e.l.f.(ELF) - 2026 Q3 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q3 2026, net sales grew by 38% year-over-year, with adjusted EBITDA increasing by 79% [2][23] - The company achieved its 28th consecutive quarter of net sales growth, a rare feat among public consumer companies [2] - Q3 gross margin was 71%, down approximately 30 basis points year-over-year but up 200 basis points sequentially from Q2 [24][25] - Adjusted net income was $74 million, or $1.24 per diluted share, compared to $43 million, or $0.74 per diluted share a year ago [25] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - e.l.f. Cosmetics brand grew 8% in the U.S., outperforming the category by two times [2] - e.l.f. Skin consumption grew 16% in the U.S., also outperforming the category by two times [3] - The acquisition of Rhode contributed approximately $128 million to Q3 net sales growth, accounting for about 36 percentage points [23] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - U.S. net sales grew 36% year-over-year, while international net sales grew 44% [24] - The company increased its market share by 130 basis points, the largest share gain among over 700 cosmetics brands tracked by Nielsen [3] - International sales accounted for approximately 20% of Rhode's direct-to-consumer sales, with 74% of the brand's social followers from outside the U.S. [21] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to democratize access to beauty with accessible price points, with 75% of its product portfolio priced at $10 or less [4][5] - e.l.f. plans to expand its retail presence, including launching Naturium in Walmart and increasing space in Ulta Beauty [22][20] - The company is focused on innovation, with a community-led approach to product development and a strong marketing strategy [5][10] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to continue gaining market share and delivering growth, despite some softness in the UK and Germany [23][27] - The company raised its fiscal 2026 outlook for net sales growth to approximately 22%-23%, up from 18%-20% previously [27] - Management noted that global consumption growth is expected to be around 6%, with some headwinds from pipeline cycling [28][80] Other Important Information - The company repurchased approximately $50 million of its outstanding common stock during the quarter [26] - e.l.f. plans to debut a commercial during the Super Bowl, aiming for a campaign reach of nearly 300 million [17][74] - The company has seen strong consumer engagement and brand loyalty, with innovative products achieving significant market traction [14][49] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you elaborate on your approach to spending and guidance? - Management explained that the adjusted EBITDA margin for the second half is expected to be around 19%, with some costs shifting from Q3 to Q4 due to increased marketing spend [35][36] Question: What is the strategy for expanding Rhode? - Management emphasized the importance of maintaining quality in Rhode's launches and highlighted the strong demand for the brand [37][38] Question: What are the plans for driving growth in the core e.l.f. brand? - Management stated that the strategy involves leveraging existing strengths and expanding shelf space, particularly in international markets [39][40] Question: How has the price increase affected consumer behavior? - Management reported that a 15% price increase resulted in only single-digit unit declines, indicating strong consumer acceptance [46] Question: What are the expectations for U.S. consumption in Q4? - Management indicated that U.S. consumption is expected to be above the global average, driven by strong brand performance [84]