Natuzzi S.p.A(US:NTZ)2025-07-03 15:02Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a revenue of $78.1 million for the first quarter, a decrease of 7.6% compared to the previous year [8] - Gross margin fell to 34.1% from 36.9% in the previous quarter, attributed to a transition phase in production [8][10] - The company experienced an operating loss of €800,000 for the quarter, with net financial costs increasing to $2.9 million from $2.2 million due to currency volatility [10] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The transition of Natuzzi Edition production from China to Italy impacted gross margins, leading to a temporary decrease in profitability [9][10] - Significant investments of approximately $2 million were made primarily on factory improvements during the quarter [10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Consumer confidence in the US has declined to levels not seen since early 2023, with European confidence down by 3.1 percentage points [11] - The market environment remains challenging, with consumers postponing durable purchases [12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on enhancing its brand commercial strategy, integrating collection, marketing, and customer experience [16] - Natuzzi plans to strengthen its retail and wholesale channels, with a particular emphasis on the North American market [21] - The company is exploring sustainable production locations for Natuzzi Editions to mitigate tariff impacts [33] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged the difficult business environment, exacerbated by US trade duties and geopolitical tensions [16] - The company is committed to protecting margins and is actively reviewing pricing strategies in response to tariffs [33][36] - There is a focus on improving operational efficiency and brand strength to deliver sustainable value to stakeholders [24] Other Important Information - The company has returned to the Salon del Mobile Fair in Milan, unveiling new collections that reflect its evolution as a global lifestyle brand [17] - The introduction of a new software platform for retail performance assessment is showing early signs of improvement [45] Q&A Session Summary Question: Impact of production shift on gross margin - The production shift from China to Italy has caused disruptions, leading to a decrease in gross margin [31] Question: Future gross margin expectations - Management is reviewing pricing strategies and production allocations to protect margins, but specific guidance on future margins was not provided [36] Question: Sustainability of operating expenses - Operating expenses were reduced to $27.4 million, and management expressed confidence in maintaining this level with ongoing cost reviews [39] Question: Early signs of improvement in retail technology - The new performance assessment platform is enabling data-driven decisions and improving store performance [45] Question: Potential of the commercial division - The trade and contract division is seeing growth, with a focus on B2B relationships and bespoke solutions for hospitality and residential sectors [62]