2% from the prior-year quarter [4] - Analysts project 'Revenue- Direct Revenues- Environmental Services' to reach $1.24 billion, indicating a year-over-year increase of 1.4% [4] EBITDA Projections - 'Adjusted EBITDA- Safety-Kleen Sustainability Solutions' is expected to be $31.17 million, up from $24.60 million in the previous year [5] - The consensus for 'Adjusted EBITDA- Environmental Services' is projected at $320.60 million, compared to $310.57 million a year ago [5] Stock Performance - Over the past month, Clean Harbors shares have remained unchanged, while the Zacks S&P 500 composite has decreased by 2% [5] - Clean Harbors holds a Zacks Rank 3 (Hold), suggesting that its performance is likely to align with the overall market in the near term [5]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue for the fourth quarter was reported at $466.7 million, a 6.6% increase year-over-year [9] - Year-over-year revenue growth exceeded 7%, with significant free cash flow generated [4] - Net income and diluted earnings per share were reported at $31.2 million and $0.44 per share, including an $8.3 million benefit related to tax treatment [11] - Cash flow from operations was reported at $17.4 million, adjusted to $36.4 million after accounting for a decrease in payroll accrual [11] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Environmental services segment revenues were reported at $210.8 million with a margin of 12.6% [9] - Dietary services segment revenues were reported at $255.9 million with a margin of 7.2% [9] - Cost of services was reported at $394.6 million, or 84.6%, with a goal to manage it in the 86% range for 2026 [9][10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company anticipates mid-single-digit revenue growth for 2026, supported by strong industry fundamentals and demographic trends [5][7] - The first baby boomers will turn 80 in 2026, increasing demand for long-term and post-acute care services [5] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The top three strategic priorities for 2026 include driving growth through management development, managing costs through operational execution, and optimizing cash flow [7] - The company plans to repurchase $75 million of common stock over the next 12 months, following the completion of a $50 million share repurchase plan [8][15] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the administration's focus on rationalizing regulations to better align with the needs of vulnerable populations [7] - The company is well-positioned to capitalize on opportunities in the market, with a robust business model and strong balance sheet [45] Other Important Information - The company ended the year with cash and marketable securities of $203.9 million, and an undrawn credit facility of $300 million [14] - The effective tax rate for 2026 is expected to be approximately 25% [11] Q&A Session Summary Question: Revenue upside opportunity in the nursing home sector - Management highlighted that growth is largely execution-based, with a robust sales pipeline and strong demand for services [19] Question: Margin expectations for 2026 - Margins are expected to continue improving due to strong service execution and operational efficiencies [21][22] Question: Split of campus services revenue - Campus services revenue is split evenly between the CSG brand and Meriwether Godsey, with expectations for accelerated organic growth [26][27] Question: Cash from operations trajectory for 2026 - Management expects cash from operations to approximate net income, with consistent margins and revenue growth [29] Question: Balancing share buybacks with M&A opportunities - The company is confident in its liquidity position, allowing for simultaneous focus on organic growth, M&A, and share buybacks [30][31] Question: New business additions for 2026 - Management anticipates continued organic growth driven by execution and a robust pipeline, with timing of new business adds being fluid [36][39] Question: Performance across different facility types - Service execution has remained consistent across all service segments and facility types, with expectations for continued strong performance [41]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue for the fourth quarter was reported at $466.7 million, a 6.6% increase year-over-year [9] - Year-over-year revenue growth exceeded 7%, with significant contributions from the campus division, which achieved over $100 million in revenue [4] - Net income was reported at $31.2 million, with diluted earnings per share at $0.44, including an $8.3 million benefit related to tax treatment [11] - Cash flow from operations was reported at $17.4 million, adjusted to $36.4 million after accounting for a decrease in payroll accrual [11] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Environmental services segment revenues were reported at $210.8 million with a margin of 12.6% [9] - Dietary services segment revenues were reported at $255.9 million with a margin of 7.2% [9] - Cost of services was reported at $394.6 million, representing 84.6% of revenue, with a target to manage costs in the 86% range for 2026 [9][10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company anticipates mid-single-digit revenue growth for 2026, supported by strong industry fundamentals and demographic trends [5][7] - The demand for long-term and post-acute care services is expected to increase significantly as the baby boomer population ages [5] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company’s strategic priorities for 2026 include driving growth through management development, managing costs through operational execution, and optimizing cash flow [7] - A new $75 million share repurchase plan was announced, following the completion of a $50 million repurchase plan ahead of schedule [8] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the regulatory environment and its alignment with the needs of vulnerable populations [7] - The company is confident in its ability to sustain growth through effective