Reading International(RDI) - 2025 Q1 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For Q1 2025, consolidated revenue decreased by $4.9 million to $40.2 million compared to Q1 2024, primarily due to lower attendance across all markets and the closure of two cinemas [40][41] - The net loss attributable to Reading International for Q1 2025 was $4.8 million, an improvement from a loss of $13.2 million in Q1 2024, with basic loss per share decreasing to $0.21 from $0.59 [42] - Adjusted EBITDA increased to $2.9 million in Q1 2025, a significant improvement from a negative EBITDA of $4 million in Q1 2024 [43] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Global cinema revenue for Q1 2025 was $36.4 million, down 12% from Q1 2024, representing just under 63% of pre-pandemic levels [13] - Global real estate revenue decreased by 2% to $4.8 million, while operating income increased by 79% to $1.6 million, driven by improved live theater performance and reduced holding expenses [12][30] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The average exchange rates for the Australian and New Zealand dollars weakened against the U.S. dollar by 4.5% and 7.3% respectively, impacting revenue as approximately 50% of total revenue is generated internationally [9] - The cinema industry faced challenges due to a weaker box office, attributed to the lingering effects of the 2023 Hollywood strikes and underperforming film releases [8][15] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on reducing debt and rebuilding operational cash flow, with plans for cinema renovations and upgrades in the U.S., Australia, and New Zealand [50][51] - Strategic initiatives include enhancing food and beverage offerings, expanding loyalty programs, and recalibrating occupancy costs with landlords to reflect current economic conditions [20][25] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism for a stronger 2026 and beyond, anticipating improvements in the interest rate environment and a stabilizing film slate [38] - The second quarter of 2025 has shown better box office performance, with successful film releases contributing to improved theater-level cash flow [15][17] Other Important Information - The company completed the sale of its Wellington assets for NZD 38 million, which helped eliminate significant debt and reduce annual interest expenses [6] - The company is actively working on selling its Cannon Park assets in Townsville, Australia, with an expected closing date of May 21, 2025 [7][47] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is your cinema CapEx forecast for 2025? - The company plans to renovate one theater in the U.S. and is working on upgrades for several others in New Zealand and Australia, though completion is not guaranteed [50][51] Question: What are Reading's intermediate term plans for the Minetta Lane and Orpheum sites? - The focus is on reducing debt and maintaining cash flow from these assets while exploring future opportunities [52][54] Question: Do you expect to refinance the Santander loan? - Discussions are ongoing to extend the existing loan for another year, with expected terms including a partial pay down [56] Question: What steps will the company take to attract analysts and investors? - The company will participate in the Sidoti conference and host one-on-one meetings with potential shareholders to enhance visibility and valuation [57][58]