Gildan Activewear (US:GIL)2025-10-29 13:32Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported third quarter sales of $911 million, a 2.2% year-over-year increase, aligning with previous guidance of low single-digit growth [10] - Activewear sales increased by 5.4%, driven by a favorable product mix and higher net prices [10] - Adjusted operating margins improved to 23.2%, reflecting an 80 basis point year-over-year increase, resulting in record adjusted diluted EPS of $1.00, up 17.6% from the previous year [5][15] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Sales in the hosiery underwear category decreased by 22% year-over-year, attributed to a timing shift of shipments and broader market weakness [11] - The Comfort Colors brand performed well, celebrating its 50th anniversary, and contributed to overall sales growth [7] - The company introduced new brands such as All Pro and Champion, which are expected to drive further growth [6] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - International sales declined by $4 million, or 6.1% year-over-year, primarily due to ongoing demand softness across markets [11] - Sales to North American distributors remained solid, supported by sustained momentum from national account customers [10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on executing its Gildan Sustainable Growth (GSG) strategy, leveraging a large-scale, low-cost, vertically integrated manufacturing network [8] - The proposed acquisition of Hanesbrands is expected to close late this year or early 2026, with anticipated run-rate synergies of at least $200 million [8] - The company is capitalizing on its largest innovation pipeline in history, with more product launches planned for 2025 and 2026 [17] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to deliver strong financial performance despite a fluid macroeconomic environment [5] - The outlook for 2025 includes revenue growth in the mid-single digits and an increase in adjusted operating margins by approximately 70 basis points [18] - Management noted that the market remains stable, with expectations for growth in the innerwear category in Q4 [24][46] Other Important Information - The company generated approximately $189 million in free cash flow in the first nine months of 2025, with $200 million generated in the third quarter [16] - The company ended the quarter with net debt of about $1.7 billion, maintaining a leverage ratio of 2x net debt to trailing twelve months Adjusted EBITDA [16] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you discuss the weakness in the Underwear business and market share? - Management noted that the innerwear business faced delays in floor sets by large retailers and inventory management issues due to tariffs [23] - They expect a return to growth in Q4, with a stable market outlook [24] Question: What is driving the change in free cash flow guidance? - The change is attributed to transaction costs related to the Hanesbrands acquisition and timing issues with working capital [29] Question: How is the Fleece business trending with changing weather? - The Fleece business is performing well, with sales meeting expectations as the season progresses [38] Question: What is the competitive landscape like regarding tariffs? - Management indicated that there is uncertainty in the market, but they are well-positioned to optimize their supply chain and capitalize on opportunities [40] Question: Can you comment on inventory levels and tariff costs? - Inventory levels are slightly higher due to tariff costs, but the company is well-positioned for availability and control of working capital [81] Question: How will the Hanesbrands acquisition impact organic growth? - The company anticipates net sales to grow at a rate of 3%-5% CAGR over the next three years post-acquisition [85]