Daktronics(US:DAKT)2025-06-25 16:00Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a strong finish to a transformational year, with a 29% increase in backlog from Q3 and a 17% year-over-year increase [15][39] - Adjusted operating income for 2025 was $50 million, down from a record $87 million in 2024, with an adjusted operating income margin of 6.6% compared to 10.6% in 2024 [36][39] - Operating cash flow more than doubled year-over-year, with a 54.5% growth for the year, totaling $97.7 million [32][41] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the Live Events segment, orders decreased 12% year-over-year, but the company expects continued growth due to new projects and repeat customers [20][18] - The Commercial business saw a 31% increase in orders for the year and a 44% increase in Q4 compared to the previous year, driven by strong demand in out-of-home advertising [21][22] - Transportation orders decreased 10% year-over-year but increased 14% from Q4, supported by notable wins in intelligent transportation systems [23][24] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - International orders grew 32% year-over-year and more than doubled from Q4 of the previous year, with significant contributions from advertising orders in various countries [25][26] - The High School Park and Recreation business experienced record orders, growing 19% for the year and 33% for Q4, driven by strong adoption of video solutions [27][28] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on achieving higher operating margins of 10% to 12% and a return on invested capital (ROIC) target of 17% to 20% by fiscal year 2028 [47] - The transformation plan includes value-based pricing, revenue mix diversification, and new product introductions to drive growth [48] - The company is committed to maintaining a strong balance sheet and investing in high-growth, high-margin business products [41][42] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about revenue growth in FY 2026, supported by a strong backlog and order flow [55][39] - The company is adapting to the tariff environment and remains flexible in its pricing and supply chain strategies [49][50] - Management emphasized the importance of executing the transformation plan and achieving long-term financial objectives [51][52] Other Important Information - The company incurred $16.5 million in non-recurring expenses related to transformation initiatives, with $7.5 million in Q4 [34][35] - A new $10 million share repurchase program was approved by the board, following a previous program [76] Q&A Session Summary Question: Revenue growth outlook for FY 2026 - Management indicated that all markets are expected to show growth, aligning with the 7% to 10% compound annual growth rate target through FY 2028 [55][56] Question: Margin outlook and tariff impacts - Management discussed implementing value-based pricing and driving operational efficiencies to improve margins, despite tariff uncertainties [57][58] Question: Update on commercial segment and AV network expansion - Management highlighted optimism in the commercial business, particularly in out-of-home advertising, and plans to aggressively grow the AV integrator space [60][61] Question: Working capital and capital allocation - Management stated that the primary use of capital will be for growth initiatives, product development, and digital transformation, with share repurchase also being considered [64][66] Question: Strength of international orders and future expectations - Management noted significant growth in international orders and a strong pipeline, which is expected to contribute to revenue growth in FY 2026 [72][73] Question: Future consulting fees related to transformation initiatives - Management confirmed that no additional consulting fees are expected for the completed transformation initiatives, but some new initiatives may arise [74][75]