HNI (US:HNI)2025-10-28 16:00Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Non-GAAP earnings per share increased by 7% year over year, reaching $1.10, driven by a record third quarter non-GAAP operating margin of 10.8% [4][5] - Total net sales in the third quarter increased by 3% organically compared to the same period last year [5] - Non-GAAP operating margin expanded by 10 basis points year over year, marking the highest EBIT margin for the third quarter [5] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the workplace furnishings segment, organic net sales increased by 3% year over year, with a non-GAAP segment operating profit margin exceeding 12% [5][6] - Residential building products revenue was roughly unchanged year over year, with new construction revenue down slightly and remodel retrofit sales growing modestly [6] - Orders in the residential building products segment increased by 2% year over year, with remodel retrofit orders up mid-single digits [8] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Builder sentiment has weakened recently, reflecting elevated interest rates and affordability issues, with permits moving lower [8] - The office space market is showing signs of recovery, with net absorption expected to be the highest since 2019, indicating improved demand for office furniture [11] - 18 of the largest U.S. markets are exceeding pre-pandemic leasing activity, suggesting a positive trend for workplace furnishings [11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company remains focused on margin expansion efforts and continued revenue growth while investing for future growth [7][15] - The pending acquisition of Steelcase is expected to create synergies of $120 million and accretion of $1.20 per share when fully mature [19] - The company is optimistic about long-term market fundamentals in residential building products, despite a soft new construction environment [14] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving a fourth consecutive year of double-digit non-GAAP EPS growth, supported by strong third quarter performance and ongoing visibility [18] - The macro and industry backdrops are improving, with expectations for the contract business to benefit from these trends [12] - Management remains cautious about ongoing macro-related risks and tariff-driven volatility but is optimistic about future growth opportunities [18] Other Important Information - The company anticipates fourth quarter revenue in workplace furnishings to increase at a high single-digit rate year over year, with residential building products also projected to grow at a high single-digit rate [16] - The company is committed to maintaining its dividend while investing in business growth [17] Q&A Session Summary Question: Is the $1.20 of accretion from Steelcase considering just the synergies outlined? - Yes, the $120 million in synergies translates to about $1.20 in accretion based on share count [23][25] Question: Where are you in terms of the $0.75 to $0.80 from KI and Mexico? - The company expects to recognize $45 to $50 million between 2025 and 2026, with more expected in 2025 than 2026 [28] Question: How does the current industry volume compare to pre-pandemic levels? - The company estimates that industry-wide volumes are still down by 30% to 35% compared to pre-pandemic levels, but there is potential for mid-single-digit volume growth in the coming years [31][32] Question: Can you compare your full-year guidance with previous expectations? - Revenue expectations remain in line with prior expectations, but there is some pressure on product mix and timing of investments [34][36] Question: How much runway do you have for growth in residential building products? - The company believes it can outperform the market due to ongoing investments and strong relationships with builders [37] Question: What risks are associated with integrating Steelcase? - The company plans to maintain dealer partnerships and brand distribution intact, which should allow for participation in any demand upswing [39]