Worthington Industries(WOR) - 2025 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q4 2025, the company reported a revenue increase of 14% year-over-year, excluding the deconsolidation of SCS, and an 8% increase when excluding both SCS and revenues at Bradesco [6][15] - Gross margin improved to 29.3% from 24.8% year-over-year, while adjusted EBITDA margin rose to 26.8% from 19.8% [6][17] - Adjusted earnings from continuing operations were $1.06 per share, up from $0.74 per share in the prior year quarter [16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Consumer Products segment reported Q4 net sales of $126 million, essentially flat compared to the prior year, with adjusted EBITDA of $21 million and a margin of 16.6% [21] - Building Products segment saw Q4 net sales grow 25% year-over-year to $192 million, with adjusted EBITDA of $71 million and a margin of 37% [22][23] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company noted that volumes in the Building Products segment were up 19% both sequentially and year-over-year, indicating strong seasonal demand [22] - The consumer environment remains cautious, but the company believes its market-leading brands position it well for long-term growth as conditions normalize [21] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company continues to leverage its business system focusing on innovation, transformation, and strategic M&A to drive growth [6][10] - The recent acquisition of LG Manufacturing is seen as a strategic fit that complements the existing building products business and is expected to enhance margins and cash flows [10][51] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's positioning for long-term growth despite current tariff and economic uncertainties [13][50] - The focus remains on optimizing operations and investing in future growth opportunities while managing through economic challenges [13][99] Other Important Information - The company announced a quarterly dividend increase of 12% to $0.19 per share, reflecting strong earnings and a commitment to returning capital to shareholders [20][66] - Free cash flow for the full fiscal year totaled $159 million, representing a 103% conversion rate relative to adjusted net earnings [19] Q&A Session Summary Question: Margin growth breakdown - Management indicated that half of the margin expansion was due to the deconsolidation of SES, with the rest driven by volume growth and product mix improvements [28][30] Question: Wave contributions - Contributions from Wave were attributed to a mix of volume demand and pricing, with steady performance expected moving forward [32][34] Question: Regasco revenue and EBITDA contributions - Regasco contributed approximately $16.5 million in revenue and about $2 million in EBITDA during the quarter [43] Question: Steel input costs and pricing - Management noted that steel prices have fluctuated, but efforts are in place to mitigate price risks and manage costs effectively [61] Question: Elgin acquisition details - The acquisition of Elgin is expected to create synergies in operational efficiency and customer overlap, with a focus on improving margins [51][82] Question: Tariff impacts on building products - Management acknowledged the challenges posed by tariffs but emphasized the company's strong domestic manufacturing position and ability to respond to market demands [88][92]