TreeHouse(THS) - 2025 Q1 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company achieved adjusted net sales down approximately 3% year over year, with adjusted EBITDA of $57,500,000, which was up 25% year over year [17] - Adjusted EBITDA margin was 7.2%, an increase of 160 basis points compared to the previous year [18] - Adjusted EBITDA benefited from a $6,000,000 timing shift of expenses from Q1 to Q2 [4][23] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The decline in volume and mix was attributed to planned margin management actions, service impacts from the restoration of the griddle facility, and slower takeaway later in the quarter [18] - The acquisition of Harris Teas contributed nearly 5% to sales, aligning with expectations [18] - Pricing adjustments provided a benefit of approximately 1% primarily in the coffee business [18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Private brand unit sales were slightly negative in the quarter due to consumer pressure and the Easter holiday shift, but categories showed some recovery in April [9] - The private brand industry dynamics remain favorable, with healthy price gaps and continued market share gains over national brands [10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on margin improvement plans and controlling operational factors to drive profits and cash flow [5] - Strategic investments in private brands are being made by grocery retailers, indicating growth opportunities for the company [11] - The company aims to deliver $250,000,000 in gross supply chain savings through 2027, with a focus on profitability and cash flow [13] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - The operating environment is more dynamic than anticipated, but the company is focused on executing plans to drive profits [5] - Management expressed confidence in the potential upside from private label growth due to consumer demand for value [30] - The company reiterated its full-year adjusted net sales guidance of a decline of 1% to growth of 1% year over year [22] Other Important Information - The company is managing its cost structure by streamlining operations and reducing management layers to enhance decision-making [14] - The decision to close the new Hampton facility is part of a strategy to optimize production efficiency [15] Q&A Session Summary Question: How is macro uncertainty affecting consumer demand for private label? - Management noted that any shift towards private label would be considered upside in their sales guidance, as consumers are seeking value [30] Question: What is the expected impact of margin management actions on the full year? - Management indicated that organic volume and mix are expected to decline about 1% for the full year, with margin management actions impacting this [33] Question: How are decisions made regarding bids that do not meet margin targets? - Management clarified that the focus is on aligning production capacity with customer needs rather than being pressured by retailers for lower prices [39] Question: What are the expectations for snacking categories in the current environment? - Management acknowledged some pressure in snacking categories but noted that consumers are still snacking, with expectations for recovery in the back half of the year [46] Question: How is the refill of the griddle pipeline progressing? - Management reported that all lines are running and that the benefits from the griddle pipeline will be realized in the second half of the year [54] Question: What is the company's target for leverage and its impact on share repurchases? - Management confirmed that the target remains at 3% to 3.5%, with plans to rebuild cash position before reevaluating share repurchase options [57]