Summary of Reed's (REED) Conference Call - June 26, 2025 Company Overview - Reed's operates in the beverage industry, specifically focusing on ginger-based products such as ginger ale and ginger beer, as well as craft sodas under the Virgil's brand [4][6][25] - The company has a long-standing history since the 1980s and has expanded its product portfolio over the years [4][5] Core Points and Arguments Business Strategy and Product Innovation - The CEO expressed excitement about the company's direction and recent innovations, including a new functional beverage line launched in 2025 [3][15] - Reed's is focusing on expanding its product offerings in the flavored malt beverage (F&B) category, which is experiencing significant growth in the U.S. market [6][11] - The company is also introducing a zero-sugar ginger ale to align with consumer trends towards healthier options [10][11] Market Opportunities - There is a strong belief that the ginger beer and ginger ale segments have substantial growth potential, particularly in non-traditional channels such as convenience stores and dollar stores [9][10] - The company aims to enhance its distribution network, currently reaching 32,000 retail doors, with plans to expand further [16][17] Financial Performance and Strategic Initiatives - The company underwent a recapitalization in Q4 2024, which reduced debt and allowed for reinvestment in working capital [18][19] - The focus is on achieving profitable growth, with a target to reach breakeven and net profitability in the near future [20][21] - The management is closely monitoring sales velocity and channel expansion to drive top-line growth [21][24] Margin Improvement - Reed's is working on margin expansion, aiming to improve gross margins to the mid-30s percentage range, with aspirations to reach the high 30s or even 40% in the long term [24][25] Additional Important Insights - The company is committed to maintaining high-quality standards in its products, emphasizing the use of premium ingredients [25][26] - There is a strong focus on building brand strength and customer relationships, with plans to enhance marketing efforts for new products [30][32] - The management team is optimistic about the future, citing a clean balance sheet and a strong brand as key advantages [28][29] Conclusion - Reed's is positioned for growth in the beverage market, with a clear strategy focused on innovation, market expansion, and improving financial performance. The management is optimistic about capturing new opportunities while maintaining a commitment to product quality and customer satisfaction [27][33]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net sales for Q1 2025 increased by 4.5% to $10 million compared to $9.6 million in the same quarter last year, driven by higher volumes with recurring national customers [18] - Profit for Q1 2025 remained flat at $3.4 million compared to the previous year [19] - Gross margin decreased to 33.9% from 35.6% year-over-year, primarily due to higher cost of goods sold [19] - Operating loss for Q1 2025 was $1.7 million, compared to a loss of $700,000 in Q1 2024 [20] - Cash used in operating activities increased to $5.4 million from $2.4 million year-over-year, driven by higher inventory purchases [21] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company launched a new multifunctional soda line, which includes flavors like berry bubbly and strawberry vanilla, and secured national distribution in Sprouts Farmers Market [8][9] - Expanded presence at Albertsons Safeway for Reed's Ginger Ale, adding over 1,100 new points of distribution [10] - Successfully launched a national offshoot program with Flying Cauldron at Albertsons, exceeding internal projections [10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Distribution gains were noted in three states at Trader Joe's for classic new alcohol products, reflecting growing demand across core functional and alcohol portfolios [12] - The company executed national display programs across core product lines at Sprouts Farmers Market, strengthening visibility [11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on sustainable growth and profitability, with a commitment to delivering premium, better-for-you beverages [15] - A strategic initiative includes transitioning from glass bottles to cans, enhancing cost structure and scalability [13] - The company is taking a measured approach to innovation, prioritizing its heritage and brand credibility [9] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about operational improvements and the alignment across the team, laying groundwork for profitable growth [22] - The company expects some modest gross margin pressure in Q2 due to seasonal promotion activity and higher trade spend [14] - Management is focused on improving cash flow performance in the second half of 2025 [26] Other Important Information - The company appointed Rude Baker to the board of directors, bringing extensive experience in the beverage industry [7] - The company is actively evaluating alternative suppliers and sourcing strategies to mitigate potential disruptions from global trade dynamics [13] Q&A Session Summary Question: Operating expenses were higher than expected; what should be expected going forward? - The increase in SG&A is attributed to upfront investments in personnel and marketing to support strategic initiatives [26] Question: Will gross margins be pressured in Q2? - There may be seasonal compression in gross margins due to trade discounts and additional investment in the functional beverage launch [28] Question: Is there any revenue guidance for the year? - The company has not provided specific revenue guidance but is focused on growth and operating efficiency [33]