Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net sales for Q4 2024 totaled 36.1 million in Q4 2023 [22] - For the year ended December 31, 2024, net sales were 139.3 million in 2023 [22] - Gross profit for Q4 2024 was 6.8 million, or 18.9% of net sales in Q4 2023 [25] - Adjusted EBITDA for Q4 2024 was a negative 3.2 million in Q4 2023 [29] - Year-end 2024 adjusted EBITDA was 8 million in 2023 [30] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Aerospace and defense net sales were negatively impacted by the closure of the Blue Earth facility and delays in customer approvals [7] - Revenue headwinds were noted in the industrial and medical sectors due to reduced inventory investments and delayed product launches [23] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company experienced a reduction in customer backlog in Q4 2024 as customers requested shorter lead times with new orders [24] - The imposition of tariffs may significantly impact contract manufacturers, including Nortech, particularly regarding operations in China and Mexico [8][10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on consolidating its North American footprint and moving customer programs to better fit customer needs, which is expected to improve long-term EBITDA generation [16] - Nortech is investing in core infrastructure and leadership teams to drive long-term growth, including a fully staffed business development team [14] - The company is pivoting towards fiber optic technology to enhance product performance and align with sustainability goals [44] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expects the aerospace and defense business to normalize in the second half of 2025, despite ongoing headwinds in the first half [8] - The company remains vigilant in monitoring trade policies and geopolitical uncertainties that may impact operations [11] - Management is optimistic about future growth opportunities, particularly in fiber optic technology and AI capabilities [42][48] Other Important Information - The company completed a 30% reduction in lease space at its Maple Grove facility, resulting in annual savings of at least 916,000 as of December 31, 2024, down from $1.7 million in 2023 [30] Q&A Session Summary Question: What are the expectations for the aerospace and defense market? - Management expects the aerospace and defense business to return to normal in the second half of 2025, despite current challenges [8] Question: How is the company addressing the impact of tariffs? - The company is closely monitoring tariff impacts and adjusting customer pricing and sourcing strategies as needed [10] Question: What are the company's priorities for 2025? - The company aims to strengthen its balance sheet, reduce inventory investments, and align operations with market demand for sustainable long-term EBITDA growth [34]
Nortech Systems(NSYS) - 2024 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript