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Asbury Automotive Group(ABG) - 2025 Q3 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company generated a record revenue of $4.8 billion in Q3 2025, with a gross profit of $803 million and a gross profit margin of 16.7% [7] - Adjusted earnings per share (EPS) was $7.17, with adjusted EBITDA at $261 million [7][16] - Adjusted net income for the quarter was $140 million, excluding various non-cash and one-time expenses [16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Same-store revenue for new vehicles increased by 8% year-over-year, with unit sales up by 7% [9] - Used vehicle unit volume decreased by 4% year-over-year, but used retail gross profit per unit (GPU) increased to $1,551 [10] - Parts and service gross profit rose by 7% year-over-year, with a gross profit margin of 58.8% [13] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company experienced strong demand for electric vehicles (EVs), with EV unit sales doubling from Q2 to Q3 [25] - Same-store new vehicle day supply was 58 days at the end of September, indicating a stable inventory level against consumer demand [10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on deleveraging its balance sheet and optimizing its portfolio while being opportunistic with share repurchases [6][20] - The integration of the Chambers Group is expected to enhance operating metrics and contribute positively to gross profits [4][26] - The strategy emphasizes large, transformative acquisitions in desirable markets [6] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that the fourth quarter is traditionally strong for luxury vehicle sales, with expectations for margins to hold up well [25] - There are anticipated headwinds in the used vehicle market due to a softening labor market and vehicle affordability challenges [10] - The company expects to see efficiency gains from the rollout of Tekion, with significant savings projected by early 2027 [60][61] Other Important Information - The company divested four stores in July, generating annualized revenue of $300 million, as part of its disciplined portfolio management [6] - The adjusted SG&A as a percentage of gross profit was 64.2%, with expectations for reduction as the Tekion rollout progresses [17] Q&A Session Summary Question: Impact of Chambers acquisition on new GPUs - Management confirmed that the Chambers acquisition is expected to have a slightly accretive effect on new GPUs in Q4 [26] Question: Changes in TCA outlook and EPS impact - Management explained that the revised TCA outlook reflects changes in the SAR assumption and the impact of acquisitions and divestitures [31][33] Question: Capital allocation priorities - Management indicated a focus on share repurchases and debt reduction, with M&A remaining a consideration depending on market conditions [44] Question: Trends in luxury vehicle sales - Management noted that luxury vehicle sales remain strong, with no material changes in consumer demand observed [51] Question: Strategies for increasing used vehicle volume - Management highlighted the use of digital marketing tools and a focus on service drives to acquire more used vehicles [65]