Brunswick(US:BC)2026-01-29 17:02Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Brunswick finished 2025 with net sales of $5.4 billion, up 2% year-over-year, marking the first full-year net sales growth in three years [4][15] - Adjusted earnings per share (EPS) for the year was $3.27, impacted by tariff headwinds, with free cash flow generation reaching $442 million, up 56% year-over-year [4][17] - The company reported a 41% increase in Q4 earnings compared to the prior year, driven by higher sales and operational improvements [15] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The propulsion segment saw a 23% increase in sales, with double-digit growth across all product categories, driven by strong OEM orders [17][19] - The aftermarket parts and accessories (P&A) business grew sales by 15% in Q4, marking the third consecutive quarter of growth [19] - The boat segment reported an 11% sales increase, with growth across premium, core, and value categories [22] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The U.S. retail boat market finished 2025 down approximately 9% in units, while Brunswick's global retail unit sales were down only 5% [3][10] - Dealer inventories remained low, with a high percentage of recent model year products, supporting a favorable retail environment [4][10] - Brunswick's market share in the U.S. outboard segment remained stable at approximately 47%, with gains in higher horsepower engines [11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Brunswick plans to continue driving operational efficiencies and is encouraged by the strong reception of new products, with a focus on ultra-high horsepower engines [23][89] - The company aims for revenue growth in 2026, projecting net sales between $5.6 billion and $5.8 billion, with adjusted operating margins between 7.5% and 8% [24] - Brunswick's strategy includes significant investments in new product development and technology, alongside returning capital to shareholders [30] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in improved market conditions for 2026, supported by falling interest rates and strong retail demand [5][8] - The company anticipates a flat to slightly up U.S. retail boat market, with expectations for wholesale sales to closely match retail [23][24] - Management noted that tariff mitigation actions successfully offset over half of the gross dollar exposure, with expectations of further incremental tariff costs in 2026 [9][28] Other Important Information - Brunswick's liquidity at year-end was $1.3 billion, including access to an undrawn revolving credit facility [13] - The company plans to retire approximately $160 million of debt in 2026, contributing to a net debt leverage target of 2.5x or lower [29] - Brunswick received multiple awards for its products and innovations at recent trade shows, highlighting its commitment to quality and technology [31][35] Q&A Session Summary Question: What was the retail performance in the fourth quarter? - Management indicated that retail performance was flat, with continued strength in premium and core brands, which represent a significant portion of their portfolio [41] Question: What gives confidence for flat to up retail in 2026? - Management cited expected interest rate cuts and improving retail financing conditions as key factors supporting their outlook for 2026 [43][44] Question: How should we think about inventory levels for 2026? - Management expects pipeline units to be flat to slightly reduced, aiming to match wholesale and retail [46][48] Question: How is the company addressing competitive inventory levels? - Management noted solid ordering and a healthy pipeline, indicating no evidence of dealers holding back on orders [49] Question: What are the dynamics affecting retail sales and replacement rates? - Management highlighted a significant gap between new boat sales and replacement rates, suggesting a natural pull for retail sales [53] Question: How is the propulsion business performing with OEM customers? - Management reported strong performance and share gains in the propulsion segment, with new multi-year agreements with OEMs [61][62]