management and execution strategies [19] Other Important Information - The company ended the year with a strong balance sheet, cash and marketable securities of $203.9 million, and an undrawn credit facility of $300 million [14][15] - The company has upgraded contracts to improve pricing mechanics and cash flow, resulting in better margin visibility and collection trends [12] Q&A Session Summary Question: Revenue upside opportunity in the nursing home sector - Management highlighted that growth is execution-based, with a robust sales pipeline and strong demand for services [19] Question: Margin expectations for 2026 - Management noted that margins have expanded due to service execution and operational efficiencies, with a target to manage costs of services at 86% [21][22] Question: Split of campus services revenue and growth potential - Campus services revenue is split evenly between the CSG brand and Meriwether Godsey, with expectations for accelerated organic growth [25][27] Question: Cash flow from operations trajectory for 2026 - Management expects cash flow from operations to approximate net income, with consistent margins and revenue growth [29] Question: Balancing share buybacks with M&A opportunities - Management indicated that the strong liquidity position allows for pursuing share buybacks, organic growth, and M&A without compromising any priorities [30][31] Question: New business additions and growth drivers - Management anticipates continued organic growth driven by execution and a robust pipeline, with timing of new business adds being fluid [36][39]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Organic revenue for Aramark grew 5% to $4.8 billion in Q1 2026, with an estimated 8% growth without the calendar shift impact [6][16] - Operating income was $218 million, slightly up from the prior year, while adjusted operating income was $263 million, up 1% on a constant currency basis [17] - GAAP EPS was $0.36 and adjusted EPS was $0.51, with a calendar shift impacting adjusted EPS growth by approximately 13% [19] Business Segment Data and Key Metrics Changes - FSS US organic revenue increased to $3.4 billion or 2%, with a potential growth of approximately 5% without the calendar shift [8] - International revenue reached $1.5 billion, an increase of over 13% year-over-year on an organic basis, maintaining double-digit growth for 19 consecutive quarters [11] - The U.S. AOI had a 1% decline compared to the same period last year, while international segment AOI grew by 12% on a constant currency basis [18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The U.K., Spain, Germany, and Chile were the leading contributors to international revenue growth [11] - The company reported strong client retention levels across all markets, with significant new business wins in healthcare, education, and corrections in the U.S. [5][10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims for a net new target of 4%-5% in fiscal 2026, driven by strong client retention and new business opportunities [6] - Aramark is focusing on expanding its global supply chain GPO network, particularly in hospitality areas such as theme parks and hotels [6][13] - The company is committed to leveraging AI technology to enhance supply chain efficiencies and operational productivity [13][45] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving record-breaking financial performance, citing strong business momentum and client retention [5][20] - The company anticipates continued revenue growth in Q2, driven by onboarding new business and maintaining high retention rates [21][22] - Management noted that inflation is in line with expectations, with food and labor costs running around 3% [70][71] Other Important Information - The company repurchased $30 million of its shares as part of its share repurchase program [19] - Capital expenditures were higher due to commitments associated with sizable new business wins, expected to normalize over the year [61] Q&A Session Summary Question: Competitive business wins and future trends - Management noted significant success in competitive new account wins, particularly in large organizations, and expects this trend to continue [26][27] Question: Upcoming large bidding opportunities and retention strategies - Management confirmed ongoing large bidding opportunities but did not disclose specifics due to competitive reasons; retention remains a key focus [29][30] Question: Revenue growth in sports and leisure segments - Revenue growth is broad-based across business lines, with strong performance in sports and entertainment, particularly in collegiate athletics [35][37] Question: Pricing and volume contributions to organic growth - Pricing contributed about 3% to organic growth in Q1, with expectations for similar trends throughout the year [56] Question: Impact of inflation on costs - Inflation is running in line with expectations, with food prices around 3% and labor costs consistent across geographies [70][71] Question: Client retention and spending trends - Management emphasized a strong focus on client retention, with no significant changes in customer spending patterns observed [75][77] Question: Updates on large contracts and their impact - The RWJBarnabas contract is expected to have a significant impact in 2026, with a staged opening beginning in June [90][91] Question: Strategic shifts in client operations - Management noted a strategic shift among clients towards systemizing operations for cost efficiencies, which has led to larger contract wins [99][100]

