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Yeti Holdings: Is the Post-Q3 Rally Pricing in Margin Recovery?
The Motley Fool· 2026-01-26 10:00
Core Viewpoint - Yeti Holdings' stock has increased by 44% since reporting Q3 2025 earnings, despite a significant decline in gross margins and operating margins, indicating market optimism about the company's future potential [1]. Financial Performance - Yeti's stock is currently trading at approximately $48 per share, nearing levels not seen since December 2023 [1]. - The company reported a gross margin decline from 58.2% to 55.9% and adjusted operating margins at 13.7%, the lowest in years [1]. - Current gross margin stands at 57.79% [2]. Market Dynamics - The decline in gross margin is attributed to tariff impacts on China-sourced goods and a shift in product mix, with higher-margin drinkware sales declining by 4% while lower-margin coolers grew by 12% [5][6]. - Drinkware now constitutes about 54% of sales, down from previous levels, while coolers account for 44% [6]. Supply Chain and Manufacturing - Yeti is reducing its reliance on Chinese manufacturing, projecting that exposure will be less than 5% of cost of goods sold by 2026 [5]. - The company is diversifying its supply chain across countries like Vietnam, the Philippines, and Mexico [5]. Growth Opportunities - Direct-to-consumer sales have increased from 8% to 60% of total revenue over the past decade, providing a scalable platform for growth [8]. - International sales grew by 14% in Q3 2025, now representing about 20% of revenue, with significant growth potential in Asia [9]. Strategic Initiatives - Yeti is targeting new customer segments beyond outdoor enthusiasts, including partnerships in sports and entertainment [10]. - The company has acquired Helimix for $38 million to expand into the sports nutrition market [10]. Competitive Landscape - Competition in the drinkware segment has intensified, with rivals like Stanley gaining market share among younger consumers [11]. - The domestic tumbler category shows signs of saturation, which may prolong pressure on gross margins [11]. Financial Health and Shareholder Returns - Yeti has repurchased $150 million of stock in Q3 2025 and raised its buyback target for the year from $200 million to $300 million, indicating strong cash generation [13]. - The company expects to generate $200 million in free cash flow for 2025 and has a solid balance sheet with approximately $90 million in net cash [14]. Valuation - At around $48 per share, Yeti trades at about 19.5 times management's 2025 earnings and free cash flow expectations, which is considered reasonable given the company's growth potential [15].