Reading International(US:RDI)2025-05-20 13:02Financial 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][42] - The net loss attributable to Reading International Inc. for Q1 2025 was $4.8 million, a decrease of $8.5 million from a loss of $13.2 million in Q1 2024 [42] - Adjusted EBITDA increased by $6.9 million to $2.9 million in Q1 2025, compared to 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 Q1 2019 levels [15][40] - 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 [13][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 compared to Q1 2024, impacting revenue [10][40] - The cinema industry faced challenges due to the underperformance of major film releases, notably Disney's Snow White, which affected box office results [9][40] 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][52] - 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, citing an improving interest rate environment and a promising film slate for the upcoming summer and holiday periods [38] - The company acknowledged the challenges faced over the past five years but emphasized efforts to streamline operations and monetize real estate assets to support the cinema business [37][38] Other Important Information - The company completed the sale of its Wellington, New Zealand property for NZD 38 million, which helped reduce debt and interest expenses [5][45] - The company is working on selling its Cannon Park assets in Townsville, Australia, with an expected closing date of May 21, 2025 [8][47] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is your cinema CapEx forecast for 2025? - The company plans to convert 10 auditoriums to recliners and add a Titan Luxe screen in one U.S. theater, with additional upgrades planned for four other cinemas [50] 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, with ongoing reviews of asset values and potential future opportunities [52][54] Question: Do you expect to refinance the Santander loan? - Discussions are ongoing with Santander to extend the existing loan for another year, with expected interest rates remaining stable [55] 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, while maintaining contact with existing analysts [56]