Albany International(US:AIN)2025-05-01 13:00Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported revenues of $289 million for the first quarter, down 7.8% from $313 million in the same period last year [20] - Adjusted EBITDA margin was 19.3%, with adjusted diluted EPS at $0.73, compared to $0.90 in the prior year [7][23] - Consolidated gross profit was $96 million, or 33.4% of sales, down from $109 million or 34.7% of sales in the prior year [20][22] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Machine Clothing segment reported revenues of $175 million, a decrease of 5.7% year-over-year, with an adjusted EBITDA margin of 28.4% [9][23] - Engineered Composites segment revenues were $114 million, down 11% from the previous year, with an adjusted EBITDA margin of 13.5% [14][24] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - North America experienced a slight decline in deliveries, but strong order flow indicates market strength [9] - Europe showed signs of recovery with good deliveries and strong orders, while Asia faced mixed results with some weakness in China [10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on integrating Heimbach and expects to see benefits from this integration accelerate in the second half of the year [6][11] - The strategy includes enhancing operational efficiencies and regionalizing business operations to mitigate tariff impacts [12][13] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged uncertainty in the markets but noted that tariffs did not materially impact performance in the first quarter [6] - The company reaffirmed its full-year guidance, expecting stronger performance in the second half of 2025 due to ramping up at AEC and Heimbach synergies [25] Other Important Information - The company repurchased $69 million worth of shares in the first quarter, with $193 million remaining under the current share repurchase authorization [8] - The balance sheet remains strong with a cash balance of over $119 million and $384 million of borrowing capacity [24] Q&A Session Summary Question: Status of LEAP program and inventory management - Management indicated that they are monitoring inventory levels and expect to meet Safran's production schedule, with potential upside in the second half of the year [27][41] Question: Opportunities for backlog growth - Management noted that there are new opportunities in space and missile programs, and they are selective about the projects they pursue [28][39] Question: Details on the new contract with Bell - The company has secured a seven-year contract with Bell, taking over complex parts production, which is seen as an opportunity to demonstrate capabilities [36][38] Question: LEAP revenue growth expectations - Management maintained their plan for the year but noted potential for upside as demand from Boeing and Airbus increases [41] Question: Confidence in Machine Clothing segment growth - Management attributed the decline in organic growth to divestitures but expressed confidence in strong backlog and order strength for the upcoming quarters [59]