STAAR Surgical(US:STAA)2025-05-07 22:15Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total net sales for Q1 2025 were $42.6 million, down from $77.4 million in the same quarter last year, primarily due to minimal purchases by distributors in China [24] - Adjusted EBITDA for Q1 2025 was a loss of $26.4 million compared to earnings of $5.3 million in the prior year, reflecting a $33 million decrease in gross profit [26] - Gross margin for Q1 2025 was 65.8%, down from 78.9% in the year-ago quarter, impacted by higher manufacturing costs and increased inventory reserves [28] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - China sales were reported at $389,000 for Q1 2025, a significant drop from $38.5 million in the same quarter last year, as distributors consumed existing inventory [14][24] - Net sales excluding China were $42.2 million, representing a 9% growth year-over-year, driven by growth in APAC sales outside China [27] - The company expects to recognize $27.5 million in sales associated with a prior order in Q3 2025, which was not recognized upon shipment [14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company noted an improvement in ICL procedures in China, with end market demand strengthening despite the low reported sales [14] - In the Americas, sales growth was 9% in Q1 2025, while EMEA saw a 10% increase, and APAC sales excluding China were up 8% [27] - The prevalence of myopia is increasing globally, which is expected to drive demand for lens-based vision correction solutions [39] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to return to sustainable growth by addressing short-term tactical issues and focusing on strategic growth initiatives [7][8] - A new management structure has been implemented to enhance efficiency, including the promotion of key executives and the introduction of a Chief Development Officer [9][10] - The company is expanding its manufacturing capabilities in Switzerland to mitigate tariff impacts and increase production capacity [20][18] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the recovery in China and the potential for improved sales in the second half of 2025 [32][102] - The company is committed to transparency and aims to build trust with investors by delivering solid financial results [66] - Management acknowledged the challenges posed by global economic uncertainty but remains confident in the long-term growth potential of the EVO ICL technology [32][39] Other Important Information - The company has withdrawn its previous guidance due to tariff uncertainties and economic conditions but remains optimistic about achieving growth targets [31][60] - The restructuring efforts have resulted in significant charges, but the company believes these actions will lead to improved long-term profitability [25][30] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you elaborate on ICL sellout in Q1 2025 and trends for Q2? - Management noted that end market sales were consistent across January, February, and March, and they are pleased with the pace of recovery [46] Question: What is the competitive impact of Ibrite on ICL? - Management indicated that competition has been minimal so far, and they welcome it as it raises awareness of surgical options [49][50] Question: How does the company view the current economic trends compared to previous guidance? - Management acknowledged global uncertainty but expressed confidence in hitting revised targets based on improving trends in China [57][60] Question: Can you quantify the consignment inventory in China? - Management stated they have enough inventory to mitigate tariff impacts through early 2026 and are working to align inventory levels with contractual obligations [71][92] Question: What is the pricing strategy for EVO ICL in China and the U.S.? - Management confirmed no major changes in pricing strategy, emphasizing the high value of EVO ICL to patients and surgeons [78]