Red Robin Gourmet Burgers(RRGB)2025-05-29 21:30Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total revenues for Q1 2025 were 388.5 million in Q1 2024, primarily driven by a 3.1% increase in comparable restaurant revenue and a 6.8% increase in net menu price, despite a 3.5% decline in guest traffic [10][11] - Adjusted EBITDA for Q1 2025 was 14.5 million compared to Q1 2024, attributed to cost efficiency gains and menu price increases [12] - Restaurant level operating profit as a percentage of restaurant revenue was 14.3%, an increase of 330 basis points compared to the same quarter last year [11] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The revamped Red Robin Royalty program had approximately 15.3 million members at the end of Q1 2025, contributing to increased guest engagement and frequency of visits [8] - The company has focused on operational efficiency through its managing partner program, which incentivizes restaurant leaders to achieve strong financial results [7] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company anticipates comparable restaurant sales to remain generally unchanged at approximately 0% for the year, with expectations of a decline of about 3% in Q2 2025 due to headwinds from the loyalty program changes [14][16] - Guest traffic was down 3.5% in Q1 2025, with expectations of a continued decline of approximately 4% for the remainder of the year [32][34] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to strengthen its financial position by reducing debt and increasing free cash flow generation, allowing for greater flexibility in investment opportunities [22] - Key priorities for 2025 include retaining operational improvements, returning to sustainable traffic growth, and reinvesting in restaurant facilities and atmosphere [19][20] - The company is focused on enhancing guest engagement and marketing strategies to restore Red Robin as a preferred dining option [20] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the company's progress but acknowledged the need for continued improvement in guest experience and traffic growth [18][19] - The broader macroeconomic environment and consumer trends have led to a more cautious outlook for the remainder of the year, prompting a reduction in revenue guidance [14][15] Other Important Information - The company ended Q1 2025 with 9.1 million in restricted cash, and 35 million available under its revolving line of credit [13] - The company plans to close 10 to 15 restaurants by the end of the year, with closures expected to be evenly spread throughout the year [48] Q&A Session Summary Question: Profitability in Q1 and maintaining guidance - Management noted that efficiency gains in labor contributed significantly to Q1 profitability, despite anticipated pressure from tariffs and traffic declines [30][31] Question: Menu price contribution throughout the year - Management expects menu price contribution to decline throughout the year, projecting about 4% check growth in Q2, 4% in Q3, and 2% in Q4 [35] Question: Loyalty program effectiveness - Management confirmed that the loyalty program is performing well, with significant opportunities for further growth and engagement [39] Question: Traffic trends and promotions - Management indicated that traffic trends are consistent with previous expectations, and the Hot Honey promotion has exceeded expectations [46][47] Question: Selling expenses and media spend outlook - Management expects selling expenses to remain around 30 million for the year, with some variability quarter to quarter [68] Question: Refinancing debt outlook - Management is optimistic about refinancing opportunities following strong Q1 results, but no specific timeline was provided [72][73]