Jewett-Cameron Trading Co Ltd(JCTC) - 2026 Q1 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue for Q1 2026 was $8.3 million, a decrease of 7% compared to $9.3 million in Q1 2025 [14] - Gross operating profit margins were negative 12.5% in Q1 2026, down from positive 18.3% in Q1 2025, primarily due to $2.2 million in additional inventory write-downs [15] - Net loss for Q1 2026 was $3.9 million, or negative $1.12 per share, compared to a net loss of $658,000, or negative $0.19 per share in Q1 2025 [17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Sales in the core metal fence business increased slightly year-over-year, despite challenges from tariffs and negative consumer sentiment [14] - The Greenwood industrial wood business saw a 45% increase in sales, driven by demand from municipalities and the addition of a new non-transit industrial customer [14] - Sales of lumber and PET products decreased due to initiatives to sell excess inventory amid challenging market conditions [15] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company faced ongoing headwinds from tariffs and weak consumer sentiment, impacting purchasing behavior across the market [12] - The company is optimistic about renewed momentum in the metal fencing business as global trade conditions stabilize [14] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to exit fiscal 2026 with a sustainable business model focused on core product categories and operational efficiency [12][21] - There is a strong emphasis on the metal fencing business as a competitive advantage, with plans to optimize sales across other product categories [8] - The company is actively working to monetize non-core assets and exploring strategic partnerships and potential divestitures [11] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledges the challenges in the operating environment but believes that strategic initiatives are strengthening the company's foundation and long-term outlook [7][12] - The company is focused on reducing annual operating expenses by $1 million to $3 million and improving margins through pricing alignment with customers [10][17] Other Important Information - The company has amended its lending agreement to increase borrowing capacity, providing additional flexibility for operational realignment [19] - Inventory balance as of November 30, 2025, was $13.5 million, down from $15.9 million at the end of August [18] Q&A Session Questions and Answers Question: Can you expand upon the renegotiated pricing agreements you've entered into? - Management reported successful negotiations for new pricing to minimize margin erosion from increased tariffs, with implementation beginning in Q1 of fiscal 2026 [23] Question: Can you provide a general breakdown of your inventory by product category? - Management indicated that metal fencing remains the highest velocity inventory, while a portion of PET inventory has been slow-moving, with progress being made in moving excess lumber inventory [24]