Zevia(US:ZVIA)2025-11-05 22:30Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net sales in Q3 2025 increased by 12% to $40.8 million compared to the prior year [4][13] - Adjusted EBITDA loss was $1.7 million, slightly worse than the adjusted EBITDA loss of $1.5 million in the prior year [16][17] - Gross margin decreased to 45.6%, down 350 basis points from 49.1% in Q3 2024, primarily due to inventory obsolescence and aluminum tariffs [14][17] - The company raised its full-year net sales guidance to a range of $162 million to $164 million, up from the previous guidance of $158 million to $163 million [17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported strong performance from new product launches, including Strawberry Lemon Burst and Peaches and Cream, which contributed to brand momentum [8][9] - Marketing expenses increased to $4.9 million, or 12.1% of net sales, compared to $3.5 million, or 9.7% of net sales in Q3 2024, reflecting increased investments in brand marketing [16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company noted an increase in household penetration, now over 5%, driven by new consumers, particularly higher-income millennials with children [27][28] - The natural soda category is operating around 20% household penetration, indicating significant growth potential for the company [28] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on three strategic growth pillars: high-impact brand marketing, accelerated product innovation, and expanded distribution [4][12] - The expansion into Walmart's Canadian stores is seen as a positive indicator for future growth opportunities [21] - The company plans to roll out new packaging across its legacy flavors in early 2026, which is expected to enhance brand visibility and consumer engagement [10][24] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the brand's ability to capitalize on the shift towards better-for-you products, with strong consumer engagement and brand consideration [5][12] - The company anticipates a positive adjusted EBITDA in 2026, despite ongoing challenges such as aluminum tariffs [43] Other Important Information - The company ended the quarter with approximately $26 million in cash and cash equivalents and an undrawn revolving credit line of $20 million [17] - The company is committed to investing in customer acquisition while managing costs effectively to achieve profitability [43] Q&A Session Summary Question: Expansion with Walmart in Canada - Management confirmed that the expansion into over 400 Walmart stores in Canada is a positive indicator but not the primary driver of the raised sales outlook [21] Question: New Packaging Distribution - The new packaging is expected to be rolled out to the entire portfolio by early 2026, with initial positive indicators from consumer research [24] Question: Household Penetration and Market Opportunity - Management highlighted that new consumers, particularly millennials, are driving household penetration growth, with significant room for expansion in the better-for-you category [27][28] Question: Energy Drinks Category - Management acknowledged the potential in the energy drinks category but emphasized the current focus on soda, with plans to explore energy drinks in the future [30][31] Question: Brand Awareness and Marketing Impact - Management reported double-digit increases in purchase intent and consideration, indicating effective marketing strategies [33] Question: Seasonality and Revenue Guidance - Management noted that distribution gains and regional rotations are contributing to a less pronounced seasonal decline in Q4 compared to previous years [36] Question: Shelf Space Expectations - Management discussed ongoing improvements in shelf space at Walmart and other retailers, with a focus on driving velocity and expanding distribution [40][41] Question: Profitability Outlook - Management is optimistic about achieving positive adjusted EBITDA in 2026, balancing investments in growth with cost management [43]