Brinker International(EAT) - 2025 Q2 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the first half of 2025, revenues reached approximately €1,262 million, reflecting a 2.5% year-on-year increase, or 3.9% when excluding the impact of deconsolidation from sold assets [5][6][10] - Year-to-date adjusted EBITDA was over €196 million, roughly flat compared to the previous year, while EBIT improved to €47.5 million, resulting in an EBIT margin of 3.8% compared to 1.9% in the first half of 2024 [5][16] - The company maintained a leverage ratio of 2.1 times, at the low end of its internal target range, and executed 36 cross-openings and 123 renovations during the first half [5][23] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - KFC introduced seasonal innovations and campaigns, including a collaboration with Netflix's Squid Game, which drove engagement and sales [6][7] - Burger King focused on a diverse breakfast menu, while Starbucks continued to innovate with seasonal beverages, contributing to strong sales [7][8] - Pizza Hut launched Wing Street, a new product category, enhancing its market presence [9] - Blue Frog and Latte Gratiella continued to strengthen brand engagement through innovative campaigns and rebranding efforts [9][10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Central and Eastern Europe generated sales of nearly €400 million, an 8% increase year-on-year, with Poland showing a 10% revenue growth [25] - Western Europe saw sales decline by almost 2% to €220 million, with significant variances across countries; Spain and Germany grew, while France experienced a steep decline of 14% [25][26] - In China, sales decreased by over 9% to €22.6 million, attributed to a challenging macroeconomic environment [26] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to protect value and convenience across brands, scale digital engagement, maintain cost control, and prioritize capital allocation to high-return opportunities [28][29] - Strategic adjustments to non-performing businesses have been made to sharpen capital allocation and focus on resilient formats [12][13] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - The management acknowledged the challenging macroeconomic environment and consumer sentiment decline but emphasized the resilience of the business model [19][20] - The company maintains its guidance for the year, despite potential delays in store openings, particularly in the fourth quarter [35][36] Other Important Information - The company reported a net profit of nearly €8 million in the quarter, a significant improvement from a loss of €23 million a year ago [21] - Operating cash flow increased to €106 million, reflecting strong cash generation [20][21] Q&A Session Summary Question: Outlook for the rest of the year and guidance confirmation - The company confirmed it is maintaining its guidance for the year, with potential delays in store openings [35][36] Question: Inorganic growth opportunities - The management acknowledged the depressed sector and is continuously evaluating acquisition opportunities while maintaining financial discipline [37] Question: Performance in China - The management clarified that while macroeconomic indicators may suggest growth, consumer sentiment and consumption patterns remain challenging [42][43] Question: Financial communication clarity - The company is open to improving financial communications and will consider organizing discussions with the Investor Relations team [38][39]