On AG(ONON) - 2025 Q3 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company achieved record net sales of CHF 794.4 million, growing 24.9% year over year on a reported basis and 34.5% at constant currency [17][30] - Gross profit margin reached 65.7%, an increase of 510 basis points year over year, while adjusted EBITDA margin was 22.6%, up 370 basis points year over year [25][31] - Adjusted EBITDA grew nearly 50% year over year, amounting to CHF 179.9 million [17][25] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Direct-to-Consumer (D2C) channel net sales reached CHF 314.7 million, increasing by 27.6% year over year on a reported basis and 37.5% at constant currency [17] - Wholesale channel net sales were CHF 479.6 million, increasing by 23.3% year over year on a reported basis and 32.5% at constant currency [18] - Apparel category net sales reached CHF 50.1 million, an increase of 86.9% year over year on a reported basis and 100.2% at constant currency [23] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Asia Pacific region delivered net sales of CHF 144.9 million, up 94.2% year over year on a reported basis and 109.2% at constant currency, now approaching 20% of total sales [20] - Americas net sales reached CHF 436.2 million, growing 10.3% year over year on a reported basis and 21% at constant currency [19] - Europe, Middle East, and Africa saw net sales of CHF 213.3 million, up 28.6% year over year on a reported basis and 33% at constant currency [19] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to be the most premium global sportswear brand, focusing on brand awareness and premium positioning [11][30] - The strategy includes expanding the apparel business as a standalone growth pillar, with a focus on D2C channels and retail presence [15][47] - The company plans to continue investing in innovation and technology to drive long-term growth and maintain premium pricing [31][56] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the brand's momentum and the ability to maintain premium pricing despite market challenges [19][70] - The company raised its 2025 guidance, expecting constant currency net sales to grow by 34% year over year, up from a previous estimate of at least 31% [30][31] - Management highlighted the importance of maintaining a full-price strategy during the holiday season to build long-term brand value [80] Other Important Information - The company opened new flagship stores in key markets, including Tokyo and Zurich, which contributed to record sales [12][18] - The successful launch of new products, including the Cloud Surfer Max and collaborations with celebrities, has enhanced brand visibility and appeal [8][9] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you discuss the traction in apparel and its performance in different channels? - Management reported strong traction in apparel, accounting for about 8% of total business, with a goal to reach double digits [40][43] - The apparel business is performing well in both D2C and wholesale channels, with a focus on showcasing products in flagship stores [43][47] Question: How does the company balance top-line growth with margin protection? - Management emphasized the importance of maintaining a premium business model, which requires disciplined inventory management to protect full-price sales [49][50] - The company has achieved a sustainable gross profit margin through pricing power and operational improvements [51][52] Question: What is the outlook for growth in the U.S. market? - Management indicated that the U.S. market is expected to continue strong growth, supported by brand awareness and premium positioning [67][70] - The company is committed to a full-price strategy and is not chasing growth through discounts [70] Question: Can you elaborate on the growth opportunities in Asia Pacific? - Management noted that Asia Pacific is experiencing significant same-store sales growth, with a disciplined approach to opening new stores [78][79] - The company is focused on building brand awareness and credibility in the region, which has high demand for premium sportswear [79]