Bausch + Lomb (BLCO) - 2025 FY - Earnings Call Transcript
Bausch + Lomb Bausch + Lomb (US:BLCO)2025-12-03 15:02

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is focused on achieving financial excellence, particularly improving EBITDA margins to align with or exceed competitors [4][5] - A three-year plan was announced, targeting a revenue growth rate of 5%-7% and a consistent margin improvement of approximately 200 basis points per year [12][56] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Vision 27 program aims to enhance operational excellence and gross margins, with thousands of employees involved in various projects [5][7] - The contact lens market is experiencing a slowdown, with growth around 4%, but the company is growing faster than the market [23][24] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company noted a slowdown in the Asian markets, particularly in China, which is affecting overall growth [23][24] - The bifurcation in consumer spending is evident, with lower-end consumers feeling more financial pressure compared to middle and high-income consumers [24] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is prioritizing organic growth over M&A, with a focus on enhancing its existing pipeline and improving its balance sheet [15][16] - Innovation is a key focus, with new products like Project Halo aimed at addressing significant consumer issues in the contact lens market [18][19] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to achieve its targets, citing recent sales growth and margin improvements as indicators of progress [10][56] - The company is optimistic about the future, expecting to see continued growth and innovation leading to a stronger market position [5][10] Other Important Information - The company is committed to improving its liquidity and addressing its ownership structure, which is currently 88% owned by Bausch Health [11] - The pipeline is projected to generate over $7 billion in potential revenue, highlighting significant growth opportunities [54] Q&A Session Summary Question: What components contributed to the 5%-7% revenue long-range plan? - Management acknowledged the difficulty in predicting future performance but expressed confidence in their balanced guidance based on current market conditions [12][13] Question: How does the company view tuck-in M&A? - The company currently does not require M&A for its three-year plan, focusing instead on organic growth and improving its balance sheet [15][16] Question: What is the expected timeline for new product launches? - The company anticipates launching new products, including a bioactive contact lens, by 2028, with clinical studies ongoing [19][22] Question: How is the company managing its R&D budget? - The company is increasing its R&D budget to approximately 7.5% of revenue, focusing on programs that promise the best returns [36][38] Question: What is the outlook for the dry eye market? - Management believes they have the best portfolio for treating dry eye, with Xiidra and Miebo positioned as leading products in the market [40][41]