MillerKnoll(MLKN) - 2026 Q1 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported consolidated net sales of $956 million for Q1 2026, representing a growth of 10.9% year-over-year and 10% on an organic basis [12][13] - Adjusted earnings per share (EPS) increased by 25% to $0.45, significantly outperforming guidance [12] - Consolidated gross margin for the quarter was 38.5%, impacted by approximately $8 million in net tariff-related costs [14] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the North America contract segment, net sales were $534 million, up 12% year-over-year, while new orders decreased by 8% [15] - The international contract segment saw net sales improve to $168 million, a 14.4% increase, but new orders were down 6.5% [16] - The global retail segment reported net sales of $254 million, up 6.4% year-over-year, with new orders improving by 1.7% [17][18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Office leasing activity for Class A space remains robust, with Manhattan leasing activity in August exceeding the 10-year monthly average [7] - Web traffic in North America increased by 17% compared to the previous year, indicating strong consumer interest [9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on accelerated product creation, consistent execution, and prudent cost management while investing for profitable growth [6] - Plans include opening 12 to 15 new stores in the U.S. for the fiscal year, aiming to double the store footprint over the next several years [9][10] Management Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the growth momentum in the contract business, with improving conditions in key markets [7] - The company anticipates that pricing actions will offset tariff impacts in the second half of the fiscal year [14][19] Other Important Information - The company has undergone leadership changes, with Jeff Stutz promoted to Chief Operating Officer and Kevin Veltman appointed as Interim CFO [4][5] - The company was recognized as a great workplace for innovators, highlighting its commitment to employee satisfaction [11] Q&A Session Summary Question: Normalization of growth in the Americas - Management confirmed that North America contract growth averaged 3.3% over the last two quarters, with volume being a key driver [26][27] Question: Retail profitability pressures - Management indicated that new store expenses were the primary factor impacting retail margins, with expectations for revenue from new stores to mitigate this impact over time [32][33] Question: Impact of tariffs on business - Management clarified that the $8 million net tariff-related impact reflects ongoing pricing mitigation efforts, with expectations for reduced impact in Q2 [48][49] Question: Industry consolidation and competitive outlook - Management views industry consolidation positively, seeing it as an opportunity for growth and differentiation [40][41] Question: International market performance - Management acknowledged slower recovery in international markets but noted growth in direct-to-consumer channels [42][43]