Albany International(US:AIN)2025-07-31 14:02Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Consolidated net sales were $311 million, down 6.2% from $332 million in the same quarter last year [19] - Adjusted EBITDA margin decreased to 16.7% from 19% in the prior year [9] - GAAP net income attributable to the company for the quarter was $9.2 million compared to $24.6 million last year [22] - Adjusted diluted EPS was $0.57 versus $0.89 in the same period last year [23] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Machine Clothing reported revenues of $181 million, a decrease of 6.5% year-over-year [20] - Engineered Composites segment revenues were $130 million, reflecting a sequential growth of 14% from the first quarter [13] - Machine Clothing gross profit decreased to $84 million from $89 million in the prior year, while gross margin improved by 40 basis points to 46.3% [20] - AEC gross profit decreased to $14 million from $24 million, primarily due to cumulative EAC adjustments [21] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - North America experienced a slight decline in deliveries due to packaging machine production curtailments [11] - Europe showed solid signs of recovery with good deliveries and orders, offsetting weakening conditions in Asia, particularly in China [11] - The global MC order backlog remains healthy, indicating confidence for a stronger second half of the year [11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on optimizing its global production footprint and has commenced two additional facility closures [7] - Investments in operational excellence are aimed at transforming execution of current programs and driving process improvements [8] - Advanced air mobility is identified as a significant source of growth, with new long-term agreements and investments in capabilities [15] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in recovery despite second quarter results lagging expectations due to timing and operational issues [5] - The company expects global growth to continue as tariff environments become more predictable [6] - Full year guidance is reaffirmed, projecting stronger performance in the second half driven by ramping programs and operational efficiencies [25] Other Important Information - The company successfully completed its S4HANA upgrade, enhancing systems and operational efficiencies [17] - Will Station has been appointed as the new CFO, bringing extensive experience from McKesson and Boeing [18] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you talk about overall build rates in aerospace? - Management noted that ramp-up is occurring as Boeing is destocking and material is being brought in, indicating momentum towards prior production levels [28] Question: What factors could affect revenue range in the second half? - Key factors include Machine Clothing synergies and increased commercial programs at AEC, which are expected to drive growth and profitability [29] Question: Can you provide updates on the CH-53K program? - The ramp-up is being approached carefully, with significant investments in team training and production capabilities [33] Question: Can you elaborate on AEC margins and investments in labor? - AEC is performing well, but challenges remain with the CH-53K program, requiring more resources and time for ramp-up [37] Question: What gives confidence to maintain guidance despite challenges? - Confidence stems from improved performance indicators, including reduced quality issues and better operational efficiency [45] Question: What new programs are ramping up in the second half? - Existing and new programs, including the Bell 525 and JASSM, are expected to contribute to growth in the second half [48] Question: Can you provide details on the 3D woven composite parts? - The company is focused on replacing titanium with 3D woven technology, with certification expected in the next 18 months [55]