Clean Harbors Conference Call Summary Company Overview - **Company**: Clean Harbors - **Event**: 28th Annual Needham Growth Conference - **Presenters**: Co-CEO Mike Battles, SVP Jim Buckley Key Points Industry and Business Segments - Clean Harbors operates primarily in the environmental services and oil business sectors, with total revenue exceeding $6 billion in 2025, of which approximately $1 billion is from the oil business and $5 billion from environmental services [3][8]. Oil Business Performance - The oil business has seen a significant decline from $300 million to approximately $140 million due to falling oil prices and market challenges [4]. - The company shifted focus to collecting high-value used motor oil (UMO) instead of volume, leading to improved profitability despite lower collection volumes [5][6]. - The goal for 2026 is to stabilize the oil business and make it less volatile [6]. Environmental Services Business - The environmental services segment is performing well, with a 12% revenue growth in Q3 and 7% growth over the first nine months of 2025, driven by price increases and volume [9]. - The technical services (TS) business, which includes PFAS remediation, is expected to continue its growth trajectory, with pricing discipline being a key factor [10][25]. - The Safety-Kleen branch, focusing on small quantity hazardous waste, has also shown consistent growth of 7% over the past several years [11]. Industrial Services Challenges - The industrial services segment, valued at approximately $1.3 billion, has faced challenges with negative revenue growth of 5% due to delayed turnarounds in large plants [12][13]. - Leadership changes are anticipated to improve performance in this segment, with hopes of stabilizing revenue in 2026 [14]. PFAS Remediation - PFAS-related services are projected to grow at 20% annually, with Clean Harbors positioned as a leader in high-temperature incineration for PFAS disposal [27][30]. - Recent engagements with regulatory bodies and successful projects, such as the one in Hawaii, are expected to enhance growth in this area [36][37]. Pricing Strategy - Clean Harbors maintains a disciplined pricing strategy, with annual contract renewals allowing for price adjustments based on inflation and market conditions [55][57]. - The company has successfully navigated price negotiations, achieving mid-single-digit price increases [57]. M&A and Growth Strategy - Clean Harbors has a strong cash position with $1 billion available and plans for share buybacks, indicating a focus on shareholder value rather than aggressive M&A [58]. - The company is exploring smaller acquisitions in the environmental services space, particularly targeting privately owned businesses [62][63]. Internal Investments - Significant investments are being made in infrastructure, including the Kimball incinerator, which is expected to generate $20-$30 million in EBITDA in 2026 [40][41]. - The company is also developing mega hubs to enhance operational efficiency and margin improvement [71][73]. Future Outlook - Clean Harbors is optimistic about stabilizing its industrial services segment and continuing growth in environmental services and PFAS remediation [14][27]. - The company aims to leverage its strong market position and operational efficiencies to drive future profitability [25][66]. Additional Insights - The leadership emphasizes the importance of maintaining high margins and operational efficiency across all business segments [26][72]. - The company is cautious about the timing of potential captive incinerator closures, recognizing the long-term commitment involved [48][50]. This summary encapsulates the key insights and strategic directions discussed during the Clean Harbors conference call, highlighting both challenges and growth opportunities within the company and its industry.

Clean Harbors (NYSE:CLH) 2025 Conference Summary Industry Overview - **Company**: Clean Harbors - **Industry**: Environmental Services Key Points and Arguments Margin Expansion - Clean Harbors has expanded margins by approximately 480 basis points since 2019 and about 800 basis points over the last eight years, driven by: - Increased volumes from strategic partnerships, such as with 3M, and growth in underlying verticals [6][7] - Focus on pricing during high inflation periods while maintaining service quality [7] - Environmental services margins are projected to finish the year just over 26%, with a long-term goal of reaching 30% and above [8] Volume and Pricing Drivers - Major drivers for margin improvement include: - Continued volume growth and pricing strategies [10] - Tailwinds from reshoring, infrastructure build-out, and PFAS opportunities [10][11] Incineration Business - The new Kimball Incinerator is expected to generate $10 million in EBITDA this year, with a target of $40 million run rate by 2027 [12][14] - The facility has exceeded throughput goals, with expectations of $25 million to $30 million EBITDA in 2026 [14] - The incineration market remains strong, with high utilization rates expected to continue [18] Captive Incinerator Opportunities - There are currently 41 active captive incinerators, with a trend of companies moving waste to commercial incinerators like Clean Harbors [19][21] - Clean Harbors aims to attract more waste from these captive facilities, similar to the arrangement with 3M [23] Industrial Services Segment - The industrial services business is valued at approximately $1.3 billion, with 50% of revenue from day-to-day maintenance and 20% from turnaround services [28][30] - Turnaround work has slowed due to deferred shutdowns, but improvements are expected in 2026 [31][32] PFAS Opportunity - PFAS revenues are currently around $100 million, growing at 20% [38] - The company is expanding its PFAS solutions, including water treatment and disposal, with significant contracts like the one at Pearl Harbor expected to generate $110 million over three years [41][42] - Regulatory developments are anticipated to create further opportunities in PFAS destruction [45] M&A and Capital Allocation - Clean Harbors has allocated nearly $2 billion toward M&A over the past five years, focusing on synergies and operational efficiencies [50][51] - The company is currently prioritizing high-return organic investments and share buybacks due to higher valuations in the M&A space [53][55] - Plans for $500 million in internal investments include enhancing throughput and developing regional hubs [56][57] Safety-Kleen Segment - The Safety-Kleen segment has