The RealReal(REAL) - 2025 Q1 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q1 2025, GMV increased by 9% year over year to $490 million, while revenue rose by 11% to$ 160 million [25][8] - Adjusted EBITDA reached $4 million, an increase of$ 6 million compared to Q1 of the previous year, marking the third consecutive quarter of positive adjusted EBITDA [29][24] - Gross margin improved by 40 basis points year over year to 75%, driven by operational efficiencies [28][8] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Consignment revenue increased by 7%, while direct revenue surged by 61% compared to Q1 2024 [25] - Average order value (AOV) rose by 5% year over year to $564, indicating strong buyer engagement [8][57] - The company reported its highest number of new consignors in over two years, contributing to supply growth [8][9] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Active buyers increased by 7% on a trailing twelve-month basis, reaching 985,000 [25] - The company expects direct revenue to remain between 10% to 15% of total revenues going forward [26][46] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on three strategic pillars: unlocking supply through a growth playbook, driving operational efficiencies, and obsessing over service [9][24] - The "Get Paid Now" program aims to enhance direct revenue by allowing consignors to receive upfront payments for high-demand items [14][26] - The company is leveraging AI and automation to improve operational efficiencies and customer experience [6][19] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to navigate uncertainties in the macroeconomic environment, particularly due to its unique position in the luxury resale market [5][32] - The company anticipates that rising prices in the primary market could motivate consumers to monetize their closets, potentially increasing supply [88][87] - Guidance for Q2 2025 includes GMV expectations of$ 476 million to $486 million, reflecting 9% growth year over year [32][30] Other Important Information - The company ended Q1 2025 with$ 154 million in cash and cash equivalents [30] - Operating cash flow for Q1 was negative $28 million due to timing of incentive payments and working capital seasonality [30] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you provide context around the improvements in direct gross margin? - Management noted that direct revenues consist of out-of-policy returns and vendor purchases, with the "Get Paid Now" initiative significantly improving profitability, achieving a margin of 25.5% compared to 3% last year [37][27] Question: What signals are being observed in consumer behavior amid macro uncertainty? - Management indicated that consumer health has been resilient, with consistent strength in buyer engagement and new consignor growth [39][41] Question: Is there seasonality in direct revenue as a percentage of total revenue? - Management confirmed that direct revenue is expected to remain between 10% to 15% of total revenues without inherent seasonality [46][46] Question: How did the revenue mix play out in Q1? - The revenue mix was consistent with expectations, with direct revenue comprising about 10% to 15% of total revenue [82][81] Question: What is the outlook for the second quarter revenue guidance? - Management reiterated that the guidance reflects a consistent growth pattern, with revenue expected to grow by 9% year over year [92][93]