Stanley Black & Decker(SWK) - 2025 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Full-year revenues for Stanley Black & Decker were $15.1 billion, down about 1% organically in 2025, with notable revenue growth in DEWALT and Aerospace Fasteners, up low single digits and 25% respectively [4][6] - Adjusted Gross Margin expanded 70 basis points to 30.7% for the full year 2025, driven by tariff mitigation actions and supply chain efficiencies [5][17] - Adjusted Earnings Per Share grew 7% in 2025 to $4.67, supported by earnings growth and working capital efficiencies, contributing to strong Free Cash Flow of almost $700 million [6][20] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Tools and Outdoor segment revenue was approximately $3.2 billion in Q4, down 2% year-over-year, with organic revenue down 4% due to volume pressure [9][10] - Engineered Fastening segment revenue grew 6% on a reported basis and 8% organically in Q4, with the aerospace business achieving 35% organic growth [14][15] - Full-year Tools and Outdoor organic revenue declined 2%, while DEWALT posted low single-digit organic growth across all product lines and regions [13] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - In North America, organic revenue for Tools and Outdoor declined 5%, while Europe saw a 3% decline, with growth in Central Europe and Iberia offset by softer conditions elsewhere [12] - The rest of the world organic revenue declined 4%, primarily due to market softness in Asia and South America [12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on disciplined execution, targeted growth investments, and aggressive tariff mitigation actions to drive long-term performance [4][5] - A definitive agreement was announced to sell the Aerospace Fasteners business for over $1.5 billion, aimed at reducing debt and enhancing capital allocation flexibility [7][8] - The company plans to achieve adjusted gross margins above 35% by Q4 2026, with ongoing investments in innovation and brand activation [19][29] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in navigating the dynamic operating environment and highlighted the importance of operational excellence and strategic investments for sustainable growth [18][34] - For 2026, the company expects adjusted earnings per share to be in the range of $4.90-$5.70, reflecting growth despite macroeconomic uncertainties [24][25] - The company anticipates low single-digit revenue growth in 2026, with organic revenue expected to grow at a similar rate [25][30] Other Important Information - The global cost reduction program has successfully captured $2.1 billion of run rate pre-tax cost savings since its inception in mid-2022 [5][18] - The company plans to transition gas-powered walk-behind outdoor product lines to a licensing model, which will enhance margins but reduce in-year revenue by approximately $120-$140 million in 2026 [26][27] Q&A Session Summary Question: Inquiry about gross and operating margin performance cadence - Management expects gross margin to be around 30.5% in Q1, increasing to 34%-35% in Q3 and Q4, with peak tariff expenses affecting the first half of 2026 [37][38] Question: Clarification on tariff mitigation measures - Management confirmed that operational mitigation is progressing well, with plans to reduce reliance on China for U.S. consumption to less than 5% by the end of 2026 [46][47] Question: Discussion on volume expectations for 2026 - Management indicated that strong professional market performance is expected to continue, with volume opportunities anticipated as promotional adjustments are made [60][61] Question: Elasticity of pricing and volume dynamics - Management acknowledged that volume declines have been steeper than anticipated due to a softer consumer backdrop, but adjustments are being made to return to expected elasticity levels [63][64] Question: Plans for investment in CRAFTSMAN and Stanley brands - Management plans to invest an incremental $75 million-$100 million in brand initiatives in 2026, expecting significant new product launches and market share gains [67][70]