Viad(US:VVI)2021-08-08 23:44Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a sequential quarter revenue growth of 112% to $61.2 million, more than double the revenue from the same period in 2020 [45] - The net loss attributable to Viad was $42 million for the quarter, with a net loss before other items of $38.6 million [51] - Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the second quarter were approximately $37 million, with about $114 million of capacity on the revolving credit facility [53] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Pursuit generated second quarter revenue of $36.3 million, an increase of $31 million year-over-year, with adjusted EBITDA improving by $11.9 million [10][49] - GES realized revenue of $24.9 million, up about 30% from the first quarter of 2021, while adjusted segment EBITDA improved by approximately $3.6 million compared to the prior year [47][29] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Pursuit's revenue reached about 56% of the revenue generated in the second quarter of 2019, indicating a strong recovery in leisure travel demand [49] - The company noted a significant increase in bookings and inquiries, particularly in Banff and Jasper, with record inbound calls indicating strong demand [76][98] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on a "Refresh, Build, Buy" growth strategy, with plans to scale the business and drive growth through new attractions and experiences [67] - GES is transforming its cost structure to improve profitability and is positioned to support the unique needs of clients as in-person events return [30][37] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the recovery in both Pursuit and GES, citing pent-up demand for leisure travel and live events [66][64] - The company expects to be cash flow positive in the third quarter, with anticipated operating cash inflow between $50 million to $60 million [60] Other Important Information - The company successfully refinanced its revolving credit facility, increasing financial flexibility and adding approximately $56 million of cash to its balance sheet [54][56] - The new credit facility allows for cash payments of dividends on convertible preferred stock, preventing additional common share dilution [57] Q&A Session Summary Question: Was the 40,000 guests at Sky Lagoon for a month or the second quarter? - The number was for the second quarter [72] Question: Have there been changes in events or attendance due to the Delta variant? - No event cancellations have occurred within the company's portfolio, but they are monitoring the situation closely [73] Question: How does profitability change with different attendance levels at events? - Revenue is primarily tied to net square footage rather than attendee count, allowing for flexibility in cost management [75] Question: Is there an opportunity to extend the season in Alaska and Canada? - The company is seeing strong demand and is working to extend the summer season through October [76] Question: Will pricing be adjusted for FlyOver Las Vegas based on current visitation trends? - The company is focused on maximizing effective ticket prices while ensuring a great guest experience [78] Question: What is the outlook for GES and Pursuit's EBITDA recovery? - Pursuit is expected to recover faster due to new attractions, while GES will ramp up more slowly [84] Question: How are bookings today compared to 2019? - Bookings are in line with 2019 levels, with significant growth in lodging revenue [87] Question: What is the current labor cost situation as attractions ramp up? - Labor costs are being managed carefully, with a focus on safety and guest experience [89] Question: What is the M&A pipeline looking like? - The pipeline is robust, with several opportunities being explored [105]