shown consistent growth, with a business model that supports all Clean Harbors facilities [60][62] - The segment has been resilient despite market pressures, with a focus on subscription-based services and efficient route management [62][63] Additional Important Insights - Clean Harbors is well-positioned to leverage its capabilities in the growing PFAS market and capitalize on regulatory changes [49][50] - The company maintains a competitive edge through continuous improvement and high service levels, despite increasing competition in the environmental services sector [59]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company achieved a consolidated revenue growth of 9% year-over-year, driven by a 50 basis point sequential acceleration in pricing to 6.3% and a 100 basis point increase in volume [13][15] - Adjusted EBITDA margin reached 31.6%, the highest in the company's history, with underlying solid waste margins expanding by 250 basis points [15][9] - Adjusted free cash flow was reported at $181 million, exceeding expectations due to strong operational performance [16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company experienced near double-digit top-line growth, attributed to successful pricing strategies and volume performance [7] - MSW (Municipal Solid Waste) volumes increased, offsetting declines in construction-oriented activity and special waste volumes [8][15] - The company deployed nearly $650 million into acquisitions year-to-date, with an active M&A pipeline expected to contribute to growth [9][10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Volumes grew by 5% in Canada, while the U.S. saw a 0.9% decline, influenced by lower construction and special waste volumes [15][56] - The company noted broader economic uncertainty impacting market activity levels, particularly in construction and industrial sectors [8] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on maintaining a strong M&A pipeline and executing share buybacks, with a belief that current share prices are undervalued [11][42] - The management expressed confidence in the company's operating plan and growth trajectory, with expectations for continued margin expansion and revenue growth [18][17] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged challenges from commodity prices and economic uncertainty but remained optimistic about future performance and growth opportunities [8][10] - The company plans to provide detailed guidance for 2026 in February, with expectations for continued growth driven by M&A and EPR contributions [17][18] Other Important Information - The company completed a recapitalization of GIP, valuing it at $4.25 billion, which returned approximately $585 million to shareholders [10][11] - The company repurchased $350 million of shares in Q3 and nearly $2.8 billion year-to-date, indicating a strong commitment to returning capital to shareholders [12][11] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you walk us through the guidance update and the factors influencing it? - Management explained that the guidance increase reflects strong pricing actions and volume performance, offset by commodity-related headwinds [20][21] Question: What is the status of the EPR ramp and its contributions? - Management noted that EPR has outperformed expectations, contributing significantly to revenue, with further benefits anticipated in 2026 [25][26] Question: How do you view the organic growth trends in Canada versus the U.S.? - Management indicated that Canada experienced higher organic growth due to EPR contributions, while the U.S. faced challenges from lower special waste volumes [53][54] Question: What are the expectations for cost inflation next year? - Management anticipates cost inflation starting with a 4%, driven by labor and other operational costs [73][72] Question: How is the company addressing pricing strategies moving forward? - Management is focused on moving away from CPI-related pricing indices to better reflect operational costs, with expectations for pricing to remain above internal cost inflation [70][78]

Core Insights - Clean Harbors, Inc. (CLH) reported disappointing third-quarter 2025 results, with earnings and revenues falling short of the Zacks Consensus Estimate, leading to a 15.2% decline in stock price since the results were released on October 29 [1][9]. Financial Performance - CLH's earnings per share were $2.21, missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 6.8%, but showing a 4.3% increase year-over-year. Total revenues reached $1.5 billion, missing estimates by 1.7% but increasing 1.3% year-over-year [2]. - Adjusted EBITDA was $320.2 million, a 6.1% increase from the previous year, but below the estimate of $328.9 million. The adjusted EBITDA margin improved to 20.7%, up 100 basis points from the year-ago quarter [4]. - Segment-wise, Environmental Services (ES) revenues were $1.3 billion, a 2.4% increase year-over-year, while Safety-Kleen Sustainability Solutions (SKSS) revenues totaled $230.8 million, down 4.5% year-over-year [3][9]. Segment Analysis - Adjusted EBITDA for ES was $357.2 million, a 7.4% year-over-year increase but below the estimate of $378 million. For SKSS, adjusted EBITDA was $40.9 million, slightly down from the previous year but exceeding the estimate of $38.4 million [5]. Balance Sheet & Cash Flow - At the end of the quarter, CLH had cash and cash equivalents of $759.2 million, up from $600.2 million in the previous quarter. Inventories were $377.3 million, down from $383.4 million [6]. - Long-term debt remained flat at $2.8 billion. The company generated $302 million in net cash from operating activities, with capital expenditures of $94.4 million and adjusted free cash flow utilized at $230.6 million [7]. 2025 Guidance - For 2025, CLH updated its guidance for adjusted EBITDA to $1.16-$1.18 billion, down from the previous range of $1.16-$1.20 billion. However, the adjusted free cash flow outlook was raised to $445-$495 million, compared to the prior estimate of $430-$490 million [8].