Tanger (SKT) 2025 Conference Transcript

Tanger (SKT) 2025 Conference Summary Company Overview - Tanger is a retail-focused Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) with 44 years of history, 32 years listed on NYSE, and a significant presence in the outlet sector with 37 outlets in the U.S. and 2 in Canada [3][4] - The company has expanded into the open-air lifestyle business with three centers located in Huntsville, Alabama, Little Rock, Arkansas, and Cleveland, Ohio [4] Financial Highlights - Tanger has an equity value of approximately $4 billion and an enterprise value of $5.7 billion, with a low leverage ratio of about 5x debt to EBITDA [4] - The company has delivered same-center Net Operating Income (NOI) growth of approximately 5% over the last four years, with guidance for 2025 set at 2% to 4% [7] - Funds From Operations (FFO) growth guidance for 2025 is between 4% to 8%, which would be the highest in the retail sector [7] - A recent dividend increase of 6.5% aligns with free cash flow, maintaining a low payout ratio of 60% compared to the sector average of 75% [7] Growth Strategy - The growth strategy is based on three pillars: internal growth through remerchandising, intensifying existing real estate, and external growth through acquisitions [5][6] - Over the last 18 months, Tanger has invested approximately $650 million into five new assets, including a new outlet center in Nashville, Tennessee [6] Retail Environment Insights - Retailers are optimistic despite concerns about tariffs, with over 90% indicating a focus on supply chain diversity post-COVID [10][11] - The outlet business is evolving, with retailers using it to clear excess inventory and as a utility for brand exposure [14][31] - The company sees a shift in consumer behavior, with local customers becoming increasingly important due to remote work trends [17] Customer Experience and Remerchandising - Tanger has adapted its centers to enhance customer experience by adding food and beverage options, entertainment venues, and experiential retail [18][22] - The Nashville center exemplifies this shift, featuring a community gathering space and a mix of local food and beverage options [21] Tenant Management and Leasing Strategy - The company is proactive in managing its tenant portfolio, replacing underperforming tenants like Forever 21 with brands that align with current consumer trends [26] - Food and beverage now represent 7.5% of the shopping center area, indicating a strategic pivot towards diverse tenant categories [25] Market Position and Competitive Advantage - Tanger's open-air format allows for lower operational costs compared to traditional malls, with a CapEx load of about 15% of NOI, significantly lower than other retail formats [30][32] - The company benefits from a lack of new retail development in the U.S., making existing spaces more valuable [24][42] Acquisition Strategy and Financial Capacity - Recent acquisitions have yielded initial returns of 8% to 8.5%, with a focus on properties that can enhance the overall portfolio [42] - Tanger has a low leverage ratio and significant forward equity capacity, allowing for continued investment in unique acquisition opportunities [43] Conclusion - Tanger is well-positioned in the retail real estate market, leveraging its unique outlet format, proactive tenant management, and strategic growth initiatives to drive value for shareholders [39][43]