High Tide (HITI) - 2025 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - High Tide reported record revenue of CAD 164 million for Q4, representing a 19% year-over-year increase and a 10% sequential increase [6][28] - The annual revenue run rate exceeded CAD 650 million, with record Adjusted EBITDA of CAD 12.4 million, marking a 51% year-over-year growth [6][30] - Consolidated gross margins were 26% in Q4, consistent with the previous year, while Adjusted EBITDA margins reached a new record of 9.4% [29][30] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The brick-and-mortar segment led revenue growth, achieving a 15% year-over-year increase, driven by same-store sales growth of 5.5% [6][28] - Cabanalytics, the business data and insight platform, generated CAD 13.1 million in Q4, up 20% year-over-year [28] - The adjusted EBITDA for the brick-and-mortar segment was CAD 14.1 million, highlighting strong cost controls and operational efficiency [30] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Canna Cabana's market share in the five provinces increased to 12%, up from 11% a year ago, while total industry sales in these provinces grew by only 4% [11][12] - The average Canna Cabana store had an annual revenue run rate of CAD 2.6 million, significantly higher than the peer average of CAD 1.2 million [11] - The company added 27 stores in 2025, with plans to add another 20-30 stores in 2026, indicating a robust growth strategy [7][8] Company Strategy and Development Direction - High Tide is focused on organic growth, with a strong emphasis on high-quality locations for new stores [8] - The company is exploring M&A opportunities, particularly in the German medical cannabis market, following the acquisition of a majority stake in Remaxion [17][19] - The strategy includes leveraging relationships with licensed producers to procure cannabis at lower costs, enhancing operational efficiency [20][22] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about future growth, particularly in the German market, despite short-term challenges related to inventory [41][43] - The company is confident in its ability to navigate competitive pressures in Canada, with a strong brand and customer loyalty driving same-store sales growth [56][57] - Management highlighted the potential for significant growth in the U.S. market following regulatory changes, while remaining cautious about entering partnerships [78][79] Other Important Information - High Tide generated CAD 12 million of Free Cash Flow for the fiscal year, meeting its goal of remaining positive [35] - The company has a strong balance sheet with total debt of CAD 65.5 million and CAD 47.9 million in cash and cash equivalents [35] - The integration of Remaxion is progressing well, with expectations for improved financial contributions in the future [20][22] Q&A Session Summary Question: Impact of inventory issues in Germany on Q1 results - Management acknowledged that the Portugal inventory issue impacted Q4 results and will continue to affect Q1, but expressed optimism for recovery in subsequent quarters [39][41] Question: Brick-and-mortar business margins and growth - Management confirmed that brick-and-mortar margins have increased for four consecutive quarters, driven by strong sales and operational efficiencies [44][46] Question: Competition and M&A environment - Management noted that smaller competitors are exiting the market, creating opportunities for M&A, and expressed confidence in High Tide's growth prospects [59][60] Question: Budtender training and engagement - Management emphasized the importance of budtender training and engagement to enhance customer experience and brand loyalty [66][69] Question: Strategic partnerships in the U.S. market - Management indicated that while there is interest from U.S. operators, they are proceeding cautiously and evaluating potential partnerships as regulations evolve [78][79]