On AG(ONON) - 2025 Q2 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported net sales of CHF 749.2 million, representing a 38% increase on a constant currency basis and a 32% increase on a reported basis year-over-year [6][32] - The gross profit margin expanded to 61.5%, an increase of 160 basis points year-over-year, while the adjusted EBITDA margin reached 18.2%, up 220 basis points year-over-year [7][41] - Adjusted EBITDA was CHF 136.1 million, reflecting strong operational performance and top-line growth [43] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Direct-to-consumer (D2C) sales reached CHF 308.3 million, up 54.3% year-over-year at constant currency, elevating the D2C mix to 41.1% of total sales [32] - The apparel business saw net sales grow by 75.5% at constant exchange rates, reaching CHF 36.7 million, indicating strong consumer engagement [40] - Net sales from shoes grew by 36% at constant exchange rates, with notable demand in both performance and lifestyle categories [39] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - EMEA region net sales grew by 46.1% year-over-year at constant currency, reaching CHF 197.8 million, marking the strongest growth in two years [35] - The Americas experienced a 23.6% increase in net sales at constant currency, totaling CHF 432.3 million [36] - The APAC region delivered triple-digit growth of 110.9% year-over-year, with net sales reaching €119.2 million [38] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to build resilience in its product portfolio and expand its presence in multiple sports, transitioning from running to include trail, outdoor, tennis, and training [12][20] - The strategic focus includes enhancing brand perception and expanding the apparel line, with plans for high-profile product launches and collaborations [11][29] - The company is committed to innovation in manufacturing, exemplified by the launch of the Light Spray factory, which aims to streamline production processes [19][20] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the brand's momentum and growth potential, citing strong performance across all regions and product categories [25][50] - The company anticipates continued strong demand despite potential macroeconomic challenges, with an increased guidance for net sales growth to at least 31% year-over-year [50][51] - Management emphasized the importance of maintaining premium positioning and investing in long-term growth initiatives [52][53] Other Important Information - The company has been recognized as one of the world's 50 most innovative companies by Fast Company, highlighting its commitment to technological advancements [18] - The company ended the quarter with a cash balance of CHF 846.6 million, down from CHF 871.8 million, primarily due to foreign exchange impacts [47] Q&A Session Summary Question: What gives confidence to raise constant currency sales growth guidance despite potential tariff impacts? - Management highlighted strong brand momentum and growth across all regions and product categories, with July being the strongest month in the brand's history [57][58] Question: Can you discuss the expected revenue growth trends in wholesale and D2C for the second half? - Management noted that while they expect some deceleration, the focus remains on durable, high-quality growth, with strong performance in D2C channels [68][70] Question: What are the levers for additional margin expansion given current performance? - Management indicated opportunities for increased gross profit margin through a higher D2C mix, economies of scale, and continued investment in brand-building initiatives [72][74] Question: Can you elaborate on the impact of new product launches on future momentum? - Management expressed excitement about the ongoing development of franchises and the introduction of new products, which are expected to sustain momentum into 2026 [79][83] Question: How is the company managing working capital and inventory levels? - Management reported improvements in demand and supply planning, allowing for lower inventory levels while meeting consumer demand effectively [85][87]