Cedar Fair(US:FUN)2025-05-08 15:00Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The first quarter operating loss was greater than the combined loss of the legacy companies in 2024, but only slightly above expectations in the operating plan, consistent with off-season investments [6][14][15] - First quarter attendance represented approximately 5.5% of full year attendance, and revenues were closer to 6%, lower than the historical expectation of 7% [15][46][47] - The company maintains its full year 2025 adjusted EBITDA guidance of $1,080 million to $1,120 million [23][24] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Attendance trends in April showed a slight increase of over 1% compared to the prior year, despite adverse weather conditions [17] - Per capita spending improved in April, indicating a positive trend as attendance levels increased [18][60] - Season pass sales narrowed the gap to prior year by approximately 2% in units sold and 3% in total sales [19] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Bookings at resort properties trended higher, up more than 10% compared to the same week last year, indicating strong consumer engagement [8] - The company expects to add 36 additional operating days in the second quarter, which should enhance attendance and revenue opportunities [20] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on executing its merger integration plan, optimizing cost structures, and enhancing guest experiences to drive demand [10][26] - Plans to close the Maryland parks after the 2025 season align with the strategy to simplify operations and focus on high-margin parks [27][28] - The capital strategy remains disciplined, with expected investments of approximately $1 billion for 2025 and 2026 [29][30] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management remains confident in achieving the 2025 performance goals despite economic uncertainties, supported by strong demand indicators [10][62] - The company is actively monitoring consumer behavior and has seen resilience in spending on entertainment options [9][60] - Management emphasized the importance of cost management and anticipates a reduction in operating costs and expenses by more than 3% this year [22][84] Other Important Information - The company ended the quarter with $62 million in cash and $179 million available under its revolving credit facility, indicating strong liquidity [24] - The company incurred $15 million in non-recurring merger-related integration costs during the first quarter [20] Q&A Session Summary Question: How do you expect attendance and sales growth in the second quarter to compare to the additional operating days? - Management believes the second and third quarters present higher margin opportunities and expects strong demand during these periods [35][36] Question: Can you quantify the attendance impact from the Easter and Boysenberry Festival shifts? - Management noted that weather impacted attendance, estimating a loss of approximately 175,000 visits in April, but expects to recover in the second quarter [37][38] Question: What gives you confidence to maintain guidance despite softer April performance? - Management highlighted strong demand indicators, including season pass sales and attendance at parks despite adverse weather [56][60] Question: What are the expectations for proceeds from land sales in Maryland? - Management indicated that gross proceeds from land sales could exceed a couple of hundred million dollars, contributing to deleveraging efforts [66] Question: How is the unification of the season pass selling strategy progressing? - Management reported positive trends in sales and emphasized the importance of harmonizing ticketing systems across the portfolio [69][72]