Air Industries (US:AIRI)2025-05-15 21:15Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Consolidated net sales for Q1 2025 were $12.1 million, down from $14.1 million in Q1 2024, indicating a decrease in sales [11] - Gross profit increased to approximately $2 million from $1.9 million in the previous year, with a gross margin percentage of 16.8%, up 320 basis points compared to Q1 2024 [11][12] - Operating loss increased to $746,000 in Q1 2025 from a loss of $259,000 in Q1 2024 [13] - Net loss for Q1 2025 was $988,000 or $0.27 per share, compared to a loss of $706,000 or $0.21 per share in Q1 2024 [13] - Adjusted EBITDA for Q1 2025 increased to $576,000, a rise of $214,000 or nearly 60% compared to Q1 2024 [13] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported an increase in operational efficiency, achieving higher gross profit on lower sales [4][5] - The book-to-bill ratio was 1.34, reflecting a 20% improvement from the prior year and an 80% increase since Q1 2023, indicating a healthy business development effort [7][8] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Funded backlog reached a record $120 million, with total backlog exceeding $2.5 billion, both achieved during 2024 [8] - Raw material lead times have increased significantly, with current lead times ranging from nine to fifteen months [9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on aggressive business development efforts, including participation in the Paris Air Show to onboard new customers [6] - The management is optimistic about future sales growth, supported by a strong backlog and improved bookings [8] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management believes that the impact of tariffs on imports will be muted and does not expect significant benefits from the proposed increase in defense spending [15] - The company reaffirms its belief that full-year results for 2025 will exceed those of 2024, despite quarterly variations [16] Other Important Information - Total debt has been reduced by approximately $1.6 million, while accounts receivable decreased by over $2 million due to timing of sales and collections [14] Q&A Session Summary Question: Clarity on first quarter revenue and trends for the second quarter - Management indicated that the revenue decline was primarily due to long lead times and timing of purchase orders, but they are seeing an easing in acquiring materials [19][20] Question: Customer hesitation due to economic conditions - Management confirmed there is no hesitation from customers regarding ongoing programs, and they expect to meet delivery expectations [24][25] Question: Specific new customers targeted at the Paris Air Show - The company has scheduled meetings with large overseas manufacturers and is targeting customers in the electric vehicle sector [28][29] Question: Was the stock-based compensation a one-time event? - Management indicated that the stock-based compensation expense is likely to be lower in future quarters [30]