Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For Q4 2025, the company reported comparable sales growth of 1.3%, gross margin expansion of 100 basis points to 52.2%, adjusted operating margin of 9.4%, and adjusted diluted earnings per share increased by 10% to $0.55 [4][22] - For the full year, the company achieved $3.7 billion in revenue, with adjusted diluted earnings per share at $1.90, representing a 12% growth compared to the previous year [4][22] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the Sally segment, net sales increased by 1.4% to $542 million, with comparable sales up 1.2% and e-commerce sales growing by 23% to $47 million [25][26] - In the BSG segment, net sales increased by 1.1% to $406 million, with comparable sales up 1.4% and e-commerce sales increasing by 8% to $58 million [27] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Global e-commerce sales increased by 15% to $105 million, representing 11% of total net sales [23] - The company maintained a strong margin profile, with gross margin expanding 100 basis points to 52.2% in Q4, driven by the benefits of the Fuel for Growth program [23][24] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on four key growth drivers: understanding and activating the customer, unlocking digital value, differentiating with product assortment and innovation, and accelerating new growth pathways [7][21] - The Sally Ignited initiative aims to transform the business into a modern beauty powerhouse, with plans for 50 additional store refreshes in fiscal 2026 [16][50] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the resilience of the Sally customer base and the stability of the stylist business, despite some pressure on lower-income consumers due to government shutdowns [40][75] - The company anticipates a strong holiday season and expects to leverage its strategic initiatives to drive growth in fiscal 2026 [41][75] Other Important Information - The company generated strong cash flow from operations of $275 million, which was used for debt repayment and share repurchases [5][28] - The Fuel for Growth program is expected to deliver cumulative run rate savings of approximately $120 million by the end of fiscal 2026 [20][25] Q&A Session Summary Question: Key factors driving performance in each division - Management highlighted the strength of color in both businesses, with color sales up 7% overall, and noted the positive impact of marketplaces and customer activation initiatives [32][35] Question: Consumer environment and comp guidance - Management noted that the Sally customer remains resilient, with a focus on core color categories, while acknowledging some pressure on lower-income consumers due to government shutdowns [39][40] Question: Update on store remodel program - The company has completed 30 store refreshes under the Sally Ignited initiative, with plans for 50 more in fiscal 2026, showing positive customer engagement and sales metrics [47][50] Question: Long-term outlook for EBIT dollar growth - Management expressed confidence in achieving long-term EBIT growth through continued optimization of the Fuel for Growth program and increasing own brand penetration [59][60] Question: Expectations for category growth - Management anticipates continued growth in color, care, and nails, with new category expansions into skin and spa, and a focus on enhancing customer experience [66][67]