HNI (US:HNI)2025-10-28 16:02Financial 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% [3][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][7] - Orders in the residential building products segment increased by 2% year-over-year, with remodel retrofit orders up mid-single digits [9] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Builder sentiment has weakened recently, reflecting elevated interest rates and affordability issues, with permits moving lower [9][10] - 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 [12] - 18 of the largest U.S. markets are exceeding pre-pandemic leasing activity, suggesting a positive trend for workplace furnishings [12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company remains focused on margin expansion efforts and continued revenue growth while investing for future growth [8][10] - 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 double-digit non-GAAP EPS growth for the fourth consecutive year, despite ongoing macroeconomic uncertainties [18] - The company anticipates strong results driven by margin expansion and continued volume growth, with a focus on investing in growth initiatives [8][15] - Management highlighted the positive trends in the workplace furnishings market, particularly related to return-to-office dynamics [11][13] Other Important Information - The company expects 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 anticipated post-closing net leverage is expected to approximate 2.1x, with a return to the targeted range of 1x-1.5x within 18-24 months [17] Q&A Session Summary Question: Clarification on Steelcase accretion - The $1.20 of accretion from Steelcase is based on the previously outlined synergies of $120 million, with confidence in achieving this figure [22][24] Question: Update on KI and Mexico contributions - The company expects to recognize $45 million-$50 million from KI and Mexico between 2025 and 2026, with more expected in 2025 than 2026 [25] Question: Industry volume relative to pre-pandemic levels - The company estimates that industry-wide volumes are still down by 30%-35% compared to pre-pandemic levels, indicating potential for mid-single-digit volume growth in the coming years [28][29] Question: Full-year guidance comparison - Revenue expectations for both workplace and residential segments remain in line with prior expectations, with some pressure on product mix and timing of investments [32] Question: Growth potential in residential building products - The company believes it can outperform the market despite a challenging environment, supported by ongoing investments and strong relationships with builders [34][36] Question: Risks associated with Steelcase integration - The company plans to maintain dealer partnerships and brand distribution during the integration, ensuring continued focus on unique brand positions [38][39]